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Here are the latest updates for   "Planet ISKCON" - 51 new articles H.G. Sankarshan das Adhikari, USA: Wednesday 16 March 2011--Always Remain Alert--and--Can We Change the Rules of ISKCON? Sri Nandanandana dasa: Vedic Literature Says Caste by Birth is Unjust, By Stephen Knapp H.H. Prahladananda Swami: Lecture – Bhagavad Gita Jayanti 12-16-2010 – Video H.H. Prahladananda Swami: Lecture – SB 10.1.23 Entrances And Exits 12-16-2010 – Video Jahnavi, UK: A Glorious End ISKCON Toronto, Canada: Send Us Pictures of Your Gaura-Nitai Deities! Rupa Madhurya das, TX, USA: Bhajan - 24hr Kirtan - Hari das - 8/26 ISKCON Melbourne, AU: Daily Class - Bhanu Swami Bharatavarsa.net: Bhakti Vikasa Swami: do not be too much dreaming David Haslam, UK: The gender gap Japa Group: Chanting Should Be In The Forefront H.H. Bhaktimarg Swami: Saturday, March 12th, 2011 H.H. Bhaktimarg Swami: Friday, March 11th, 2011 H.H. Bhaktimarg Swami: Thursday, March 10th, 2011 H.H. Bhaktimarg Swami: Wednesday, March 9, 2011 H.H. Sivarama Swami: Sridevi dd, asks about ISKCON’s clear stand on investing in the share market in any form H.H. Satsvarupa das Goswami (Ret.): 250 H.H. Satsvarupa das Goswami (Ret.): OLD FRIENDS Srila Prabhupada's Letters Srila Prabhupada's Letters Srila Prabhupada's Letters New Vrndavan, USA: Gaura Purnima Celebration H.H. Prahladananda Swami: Book Distribution – Book distribution is a transcendental activity; it helps us learn to always rely on Krsna Subhavilasa das ACBSP, Toronto, CA: Nihsima-karuna: His Compassion is limitless! Gauranga is coming! Gauranga! {Part 5 of 11} H.H. Bhakticharu Swami: The Passing Away Of Harivamsa Prabhu Srila Prabhupada's Letters Srila Prabhupada's Letters Dandavats.com: Report from the GBC Strategic Planning Meeting Part Two Srila Prabhupada's Letters Srila Prabhupada's Letters Srila Prabhupada's Letters Mayapur Online: Gaura Purnima Festival update Sita-pati dasa, AU: Blog updated Subhavilasa das ACBSP, Toronto, CA: O' merciful Damodara, O' Kesava, Amalaki Ekadasi shows how you save even the wretched. Toronto Sankirtan Team, CA: 22nd Monthly Sankirtan Festival - Setting the Mood Sita-pati dasa, AU: Parking this Saturday for Gaura Purnima H.H. Sivarama Swami: Vegetarians barred from adopting Dandavats.com: Live From Sri Mayapur Candrodaya Mandir! HH Prabodhanand Sarasvati Swami Kirtan Australia.com: Kirtan with Sri Prahlada and Madhava Matsyavatara das (ACBSP), Italy: Women in the Vedic Vaishnava Tradition. By Matsya Avatara dasa (Marco Ferrini) Vraja Kishor, JP: Phase 3 of Unsteady Spiritual Practice: Indecision Sita-pati dasa, AU: Small experiment in Facebook integration Devadeva Mirel, Alachua, USA: Craft Collective : Strawberry Jam Forever (yes, there is a recipe) Gouranga TV: Indradyumna Swami Barnaul 2009 Japa Group: Japa Sankalpa Bharatavarsa.net: Book distribution seminar: The Second Day of Seminars in Mayapur Book Distribution News: The Second Day of Seminars in Mayapur Dandavats.com: Democracy and the Spread of the Holy Names Dandavats.com: Passing Away of Harivamsa Prabhu Dandavats.com: A list of Ratha Yatras for Florida in 2011 Dandavats.com: The Gita and business ethics More Recent Articles Search Planet ISKCON Prior Mailing Archive H.G. Sankarshan das Adhikari, USA: Wednesday 16 March 2011--Always Remain Alert--and--Can We Change the Rules of ISKCON? A daily broadcast of the Ultimate Self Realization Course(tm) Wednesday 16 March 2011 The Supreme Personality of Godhead, Lord Sri Krishna, and His eternal consort, Srimati Radharani are enjoying transcendental pastimes in the topmost planet of the spiritual world, Sri Goloka Vrindavan. They are beckoning us to rejoin them. Our Mission: To help everyone awaken their original Krishna consciousness, which is eternal, full of knowledge and full of bliss. Such a global awakening will, in one stroke, solve all the problems of the world society bringing in a new era of unprecedented peace and prosperity for all. May that day, which the world so desperately needs, come very soon. We request you to participate in this mission by reviving your dormant Krishna consciousness and assisting us in spreading this science all over the world. Dedicated with love to ISKCON Founder-Acharya: His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, our beloved spiritual master, and to you, our dear readers. Today's Thought: Always Remain Alert Uploaded from Bhaktivedanta Ashram--Austin, Texas USA Just as in wartime the front line soldiers remain constantly vigilant guarding against an enemy attack, which can occur at any moment, in a similar way the fixed up devotee of the Lord is always on guard against the attack of maya. He knows that he must always take shelter of Krishna at every moment and that even a slight amount of inattention can prove to be disastrous. Sankarshan Das Adhikari Srila Prabhupada is Always Alert in Krishna Consciousness http://www.backtohome.com/images/Prabhupada/prabhupada5.jpg Answers According to the Vedic Version: Question: Can We Change the Rules of ISKCON? Dear Spiritual Master, You are a person with lot of spiritual knowledge and years of dedication to ISKCON, and I am simple person who is worshipping Krishna and has spiritual knowledge gained after listening to saints in and reading books. Please forgive me if I am writing anything wrong but I need your point of view on these points. That's why I am writing this e-mail to you. Times has changed a lot. We are now in 21st Century. But ISKCON is not changing. It is still very rigid and orthodox on its rules. Some rules seem very rigid and demanding, but at the same time these can be changed to suit present time scenario. Rule No. 1: Not to eat onion or garlic. These are not animal products, but are plant products and carry many nutritious benefit for human body. Why ISKCON is banning these for human consumption? Rule No. 2: Tea and coffee is banned. I agree that these products carry caffeine which is a stimulant for mind. But still tea and coffee are useful while doing work in office and while preparing for examination. Rule No. 3: No illicit sex. Krishna has not said anywhere in the Bhagavad-gita that there should not be any sex between wife and husband except when there is a desire for a Krishna conscious child. Krishna has himself said that He is sex which is not going against dharma, He has not banned sex between wife and husband because sex between wife and husband is not against dharma. Only extra-marital affairs and sex without marriage is sex against dharma. Now one more thing. Krishna has said in the Bhagavad-gita that this knowledge, which is the king of all knowledge, should not be given to persons who are not interested in Krishna consciousness or those persons who have no interest or faith in Krishna. So then why are ISKCON devotees going to these kind of people, who are deeply rooted materialists and do not even think about God, to distribute books? Isn't this a violation of the instruction of Krishna? Now the final thing. One round of japa mala takes 10-15 minutes. So a total 16 round takes from 2 hrs 40 minutes to 4 Hrs. In this age where people spend more time in the office than at home, how is this possible to spent 2 hrs 40 minutes-4 Hrs on japa meditation? There should not be under any compulsion to do 16 rounds daily. There is a requirement of fresh discussion/review of these rules by a committee of the spiritual masters of ISKCON. ISKCON has many spiritual masters, but has no central command after the demise of Founder-Acharya his Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada. Is there any committee of spiritual masters in ISKCON who reviews rules and regulations and suggest modifications or deletion/addition of rules and regulations? I request you to answer my queries. Hare Krishna, Pankaj M. Answer: Do Not Destroy Krishna Consciousness Thank you very much for concern that ISKCON shall remain relevant in a constantly changing world. However, kindly note that in spite of so many changes the world is basically in the same consciousness as it was when Srila Prabhupada established our movement in 1966 and introduced the regulative principles of freedom to save us from birth and death. The world population was strongly addicted to material sense gratification then, and they still are. But in spite of that we have hundreds and thousands of people who are strictly following these principles and deriving great benefit. Why should we deny them the benefits they are receiving by abandoning the principles established by our Founder-Acharya? Your idea does not make any sense. Actually we have only one rule, and that is to always be Krishna conscious. Other rules are accepted only if they help us to be Krishna conscious. We take only the remnants of Krishna's eatables. Since He does not take onions and garlic, we naturally avoid these stinky foods, which are only dear to those in the lower modes of nature. Krishna bhakti is the ultimate stimulant. If one is Krishna conscious he has no need of artificial, harmful stimulants. Sex brings us down to bodily consciousness. Therefore anyone who is serious to become self-realized will naturally want to use sex only for procreation. Because the devotees understand the innermost desire of the Lord to save the fallen souls, they engage themselves in the ultimate welfare activity of telling everyone about Krishna. This is confirmed by Krishna Himself, who appeared as Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu and ordered us to tell everyone about Krishna. The prohibition against preaching means not to try to preach to those who are hostile. It does not apply to approaching those who are innocent. With a little practice mala can nicely be chanted in 1.5 to 2 hours day max. Anyone who says that they do not have 1.5 hours a day for japa should send me their daily schedule for analysis. We cannot change the instructions of ISKCON's Founder-Acharya, His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada. If you do not like his instructions, you do not have to follow them. But we are finding great unlimited happiness in strictly following Srila Prabhupada's instructions. If you do not share our enthusiasm, you are still welcome to attend our programs, take prasadam, and be a member of our loving family; however, you will not be qualified to take initiation. ISKCON does have a central governing body created by Srila Prabhupada to manage its affairs on the global level. That body is called the Governing Body Commission or GBC. They are fully dedicated to maintaining the standards established by Srila Prabhupada and will not change them upon your request because Srila Prabhupada's standards are not whimsical. They are all solidly based on that greatest of all wisdom which is emanating at every minute from the Vedic literatures. Sankarshan Das Adhikari Transcendental Resources: Receive the Special Blessings of Krishna Now you too can render the greatest service to the suffering humanity and attract the all-auspicious blessings of Lord Sri Krishna upon yourself and your family by assisting our mission. Lectures and Kirtans in Audio and Video: Link to High Definition Videos Link to Over 1,000 Lecture Audios Lecture-Travel Schedule for 2011 http://www.ultimateselfrealization.com/schedule Have Questions or Need Further Guidance? Check out the resources at: http://www.ultimateselfrealization.com or write Sankarshan Das Adhikari at: sda@backtohome.com Get your copy today of the world's greatest self-realization guide book, Bhagavad-gita As It Is available at: http://www.ultimateselfrealization.com/store Know someone who could benefit from this? Forward it to them. Searchable archives of all of course material: http://www.sda-archives.com Receive Thought for the Day as an RSS feed: http://www.backtohome.com/rss.htm Unsubscribe or change your email address Follow us on Twitter: http://twitter.com/Daily_Thought http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=714185709 Copyright 2005-2011 by Ultimate Self Realization.Com Distribution of this material is encouraged. Simply we request you to acknowledge where it is coming from with a link to our sign up page: http://www.backtohome.com Our records indicate that at requested to be enrolled to receive e-mails from the Ultimate Self Realization Course at: This request was made on: From the following IP address:   • Email to a friend • • Sri Nandanandana dasa: Vedic Literature Says Caste by Birth is Unjust, By Stephen Knapp             When it comes to the sensitive topic of Varnashrama, or what many people call the caste system of India, we have seen so many talks over this issue, both pro and con, back and forth, this way and that. We all know that the Vedic system of Varnashrama has been mentioned in the Vedic literature in many places. But it seems that many people still don’t understand how it was meant to be implemented. It is not because of Varnashrama, but because of this misunderstanding of what it really is that has caused so many of India’s social problems. This article contains many quotes from Vedic shastra to clarify what the Varnashrama or caste system is actually supposed to be.             This article is for those more familiar with the topic, but for those who are not we can explain briefly that there are four basic social divisions, namely the Brahmanas (those who are priests, or interested in the study, teaching and practice of spiritual knowledge and intellectual pursuits), Kshatriyas (those who are soldiers, in the military, or police, politicians, managers, etc.), Vaishyas (merchants, businessmen, bankers, farmers, tradesmen, etc.), and Shudras (those who would rather engage in simple labor or employment, or technicians, artists, poets, writers, musicians, etc.). Outcastes are those who are outside these four. There are also the four ashramas of life, which include Brahmacharis (student life, generally celibates), Grihastas (householders), Vanaprasthas (those who are retired from family life), and Sannyasa (the renounced monks, some of whom travel the world to teach). This is the Vedic system of Varnashrama.             The modern caste system is seen to usually dictate one’s varna or caste merely by one’s birth family, as if one automatically inherits the caste of one’s father, which is why there is a growing dislike for it. This is not the traditional Vedic system of Varnashrama. This is the difference and the problem. The traditional Vedic system calculated one’s occupational class by recognizing one’s natural talents, interests, tendencies, and abilities. It was similar to the modern system of having high school counselors adjust a student’s academic courses by discussing with the students their interests in conjunction with the results of their IQ tests. Thus, such counselors see what occupational direction is best suited for the students so they can achieve a fitting career that is of interest to them and helps them be a contributor to society at the same time. And the four basic divisions of society, as outlined in the Vedic system, are natural classifications and found everywhere, in every society, call it what you want. Plus, the traditional Vedic Varnashrama system was never so inflexible that one could not change from one occupation or class to another. The rigidity of the present-day caste system, based on jati or one’s birth family, is actually leading us away from the flexibility, and the common sense, of the Vedic varna system.              For this reason, you could say that the modern caste system that we find today is opposed to the Vedic system of varna. The Vedic process was a matter of bringing experience and wisdom of the ages to assist and direct a person’s life in what would be the most productive and satisfying occupation that would fit the mentality, interests, talents, and level of consciousness of an individual. It was never meant to dominate, stifle, hold down, or demean anyone. Therefore, the modern caste system as we find it today should be thrown out, and the natural system of the Vedic Varnashrama should be properly understood as it was meant to be.             So, to show what I’m talking about, here in the shastric quotes that follow I try to provide a clear description of how the varna system was never meant to be based merely on one’s family birth, but by one’s talents, natural interests, proclivities, expertise, and activities. These quotes are from the Brahma Parva section of the Bhavishya Purana (abbreviated as BP), and no matter how much or how little credit you give to this Purana, you still cannot deny the logic with which this information is presented. There are many other points about the caste system that could be discussed, but please note, this article is not taking those up, but merely following the outline as brought up in the following shastric quotes.             In this portion of the Bhavishya Purana that follows, the answers to the questions are spoken by Sumantu, the disciple of Srila Vyasadeva, to King Shatanika. This was at the suggestion of Srila Vyasadeva [VedaVyasa] who was sitting nearby in the assembly of sages, all of whom were listening to the discussion. (Bhavishya Purana, Bhrama Parva, Chapter 1.28-35) HOW DO WE RECOGNIZE ONE’S VARNA?              First of all, how do we recognize one’s varna is an ancient question, even asked by the sages of the distant past to Lord Brahma. What is it that really makes the difference between one person and the next? “The sages asked: O Lord Brahma, in the beginning of creation, how was one recognized as a Brahmana? Was it because of his birth in a particular family, his knowledge of the Vedas, the characteristics of his body, his accomplishment of self-realization, his quality of behavior, or the prescribed duties he carried out? Is it the mind, speech, activities, body, or the qualities that determine one’s social status? Surely one’s birth in a certain caste [or family] is not sufficient for one to be recognized as a Brahmana. One’s qualities and work must also play an important part in determining a person’s position in society. The Vedic literature supports this view.” (BP, 38.8-11)             “Different social orders, such as the Brahmanas and Kshatriyas (and others) are directly seen, but simply being born in a particular family does not automatically grant one his social status. An intelligent person can easily recognize a horse in the midst of many cows. Similarly, among many who are born in a particular social status, those who are actually qualified in terms of character and activities can be easily recognized. (BP, 38.19-20)             “Some people say that all of humanity is the topmost caste, and there is nothing more to be said than this. They fail to understand that the various purificatory processes, such as the sacred thread ceremony [initiation into the twice-born status], make a person distinct from those who do not undergo such rituals.” (BP, 38.21)             Such customs certainly help one progress and is recommended, but the fact remains that in spite of such purificatory rites, we are all still very much the same, as described next. WE ARE ALL QUITE ALIKE             “How can all the living entities who take birth, grow old, become diseased, and then die, who suffer the threefold miseries of material existence, who take birth in innumerable species, such as human beings, birds, Shudras, dogs, pigs, dog-eaters, insects, and tortoises, who are all placed into very awkward conditions of life, fraught with danger, illness, lamentation, and distress, and who are constantly being drowned by the burden of their grave sinful reactions, be accepted as qualified Brahmanas?” (BP, 38.23-25)             Therefore, there must be some additional means that can help identify one’s mental makeup and high or low level of intellect and consciousness. IT IS ONLY OUR ACTIONS AND QUALIFICATIONS THAT DIFFERENTIATE US             “Just as one can differentiate between a soldier, an elephant, a horse, a cow, a goat, a camel, and an ass by seeing their colors and forms [as distinguished because of their birth], all living entities have different characteristics and duties that distinguish them from one another.” (BP, 38.30)             “[However] the question, ‘Who is a Brahmana?’ cannot be answered so easily. Actually, there is no question of a person being qualified as a Brahmana simply because he was born in a family of Brahmanas. When a person is designated as belonging to one of the four divisions of the social order [whether it be Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, Shudras or Brahmanas]—that [designation] is not eternal. There is no physical characteristic that enables one to determine who is a Brahmana. A fair or dark complexion, which, after all, is temporary, is no real indication of a person’s varna.” (BP, 38.31) A CASTE SYSTEM BASED ON BIRTH IS UNJUST             “Therefore, the conception of a caste system based solely on birth is artificial and temporary. It may seem to be reality, but that is only due to the influence of the practice of a particular period. A businessman and doctor are both human beings, but their profession is different. Their work is according to their nature and qualities, and not because of the family they were born into.” (BP, 38.32)             “Can a person, thus, claim to be a Brahmana if he does not act according to the codes of good conduct? Can a man claim to be a Kshatriya if he does not protect the citizens? Can a person claim to be a Vaishya if he gives up performing his prescribed duties [in business, trade or farming]? Can a person claim to be a Shudra if he abandons service to the higher three classes?             “There is no physical difference between human beings as there is between cows and horses. Actually, all living beings should be treated with respect, knowing that they are one in quality as spirit souls, although they may temporarily have different varieties of forms and activities.” (BP, 38.33-34)             “Therefore, the caste system in human society that is based solely upon birth should be understood as superficial, because it is not prescribed in the scriptures. Unfortunately, those in ignorance cannot understand that it is a man-made concoction that can be easily refuted by a person in knowledge.” (BP, 38.35)             “If a person considers himself to be a Brahmana by birth but engages in [such things as] taking care of cows, buffalos, goats, horses, camels, or sheep, or acts as a messenger, tax collector, businessman, painter [artist], or dancer, he should be considered as not a real Brahmana, even though he may be very expert or powerful.” (BP, 38.36-37)             “Brahmanas who have deviated from the path of righteousness as propagated by the scriptures are to be considered fallen [from their social status], even though they may belong to a very aristocratic family, and have performed all the required purificatory rituals, and carefully studied the Vedas. No amount of accomplishments gives one the right to justify sinful behavior.” (BP, 38.42-43)             “Thus, it can be understood how a Brahmana can become a Shudra, a Shudra can become a Brahmana, a Kshatriya can become a Brahmana or a Vaishya, and so on.” (BP, 38.47) Herein we can understand that a Brahmana is no Brahmana if he is not endowed with purity and good character, or if he leads a life of frivolity and immorality. However, a Shudra is a Brahmana if he leads a virtuous and pious life. Varna or caste is a question of character. Varna is not the color of the skin, but the color of one’s character and quality. Conduct and character is what matters and not lineage alone. If one is Brahmana by birth and, at the same time, if he possesses the virtues of a Brahmana, that it is extremely good, because it is only certain virtuous qualifications that determine if one is a Brahmana, just as certain qualities distinguish one as a Kshatriya, Vaishya or Shudra. But if a Brahmana does not have the necessary traits, then he cannot call himself a Brahmana.             “Brahma said: If study of the Vedas is an important criteria for being recognized as a Brahmana, then many Kshatriyas and Vaisyas also deserve to be called Brahmanas, just as Ravana became known as a demon [by qualities and actions]. Similarly, there are many dog-eaters, laborers, hunters, fishermen, sailors, and other people [outside the higher classes] who study the Vedas… Therefore, mere study of the Vedas cannot be the criteria for determining a person’s social position.” (BP, 39.1-2, 6)             The point is that “One who is twice-born and has thoroughly studied the Vedas, along with its six branches, cannot claim to be a purified soul if he does not observe the codes of good conduct. It is the occupational duty of one who is twice-born to study the Vedas, and this is one of the symptoms of a genuine Brahmana. If a person does not perform his prescribed duties after studying the four Vedas, he is like a eunuch who cannot take advantage of having a wife.” (BP, 39.8-9)             Here again we see that the proper classification of an individual is not the status of one’s birth family, but the qualities that he shows in life. Otherwise, even someone who considers himself to be a sophisticated Brahmana may indeed be something far less. As it is further explained: “Just like a Brahmana, a Shudra can have a shikha, chant Om, worship the deities every morning and evening, wear a sacred [Brhamana’s] thread, carry a staff, and wear a deerskin [like a forest sage]. Even Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva are incapable of preventing people from becoming Shudras, and so what to speak of human beings. Therefore, wearing a sacred thread, keeping a shikha, and dressing a particular way are not really indications of a person’s position within the Varnashrama society. Who can stop a person’s Shudra mentality, even though he may be well-versed in the Vedic mantras and tantras, and is a very good speaker on these subjects?” (BP, 39.10-13)             “[Generally it can be recognized that] All classes of men are seen to be capable of performing austerities, speaking the truth, worshiping the demigods, and chanting mantras. All classes of men generally avoid and [in some cases] even deceive those who speak harshly. Considering this, it is not possible to actually differentiate between a Brahmana and a Shudra. The power to curse and the exhibition of compassion can also be found in Shudras. One cannot ascertain from a person’s external appearance whether he is a thief, a cheater, or a prince. Just as a Shudra is incapable of relieving himself of his miseries and protecting his family, it is the same for a Brahmana.” (BP, 39.14-17) THE DAMAGE OF UNQUALIFIED BRAHMANAS             “It is better if there are no Brahmanas at all than to have sinful and unqualified Brahmanas in the kingdom [who thus mislead society by what they say and do], especially in Kali-yuga, because in previous ages such Brahmanas would have been censored.” (BP, 39.18)             Furthermore, it is especially difficult in these days to find anyone who is eligible to be considered a member of the higher classes or varnas of society, for it seems that everyone is materially motivated.              “According to some opinion, the power to curse others, a compassionate nature, and an inclination toward spiritual life are the characteristics of a Brahmana. In spite of that, it is seen that practically everyone is attached to worldly activities, having fallen into the darkness of ignorance, and because of that they are helplessly rushing towards hell, just like flies rush towards a fire.” (BP, 39.19-20) SO WHO IS A REAL BRAHMANA?             We have now seen by the logic presented in the Bhavishya Purana how the jati or birth of an individual does not justify anyone’s social classification. But also how many of those who take pride in considering themselves of a higher caste or varna are actually not qualified in such a way at all. And yet, even a low-class person, meaning having taken birth from a lower social class, can indeed rise up to be a Brahmama. It all depends on one’s level of consciousness, which generally depends on one’s training and then mental disposition towards a spiritual life, and his natural inclination to follow a code of good conduct.             “Only those who have been PROPERLY trained and who have studied the Vedas [are seen to generally] adhere to a life of piety, whereas those without training [in at least general moral standards], who have not studied the Vedas [nor their spiritual conclusion] must engage in sinful activities. Because study of the Vedas is the primary duty of a Brahmana [or one who is seriously on the path to spiritual progress, thus showing Brahminical qualities], one who does not study the Vedas cannot be considered a genuine Brahmana.” (BP, 39.25-26)             This is interesting because how many times have we met people who feel they have duly studied the Vedic conclusions but have yet to know how to apply them, nor have they continued to follow them, giving any number of excuses for their present activities. The above verses make it clear that one has to continue to follow the standards, and if he cannot, then he is no longer to be accepted as a person of a higher social class. And this can go for anyone and anywhere. If they have little respect for others, engage in materialistic pursuits without higher moral standards, then that person is someone with a low consciousness, or low varna. A BRAHMANA CAN EASILY FALL DOWN, WHILE A SHUDRA CAN EASILY RISE UP             “A Brahmana can easily be diverted from his brahminical qualities and codes of good conduct if he becomes bewildered by desires for material enjoyment and blinded by pride, just like an ordinary materialistic person. Of course, anyone becomes degraded and goes to hell if he has a sinful nature, even after undergoing the samskaras. On the other hand, those who observe proper etiquette, even though they might not have undergone the samskaras, should be considered as Brahmanas.             “It is a fact that even someone who chants various mantras and has undergone all the purificatory rituals may fall down into illusion and thereby become bereft of brahminical qualifications due to his sinful mentality. People who engage in abominable activities, and who are blinded by pride in their ability, fall down from their position and lose all brahminical qualities.” (BP, 40.15-18)               Here again I am reminded of what I have always said, that the present caste system based on one’s jati or birth is unjust. It is meant to depend on the person’s natural talents, abilities, tendencies, and mentality, which varies from person to person regardless of family, social class, culture, regional jurisdiction, etc. Each person has to be considered individually regardless of family background.             “The caste system based simply on birth does not actually divide people according to their development of consciousness. It is one’s envy and hatred that allows us to place a person in a higher or lower category. If it is not helpful to divide people according to their bodily characteristics, [then why do so]? In the past, many great sages, such as Srila Vyasadeva, observed proper etiquette and became great souls, although they did not undergo the samskaras, such as the garbhadhana.” (BP, 40.19-20)             For example, “Vyasadeva was the son of a fisherman’s daughter, his father Parashara was born from a woman who was a dog-eater. Shukadeva was born from a female parrot, Vashishtha was the son of a prostitute…” and others sages like Kanada, Shringi,. Mandapala, and Mandavya all had questionable births, and yet all were highly qualified Brahmanas, and recognized as such.             “Indeed, it is imperative that one strictly follow the instructions of these highly qualified sages, who all possess a spotless character, if one hopes to achieve success in life.             “O King, undergoing the various samskaras certainly plays an important part in raising one to the platform of a qualified Brahmana, but there are many other important considerations. For example, the great sage Shringi achieved the status of a Brahmana on the strength of his austerities. It must be concluded that undergoing samskaras is a principal criteria for becoming a Brahmana. Still, on the strength of their penance and austerity, Vyasadeva, Parashara, Kanada, Vashishtha, and Mandapala became qualified Brahmanas, despite their taking birth from the womb of a fisherwomen, female dog-eater, or prostitute, etc.             “[Therefore] undergoing the various samskaras is not sufficient to qualify one as a Brahmana. Those who are expert in performing the Vedic and tantrik samskaras require the attainment of transcendental knowledge and the performance of penance to support their claim of being qualified Brahmanas. Without such qualifications, one will certainly indulge in sinful activities and thus fall from his high position as a Brahmana. One who is a Brahmana in name only is not really a Brahmana.” (BP, 40.22-32) Here in these quotations we can see that many great Rishis were born in lower varnas, such as Vashishta was the son of a prostitute; Vyasa was born of a fisher woman; Parashara’s mother was a chandala; Nammalwar was a Shudra. Similarly, Valmiki, Viswamitra, Agastya were Brahmanas in spite of their non-Brahmana origin. In more recent times, for example, Swami Vivekananda, one of the most revered Hindus worldwide, and was a non-Brahmana. All this proves that birth is not a major player in attaining the status of Brahmana. It is the intellectual and spiritual level that differentiates people. In the same way, spiritual realization is not dependent on birth or book-learning, as has been repeatedly demonstrated in the lives of saints, from the very earliest times to our own day. So, then who is a real rishi? It is the person who has attained through proper means the direct realization of Dharma. That is the one who can be a rishi even if he is a non-Brahmana or mleccha by birth.   The basis of varna is guna or the mode of nature in which a person is situated, and not birth. Therefore, one is a Brahmana not because of one’s birth or caste or heredity or color or profession or acquisition of worldly knowledge, or mere observation of social and moral codes, but because of his spiritual knowledge and insight, and his abidance in the Supreme Reality, his state of self-realization. This is the conclusion of all Vedas, Shrutis, Puranas, Itihasas, and of all great men of India. Therefore, casteism, meaning judging a person by one’s birth family, is a misguided social custom and not part of any spiritual tradition, and all our great preachers have tried to break it down. From Buddhism downwards, every sect has preached against caste. WHEN A BRAHMANA BECOMES LOWER THAN A SHUDRA             “According to Svayambhuva Manu, the principal characteristic of a Brahmana is that he possesses spiritual knowledge, is enriched with the power of penance, and maintains a state of purity. According to this understanding, anyone, whether he belongs to an upper, middle, or lower caste, if he never indulges in sinful activities, he must be considered a Brahmana. It is said that an honest and well-behaved Shudra is better than an arrogant Brahmana, and a Brahmana who disregards the prescribed codes of good conduct is inferior to a Shudra. A Shudra that does not keep wine in his shop or in his house is called an honest Shudra.” (BP, 42.29-32) HOW EVERYONE CAN ADVANCE The proper observance of the Vedic system of Varnashrama-dharma is to help one’s growth and self-evolution. The great sages have explained that this system of division into varnas is the stepping-stone to civilization, providing a means so one can rise higher and higher in proportion to one’s learning and culture. Such is our ideal for raising all humanity slowly and gently towards the realization of the great ideal of being a spiritual man, who is calm, steady, worshipful, pure, and meditative. In that ideal there is God-realization. The additional aim of Varnashrama-dharma is to promote the development of the universal, eternal Sanatana-dharma, the balanced state of being in which you perceive and live according to your genuine spiritual identity. Thus, as the saying goes, “if you take care of Dharma, Dharma will take care of you.” If you destroy it, society will become bereft of balance. Therefore, we should never destroy our Dharma. This principle holds true of the individual as much as of the nation. It is Dharma alone which keeps a nation alive and moving forward. Dharma is the very soul of man. Dharma is the very soul of a nation also, even the world. So how can we all move forward together on the sure path of progress? Here it is explained as follows:             “Brahminical prowess progressively increases in pious persons who cultivate godly qualities such as forgiveness, control of the senses, compassion, charity, truthfulness, purity, meditation, respect for others, simplicity, satisfaction, freedom from false ego, austerity, self-control, knowledge, freedom from the propensity to blaspheme others, celibacy, cultivation of knowledge, freedom from envy, faithfulness, freedom from hatred, detachment, renunciation of the thirst for material enjoyment, service to the spiritual master, and control of the body, mind, and speech.” (BP, 42.12-15)             “Many persons in the past became highly advanced and powerful by cultivating these qualities and practicing behavior befitting a saintly person. It is a fact that by such a practice, the heart becomes purified, freeing one from the influence of the modes of passion [raja-guna] and ignorance [tamo-guna].” (BP, 42.16)             “According to learned authorities, those who possess these godly qualities are actually scholars of the Vedas and Puranas, and understand the confidential purport of the Bhagavad-gita. By faithfully following the principles of varna and ashrama, people in all four yugas have attained the perfection of life.” (BP, 42.17-18) CLASSIFICATIONS BASED ON THE BODY ARE COMPLETELY FALSE By now we should be able to see that even a person who has taken birth from a family who has been considered of a low varna can raise him or herself up to a higher classification by having proper training and showing appropriate codes of conduct and lifestyle.             “When a Shudra has become advanced by undergoing the [Vedic] samskaras, he can no longer be considered a Shudra. The conclusion is that a person’s external dress or appearance cannot be the criterion for his being accepted as a Brahmana.” (BP, 39.29)             However, the samskaras or rituals and training in themselves cannot be the sole means of determining one’s social position. This certainly helps, but there must be more than that, which, as already explained.             “If the undergoing of samskaras is the main criteria for being accepted as a Brahmana, then all those who have undergone samskaras are certainly Brahmanas. If that be the case, how can they be compared with personalities like Srila Vyasadeva, who did not undergo the samskaras. If we consider this, we see that there is no support for the theory of different castes. Although different castes are recognized in society, this is just an artificial conception of materialistic people. The material body is composed of the five gross elements—earth, water, fire, air, and sky. These elements cannot be the cause for one being accepted as a Brahmana [or anything else], because they combine for some time and then merge back into their source. Indeed, the body of an atheist, mleccha, or a yavana is made of the same material elements. [Thus, such designations based on the body are completely false].” (BP, 39.30-33)             “Religiosity as described in the Vedas can also be found in people who are sinful, violent, of bad character, and cruel. Therefore the determination of one’s social status does not depend on undergoing [purificatory] samskaras.” (BP, 39.34)             “Therefore, [from the conclusions that have been presented so far] there is no difference between a Brahmana and a Shudra in terms of bodily features, mentality, experience of happiness and distress, opulence, prowess, tendency toward gambling, shrewdness in business, ability to earn wealth, steadiness, restlessness, intelligence, detachment, virtue, accomplishment of the three objectives of life [dharma, artha and kama], cleverness, beauty, complexion, sexual capacity, stool, bones, holes of the body, manifestations of love, height, weight, and bodily hair. Therefore, even if the demigods were to try very hard to find distinctions between Brahmanas and Shudras [and everyone in between] in this way, they would not be able to do so.” (BP, 39.35-39)             “One should not think that all Brahmanas are white like moon rays, that all Kshatriyas have a complexion like the color of a kimsuka flower, that all Vaishyas have a golden complexion like the color of an orpiment fruit, and that all Shudras are black like half-burnt coal. How can there be four classes of human beings when their walking, complexion, hair, happiness, distress, blood, skin, flesh, bone marrow, and fluids are totally identical? There is nothing special about anyone’s complexion, height, weight, figure, period of stay within the womb, speech, wisdom, working senses, life-air, strength, illnesses, objectives of life, and methods for curing diseases.” (BP, 39.41-43)             “A father may have four sons and it is assumed that all of them belong to the same caste as their father. Similarly, all living entities are produced by the one Supreme Father and so, how can His children be divided into different castes? Just as the color, texture, structure, feel, and juice of different portions of a fig are the same, so are the human beings that are emanating from one source, and so it is improper to differentiate between them. The brothers, children, daughters-in-law, births, marriages, beauty, complexion, and artistic ability must be the same for the member of the lineages [or gotras] coming from Kaushika, Gautama, Kaumdinya, Mandavya, Vashishtha, Atreya, Kautsa, Angirasa, Maudgalya, Katyayana, and Bhargava.             “Although some learned scholars accept the material body as being a Brahmana [or something else], this indicates that they are in the bodily concept of life [without spiritual perception], which exists in a condition of dense ignorance. This is like a blind person desiring to treat others’ eyes by applying a black ointment. Both are ludicrous. Because the material body has a beginning, it also has an end. After death, the elements of the body merge into the totality of material elements once again. Therefore, the body [alone] cannot be accepted as a Brahmana [or any other varna].” (BP, 39.45-51)             In conclusion, therefore, “Only ignorant people accept this material body as being a Brahmana. According to their understanding, the position of being a Brahmana cannot be achieved simply by undergoing the various purificatory processes.” (BP, 39.54) ONE MISSES GOAL OF LIFE WHEN PREOCCUPIED BY CASTE             “If after attaining the human form of life, which enables one to possess things like attractive bodily features, abundant wealth, great power and prestige, one does not live according to the prescribed religious principles, it cannot be predicted what species of life he will thereafter be forced to accept on various planets. This is the fate of one who is so proud that he dares to challenge the supremacy of God. Being intoxicated by pride, thinking that their caste, race, beauty, social status, and education are very wonderful, people do not bother to understand their actual self-interest, and because of that in their next life they will suffer like eunuchs.             “Material existence can be compared to a huge pit in which thousands of millions of living entities are drowning. Knowing this perfectly well, which intelligent person would be very proud of his caste?             “There are many human beings who are presumed to be fully satisfied, having been born in aristocratic families, and yet because of their own misdeeds, after death they will be forced to take birth in this world in some lower species of life. In this world, no one can remain permanently in some situation.” (BP, 39.3-6)             If this does not make it clear regarding the impermanent nature of the living being, and that even one’s high, intermediate or low birth is temporary, then I do not know what can. Yet, we see that so many people are going through life, completely asleep in regard to the real purpose of this existence. Thus, they may think their present position is so grand, not knowing that if they do not use this life properly for real spiritual progress, after death their next life may not be very great at all. But how many times must we go through this before we learn our lessons about the real truth of the matter, that our real position is as a spiritual being, beyond the body and its superficial designations, and everything else is temporary and secondary? THE DIFFERENCE OF PROPER CONSCIOUSNESS AND INTENT, OR MERELY GOING THROUGH THE MOTIONS             In the next few verses it is pointed out that a person must also have the proper concentration and focus, along with the proper intentions in their actions if they are expected to be qualified in their positions. Otherwise, it is seen that anyone can chant mantras and do rituals, but merely going through the motions, especially for adoration, profit and distinction, is not what is needed to suitably accept or be qualified for a higher status in one’s social classification.             “Generally, those who are twice-born—the Brahmanas, Kshatriyas, and Vaishyas—undergo all the Vedic samskaras. For this reason, they are certainly to be considered as superior to the Shudras who engage in all kinds of frivolous activities.             “In spite of undergoing the samskaras, if those who are twice-born engage in violent and sinful activities, such as killing a Brahmana [or worse], having sexual intercourse with the wife of the spiritual master, stealing, killing a cow, drinking wine, cheating, speaking lies, exhibiting great pride, speaking atheistic philosophy, blaspheming the Vedas, denying the authority of the Vedas, plundering the wealth of others, acting whimsically, earning money by dancing or cheating, eating all types of abominable food, and performing any other prohibited activity with the body, mind, and speech, they can never be considered purified, even if they perform thousands of sacrifices [rituals].             “Therefore, the ability to chant mantras, perform fire rituals, practice penance, and sacrifices does not make one a Brahmana, just as a Shudra remains a Shudra, despite the ability to perform all these activities [when merely going through the motions].” (BP, 41.5-9)             “Similarly, the Brahmanas who indulge in sinful activities must be considered fallen. Therefore, the only sane conclusion is that the concepts of Brahmana and Kshatriya etc., are temporary designations and not ultimate reality.” (BP, 41.52) EXPECTED CHARACTERISTICS AND ACTIONS OF EACH PERSON OF THE FOUR VARNAS             What follows are a very few of the qualities, actions and characteristics that are typical of people in each of the four varnas. “Brahma said: Genuine Brahmanas know very well what is to be accepted and what is to be rejected. They avoid sinful behavior, carefully control their senses, mind, and speech, and carefully observe the prescribed etiquette. They follow the rules and regulations that are prescribed for them in the scriptures, and constantly work for the welfare of others.  They work for the protection of religious principles in this world and are fixed in trance, meditating on the Absolute Truth. They restrain their anger, and are free from material attachment, envy, lamentation, and pride. They are attached to the study of the Vedas [and their supporting literature], very peaceful, and are the best well-wishing friends of all living entities. They are equal in happiness and distress, reside in a solitary place, observe all the vows prescribed for them with their body and mind, and are pious by nature. They are reluctant to perform any abominable act, and are freed from illusion and false pride. They are charitable, compassionate, truthful, and very learned in the scriptures. They know the Supreme Brahman and have high regard for the revealed scriptures.” (BP, 42.1-7)             From this verse we can understand that if a Brahmana is not free from such things as anger, material attachment, envy, lamentation, and pride, along with the other qualities mentioned above, then such people do not have the real mentality of a Brahmana, even if they do appear to have some expertise in other areas. Thus, they are not genuinely qualified to be spiritual authorities for the rest of society, but, indeed, have much more work to do on themselves for their own progress and development.             Another class of beings are also known as Brahmanas, as explained: “Brahma was born from the navel of the purusha-avatara [Vishnu]. All living entities were manifested by Him, and among them, those who are devotees, surrendered souls unto that Supreme Personality of Godhead, are also known as Brahmanas.” (BP, 42.9)             Furthermore, “Those who have some realization of the Supreme Brahman, and who act according to the prescribed codes of good conduct, are called Brahmanas, and they are glorified by the other members of society.” (BP, 42.11)             In regard to the other main varnas, namely the Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras, their expected standards are also described: “Those who give protection to others, saving them from all kinds of danger, are known as Kshatriyas. Those who engage in farming, cow protection, and trading are known as Vaishyas, and those who have no capacity to study the Vedas [or deep spiritual knowledge], and are engaged in serving members of the higher three classes are known as Shudras.” (BP, 42.10)             “Lord Brahma has prescribed the methods for members of all the varnas that will enable them to achieve perfection by performing their respective duties.             “Among the human beings, those who are comparatively more powerful and are thus able to give protection to others, saving them from all types of danger, should be known as Kshatriyas. Persons who approach the Kshatriyas to beg some charity after instructing them on the messages of the Supreme Lord as found in the Vedic literature should be known as Brahmanas.             “Those who are almost as powerful as the Kshatriyas but engage in agriculture, cow protection, and trade [such as banking and business], should be known as Vaishyas. Those who, not very capable of working independently, and who are easily overcome by lamentation and illusion, should engage in the service of the higher three classes of men and thus be known as Shudras. In this way, according to their nature and qualities, there are prescribed duties for Brahmanas, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras.” (BP, 42.19-24)             “The qualities of a Brahmana are peacefulness, austerity, self-control, purity, tolerance, simplicity, knowledge, the practical application of the knowledge, and inquiry into the nature of the Absolute Truth. Heroism, power, determination, resourcefulness, courage in battle, generosity and leadership are the natural qualities of work for the Kshatriyas. Farming, cow protection and business are the natural work for the Vaishyas, and for the Shudras there is labor and service to others.” (BP, 42.25-27)              In this way, everyone has a natural tendency for some aspect of the particular traits described, and are also a part of the social body of civilization to help contribute to its balance and progress, and the well-being of one and all. IN CONCLUSION If people can understand the real basis of the Varna system, and be trained in acting accordingly, raising themselves to their original spiritual level, then the false, superficial and bodily based sectarian spirit can ultimately be put to rest. Then there is every possibility that such people can develop a spiritual vision of one another with a mood of love, care, cooperation, sacrifice, and service. This is the real purpose of the Varna system anyway, to see that everyone is a part of the larger social body, and that each person, by their actions and occupation, has a contribution to make to the well-being of all.             “It is therefore to be concluded that humanity is essentially one, but distinctions of caste have been made according to a person’s qualities and work [mentality and consciousness]. As far as general behavior is concerned, the entire human race is one. There is only a difference in people’s occupations and attitudes. Those who divide society into castes according to birth cannot see that human beings are essentially one.” (BP, 42.33-34)             Another article of mine on my website that can help provide more clarity is Casteism: Is It the Scourge of Hinduism, or the Perversion of a Legitimate Vedic System?   • Email to a friend • •   H.H. Prahladananda Swami: Lecture – Bhagavad Gita Jayanti 12-16-2010 – Video H.H. Prahladananda Swami: Lecture – Bhagavad Gita Jayanti 12-16-2010 HH Prahladananda Swami speaking at the conclusion of the reading of the entire Bhagavad Gita during Gita Jayanti.  He speaks on the Meaning of the Gita. Dallas, TX 2010-12-16 H.H. Prahladananda Swami: Gita Jayanti 2010-12-16 H.H. Prahladananda Swami: Gita Jayanti 2010-12-16 HH Prahladananda Swami speaking at the conclusion of the reading of the entire Bhagavad Gita during Gita Jayanti.  He speaks on the Meaning of the Gita. Dallas, TX 2010-12-16 Gita Jayanti 2010-12-16   • Email to a friend • •   H.H. Prahladananda Swami: Lecture – SB 10.1.23 Entrances And Exits 12-16-2010 – Video H.H. Prahladananda Swami: Lecture – SB 10.1.23 Entrances And Exits 12-16-2010 Lecture on Srimad Bhagavatam, Canto 10, Chapter 1, Text 23 titled “Entrances and Exits”. Dallas, TX 2010-12-16 Srimad Bhagavatam 10.1.23 vasudeva-grihe sakshad bhagavan purushah parah janishyate tat-priyartham sambhavantu sura-striyah TRANSLATION The Supreme Personality of Godhead, Sri Krishna, who has full potency, will personally appear as the son of Vasudeva. Therefore all the wives of the demigods should also appear in order to satisfy Him. PURPORT In Bhagavad-gita (4.9) the Lord says, tyaktva deham punar janma naiti mam eti: [Bg. 4.9] after giving up the material body, the devotee of the Lord returns home, back to Godhead. This means that the devotee is first transferred to the particular universe where the Lord is at that time staying to exhibit His pastimes. There are innumerable universes, and the Lord is appearing in one of these universes at every moment. Therefore His pastimes are called nitya-lila, eternal pastimes. The Lord’s appearance as a child in the house of Devaki takes place continuously in one universe after another. Therefore, the devotee is first transferred to that particular universe where the pastimes of the Lord are current. As stated in Bhagavad-gita, even if a devotee does not complete the course of devotional service, he enjoys the happiness of the heavenly planets, where the most pious people dwell, and then takes birth in the house of a suci or sriman, a pious brahmana or a wealthy vaisya (sucinam srimatam gehe yoga-bhrashto ‘bhijayate). Thus a pure devotee, even if unable to execute devotional service completely, is transferred to the upper planetary system, where pious people reside. From there, if his devotional service is complete, such a devotee is transferred to the place where the Lord’s pastimes are going on. Herein it is said, sambhavantu sura-striyah. Sura-stri, the women of the heavenly planets, were thus ordered to appear in the Yadu dynasty in Vrindavana to enrich the pastimes of Lord Krishna. These sura-stri, when further trained to live with Krishna, would be transferred to the original Goloka Vrindavana. During Lord Krishna‘s pastimes within this world, the sura-stri were to appear in different ways in different families to give pleasure to the Lord, just so that they would be fully trained before going to the eternal Goloka Vrindavana. With the association of Lord Krishna, either at Dvaraka-puri, Mathura-puri or Vrindavana, they would certainly return home, back to Godhead. Among the sura-stri, the women of the heavenly planets, there are many devotees, such as the mother of the Upendra incarnation of Krishna. It was such devoted women who were called for in this connection. SB 10.01.23 Entrances And Exits 2010-12-16 Lecture on Srimad Bhagavatam, Canto 10, Chapter 1, Text 23 titled "Entrances and Exits". Dallas, TX 2010-12-16 Srimad Bhagavatam 10.1.23 vasudeva-grihe sakshad bhagavan purushah parah janishyate tat-priyartham sambhavantu sura-striyah TRANSLATION The Supreme Personality of Godhead, Sri Krishna, who has full potency, will personally appear as the son of Vasudeva. Therefore all the wives of the demigods should also appear in order to satisfy Him. PURPORT In Bhagavad-gita (4.9) the Lord says, tyaktva deham punar janma naiti mam eti: [Bg. 4.9] after giving up the material body, the devotee of the Lord returns home, back to Godhead. This means that the devotee is first transferred to the particular universe where the Lord is at that time staying to exhibit His pastimes. There are innumerable universes, and the Lord is appearing in one of these universes at every moment. Therefore His pastimes are called nitya-lila, eternal pastimes. The Lord's appearance as a child in the house of Devaki takes place continuously in one universe after another. Therefore, the devotee is first transferred to that particular universe where the pastimes of the Lord are current. As stated in Bhagavad-gita, even if a devotee does not complete the course of devotional service, he enjoys the happiness of the heavenly planets, where the most pious people dwell, and then takes birth in the house of a suci or sriman, a pious brahmana or a wealthy vaisya (sucinam srimatam gehe yoga-bhrashto 'bhijayate). Thus a pure devotee, even if unable to execute devotional service completely, is transferred to the upper planetary system, where pious people reside. From there, if his devotional service is complete, such a devotee is transferred to the place where the Lord's pastimes are going on. Herein it is said, sambhavantu sura-striyah. Sura-stri, the women of the heavenly planets, were thus ordered to appear in the Yadu dynasty in Vrindavana to enrich the pastimes of Lord Krishna. These sura-stri, when further trained to live with Krishna, would be transferred to the original Goloka Vrindavana. During Lord Krishna's pastimes within this world, the sura-stri were to appear in different ways in different families to give pleasure to the Lord, just so that they would be fully trained before going to the eternal Goloka Vrindavana. With the association of Lord Krishna, either at Dvaraka-puri, Mathura-puri or Vrindavana, they would certainly return home, back to Godhead. Among the sura-stri, the women of the heavenly planets, there are many devotees, such as the mother of the Upendra incarnation of Krishna. It was such devoted women who were called for in this connection. SB 10.01.23 Entrances And Exits 2010-12-16   • Email to a friend • •   Jahnavi, UK: A Glorious End Some days remain etched within the mind forever. I think yesterday was one I will never forget. I’ve only attended a few funerals in my life. None have been for people I was particularly close to, but all were moving in their own way. I’m sure everyone remembers the first time they saw a dead body – that strange twist of fear and morbid fascination and loss. I always felt so uncomfortable at the outpouring of emotion. As a teenager, I felt confused at what I was supposed to do. Should I try and cry, even if I don’t feel it? Would people appreciate it if I try and be lighthearted? Am I supposed to comfort people, or do they want to be left alone? Yesterday’s ceremony was perhaps one of the most cathartic, moving experiences I’ve ever had. Close to eight hundred people gathered at the North London crematorium to pay last respects. One hundred and fifty crowded the small, sunlit chapel, whilst the remainder watched outside on TV screens. I sat with a few friends in a corner behind the plinth where the coffin would eventually sit. We were there with harmonium, kartals, mridanga, flute and violin to lead the major portion of the ceremony – continuous kirtan. Several family members gave beautiful speeches, glorifying the unique qualities of their father, uncle and brother. They spoke of his generous, unfailingly open heart and his humility. His desire to serve others and his lighthearted, loving nature were celebrated by so many. From my vantage point at the front of the room, I could see heads nodding as they spoke, each a moving testament to the truth of their words. The time line of his life was recited. It almost felt as if we walked through a gallery, examining images and memories, and fragments of a life, mapping his journey up to the present moment. It can be sobering to hear a life summarised. One life seems so short – a fluttering rush of days and months, like a moth falling towards a flame. But even a short life is glorious when lived with integrity and substance. After speeches the front and back doors were thrown open, the March wind gusting in with the shafts of sunlight. A non stop line of people passed through, holding flower petals which they placed at his feet as a sign of respect. The kirtan began, and the sound carried up to the high ceiling. Watching every person pass, I was captivated by the range of emotions on each face. So many kinds of tears – of love, of pain and loss, of joy. Some were overwhelmed and wept uncontrollably, whilst others looked on his face with a steady gaze and peaceful heart. Children passed, looking dazed or distressed, and teenagers, trying to control emotions they never expected. Old friends, colleagues, saffron clad monks. Perhaps the worst to see were his parents, saying goodbye to a cherished son. They lovingly touched his face and walked away from the coffin with faltering steps. I sat watching, singing and playing my violin – trying to stay present to my task but finding tears streaming down my face at unexpected moments. They dripped down my nose, falling all over my violin. I looked over at my friends to see them crying too. My dear friend sang with her eyes closed, only pausing once in two continuous hours because emotion overwhelmed her. Despite so many tears, as the ceremony drew closer to the end, an indescribable feeling of joy began to rise within the room. Voices called with such love and focus. The sound was heavenly in a rare way. With an irresistible rise and fall, the mridanga drum picked up tempo, and a few men began to dance. They stood beside the coffin, gazing at their old friend with such love, arms raised, swaying and stepping in time. More joined in and soon almost everyone was standing and moving to the beat – even those looking on from the rear balcony. I wondered if it was disrespectful to dance at a funeral? It certainly seemed incongruous in the white walled, Victorian chapel. But no one cared – in those last moments, all sounds were of loving prayer – every tear stained face decorated with a smile. Then silence fell, and my Dad recited the final prayers from the ancient Upanishads. ‘Let this temporary body be burnt to ashes, and let the air of life be merged with the totality of air. Now, O my Lord, please remember all my sacrifices, and because You are the ultimate beneficiary, please remember all that I have done for You.’ We repeated the words together, speaking one final prayer that described the glory of kirtan as the garden-like oasis for the weary soul. Then with the press of a button, it was all over. Vacuums were quickly whipped out to clean away the petals and everyone was ushered out. May we all lead lives rich with love and service, that flower in such a glorious end.   • Email to a friend • •   ISKCON Toronto, Canada: Send Us Pictures of Your Gaura-Nitai Deities! With Gaura Purnima around the corner we're planning a special surprise featuring images of Gaura-Nitai deities worshiped in the homes of members of the ISKCON Toronto community. If you would like us to include your Gaura-Nitai deities please send us a picture by 5 PM on Thursday, March 17th. Please email pictures to info@torontokrishna.com (high resolution pictures are prefered).   • Email to a friend • •   Rupa Madhurya das, TX, USA: Bhajan - 24hr Kirtan - Hari das - 8/26 Rupa Madhurya das, TX, USA: Bhajan - 24hr Kirtan - Hari das - 8/26 Hari das singing a Hare Krishna bhajan for Dallas' New Year's 24hr Kirtan. Dallas, TX 2010-12-31  Download: 2010-12-31 - 09 - 24hr Kirtan - Hari das - Hare Krishna.mp3   • Email to a friend • •   ISKCON Melbourne, AU: Daily Class - Bhanu Swami Srimad Bhagavatam 12.2.26-33 - Bhakti is the real dharma (sarva dharman parityajya..).   • Email to a friend • •   Bharatavarsa.net: Bhakti Vikasa Swami: do not be too much dreaming ...regarding your vision of Lord Vishnu and your flying in the sky - do not be too much dreaming. It may or may not have happened. If you want to advance in a practical, tangible way, practice the rules and regulations, thoroughly read my books, assimilate, chant Hare Krishna mantra, and take the proper directions. >>> Ref. VedaBase => Letter to: Mark Anson, 4 February, 1977   • Email to a friend • •   David Haslam, UK: The gender gap There is a puzzle that appears to be unique in certain aspects of devotional life that does not correspond to natural trends in a majority of faith communities and within the uptake of religious studied both in secondary and university education. That is the overall gender brake-down, with the social norms being that when it [...]   • Email to a friend • •   Japa Group: Chanting Should Be In The Forefront Chanting should be enough in the forefront that we don’t chant our rounds while driving. It should be enough in the forefront that it gets prime time in the morning. If that’s what he meant by forefront, then yes, chanting should be in the forefront. Japa Walks, Japa Talks by Satsvarupa dasa Goswami   • Email to a friend • •   H.H. Bhaktimarg Swami: Saturday, March 12th, 2011 Walking to a Wedding Mayapur, India A planned youth kirtan was restricted to the small stage of the Samadhi Auditorium due to a storm. That was last night. Yes, the winds were high and rain did come down. Hurray! Nevertheless, the kirtan soared and those who came, the twenty or so youth, took to the theatrical kirtan, unlike the very, very common sit-down standards of these days. With the damper weather conditions and from left up all night to thwart off mosquitoes, I woke up with muscle spasms in the back. A little extra rest and then a trek was my anticipated care. It turned into a 7 kilometer bound trek with Gaura, our leading actor for the play "The Three Lives of Bharat". We had ride offers but we declined as we were happily en route to a wedding at the Jagannatha temple. "No thanks," I told one motorist, "We are going the civilized style. We're losing our legs!" The lucky couple being betrothed is Gopal and Avatari. Since the departure last year of Aindra, 24 hr kirtan guru, Gopal has since taken over the supervision of the noble task for around-the-clock chanting at the cultural centre and temple, ISKCON Vrndavan. Avatari, looking like an Indian princess, I have known since she was 4. What a good match they are! I didn't have a chance to speak at the ceremony but I left a brief message in their blessings book: To Gopal and Avatari, Keep it together, keep it Krishna-centric. Do it and you will shine even more! 7 KM   • Email to a friend • •   H.H. Bhaktimarg Swami: Friday, March 11th, 2011 George Mayapura, India I had almost forgotten about George Svobada. George was a regular comer to our ashram in Toronto. I had got to know him when he'd visit. Long haird but groomed, full-length beard. Very mannerly and generally reserved. He originated from Czechoslovakia and rendered a valuable service to the people of his country. He had written a road accommodation guide in the local language for global backpackers. As a traveler himself, he was able to explore all the cheap but decent hostels and hotels for the adventurous. More important as a contribution, George had made, was his translating our guru, Srila Prabhupada's "Bhagavad Gita As It Is" in his language - a translation executed in the 70's but is still in print and used today. I got to know George more personally in '96 when he joined me for walking on the Trans Canada Highway. When he heard I was taking up this mission his free-sprited side shone through. He hitch-hiked and searched until he found me. He stayed with me and my companions of the time for a couple of days for the experience and then moved on. George repeated this venture in 2008. He sought me out and we trekked that same highway, the longest road in the world. I recall then him telling me of a recent trip he took from Cochrane, Ontario, on the Polar Bear Express, which takes you to the base of James Bay, a domain for the most fearsome bears on the planet. George said,"When I got there I didn't want to pay for any bed and breakfast or a hotel. I slept outside in the wilderness." "What was that like?" I asked. "weren't you scared?" "No! whatever happened to me, it was okay. I was safe." This morning when I was making my way through the temple room in Mayapura as devotees were chanting on their japa meditation beads, I was recognized by a male devotee from the Czech Republic who said, "Maharaj, you might not be aware but George Svoboda is not with us anymore. He passed away in a most unique way. His body was found frozen in the mountains of Germany." The news of George's passing - A dear friend and walking companion - did hit me hard. On second thought, "That's probably the way he wanted to go." And so with a peaceful mind I pray that this true yogi has moved on and with the Gita's telling to His abode where you stay with Him forever. 6 KM   • Email to a friend • •   H.H. Bhaktimarg Swami: Thursday, March 10th, 2011 Samadhi Sound Mayapura, India Vaiyasaki is a well known singer in the bhakti yoga genre of music. As a boy growing up in Winnipeg, Canada, he would sing in the Jewish synagogue. As a young musician he played in a rock band with Neil Young. We were talking about his musical past and present as we were sipping on dob (coconut) juice on our way to the samadhi of our guru Srila Prabhupada. "The Guess Who were the biggest band in Canadian history and they came from Winnipeg. Neil made it big and so did the Guess Who." Vaiyasaki explained, "They had the right connections but I had the best connection- Srila Prabhupada." Neil Young is a big icon in the music world. He's got to be about the same age as Vaiyasaki, in his sixties but Vaiyasaki uniquely (for musicians) went the full nine yards in the spiritual musical field. We climbed up the stairs to the Samadhi with his wife, Kishori. As we entered we heard much chatter, from visitors. We sat ourselves down in front of the glorious brass deity of our guru and began to chant in a capella, without instruments. He led and I responded. The chatter tamed more into a chant. People came to join us. It was beautiful- a Nitai Gaurian chant like the monks singing in a Christian cathedral. No music, just voices. And if you've ever heard Lady Smyth Mombasa singing "Amazing Grace" and just about anything else they do with their harmonization sans instruments we were going in that direction with our mantra sounds. The room which we call the Samadhi has that potential to be an appealing space with the emphasis being solely on mantra vibration in addition to the building's own architectural draw and the beautiful diorama displays inside. Our visit there ended with the honoring of prasadam, spiritual food, and especially our favorite the sukta, the local greens. From here Vaiyasaki and Kishori were to leave for Vrindavan, Krishna's childhood playground. 7 KM   • Email to a friend • •   H.H. Bhaktimarg Swami: Wednesday, March 9, 2011 Monk Against Drivers Addicted to Vehicles (MADAD) Mayapura, India I was fortunate to tag along with the Russian pilgrims after crossing the Jalangi River to reach Brahma Puskara and a unique Shiva temple. There, Bhakti Vaibhava Swami from Germany and I teamed up to talk to the multitudes. Yes indeed, outside the Shiva Temple, the space was laid thick with Russian comrades. In fact some people made their way to residential rooftops and to trees to see and hear us two swamis talk about the deity's significance. Tradition has it that because of the long enduring heat, pujaris (priests) of the Shiva deity chose to submerge him in the depth of the local Gomati River where he can remain cool. The deity is then removed from the water during the time of the Gaura Purnima, the anniversary of Chaitanya's birth. That calls for a celebration attracting 50,000 people. Further on from this location after a short trek to a mangrove, Russian devotees enacted a pastime demonstrating Shiva's dissatisfaction with his bull carrier, Nandi. Shiva who is the Lord of Destruction, opted to travel via Hamsa-vahava, a majestic swan. This swan is generally the conveyance of Brahma, the Lord of Creation. In this way it is understood that the mighty Gods of the Universe have their frustrations too and allow for adjustments and negations. They sometimes agree and disagree with each other as well as unite as much as they fight with each other. At the end of the day I happened to pick a fight, or at least my voice. My intolerance towards the motor bikes had reached its end. Two drivers meeting from opposite directions ended up stopping where I had been chatting with a pilgrim. I admit I released a monk's wrath pointing out the hazardous nature of the machines. "These scooters spoil the atmosphere," I explained "and sends the wrong message to visitors about our lifestyle which is supposed to be one of simplicity. "I found that the villages I walked through with the Russians to be peaceful." I demanded, "Stop the madness. Get rid of them and bring a sense of tranquility back to Mayapura." The two scooter operators were rather startled at my chiding. I hope that they and others will consider the other modes of transportation like walking or bicycling. Consider how Shiva looked at options. 10 KM   • Email to a friend • •   H.H. Sivarama Swami: Sridevi dd, asks about ISKCON’s clear stand on investing in the share market in any form H.H. Sivarama Swami: Sridevi dd, asks about ISKCON’s clear stand on investing in the share market in any form H.H. Sivarama Swami: Sridevi dd, asks about ISKCON’s clear stand on investing in the share market in any form March 15th, 2011 Is it a breach of the principles?… and other questions. 5 Responses to “Sridevi dd, asks about ISKCON’s clear stand on investing in the share market in any form” 1. - Madhupati dasa says: March 15, 2011 at 8:22 pm Dear Guru Maharaja, Please accept my humble obeisances! All glories to Srila Prabhupada! The question whether investing in the stock market constitutes a breach of the regulating principle of refraining from gambling has interested me for quite some time. It is a complex question and I do not have the philosopher’s stone in my pocket, either. Still, there are some aspects worth considering: 1). Companies: back in the 17th to 19th centuries, companies limited by shares (like East India Company etc.) were founded because such ventures needed more capital than one or a few rich people could put together, therefore the small investors’ monies were gathered. The motivation of the small investors was the expectation of the dividend; in other words, they shared the risk of the venture and got a share in the profits. In the modern stock market, dividend is the least important factor. The biggest corporations, IBM, Coca Cola etc. rarely pay dividends and if they do, those are too skinny alone to pay for the risk taken by the investors. Practically all investors invest because they expect the share price to increase and they plan to realise a profit on the fluctuation of the share price which depends only to a small extent on the profitability of the company; rather, it is changing in line with the speculative expectations of other investors, among many factors. As far as I am concerned, when I had funds to invest, I used to buy real estate, specifically, apartments. Such investment is not speculative; they are assets that exist in reality (as their name suggests) unlike certain financial “products” that are so complex that even those who sell them don’t understand them. The latter make the financial system extremely volatile, as the developments in October, 2008 clearly showed. Real estate also have the advantage that they can be rented out, producing an income while the investor can hang on to the asset… Gold and similar metals (silver, platinum) involve no questions similar to the above. However, I do not think they offer quick returns, rather, bullion is good to keep or increase the value of an investment in the longer run. Your servant, Madhupati dasa 2. - Payonidhi das says: March 16, 2011 at 1:47 pm dear Sivarama Swami Please accept my humble obaisences All glories to Srila Prabhupada Obviously for sannyasis to do such business is out of line. Real Sannyasis renounce wealth to do such things in the name of yukta vairagya is crazy.Srila Prabhupada obviously would never have approved of it. It is more than sad this addiction to wealth by some in the renounced order of life.In the case of Harikesa he invested disciples money and then later got married and fell down. It should be seen as a way to falling down, because this is what it is.Not the duty of sannyasis but of vaisyas in the grhastha asrama .Even for them as devotees they should not waste time in such gamble. your servant Payonidhi das 3. - Payonidhi das says: March 22, 2011 at 8:04 am dear Sivarama Maharaja Please accept my humble obaisences All glories to Srila Prabhupada As devotees we should always keep these prayers of queen Kunti in mind: SB 1.8.26: My Lord, Your Lordship can easily be approached, but only by those who are materially exhausted. One who is on the path of [material] progress, trying to improve himself with respectable parentage, great opulence, high education and bodily beauty, cannot approach You with sincere feeling. SB 1.8.27: My obeisances are unto You, who are the property of the materially impoverished. You have nothing to do with the actions and reactions of the material modes of nature. You are self-satisfied, and therefore You are the most gentle and are master of the monists. your humble servant Payonidhi das 4. - Payonidhi das says: March 24, 2011 at 4:15 pm “Sannyasi stockholders” Dear Sivarama Swami, Please accept my humble obaisences All glories to Srila Prabhupada It has come to our attention that a certain sannyasi in ISKCON invests in the stockmarket in the name of Yukta vairagya. Take some money from “disciples” and invest it.There is only one word for it:”MAYA”.This reflects badly on those sannyasis that are strict.And in my opinion this is most sannyasis in ISKCON.Most of us will agree on that. Sannyasis is an asrama of few possessions .Actually Srila Prabhupada allowed disciples to ,to some extend to use laxmi for monuments to him, like in New Vrindavan.However Srila PRabhupada never lived in this Palace.However the neophyte disciples makes a show of opulent worship to the Guru in the hope he will have the same.This is strictly against the teachings of Srila Rupa Goswami and Srila Prabhupada, lets not forget Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Prabhupada. Only the greatest degraded person can imagine Srila Prabhupada and Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Prabhupada approving of a sannyasi investing in the stock market,it is simply fraud in capital letters:”FRAUD”. In the case of our former (socalled ) Guru, Harikesa, he also did this and at the same time developed attachment for women though a sannyasi and he got married to a socalled female disciple and left ISKCON with many millions of dollars.Now recently the GBC members swore that laxmi they have obtained should not leave ISKCON in case they do….ouchhhh.First of all there is no garantie if a fallen “Guru” finds a female disciple he likes and he has enough money for life he will not leave.What guaranties is there?.Are sannyasis above the law?Where is the sannyasa ministry? Maybe this is the reason that sannyasa is forbidden in kali yuga, Srimad Bhagavatam 12 Canto also states that sannyasis in kali yuga often are overly eager to accumalate money .I have often seen this in my 32 years as a devotee. The argument is :”We are doing this for Krsna”, my rebuttal is:” No it is for yourself to enhance you prestige and wealth both are enemies of Bhakti”. Have we not read Vaisnava Ke or Srila Prabhupadas Vaysa puja offering from 1961,where he chastised some of his god brothers for collecting wealth? Srila Prabhupada points out that grhasthas go to such sannyasis and beg for money and why not, they have crores of rupees in the bank . Here in US one devotee told me how his Guru gave him cash money to buy a house, and he is praying him back with interests,This is not even legal according to US laws, however the same sannyasi has been a GBC chairman .These few rotten apples may spoil the rest as Kali yuga goes on. We can clearly understand that such persons are not on the spiritual platform, and that they are rejected by Lord Caitanya and His Parampara. (for that matter any strict vaisnava sampradaya). Harikesa promised us” disciples” he would build us some facilities in Mayapure so in old age we could retire in peace and do sadhana bhakti. Did he try to” catch the fish and simply got wet “by his stockholder investments, (from money all by foolish disciples), or is it more that he used these foolish disciples to become rich?The answer is obviously yes.I will not pay my obaisences to a fraud in the name of sannyasi that is addicted to wealth I will not even look at him or talk to him ,I reject him and pray to Surya to purifie my vision should I see such a sinful man,dressed as a sannyasi. The GBC should kindly make a list so persons like myself and others can avoid such offenders to the sannyasa asrama. As Aindra Prabhu would have said:”SHAME ON THEM”.Let them walk with a sign in Mayapure that says: “I invest in stocks”.Even strict grhasthas do not gamble like this.Deenabhandhu Prabhu told me one sannyasi recently also lost 6 -7 million dollars doing this, so it is also gambling. Does the GBC expect us to see such persons as its representatives ?The GBC should clearly explain this, but they can not as they can not control these persons, that are out of control. so the next best thing, make the oath of” financial chastity”.What a joke really. But I am not laughing.Are we envious or jealous of such persons, certainly not, we pity them at the bottom of our hearts, they are far away from pure bhakti, with their sakama bhakti behavior. But theire sakama disciples also see nothing wrong with this as that is also their motivation,anyone who thinks this is ok is surely a sakama devotee. And yes the karmis are right in one sense, never give to the Guru ( because he will hang himself with this money),better is to beg chapaties and chant peacefully than this animal life. The blind is leading the blind for sure,I have brought a sunlight here,those who can see will see, others stay in the fraud of selfdeception. I like HH Gopal Krsna Maharaja who flies economy class and rejects fancy cars for himself and has no personal house, and does not invest in stocks ,there is 2 sannyasis(maybe more) and they should learn from him and other sannyasis, they know who they are….the question is will the GBC do anything? Queen Kunti has advised against this attachment to wealth as one can not feelingly call out to Krsna,Jesus Christ used to say ,it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter heaven. This is not a time to stick the head in the sand..but do you have any suggestions to what can be done on GBC level? your humble servant Payonidhi das 5. - SpiritualQuest says: April 18, 2011 at 10:54 am HareKrishna, So, answer is, we can not invest in share market in any form… i got my answer, thanks. yrs Gaur Gadadhar das SpiritualQuest Is it a breach of the principles?… and other questions.   • Email to a friend • •   H.H. Satsvarupa das Goswami (Ret.): 250 www.sdgonline.org.  Advertisement: I have lost a typist for my daily posting. I’m requesting a volunteer to take at least a few days and do the typing so that I can continue to post them daily. If anyone would like to volunteer please write to Caitanya candrodaya at bger108@gmail.com. A Writer of Pieces New format–I will begin with a poem writ­ten on the day of its print­ing. Then I will print ran­dom excerpts of books I have printed over the last 30 years. I hope this vari­ety will be pleasing. Poem for March 15 Krishna shall always love us in terriblest times. He shall not forsake us. But He wants you to bring Him something as Sudhama Vipra brought Him a palm- full of flat rice and Rukmini wouldn’t let the Lord take a second bite or She would have to be so obliged She’d have to go down to earth and bestow on Sudhama more riches than Indra has. Krishna shall never forsake us, but we have to serve Him willingly if we want to capture His love. I look to Him and reach up like a baby but don’t  just grasp, give Him an offering of work. Krishna wants an offering from your free will, an avocado, a plum, an effort with your biceps and your back, your flexibility. Krishna will always love us and that is the most beautiful exchange. He is the most handsome hero, and we are like monkeys, but He will see us as friends, as lovers if we give Him our effort, our true love. Krishna will never leave us if we will never leave Him, if we will offer Him our homage and worship. We have to give Him everything we own, our very selves, and He will stay with us and protect us through death and rebirth and finally take us back home, back to Godhead.   • Email to a friend • •   H.H. Satsvarupa das Goswami (Ret.): OLD FRIENDS www.sdgonline.org. The Week Before Gaura Purnima (1994) Toward evening, one of the devotees came to the guest room where the sannyasi stayed. In the absence of his assistant Narahari, a temple devotee agreed to bring him a glass of milk at 7 P.M. “Maria is missing,” he said. “Missing?” The devotee said no one knew where she was. Her belongings were gone. A neighbor said he saw her walking down the road with her bag. “So it’s not the deprogrammers,” the devotee said  “Why did she leave?” The devotee shrugged his shoulders. He said no one knew for sure. After all, Maria was a new devotee. Maybe she had some doubts. Something the deprogrammer said may have stuck in her mind. Maybe she got sentimental about her mother. “Did she go home to her mother’s?” “We don’t know yet. Someone has gone there to see. I know you don’t like to get disturbing news before your bedtime so I was not going to tell you until we…” “Yeah.” Then the devotee looked sheepish and said, “Someone speculated that maybe Maria was disappointed because you wouldn’t see her.” “That’s ridiculous,” said the sannyasi. The devotee shrugged. When it was 8 P.M., when the sannyasi was usually in bed with fresh earplugs in place inviting sleep, he was instead sitting in the dark and speaking with the author of this story. “I have a complaint,” said the sannyasi. “What?” The author was also usually disposed to taking rest by 8 so that his subconscious could work on sending him messages for the next writing session. “Why did you have the devotee say I might be the cause of Maria’s leaving. It’s not my duty as a sannyasi to see and take care of a woman. They make it out that I neglected her. But if anyone has neglected her, it’s you.” “Me?” The author wasn’t prepared. “Yeah, if you bring a woman into a story, which you did right from the beginning…” Maria Maria, I’ve just met a girl named Maria. And suddenly that name will never be the same to me. “Then you have to take responsibility for her. But no one even knows what she looks like, not even a stick figure. No one knows her.” The author realized that he had been nailed, so to speak. “It’s late,” he said excusing himself. “Look, Swamiji, why don’t the three of us, you, me and Maria, have a meeting tomorrow morning. We can find out better who she is and try to make her happy. I myself don’t control her you know. Characters are independent. “You should talk with her,” said the sannyasi, “But why bring me into it?” “You can’t stay aloof from everything. I’m asking you as a friend to help me out. Maybe she does want to hear from you as a sadhu. You are not against women are you? They’re also spirit souls.” “I know that.” “So you can preach to her. It’s in our mutual interest. The devotees want to see you show a little concern for Bhaktin Maria after all they’ve been through. And you are right about me. I have to do something. These days are extremely crucial for Maria. For you and me, these days leading up to Gaura Purnima are auspicious, but mild, not so eventful. We want it that way so that we can look into ourselves. But for Maria, it’s not just another festival, but maybe the biggest trial and decision in her life. Maybe she’s got some doubts. So let’s try to meet with her. What do you so? Shall we team up?” “I’m willing.” Friends parted for the night. Japa Walks Japa Talks (1994) Gopa-vrnda dasa quoted to me from the Caitanya Caritamrta (Madhya 22.107) “When the heart is purified by hearing and chanting, the living entity naturally awakens.” He admitted that he chants his prescribed rounds while driving the car and at other times when he’s not attentive. “But I’m thinking I can chant this way until the financial pressure ease off. Then in my old years I can dedicate more time chanting properly.” He asked me if I would advise him to change his priorities and immediately begin chanting as he knows best, whatever the cost, based on your own experience, that time is too precious to postpone until a later date. I wish I had that experience or I wish I could learn from it. Prabhupada said that even if we live for a million years it will soon come to an end. We read a sentence like that in our brief life duration of seventy or eighty years. In any case it’s gone all too soon. Depend on Krishna. Now He comes to us by our karma. It may seem impossible for us to reorder our priorities but that’s a mental block. You don’t have to chant your rounds in your car. It’s not impossible to do them properly. We just have to put first things first. I’m not saying you don’t have to worry about money or your family or your mortgage and all that—those are real worries at least for the time being—but those worries are not really stopping you from chanting your rounds nicely. Just sit down with a clean piece of paper and plan a day that starts with sixteen rounds. Then plan to drive into town. You won’t starve to death. Somehow or other it will work. If you worry so much about money that you conclude beforehand that you can’t chant in the morning, then you’re making a big mistake. I guess I’m in a position to give advise like that because I at least accomplish that much. Or rather I shouldn’t say I’ve accomplished it. Krishna had been kind in giving me a life in which I have time to chant my rounds. I know just having time to chant my rounds is not perfection, but if a person doesn’t even give himself time to chant properly then he is not even as far along as I am. I have to encourage devotees with this problem to not stay in that syndrome. At the same time someone has to encourage me to get passed my own stuckness. Who is that person? Who would I listen to. Just as my advice falls in deaf ears so no one can advise me. We listen to our well intentioned advisors. We shake our heads thoughtfully. We even smile and say, “You have my number. I really ought to do what you say. I think I will, starting tomorrow. Then we don’t. Who can help such a fool. Will it take death himself or near-death to grab us by the neck? By then, as Gopa-vrnda admitted it may be too late. He gave me another quote from Srimad-Bhagavatam 1.2.17: “Sri Krishna, the Personality of Godhead, who is the Paramatma (Supersoul) in everyone’s heart and the benefactor of the devotee, cleanses desire for material enjoyment from the heart of the devotee who has developed the urge to hear His messages which are in themselves virtuous when properly heard and chanted.” He asked if chanting his rounds in an inattentive way is comparable to breaking the principles (I assume here he means breaking the four regulative principles). His question became unclear when he talked about balancing things. “Which is the lesser of evils, developing the urge and being truthful in relation to the sadhu-sanga or maintaining my asrama…Is it justifiable to find a balance or should chanting always be at the forefront?  A balance is alright. But what did he mean when he asked whether chanting should be in the forefront? Chanting should be enough in the forefront that we don’t chant our rounds while driving. It should be enough in the forefront that it gets prime time in the morning. If that’s what he meant by forefront, then yes, chanting should be in the forefront. But it’s not either-or—either I spend time to raise money (for Krishna conscious purposes) or I spend time being truthful and associating with other devotees. There has to be time for everything. Otherwise if chanting were the all in all our movement would advise everyone to become babajis. Prabhupada said that babaji life is a liberated state. We can’t artificially jump to that position. We have to be balanced. We are fortunate to find other things in Krishna consciousness for which we have some taste. I love to write and read but chant too. Don’t neglect the chanting. Memories Father Whenever I read Srila Prabhupada’s dedication to his father in the Krishna book, I’m touched. “To my father Gour Mohana De (1849–1930). A pure devotee of Krishna who raised me as a Krishna conscious child from the beginning of my life. In my boyhood ages he instructed me how to play the mrdanga. He gave me Radha-Krishna vigraha to worship and he gave me Jagannatha Ratra do duly observe the festivals as my childhood play. He was kind to me and I imbibed the ideas later on solidified by my spiritual master, the eternal father.” What a fortune it is to have a Krishna conscious father, a father who loves you enough to give you spiritual life, a father who knows how to love you at all. My father was not filled with the loving care of Bengali Vaisnava family life; rather I was lonely. Instead of my father directing me in puja he left me to play baseball alone in the yard. My father would occasionally play catch with me. I have an early memory of him playing catch out on the street with me in Queens. He had a pipe in his mouth. I threw the ball high. As he backed up and reached to catch he suddenly hit against a telephone pole and almost dropped his pipe. It was an awkward moment—my heroic father had somehow become compromised. I was still young enough to see my father as young and handsome and faultless. It wasn’t until we moved to Staten Island that I began to see the chips in his armor and then I became sullen and less responsive to him. The biggest difficulty I experienced with him as I grew older was that my nature was so different from his. He simply couldn’t understand me, and he tried to squelch what was natural in me and create someone more according to his own definition of a son. This was the real tragedy in my relationship with him. He didn’t leave me any room to be who I was. When I was five and he was away at war, he sent me boxing gloves. When he came home and as I grew up I saw that he was a right-winger and that he valued everything America stood for. He had worked hard to be part of the American dream. I was a poet, an artist, a left-winger. I was everything he wasn’t. But I suppose he loved me in his own way, even if he didn’t understand or approve me. I wanted to be a college professor but my father thought that was the “end of the line.” It was a non-career in his eyes. Rather he encouraged me to become a naval officer. I signed myself into the naval reserve officer training program when I was seventeen. My father had assured me that I would be drafted when I was eighteen and before that happened I could choose something better than the army which he considered third-class. I was so naïve and gullible and uncreative in my thinking at that time—still willing to follow his lead—that it didn’t occur to me that I could have avoided the military altogether just by following my dream to become a professor. Students didn’t get drafted. On our way home, on the night when I signed into the navy, my father and I sat in the car in the dark. As he shifted gears he asked, “Is this really what you want?” It was such a strange question to ask at that point and I still wonder why he asked it. Maybe he thought I was a little too malleable. Maybe it worried him. But I wasn’t able to stand up for myself yet. That came later. When I think about it now, I feel sorry about what I suffered in the navy. I feel tender toward my young self, and I realize that my father probably meant no harm. He simply didn’t know my heart, my soul. I became a rebel and then I met Prabhupada and my life changed forever. If I were to write a dedication to my father, this is what I would write: To Steven John Guarino, a pure devotee of the school of hard knocks, who raised me to be a good mleccha-karmi from the beginning of my life. In my boyhood he gave me boxing gloves and did not teach me to worship God but pushed me into the navy. He spurned my attempts to become an intellectual and mocked my sensitive nature, and when I met my eternal spiritual master he rejected me completely. Nevertheless he was such a physically strong man, simple and courageous. That I imbibed from him an impression of masculine strength which I can use in my attempt to become an unflinching devotee of the Lord. This teaching has been solidified by my spiritual master, the eternal father. Living With the Scriptures Although this prayer by Prahlada Maharaja occurred in the Seventh Canto of the Srimad-Bhagavatam, and was not published until 1976, Srila Prabhupada had given it to us much earlier in talks and writing. I remember how the topic of Prahlada Maharaja’s verse came up in 1966 in the storefront at 26 2nd Avenue. Prabhupada was lecturing that Krishna consciousness relieves one of all material distress. One who attains Krishna consciousness becomes fully happy without any anxiety. After the lecture Kirtanananda asked Srila Prabhupada whether there was such a thing as spiritual unhappiness caused by the fact that the devotee could not convince others to become Krishna conscious. “Yes,” Prabhupada replied, and by his demeanour you could understand he was pleased with the question. We could sense that a very meaningful point had been appreciated by Kirtanananda and that Prabhupada wanted us all to grasp the conclusion. “Yes,” Prabhupada said. “That is the unhappiness of a Vaisnava.” Srila Prabhupada then explained Prahlada Maharaja’s prayer. Suddenly by Kirtanananda’s question and Srila Prabhupada’s answer we had all gone a further stage in our spiritual consciousness. We had moved beyond the practice of spiritual life merely for the sake of one’s self. When the Seventh Canto was published Srila Prabhupada spelled it out more clearly lest there be any doubt. The members of the Krishna consciousness movement are not at all interested in so-called meditation in the Himalayas or the forest where one will make only a show of meditation, nor are they interested in opening many schools for yoga and meditation in the cities. Rather every member of the Krishna conscious movement is interested in going door to door to try to convince people about the teachings of Bhagavad-gita as it is, the teachings of Lord Caitanya. That is the purpose of the Hare Krishna movement. How they understand this verse and purport, to be an active preacher in the mood of Prahlada Maharaja one has to first be internally convinced and fixed in Krishna consciousness. My previous seeking for a state of inner peace not dependent on the material world was not an entirely mistaken idea, but I had not known where to find that peace. It was all vague and took the form of frustrated renunciation with only a dim glimmer of spiritual hope. When one is aware of oneself as a spirit soul and when one understands the soul’s eternal relationship with Krishna, then only does well-being begin. Otherwise everyone in this world is in anxiety and everyone is terribly alone and isolated regardless of how they try to cover it up. Whether a person appears to be very popular and dominating in the midst of social settings or whether he or she is a loner, everyone is factually alone. No other person or group can take an individual’s karma and share it completely and no one dies with us within our own consciousness when we die. No one appreciates exactly how nice we are, and no one knows the long history of our sorrow. Krishna consciousness, therefore, not only provides association with spiritual persons, but it gives the solution to loneliness. That solution is self-realization by understanding that Krishna is one’s best friend. Even from the beginning of taking to the process of bhakti-yoga this realization takes hold, and the devotee feels immense relief. The eternal peace and well-being that comes through Krishna consciousness is an important quality for preachers who go out and meet the nondevotees. Srila Prabhupada describes this quality of the renounced person in Krishna consciousness. One must be fully convinced that Krishna or the Supreme Personality of Godhead in His localized aspect of Paramatma is always within, and that He is seeing everything and He always knows what one intends to do. One must thus have firm conviction that Krishna as Paramatma will take care of soul surrendered to Him. “I shall never be alone,” one should think. “Even if I live in the darkest regions of a forest I shall be accompanied by Krishna, and He will give me all protection.” This conviction is called abhayam, fearlessness. This state of mind is necessary for a person in the renounced order of life. [Bhagavad-gita, 16.1-3, purport] But what about the preaching mood itself, the compassion to approach the nondevotee, to undergo trials and to work on Krishna’s behalf. This is the essence of this verse by Prahlada Maharaja, and Srila Prabhupada explain how this attitude comes about. “Every member of the Krishna consciousness movement is interested in going door to door to try to convince people about the teachings of Bhagavad-gita As It Is.” Srila Prabhupada states in the purport to the verse: “And for the best training in the life of the Vaisnava the ‘door-to-door’ welfare work should begin early in one’s Krishna consciousness. It is by hearing as well as actually going door to door that we gain conviction in the mission of the preacher. Other forms of preaching include going out with a party of seasoned devotees to chant the Hare Krishna mantra in a public place and to approach passersby with a book or Back to Godhead magazines. A beginner can at least accompany the devotees who are doing this, watch them, and imbibe their dedication and blissfulness. Eventually, a devotee comes to understand that any work done on behalf of the spiritual master to further the aims of Krishna consciousness movement is all part of preaching the word of Krishna consciousness and engaging conditioned souls in His eternal devotional service. A Poor Man Reads the Bhagavatam, Volume 1 Divinity and Divine Service “Ugrasrava (Suta Gosvami), the son of Romaharsana, being fully satisfied by the perfect questions of the brahmanas, thanked them and thus attempted to reply.” Srila Suta Gosvami said: Let me offer my respectful obeisances unto that great sage (Sukadeva Gosvami) who can enter the hearts of all. When he went away to take up the renounced order of life, sannyasa, leaving home without undergoing reformation of the sacred thread or the ceremonies observed by the higher casts, his father Vyasadeva fearing separation from him cried out, “Oh my son!” Indeed, only the trees which were absorbed in the same feelings of separation echoed in response to the begrieved father.” Comment: Sukadeva Gosvami was liberated from birth and that is why he didn’t undergo the purificatory ceremony of brahminical initiation. For most people these various ceremonies are necessary. We are born from our material mother and father. When we are somewhat grown we approach the spiritual master to receive instructions in the Vedas. When the guru accepts and gives us initiation we become twice-born. Only then can we study the Vedic knowledge and become further qualified as brahmanas and then Vaisnavas. Sukadeva Gosvami was a Vaisnava from birth. In Indian socio-religious life, caste conscious people say that one can become brahmana only by birth. Lord Caitanya, however, accepted persons from lower birth, such as Haridasa Thakura, and recognized them according to their actual spiritual status. Thus Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu assigned Haridasa Thakura as the acarya of the holy name. He considered him a first-class Vaisnava far beyond the status of the ordinary brahmanas. Lord Caitanya’s action is supported by the scriptures. If one acts as a brahmana he should be accepted as a brahmana, even if born as less than a sudra. If by one’s occupation and lack of proper behavior one acts as a lower class person, then even if he is born in a brahmana famil,y he should be considered a fourth-class man. By the spiritual master’s mercy and the chanting of the Lord’s holy names, any person can be raised to the higher stage. The Qualities of Sri Krishna 41. Most Powerful “When Krishna was present on this planet, just as the powerful sun drives all darkness to take shelter in caves, He drove away all of His enemies, who fled like owls to take shelter beyond his sight.” (The Nectar Of Devotion, Chapter 22, p. 80) Thus Krishna is all powerful. Although devotees favour nonviolence sometimes power is needed. The religious ksatriyas are Krishna’s arms. When all else fails, devotees pray to Lord Krishna to personally descend to punish the Ravanas, Kamsas or Hiranyakasipus of this world. We do not see Him come, but we pray for His strength to descend. In this age He appears in His all-powerful names. May he always protect us…. We say death is powerful because it can enter anyone’s chamber—whether he be a king surrounded by his army or a poor man alone—and take him away. This is even more true of the holy name. Anyone can chant the holy name. The Lord will then enter his mind through the sound vibration and purify him. No other religious method is as powerful or as simple as chanting the holy name. Chanting requires no preliminary breathing exercises, no paraphernalia, no money or priests or building codes. Everything is complete in the pure utterance of the holy name. Srila Prabhupada was immersed in chanting Hare Krishna. Aware of the holy name’s power, he was confident enough to travel to America. He knew that although the Hare Krishna mantra would sound foreign to western ears, the holy name was so powerful that it could manifest in their hearts regardless. By Srila Prabhupada’s mercy the powerful movement of chanting the holy names is spreading to every town and village around the world.   • Email to a friend • •   Srila Prabhupada's Letters 1969 March 15: "Your only business is how to become pure devotee of Krishna. My ambition is to form a strong Sankirtana party and travel all over Europe, Africa, Asia, India, and Japan. This is my thought. Please try to give it effect." Prabhupada Letters :: 1969   • Email to a friend • •   Srila Prabhupada's Letters 1969 March 15: "No letter from you is useless for me - they are all important. And you can write as long a letter as you can. I shall read them carefully with attention always in spite of my various duties." Prabhupada Letters :: 1969   • Email to a friend • •   Srila Prabhupada's Letters 1970 March 15: "When I remember all of you in London, including George Harrison, I become very happy because the combination is very much hopeful. George has very willingly served Krishna in so many ways. The Govinda record is certainly super-excellent, and it has become so nice because of George's attention upon it." Prabhupada Letters :: 1970   • Email to a friend • •   New Vrndavan, USA: Gaura Purnima Celebration Saturday, March 19th 2011 5:00 am Mangalarthi 7:30 am Guru Puja 8.00 am Sringar Dharshan 8:10 am Pastimes of Lord Caitanya 12:30 am Noon Arthi 3:30 pm Fire yajna [everyone can attend, it’s free] 5:00 pm Bhajan by Rasa Caitanya Pr. 5:30 pm Abhishek 6:15 pm Pastimes of Lord Caitanya 7:00 pm Maha Gaura Arthi Kirtan 7:45 pm Bharata Natyam By Bhaktin Plawini 8:00 pm ‘Play’ By NV Teenagers 8:30 pm Maha Dinner Prasadam By Madan Mohan Pr & Radha Devi Dasi All are Welcome. Please be in the temple before 5:00 pm   • Email to a friend • •   H.H. Prahladananda Swami: Book Distribution – Book distribution is a transcendental activity; it helps us learn to always rely on Krsna Next Prahladananda Swami spoke. He said, "In the early days of the movement there was one person who was regularly hearing from Prabhupada. Then one time Prabhupada handed him a piece of paper with the Hare Krsna mantra written on it. The person said, ‘When Prabhupada handed me that piece of paper, it was like he was handing me the whole world.’ Similarly, we are distributing these books, and the people may not understand the value of the books, but we should understand their value and the value of distributing them. Book distribution is a transcendental activity; it helps us learn to always rely on Krsna." Maharaja continued: "When I first started distributing books in 1968, we didn’t have any techniques, so we would just pray to Krsna. People would come out of nowhere and give donations, and we would give them books. "Once I was distributing in Dallas, which is a very difficult place to distribute in. On this day I didn’t want to go out; my mind was giving me so much trouble because I was going out by myself. But I forced myself to go out. When I got to the spot, everyone seemed like they had come from Vaikuntha. I didn’t know what had happened. It was such a pleasant experience. Not only did they look like they came from Vaikuntha, but they acted like it. Practically everyone I approached took a BTG and gave a donation. I could understand that it was a reciprocation from Krsna because I had surrendered to going out even though I didn’t want to. Krsna was showing me that He was pleased by some determination despite my mind giving me so much trouble. So we have to somehow engage in this activity that is so pleasing to Krsna even though our mind may not be interested." from www.bdsnews.net   • Email to a friend • •   Subhavilasa das ACBSP, Toronto, CA: Nihsima-karuna: His Compassion is limitless! Gauranga is coming! Gauranga! {Part 5 of 11} Here is verse 9 & 10 from the Sri Gauranga Ashtottara Shata Nama Stotram composed by Sarvabhauma Bhattaharya. In the last 4 posts we have taken 50 of the 108 different names of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. Today we are going to take 11 more names describing His benevolent qualities.   Each name is accompanied by a unique picture and there are 61 pictures that have been drawn, painted or photographed by devotees with love and devotion. This love of Gauranga can be captured  and that is why despite so many different artists you can feel Sri Chaitaya Mahaprabhu in each picture. Gauranga! Gauranga! In the secons verse in today's post (the 10th verse of the stotram) Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu is referred to as Nihsima-karuna, His COMPASSION is limitless. In Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu's sankirtan movement compassion is a key element and this subject can be a matter of many blog posts.  One thing that attracted may of us to Srila Prabhupada, a pure devotee and acharya in direct disciplic succession from Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu Himself was this embodiment of Compassion. This Compassion for living beings and material suffering drives us to vend out this limitless gift of prasad in a compassionate mode.   Gauranga bol! Gauranga bol! Gauranga! Gauranga! 9) sva-nama-guna-vakta-cha namopadesha-dayakaha achandala-priyah shuddhah sarva-prani-hite rataha  Sva-nama-guna-vakta--He is aware of the attributes of His own holy name Namopadesha-dayaka--He imparts teachings about the holy names Achandala-priya--He is dear even to the lowest outcastes Shuddha--His character is totally immaculate Sarva-prani-hite-rata--He is engaged in the welfare of all living beings 10) vishvarupanujah sandhyavatarah shitalashayaha nihsima-karuno gupta atma-bhakti-pravartakaha Vishvarupanuja--He is the younger brother of Vishvarupa Sandhyavatara--He incarnated during the time of dusk Shitalashaya--He is desirous of cooling the burning sufferings of living beings Nihsima-karuna--His compassion is limitless Gupta--He is very secretive Atma-bhakti-pravartaka--He preaches devotion unto the true Self   • Email to a friend • •   H.H. Bhakticharu Swami: The Passing Away Of Harivamsa Prabhu Two articles in honour of Harivamsa Prabhu.  One is written by His Holiness Bhakti Caru Swami and another one was sent  from Bhaktivedanta Manor by Titiksu Prabhu and Damodara Krishna Prabhu. The following is a letter written by His Holiness Bhakti Caru Swami to  Krishna-purna Mataji, the wife of Harivamsa Prabhu, in relation to Harivamsa [...]   • Email to a friend • •   Srila Prabhupada's Letters 1966 March 15: "Navami. Today no letter received. Deposited in the Bank $25. No other expenditure. In the evening five ladies and gentlemen visited. There was some talks. Mrs. Leblanc is losing interest since she has learnt it that Bhagwat Geeta does not support monism." Prabhupada Journal :: 1966   • Email to a friend • •   Srila Prabhupada's Letters 1973 March 15: "India is the spiritual leader of the world but the fools and rascals are trying to sabotage its position. I have already outlined this program for the factories. Let the labor-management disputes be finished by prasada and kirtana with temples right on the premises." Prabhupada Letters :: 1973   • Email to a friend • •   Dandavats.com: Report from the GBC Strategic Planning Meeting Part Two By Kaisori dasi A number of the GBC's Strategic Planning Committees have broad international mandates. The mandate of the Outreach Committee, for example, covers all aspects of preaching - from how to encourage book distribution to congregational preaching to how to effectively present Krishna consciousness in university settings to all other aspects of outreach. Similarly, education in ISKCON is a very broad mandate. ISKCON is primarily an educational institution. In his incorporation papers for ISKCON, dated July 11, 1966, Srila Prabhupada listed ISKCON's seven purposes, five of which directly refer to the propagation of knowledge. (The other two provide support for that education.)   • Email to a friend • •   Srila Prabhupada's Letters 1974 March 15: "When this hearing began there is no history. Simply the sruti was recorded and there is no question of change. We have to understand Vedic knowledge on the authority of disciplic succession and not from mental speculators who are simply rascals and have no entrance into the Vedic knowledge." Prabhupada Letters :: 1974   • Email to a friend • •   Srila Prabhupada's Letters 1974 March 15: "If you are a preacher you can take a donation from the audience. Don't demand but you can ask and there is no harm. You must speak Krsna Consciousness knowledge with no interpretation of your own. Speak the philosophy exactly right as it comes in disciplic succession." Prabhupada Letters :: 1974   • Email to a friend • •   Srila Prabhupada's Letters 1975 March 15: "I am on world tour. I have traveled to Hong Kong, Japan, Hawaii, Los Angeles, Mexico City, Caracas, Miami, Atlanta, Dallas, New York, London, and now Tehran. You can meet me at our festival in Mayapur in March or the opening ceremony for our Vrndavana temple in April." Prabhupada Letters :: 1975   • Email to a friend • •   Mayapur Online: Gaura Purnima Festival update Mayapur is vibrating with festivities. Over 5000 devotees assembled here at Mayapur dhama are enjoying the variety cultural program, attending the various seminars, participating in harinam, festivals and relishing the delicious Mahaprasada. Today’s prasadam sponsor for both breakfast and lunch are Shyamadesh Yatra devotees. Tomorrow (16th March) is Ekadasi. In the evening at 4 p.m. Sri Radha-Madhava boat festival will take place. you can watch this live at www.mayapur.tv. read more   • Email to a friend • •   Sita-pati dasa, AU: Blog updated I've updated my blog software to the next version, and I had to change my theme at the same time. Anyway, I've achieved a couple of things that I wanted to while doing that - facebook integration, and iPhone formatting.   • Email to a friend • •   Subhavilasa das ACBSP, Toronto, CA: O' merciful Damodara, O' Kesava, Amalaki Ekadasi shows how you save even the wretched. To honour Amalaki Ekadasi which actually falls today, however in our region (Toronto) Vaishnava Calendar, tomorrow, Wednesday, March 16 is suitable for fasting. Every fortnight we celebrate Ekadasi and it is nice to know the story behind each fast and thus the blog post every couple of weeks about Ekadasi. Of course the stories are sourced originally from the Puranas and the content for these stories are coming from a book called Ekadasi: The day of Lord Hari. So here goes today's Ekadasi lila    King Mandhata once said to Vasishtha Muni, "O great sage, kindly be merciful to me and tell me of a holy fast that will benefit me eternally."  Vasishtha Muni replied. "O king, kindly listen as I describe the best of all fast days, Amalakai Ekadasi.  He who faithfully observes a fast on this Ekadasi obtains enormous wealth, gets free of the effects of all kinds of sins, and attains liberation.  Fasting on this Ekadasi is more purifying than donating one thousand cows in charity to a pure brahmana.  So please hear me attentively as I tell you the story of a hunter who, though daily engaged in killing innocent animals for his living, achieved liberation by observing a fast on Amalakii Ekadasi and following the prescribed rules and regulations of worship. "There was once a kingdom named Vaidisha, where all the brahmanas, kshatriyas, vaishyas, and shudras were equally endowed with Vedic knowledge, great bodily strength, and fine intelligence.  Oh lion among kings, the whole kingdom was full of Vedic sounds, not a single person was atheistic, and no one sinned.  The ruler of this kingdom was King Pashabinduka, a member of the dynasty of Soma, the moon.  He was also known as Chitraratha and was very religious and truthful.  It is said that King Chitraratha had the strength of ten thousand elephants and that he was very wealthy and knew the six branches of Vedic wisdom perfectly. "During the reign of Maharaja Chitraratha, not a single person in his kingdom attempted to practice another's dharma so perfectly engaged in their own dharmas were all the brAhmanas, kshatriyas, vaisyas, and sudras.  Neither miser nor pauper was to be seen throughout the land, not was there every drought or flood.  Indeed, the kingdom was free of disease, and everyone enjoyed good health.  The people rendered loving devotional service to the Supreme Personality of Godhead, Lord Vishnu, as did the king, who also rendered special service to Lord Shiva.  Moreover, twice a month everyone fasted on Ekadasi. "In this way, O best of kings, the citizens of Vaidisha lived many long years in great happiness and prosperity.  Giving up all varieties of materialistic religion, they completely dedicated themselves to the loving service of the Supreme Lord, Hari. "Once, in the month of Phalguna, the holy fast of Amalaki Ekadasi arrived, conjoined with Dvadasi.  King Chitraratha realised that this particular fast would bestow especially great benefit, and thus he and all the citizens of Vaidisha observed this sacred Ekadasi very strictly, carefully following all the rules and regulations. "After bathing in the river, the king and all his subjects went to the temple of Lord Vishnu, where an Amalakii tree grew.  First the king and his leading sages offered the tree a pot filled with water, as well as a fine canopy, shoes, gold, diamonds, rubies, pearls, sapphires, and aromatic incense.  Then they worshiped Lord Parashurama with these prayers: 'Oh Lord Parashurama, Oh son of Renuka, Oh all-pleasing one, Oh liberator of the worlds, kindly come beneath this holy Amalaki tree and accept our humble obeisances.' Then they prayed to the Amalaki tree: 'Oh Amalaki, Oh offspring of Lord Brahma, you can destroy all kinds of sinful reactions.  Please accept our respectful obeisances and these bumble gifts.  O Amalaki, you are actually the form of Brahman, and you were once worshiped by Lord Ramachandra Himself.  Whoever circumambulates you is therefore immediately freed of all his sins.' "After offering these excellent prayers, King Chitraratha and his subjects remained awake throughout the night, praying and worshiping according to the regulations governing a sacred Ekadasi fast.  It was during this auspicious time of fasting and prayer that a very irreligious man approached the assembly, a man who maintained himself and his family by killing animals.  Burdened with both fatigue and sin, the hunter saw the king and the citizens of Vaidisha observing Amalaki Ekadasi by performing an all-night vigil, fasting, and worshiping Lord Vishnu in the beautiful forest setting, which was brilliantly illuminated by many lamps.  The hunter hid nearby, wondering what this extraordinary sight before him was.  'What is going on here?' he thought.  What he saw in that lovely forest beneath the holy Amalaki tree was the Deity of Lord Damodara being worshiped upon the Asana of a waterpot, and what he heard were devotees singing sacred songs describing Lord Shri Krishna's transcendental forms and pastimes.  Despite himself, that staunchly irreligious killer of innocent birds and animals spent the entire night in great amazement as he watched the Ekadasi celebration and listened to the glorification of the Lord. "Soon after sunrise, the king and his royal retinue - including the court sages and all the citizens - completed their observance of Ekadasi and returned to the city of Vaidisha.  The hunter then returned to his hut and happily ate his meal.  In due time the hunter died, but the merit he had gained by fasting on Amalaki Ekadasi and hearing the glorification of the Supreme Personality of Godhead, as well as by being forced to stay awake all night, made him eligible to be reborn as a great king endowed with may chariots, elephants, horses, and soldiers.  His name was Vasuratha, the son of King Viduratha, and he ruled over the kingdom of Jayanti. "King Vasuratha was strong and fearless, as effulgent as the Sun, and as handsome as the Moon.  In strength he was like Shri Vishnu, and in forgiveness like the Earth itself.  Very charitable and ever truthful, King Vasuratha always rendered loving devotional service to the Supreme Lord, Shri Vishnu.  He therefore became very well versed in Vedic knowledge.  Always active in the affairs of state, he enjoyed taking excellent care of his subjects, as though they were his own children.  He disliked pride in anyone and would smash it when he saw it.  He performed many kinds of sacrifices, and he always made certain that the needy in his kingdom received enough charity. "One day, while hunting in the jungle, King Vasuratha strayed from the footpath and lost his way.  Wandering for some time and eventually growing weary, he paused beneath a tree and, using his arms as a pillow, fell asleep.  As he slept, some barbarian tribesmen came upon him and, remembering their longstanding enmity toward the king, began discussing among themselves various ways to kill him.  'It is because he killed our fathers, mothers, brothers-in-law, grandsons, nephews, and uncles that we are forced to aimlessly wander like so many madmen in the forest.'  So saying, they prepared to kill King Vasuratha with various weapons, including spears, swords, arrows, and mystic ropes. "But none of these deadly weapons could even touch the sleeping king, and soon the uncivilised, dog-eating tribesmen grew frightened.  Their fear sapped their strength, and before long they lost what little intelligence they had and became almost unconscious with bewilderment and weakness.  Suddenly a beautiful woman appeared from the king's body, startling the aborigines.  Decorated with many ornaments, emitting a wonderful fragrance, wearing an excellent garland around her neck, her eyebrows drawn in a mood of fierce anger, and her fiery red eyes ablaze, she looked like death personified.  With her blazing chakra discus she quickly killed all the tribal hunters, who had tried to slay the sleeping king. "Just then the king awoke, and seeing all the dead tribesmen lying around him, he was astonished.  He wondered, 'These are all great enemies of mine!  Who has slain them so violently?  Who is my great benefactor?' "At that very moment he heard a voice from the sky: 'You ask who helped you.  Well, who is that person who alone can help anyone is distress?  He is none other than Sri Keshava, the Supreme Personality of Godhead, He who saves all who take shelter of Him without any selfish motive.' "Upon hearing these words, King VasUratha became over-whelmed with love for the Personality of Godhead Shri Keshava.  He returned to his capital city and ruled there like a second lord Indra, without any obstacles at all. "Therefore, Oh King Mandhata," the venerable Vasishtha Muni concluded, "...anyone who observes this holy Amalaki Ekadasi will undoubtedly attain the supreme abode of Lord Vishnu, so great is the religious merit earned from the observance of this most sacred fast day." This ends the narration of the glories of  Amalaki Ekadasi also known as Phalguna-sukla Ekadasi from the Brahmanda Purana. This content has been sourced and adjusted from "Ekadasi: The Day of Lord Hari" by HH Krishna Balaram Swami. Bhaktivedanta Institute Press   • Email to a friend • •   Toronto Sankirtan Team, CA: 22nd Monthly Sankirtan Festival - Setting the Mood Our 22nd Monthly Sankirtan Festival which falls on March 26th, will be celebrated as Gaura Purnima Special. In the mood of Sri Chaitanya, we will all head out on the streets sharing the love and happiness that fills our lives through kirtan, books and prasad. There is service for everyone - help before, during or after the sankirtan festival in whichever way you like. Our goal this month is to have a team of 108 devotees hitting the streets. Will you help us? 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. 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. CC Adi 7.23-26 See you soon! Please email toronto.sankirtan@gmail.com for more information. Schedule:- 4:30am Mangal Arti, Japa 7:45am Bhagavatam Class 9:15-10:00 am Building the Mood - Training & Goals 11:00am-2:00pm Street Sankirtan 2:00pm Maha-Harinama 2:30pm Lunch Prasad at the temple How can YOU help? 1. Prepare Prasadam for distribution: From the comforts of your home prepare dry non-perishable prasad for distribution. Our goal is to distribute 5,000 pieces of prasad. 2. Package Prasadam for distribution: Friday 25th March 2011, 6:30-8:30pm 3. Stamp and pack books for distribution: Friday 25th March 2011, 6:30 PM - 8:30pm 4. Help with Logistics/Transportation: Saturday 26th March 5. Prepare Prasadam for Sankirtan team: Saturday 26th March 6:00-10:00am 6. Participate in Harinam - sing along, lead kirtan, play an instrument, hand out cookies or distribute books: Saturday 26th March; 11:00-3:00pm Please dress WARMER than you think you'll need to (it's still cold - bring gloves and caps along).   • Email to a friend • •   Sita-pati dasa, AU: Parking this Saturday for Gaura Purnima Dear Friends, This Saturday, 19th March, we are celebrating Gaura Purnima at the ISKCON Hare Krishna Temple at 95 Bank Rd, Graceville, in Brisbane. Please take note of a few points about vehicle access and parking. Please do not drive your car down the cul-de-sac where the temple is located, indicated on the map below in red, even to drop off passengers. Rather, park your car somewhere in the green area, and proceed to the temple on foot. Alternatively, you might choose to take the train to the temple, which is conveniently located ten minutes walk from Graceville train station, which is on the Ipswich-Caboolture line. Traffic congestion and parking are significant issues for the temple, which is located in a residential area and shares an access road with an aged care residence. We will have parking attendants on duty during the festival, and have requested the council to also attend to issue parking tickets to anyone illegally parked, so please do not park or stop in sign posted No Stopping zones. Thank you in advance for your consideration of the temple and the neighbourhood that hosts it, and we look forward to seeing you on Saturday.   • Email to a friend • •   H.H. Sivarama Swami: Vegetarians barred from adopting SRS: Absurdity: Vegetarians cannot adopt a child because of health concerns for the adopted. http://bit.ly/flp0SW   • Email to a friend • • H.H. Sivarama Swami: Vegetarians barred from adopting Vegetarians barred from adopting Updated March 11, 2011 10:31:00 A vegetarian couple on the Greek island of Crete have been barred from adopting a child because of doubts about their diet, a local social welfare official said. The decision was taken because the would-be adoptive parents, who have gone to court to overturn it, eat no meat or fish and officials feared this regimen would be applied to the child as well. "We asked the University of Crete medical school on the issue and they said the child's diet must include meat, fish, etc," the head of the city's welfare services, Spyros Epitropakis, said. "We do not discriminate but we were obliged to check this out. The issue is now in the hands of the judicial authorities," he added. The university expert whose recommendation was used by the welfare services to reject the application has labelled the affair "unreasonable". "It's unreasonable not to be given the child for being vegetarian," said Antonis Kafatos, a paediatrician and nutrition researcher. "A child needs to eat fish, seafood and dairy products among other things, without meat being essential. But if the family has no intention of imposing its diet habits on the child, I don't see where the problem is," he said. The case is to be examined on March 16. Greece has one of the lowest birth rates in the European Union. Strict procedures covering adoption in the country often force couples to seek other options, such as adopting children sold by migrant gangs. - AFP Tomado de: http://www.abc.net.au/news/2011-03-11/vegetarians-barred-from-adopting/2660904   Dandavats.com: Live From Sri Mayapur Candrodaya Mandir! HH Prabodhanand Sarasvati Swami By Prabo - dhanand Sarasvati Swami Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakur said to chant 64 rounds but Srila Prabhupada said only sixteen rounds. How it is possible that by chanting sixteen round one can return back to Godhead? But Srila Prabhupada gave us guarantee. He told us, "I am not cheating."   • Email to a friend • •   Kirtan Australia.com: Kirtan with Sri Prahlada and Madhava Double Kirtan Concert Sri Prahlada and Madhava! When: Saturday April 2nd 2011 Time: 6.30 till 10.30pm Where: Manly Village Public School Hall, Darley Rd, Manly, Sydney 2095 Cost: Pre paid $25 by 28th March Full fee: $30 Bookings: 9977 4725 info@manlyyoga.com.au Vegetarian Food by Krishna Catering   • Email to a friend • •   Matsyavatara das (ACBSP), Italy: Women in the Vedic Vaishnava Tradition. By Matsya Avatara dasa (Marco Ferrini) The Vedic civilization describes women of high and noble character and great inner strength, the real examples for humanity (Draupadi, Kunti, Damayanti,etc.). Even today in India there are women who play the role of spiritual guide and contribute significantly to convey the message of Tradition. Women in the Vedic tradition play a central part of great dignity, in a sense more valuable than women in the western society, not only socially but above all from anthropological and cosmic viewpoints. The concept of woman's freedom emerges from the Vedic revelation - mainly from Rig Veda and Atharva Veda – one can not certainly compare it to the model asseverated from the battles of '68: considerable achievements that what's more, have remained on paper. The artificial acceptance by women of the male social pattern aimed at overcoming the gender discrimination and lack of equal opportunities is certainly not a real solution, nor can it restore to the woman the dignity she deserves. This dignity can be restored to the extent that women and men learn to value their unique and specific qualities, complementing one another by expressing their nature, talents and potentialities. In solidarity and harmonious cooperation aimed at raising awareness is the key to the completion and realization of both, men and women. The goal is the rediscovery of one's inner completeness, awakening to one's spiritual origin, God, beyond all duality, beyond the temporary connotations of historical personality, with all its overpowering limitations and conditionings. The Masters of the Vaishnava Bhakti teach us to view ourselves not as men-women, either black or white, but in terms of spiritual entities. The individuality of the human being is eternal, immutable while the personality is transient and is constituted, as Jung explains, by the sum of the psychic contents with which the individual identifies himself. Experiences, impressions, facts and external circumstances change the personality, but not individuality. The historic personality which we can define from autobiographical point of view is often characterized by an imbalance between Logos and Eros. Logos is quest for knowledge, analysis, clarity, rigor, is the law of intellect, the prevailing characteristic of the male character. Eros represents the principle of hospitality, unity and connection, and is the emotional sphere associated with femininity. Generally, the person tends to give greater emphasis to one of these aspects (male and female), focusing generally on what is reflected physically. This polarity between the masculine and feminine sides is the main feature of the human being. The imbalance between these two poles creates a sense of incompleteness and suffering. Throughout history cultures have mainly favored the masculine aspect compared to that feminine. Mistaking the physical strength for the moral one, considering the rationality of intellect as superior to intuition, the most important roles in society were granted to men. Since there is a lack of understanding that the advanced personality of every man and every woman is the result of a synergy and integration between male and female aspects, a static order has been created, producing dichotomies, involution and disharmony. In reality nobody is exclusively male or female, as in the personality of each are included male and female characteristics, in greater or lesser extent depending on the karmic residue of experiences in this life and in previous ones. The mindset of our past lives remain in our current tendencies, talents, inclinations and innate defects. Working at the integration of personality is essential to capture the best qualities of male and female characteristics, in order to develop them irrespective of the gender to which one belongs. The goal is recover one's original completeness. Actually each of us is unique and eternal essence (atman), characterized by a purely spiritual individuality complete in itself. The embodied being, although the bearer of a body of male or female, should not identify itself neither with gender nor with other psycho-physical characteristics, being aware that they are temporary and external to its inner original nature. All these characteristics represent a mask formed as a result of experiences done and tendencies gained in the course of numerous lives. When the individual is centered in his self, the two cerebral hemispheres - the right deputed to the imaginative activity and the left to logical and rational one – work in perfect harmony and in accordance with beneficial and powerful dynamics that are activated by compensating any deficiency and karmic imbalances. In that way all the forces that the body uses become forces of development towards holistic wellbeing, and the person becomes the best expression of health and self-realization. In the sacred Indovedic iconography the figure of God is represented as the ultimate expression of inconceivable unity and perfect combination of masculine and feminine elements. Similarly, a fully realized human being is the one who rediscovers this divine inner unity, according to Lao-tse, the one who “knows to be male and keeps to be female”.   • Email to a friend • •   Vraja Kishor, JP: Phase 3 of Unsteady Spiritual Practice: Indecision Image via Wikipedia This is an excerpt from a book I am working on! Becoming realistic about my ability to attain divine love brought me into my third phase: indecision. The battle in my mind went like this: It is looking more and more like it is going to take a herculean effort to attain divine love… Should I make that effort, or just give up and wait for another lifetime or something? Eventually I decided I should go for it. But how? Should I abandon everything and run off to Vrindavana, the holy land of divine love, so I could practice without distraction? Hmmm… Well, to be free of distractions would be ideal, but could I really get free from distractions just by running away from them? Probably not! Then, shouldn’t I be patient and wear out all my material desires by living a normal, fulfilling social life while practicing devotion? Probably, but then why do so many practitioners describe the comforts of home as something dire to be dropped like the plague? This is confusing! If I die with unsatisfied material desires I will have to be reborn to fulfill them, so why not fulfill them now in some reasonable manner that does not totally distract me from cultivating divine love. Then, when the time is right and I am ready, I will go to Vrndavana and exclusively worship Kṛṣṇa day and night. Fulfilling material desires turns out to be very hard work, though. And renunciates, on the other hand, seem to live pretty carefree lives. There is even a saying, “There was ample food wherever the renunciate went.” Maybe it would be easier to fulfill even my material desires as a renunciate? These battles constantly raged in my mind, and many others, too… What service should I do the divine? How? Where?? When???   • Email to a friend • •   Sita-pati dasa, AU: Small experiment in Facebook integration I need to find some time to upgrade my web infrastructure. In the meantime, I wonder if I can integrate Facebook like this?   • Email to a friend • •   Devadeva Mirel, Alachua, USA: Craft Collective : Strawberry Jam Forever (yes, there is a recipe) My first jam making experience was in 2007. It was a rainy day, my two kids were genuinely little, my kitchen was adorable and I had a streak of rural adventure in me. I loved that life. I long for … Continue reading →   • Email to a friend • •   Gouranga TV: Indradyumna Swami Barnaul 2009 Gouranga TV: Indradyumna Swami Barnaul 2009 Indradyumna Swami Barnaul 2009     • Email to a friend • •   Japa Group: Japa Sankalpa “Krsna I will do this. From now on I will chant my rounds with great concentration and great attention. I won't let my mind be distracted. I won't listen to my mind.” And that is our determination and then we say: “But actually Krsna please help. Krsna please help me do this. I am very confident; I am very bold that I can do this. But actually I can’t do this without Your help, without Your mercy.” Process Of Improving Habits by Mahanidhi Swami   • Email to a friend • •   Bharatavarsa.net: Book distribution seminar: The Second Day of Seminars in Mayapur Hare Krsna Prabhus, Please accept my humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada. On the second day of the 2011 book distribution seminars in Mayapur, Sadbhuja Prabhu, the president of the Leipzig (Germany) temple, spoke. He said that a scholar in Germany did a survey of religious movements around the world and found that every decade hundreds of movements begin and stop. One of the main prerequisites for a movement to last, he found, is that it has to inspire its members to do voluntary service by going out to spread the message. Movements that do this are much more likely to last than others. In the beginning of our society, said Sadbhuja, there was much more interaction with the public by harinam and book distribution. Therefore the movement grew very quickly. Now we don't go out as much, so naturally not as many people see us and inquire about us and join us. We have to go out more with books and harinama. Sadbhuja said that the Leipzig devotees try to follow up on the nice people they meet on book distribution. They visit them at home and invite them to the temple festivals. It's very inspiring when these efforts lead to their coming closer to Krsna consciousness and then joining. But to accomplish this we have to focus on not just distributing books but on bringing people closer to Krsna. We all know when we meet a really nice person who is superinterested, get his contact information, and stay in touch with him, he may become a devotee with a little effort. Next Prahladananda Swami spoke. He said, "In the early days of the movement there was one person who was regularly hearing from Prabhupada. Then one time Prabhupada handed him a piece of paper with the Hare Krsna mantra written on it. The person said, 'When Prabhupada handed me that piece of paper, it was like he was handing me the whole world.' Similarly, we are distributing these books, and the people may not understand the value of the books, but we should understand their value and the value of distributing them. Book distribution is a transcendental activity; it helps us learn to always rely on Krsna." Maharaja continued: "When I first started distributing books in 1968, we didn't have any techniques, so we would just pray to Krsna. People would come out of nowhere and give donations, and we would give them books. "Once I was distributing in Dallas, which is a very difficult place to distribute in. On this day I didn't want to go out; my mind was giving me so much trouble because I was going out by myself. But I forced myself to go out. When I got to the spot, everyone seemed like they had come from Vaikuntha. I didn't know what had happened. It was such a pleasant experience. Not only did they look like they came from Vaikuntha, but they acted like it. Practically everyone I approached took a BTG and gave a donation. I could understand that it was a reciprocation from Krsna because I had surrendered to going out even though I didn't want to. Krsna was showing me that He was pleased by some determination despite my mind giving me so much trouble. So we have to somehow engage in this activity that is so pleasing to Krsna even though our mind may not be interested." The next speaker was Mohan Rupa Prabhu, the president of the New Delhi temple. He said, "Srila Prabhupada said, 'Book distribution is my heart.' And because of this, book distribution is going on all over the world and is increasing. In New Delhi over 2,000 devotees participated in the marathon. The more we increase our congregation, the more we will distribute books. Most of the book distributors were women. They would go to the malls, get permission, and set up tables with Prabhupada's books on them. "Another thing we did was conduct a Bhagavad-gita contest. We enrolled 9,000 students for the contest. They would study the first six chapters and then have to answer questions. They would pay 150 rupees to be in the contest, and at the end they would be allowed to keep their Gita. There was another contest on "The Introduction to the Bhagavad gita." Over 6,000 students participated in this contest. Some of these students read the introduction eight to ten times to win the contest. So more than 15,000 students read Prabhupada's books during the marathon and then got to keep the books. On January 1st we called all these students, and they came to the temple with their parents for prizes and certificates. This is a good way to increase the congregation and thus make more book distributors. Prabhupada said, 'Tax your brains on how to distribute more books.' So this is another way. "There is a preaching center in New Delhi with only three devotees living there, but they have a congregation of three hundred devotees, and during the marathon they distributed 62,000 Bhagavad-gitas."   • Email to a friend • •   Book Distribution News: The Second Day of Seminars in Mayapur Hare Krsna Prabhus, Please accept my humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada. On the second day of the 2011 book distribution seminars in Mayapur, Sadbhuja Prabhu, the president of the Leipzig (Germany) temple, spoke. He said that a scholar in Germany did a survey of religious movements around the world and found that every decade hundreds of movements begin and stop. One of the main prerequisites for a movement to last, he found, is that it has to inspire its members to do voluntary service by going out to spread the message. Movements that do this are much more likely to last than others. In the beginning of our society, said Sadbhuja, there was much more interaction with the public by harinam and book distribution. Therefore the movement grew very quickly. Now we don't go out as much, so naturally not as many people see us and inquire about us and join us. We have to go out more with books and harinama. Sadbhuja said that the Leipzig devotees try to follow up on the nice people they meet on book distribution. They visit them at home and invite them to the temple festivals. It's very inspiring when these efforts lead to their coming closer to Krsna consciousness and then joining. But to accomplish this we have to focus on not just distributing books but on bringing people closer to Krsna. We all know when we meet a really nice person who is superinterested, get his contact information, and stay in touch with him, he may become a devotee with a little effort. Next Prahladananda Swami spoke. He said, "In the early days of the movement there was one person who was regularly hearing from Prabhupada. Then one time Prabhupada handed him a piece of paper with the Hare Krsna mantra written on it. The person said, 'When Prabhupada handed me that piece of paper, it was like he was handing me the whole world.' Similarly, we are distributing these books, and the people may not understand the value of the books, but we should understand their value and the value of distributing them. Book distribution is a transcendental activity; it helps us learn to always rely on Krsna." Maharaja continued: "When I first started distributing books in 1968, we didn't have any techniques, so we would just pray to Krsna. People would come out of nowhere and give donations, and we would give them books. "Once I was distributing in Dallas, which is a very difficult place to distribute in. On this day I didn't want to go out; my mind was giving me so much trouble because I was going out by myself. But I forced myself to go out. When I got to the spot, everyone seemed like they had come from Vaikuntha. I didn't know what had happened. It was such a pleasant experience. Not only did they look like they came from Vaikuntha, but they acted like it. Practically everyone I approached took a BTG and gave a donation. I could understand that it was a reciprocation from Krsna because I had surrendered to going out even though I didn't want to. Krsna was showing me that He was pleased by some determination despite my mind giving me so much trouble. So we have to somehow engage in this activity that is so pleasing to Krsna even though our mind may not be interested." The next speaker was Mohan Rupa Prabhu, the president of the New Delhi temple. He said, "Srila Prabhupada said, 'Book distribution is my heart.' And because of this, book distribution is going on all over the world and is increasing. In New Delhi over 2,000 devotees participated in the marathon. The more we increase our congregation, the more we will distribute books. Most of the book distributors were women. They would go to the malls, get permission, and set up tables with Prabhupada's books on them. "Another thing we did was conduct a Bhagavad-gita contest. We enrolled 9,000 students for the contest. They would study the first six chapters and then have to answer questions. They would pay 150 rupees to be in the contest, and at the end they would be allowed to keep their Gita. There was another contest on "The Introduction to the Bhagavad gita." Over 6,000 students participated in this contest. Some of these students read the introduction eight to ten times to win the contest. So more than 15,000 students read Prabhupada's books during the marathon and then got to keep the books. On January 1st we called all these students, and they came to the temple with their parents for prizes and certificates. This is a good way to increase the congregation and thus make more book distributors. Prabhupada said, 'Tax your brains on how to distribute more books.' So this is another way. "There is a preaching center in New Delhi with only three devotees living there, but they have a congregation of three hundred devotees, and during the marathon they distributed 62,000 Bhagavad-gitas."   • Email to a friend • •   Dandavats.com: Democracy and the Spread of the Holy Names By Kesava Krsna Dasa Some of us must have thought of doing Harinama Sankirtana in Mecca, of all places, or would like to set up a temple there? How about the Vatican, Pyongyang or Beijing, and Tripoli, Havana or the pyramids of Egypt? Not too long ago most people thought that Moscow, Bucharest and half of Berlin would be democratised way beyond their lifetimes   • Email to a friend • •   Dandavats.com: Passing Away of Harivamsa Prabhu By Damodar Krishna Das It is with sadness that we received the news of the passing of Harivamsa Prabhu on Wednesday 9th of March. He has been a very dedicated devotee of Sri Sri Radha-Gokulananda at Bhaktivedanta Manor UK for many years. We will leave it to his close friends and mentors at the Manor to describe the glories of that service. But what many devotees may not be aware of, is that he also performed significant service to our London Lord Jagannatha   • Email to a friend • •   Dandavats.com: A list of Ratha Yatras for Florida in 2011 Nartaka Gopala dasi: Attached kindly find a list of Ratha Yatras for 2011 in Florida. If you could kindly post this on your websites I really appreciate it because oftentimes traveling devotees inquire about this information   • Email to a friend • •   Dandavats.com: The Gita and business ethics Conscious-manager.com: The word ‘ethics‘ comes from the Greek word ‘ethikos‘. It refers to one’s moral character and the way in which society expects people to behave in accordance with accepted principles. Business ethics is the code of good conduct that a business adheres to in its daily dealings both with other businesses and with customers   • Email to a friend • • More Recent Articles ISKCON Melbourne, AU: 12Hour Kirtan - Saturday 12 March ISKCON Melbourne, AU: The Return of the Urban Mystic Australian News: Making Flower Garlands Australian News: The Journey Home- Autobiography of an American Swami. A book review by Satyaraja Dasa H.G. Sankarshan das Adhikari, USA: Tuesday 15 March 2011--Clear Away the Clutter--and--How You Say Krishna is the Only God?

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Conceptos Hinduistas (2919)SK

Conceptos Hinduistas (2592)SK
A_a-A_g · A_h-A_m · A_na-A_nc · A_nd-A_nu · A_p-A_r · A_s-A_x · A_y-A_z · B_aa-B_aq · B_ar-B_az · B_e-B_hak · B_hal-B_hy · B_o-B_u · B_ra · B_rh-B_ry · B_u-B_z · C_aa-C_aq · C_ar-C_ay · C_e-C_ha · C_he-C_hi · C_ho-C_hu · C_i-C_n · C_o-C_y · D_aa-D_an · D_ar-D_ay · D_e · D_ha-D_ny · D_o-D_y · E_a-E_o · E_p-E_z · F_aa-F_y · G_aa-G_aq · G_ar-G_az · G_e-G_n · G_o · G_ra-G_y · H_aa-H_aq · H_ar-H_az · H_e-H_indk · H_indu-H_isto · H_o-H_y · I_a-I_q · I_r-I_s · I_t-I_y · J_aa-J_aq · J_ar-J_ay · J_e-J_n · J_o-J_y · K_aa-K_aq · K_ar-K_az · K_e-K_h · K_o · K_r · K_u - K_z · L_aa-L_aq · L_ar-L_ay · L_e-L_n · L_o-L_y · M_aa-M_ag · M_ah · M_ai-M_aj · M_ak-M_aq · M_ar-M_az · M_b-M_n · M_o-M_z · N_aa-N_aq · N_ar-N_az · N_b-N_n · N_o-N_z · O_a-O_z · P_aa-P_aq · P_ar-P_az · P_e-P_h · P_o-P_y · R_aa-R_aq · R_ar-R_az · R_e-R_n · R_o-R_y · S_aa-S_am · S_an-S_ar · S_as-S_g · S_ha-S_hy · S_ia-S_il · S_im-S_n · S_o - S_q · S_r - S_t · S_u-S_z · T_aa-T_aq · T_ar-T_ay · T_e-T_n · T_o-T_y · U_a-U_q · U_r-U_s · V_aa-V_aq · V_ar-V_az · V_e · V_i-V_n · V_o-V_y · W_aa-W_i · W_o-W_y · Y_aa-Y_av · Y_e-Y_iy · Y_o-Y_u · Z_aa-Z_y

GENERAL

JUDAISMO | Ärî Garga-Samhita | Oraciones Selectas al Señor Supremo | Devotees Vaishnavas | Dandavat pranams - All glories to Srila Prabhupada | Hari Katha | Santos Católicos | El Antiguo Egipto I | Archivo Cervantes | Sivananda Yoga | Neale Donald Walsch | SWAMIS | ENCICLOPEDIA - INDICE | DEVOTOS FACEBOOK | EGIPTO - USUARIOS de FLICKR y PICASAWEB | AYUDA en INFORMÁTICA | BIOGRAFIAS | BUDDHISMO | CINEMANÍA | DANDAVAT PRANAMS | DANDAVATS | HEBREO - JUDAISMO | HINDUISMO | KABALEH - CABALA | MAESTROS ESPIRITUALES | MEDICINA NATURAL | Mis Escritos | MITOS Y LEYENDAS - MITOLOGÍAS | Religión | TEXTOS BÍBLICOS | Textos Sagrados Antiguos