Prahlada said: O Supreme Lord! I bow down to You. O Lord Nrsimhadeva, I offer my obeisances to You. I am Your devotee. O Lord of lords, I now express to You my heartfelt inquiry. O Lord, how did I develop such intense devotion for You? O my Lord, kindly tell me-how did I become Your exalted devotee?

Lord Narasimhadeva said: O greatly learned one! O my son, listen carefully as I explain to you the reason for your devotion to Me that has made you very dear to Me.

In the ancient times, you were born as a brahmana but you did not study any of the scriptures. Your name was Vasudeva and you became attached to a prostitute.

In that birth, you became so attached to a prostitute that you did not bother to perform any pious activity, except for a single vow in relation to Me. As a result of observing that vow, you developed exalted devotion for Me.

Prahlada then said: O Lord Nrsimhadeva! O Acyuta! O Supreme Lord, who was my father in that lifetime? What was my duty? How did I observe Your vow, even though I was attached to a prostitute? Kindly explain all this to me in detail.

Lord Nrsimhadeva said: In ancient times, there was a brahmana who was well-versed in the Vedic literature. He lived in the city of Avantipura and was known as Vasu Sarma.

This pious brahmana used to perform fire sacrifice every day. He was very expert in performing all kinds of Vedic rituals and as such, he would satisfy the best of demigods by performing the agnistoma sacrifice. In that state of living, he did not commit any sinful activity.

His wife was very pious and humble. She was famous throughout the three worlds. She was chaste, expert in performing all kinds of pious activities, and always eager to serve her husband.

That exalted brahmana begot five sons within the womb of his wife. These sons were very pious, learned, and devoted to their father. Among them, you were the youngest and you became attached to a prostitute.

Due to being attached to a prostitute, you became accustomed to drinking wine and performing other sinful activities, so that you never engaged in the study of the Vedas.

You spent most of your time at the house of the prostitute. One day, however, you and her quarreled.

Because of that quarrel, you missed your meal that day and as a result, you unknowingly observed a sacred vow in relation to Me.

Because of that quarrel with the prostitute, you did not sleep the entire night. The prostitute also did not eat anything, nor did she sleep that night in your association.

Because of unknowingly observing this vow in relation to Me, throughout the entire day and night, both of you became purified and accumulated heaps of pious merit.

On the strength of observing this vow, the demigods are able to enjoy their lives in the heavenly planets. In order to acquire the power to create, Brahma had observed this vow.

Being empowered due to observing this vow in relation to Me, Brahma was able to create all moving and non-moving living entities. Mahadeva also observed this vow, so that he could kill the great demon, Tripurasura. It is a fact that by the strength of this vow, Siva was able to kill that formidable demon.

Many other demigods, ancient sages, and learned and pious kings, had previously followed this great vow in relation to Me.

By the influence of this vow, all of them attained the perfection of life. The prostitute also became devoted to Me and thereafter enjoyed great happiness within the three worlds. My dear child, it is for this reason that this vow in relation to Me is celebrated through the three worlds.

This vow came into existence just to deliver such rascals. O Prahlada, by the strength of that vow, you came to render devotional service unto Me.

In her next life, the prostitute was born in heaven as an Apsara and after enjoying life there immensely, she entered My supreme abode. O Prahlada, you will also return to My abode and enter into intimate communion with Me.

In order to propagate devotional service to Me, you have incarnated without Me. After completing the task of preaching the glories of devotional service, you will again enter My eternal abode.

Those who observe this supreme vow in relation to Me will never return to this material existence, even in hundreds and millions of kalpas.

Hari-bhakti-vilasa 14.418-441

In just four days, it will be Narasimha Caturdashi! ugram viram maha-vishnum jvalantam sarvato mukham”!

As we prepare our hearts for the glorious appearance of Lord Narasimhadeva — the fiercest yet most compassionate incarnation of the Supreme Lord, who appeared solely to protect His pure devotee, Prahlada Maharaja.

His appearance reminds us of an eternal truth:

No matter how dark the times, how powerful the enemy, or how alone the devotee feels — the Lord will come. Even through a pillar, if He must.

To celebrate this sacred occasion of Narasimha Caturdashi, let’s meditate on the nine most powerful and divine forms of Lord Narasimha, revealed in the sacred forests of Ahobilam, each to a unique mood of protection.

1. Ahobila Narasimha

Residing in a cave, this is the main deity of Ahobilam. Here, the Lord appeared in His most ferocious form, just after slaying Hiranyakashipu. His name, “Ahobila,” comes from “Aho” (wonder!) and “bila” (cave).

2. Jwala Narasimha

Jwala Narasimha is the form where the Lord’s anger reaches its peak — eyes like fire, roaring like thunder, tearing apart adharma. This form is a reminder that no injustice goes unseen.

3. Malola Narasimha

After His wrath had subsided, Lord Narasimha sat down with Lakshmi Devi upon His lap. “Ma” refers to Lakshmi, and “Lola” means beloved. This is the most pleasing and approachable form — the Lord full of affection, smiling upon His devotees, ready to grant shelter and grace.

4. Krodha Narasimha (Varaha Narasimha)

This rare and powerful form shows Lord Narasimha with features of Varaha, His boar incarnation. He represents the force that lifts the Earth and protects the Vedas, destroying pride and restoring balance in creation.

5. Karanja Narasimha

Located under a Karanja tree, this form is worshipped even by Hanuman Himself. Here, Lord Narasimha wields a bow, showing His Ramachandra-like valor. He is the protector of the humble and the upholder of dharma.

6. Bhargava Narasimha

Worshipped by Parashurama, the warrior-sage of the Bhargava lineage, this form is invoked to conquer pride and arrogance. A powerful guardian for those struggling with ego or injustice.

7. Yogananda Narasimha

After destroying the demon, Lord Narasimha taught the secrets of yoga and inner peace to Prahlada Maharaja. In this form, He sits serenely, embodying divine stillness, and inspires us toward spiritual discipline and surrender.

8. Chatravata Narasimha

Surrounded by a natural canopy of trees, this enchanting form is worshipped by the Gandharvas — celestial musicians. He is the Lord of melody and beauty, and bestows creativity, joy, and inspiration to all who sing His glories.

9. Pavana Narasimha

Deep within the forest lies Pavana Narasimha, the most peaceful and sanctifying form. “Pavana” means purifier. Even the most fallen souls, when they approach Him with humility, are uplifted and cleansed by His mercy.

Meditate, Celebrate, and Take Shelter

These forms are not just historical or mythological — they are eternally present, waiting for the devotee’s call. As Narasimha Caturdashi approaches, let us open our hearts, chant His names, and pray:

"O Lord Narasimhadeva, remover of all fear, please reside within my heart. Protect me from the demons of doubt, despair, and pride. Guide me toward truth, devotion, and fearlessness." 

Jaya Jaya Sri Narasimhadeva!

https://www.mayapur.com/festivals/Narasimha-Caturdasi

 

Bursting out of the pillar, eyes full of fire, His claws ready to cut up the
liar, He says he’s a king, yes the king of dung, That wasp better watch out,
he’s gonna get stung

The Lord’s roar resounding in my heart, He rips all my fears apart, He makes
us brave, He makes us bold, He makes all the demons do what their told

It is Lord Narasimhadeva, Narasimhadeva, Jay Jay Jay

That merciful Protector, He saved the prince, Who has been asking ever
since, That little boy had worshiped Him before his life, Could ever begin

That filthy demon, cheater, liar, Tried to kill his son in a fire, Instead
he killed his sister, That upset that bad bad mister

It is Lord Narasimhadeva, Narasimhadeva, Jay Jay Jay

Using only His lotus hands, He caught the demon, Our mighty Lord was in
command, That evil man couldn’t understand our Lord, Would always be a
Freeman

Just don’t understand, He will always win, Put you on his lap, rip up your
skin, Take out your intestines, Put them around His neck, No other victory
could be so perfect

It is Lord Narasimhadeva, Narasimhadeva, Jay Jay Jay
Our protector, our Saviour, Narasimhadeva, Jay Jay Jay, Narasimhadev

Source: http://www.dandavats.com/?p=74933

(These prayers are from the 47th chapter of the Harivamsa Purana which narrates the story of Lord Ramacandra’s visit to the holy place of Ahobalam to see the Deity of Nrisimha, where Lord Nrisimha appeared and saved His devotee Prahlada.)

ahobalam narasimham gatva ramah pratapavan

namaskutya sri nrisimham astaushit kamala patim

The glorious Rama once visited Ahobala where He saw the Deity of Lord Nrisimha. He
offered His obeisances to Lord Kamalapati (husband of the Goddess of Fortune) and
prayed as follows.

1. Govinda keshava janardana vasudeva

vishvesha-vishva madhusudana vishvarupa

shri padmanabha purushottama pushkaraksha

narayanachyuta nrisimho namo namaste

O Govinda, Keshava, Janardana, Vasudeva, Vishvesha (the controller of the universe),
Vishva, Madhusudana, Vishvarupa, Sri Padmanabha, Purushottama, Pushkaraksha,
Narayana, Achyuta. O Lord Narasimha I offer my respectful obeisances unto You again
and again.

2. Devah samastah khalu gopi mukhyaha

gandharva vidyadhara kinnarash cha

yat pada-mulam satatam namanti

tam narasimham sharanam gato shmi

I have taken shelter of Lord Nrisimha unto whose lotus feet demigods, prominent
yogis, gandharvas, vidyadharas and kinnaras are constantly offering their
obeisances.

3. Vedan samastan khalu shastragarbhan

vidyam balam kirtimatim cha lakshmim

yasya prasadat purusha labhante

tam narasimham sharanam gato shmi

I have taken shelter of Lord Nrisimha by whose mercy people receive all the Vedas,
the essence of all scriptures, knowledge, strength, reputation and wealth.

4. Brahma shivas tvam purushottamash cha

narayano ?€?shau marutam patish cha

chandrarka vayvagni marud-ganash cha

tvam eva tam tvam shatatam nato?€?shmi

You are Lord Brahma, Lord Shiva and the best person Lord Narayana. You are the
master of the Marutas and You are the sun, the moon, air and the fire as well as the
Marut-ganas. I offer my obeisances unto You.

5. Snapne?€?pi nitya jagatam ashesam

srashta cha hanta vibhura prabheyaha

trata tvam eka strividho vibinnaha

tam tvam nrisimham satatam nato?€?smi

I offer my obeisances unto Lord Nrisimha who is the creator, the maintainer and the
destroyer of the entire universe. Although You perform all of these three acts
simultaneously, You are completely beyond these activities. You are the
all-pervading, unlimited supreme spirit.

Iti stutva raghushreshthaha

pujayamasa tam harim

pushpa vrishtih papatashu

tasya devasya murdhani

Praying this way, the best of the Raghus, Lord Ramacandra worshipped Lord Hari. At
that time the demigods showered a rain of flowers on the head of Lord Nrisimhadeva.

Raghavena kutam stotram

panchamrita manuktamam

pathanti ye dvijavaraha

tesham svargastu shashvataha

This is the best of prayers, called pancamrita or five nectars compiled by Lord Rama
Himself. One who reads this will be liberated eternally.

Powerful mantras for protection to the Lord’s half-lion incarnation and His weapons. These are for protection from such things as malevolent spirits and material desires, as well as increased devotion and a peaceful world. Also contains the Nrisimha Kavacha.

Prayers to the Lord’s Weapons

To the Chakra

chakram yugantanala-tigma-nemi

bhramat samantad bhagavat-prayuktam

dandagdhi dandagdhy ari-sainyam ashu

kaksham yatha vata-sakho hutashaha

Set into motion by the Supreme Personality of Godhead and wandering in all the four directions, the disc of the Supreme Lord has sharp edges as destructive as the fire of devastation at the end of the millennium. As a blazing fire burns dry grass to ashes with the assistance of the breeze, may the Sudarshana chakra burn our enemies to ashes.

To the Club

gade ‘shani-sparshana-visphulinge

nishpindhi nishpindhy ajita-priyasi

kushmanda-vainayaka-yaksha-raksho

bhuta-grahamsh churnaya churnayarin

O club in the hand of the Supreme Personality of Godhead, you produce sparks of fire as powerful as thunderbolts, and you are extremely dear to the Lord. I am also His servant. Therefore kindly help me pound to pieces the evil living beings known as Kushmandas, Vainayakas, Yakshas, Rakshasas, Bhutas and Grahas. Please pulverize them.

To the Conchshell

tvam yatudhana-pramatha-preta-matri

pishacha-vipragraha-ghora-drishtin

darendra vidravaya krishna-purito

bhima-svano ‘rer hridayani kampayan

O best of the conchshells, O Panchajanya in the hands of the Lord, you are always filled with the breath of Lord Krishna. Therefore you create a fearful sound vibration that causes trembling in the hearts of enemies like the Rakshasas, Pramatha ghosts, Pretas, Matas, Pishachas and brahmana ghosts with fearful eyes.

Sudarshana Nrisimha Mantra

Om Sahasrara Jivalavartine

Ksaum Ham Ham Hum Phat Swaha

Om Shri Nrisinghaye namaha

Om Jaya Jaya Sri Nrisimhaye namaha

Om Nrim Nrim Nrim Nrisimhaye namaha

To Lord Narasimhadeva

vag-isha yasya vadane

laksmir yasya cha vakshasi

yasyate hridaye samvit

tam nrisimham aham bhaje

“Lord Nrisimhadeva is always assisted by Sarasvati, the goddess of learning and He is always embracing to His chest the goddess of fortune. The Lord is always complete in knowledge within Himself. Let us offer obeisances unto Nrisimhadeva.” (By Sridhara Swami in his commentary on Srimad-Bhagavatam 10.87.1)

vidikshu dikshurdhvam adhah samantad

antar bahir bhagavan narasimhah

prahapayal loka-bhayam svanena

sva-tejasa grasta-samasta-tejaha

“Prahlada Maharaja loudly chanted the holy name of Lord Nrisimha. May Lord Nrisimhadeva, roaring for His devotee, Prahlada Maharaja, protect us from all fear of dangers created by stalwart leaders in all directions through poison, weapons, water, fire, air, and so on. May the Lord cover their influence by His own transcendental influence. May Nrisimhadeva protect us from all directions and in all corners, above, below, within and without.” (Bhag.6.8.34)

ko nv atra te ‘khila-guro bhagavan prayasa

uttarane shva bhava-sambhava-lopa-hetoho

mudheshu vai mahad-anugraha arta-bandho

kim tena te priya-janan anusevatam naha

“O my Lord, O Supreme Personality of Godhead, original spiritual master of the entire world, what is the difficulty for You, who manages the affairs of the universe, in delivering the fallen souls engaged in Your devotional service? You are the friend of all suffering humanity, and for great personalities it is necessary to show mercy to the foolish. Therefore, I think that you will show your causeless mercy to persons like us who engage in Your service.” (Bhag.7.9.42)

om kraum narasimhaya namaha

om ksaum namo bhagavate narasimhaya

jvala-maline dipta-damstrayagni-netraya

sarva-raksho-ghnaya sarva-bhuta vinashaya

sarva-jvara-vinashaya daha daha pacha pacha

raksha raksha hum phat

“Obeisances to the Lord Nrisimhaya, burning with His own scorching effulgence which are ablaze and whose eyes pour forth torrents of living fire, matched only by the glow of His glowing teeth. Obeisances to the destroyer of all demons, to the slayer of all ghosts, to the destroyer of all sorts of fever. Burn and burn, cook and cook, preserve and preserve.”

shri nrisimha, jaya nrisimha, jaya jaya nrisimha

prahladesha jaya padma-mukha-padma bringa

“All glories to Nrisimhadeva, who is the Lord of Prahlada Maharaja and, like the honey bee, is always engaged in beholding the lotus-like face of the goddess of fortune.”

prahlada-hridayahladam

bhaktavidya-vidaram

sharad-indu-ruchim vande

parindra-vandanam harim

“Let me offer my obeisances unto Lord Nrisimhadeva who is always enlightening Prahlada Maharaja within his heart and who always kills the nescience that attacks the devotees. His mercy is distributed like the moonshine, and His face is like that of a lion. Let me offer my obeisances unto Him again and again.”

om namo bhagavate narasimhaya

namas tejas-tejase avir-avirbhava

vajra-nakha vajra-damshtra karmashayan

randhaya randhaya tamo grasa grasa om svaha.

Abhayam abhayam atmani bhuyishtha om ksraum.

“I offer my respectful obeisances unto Lord Nrisimhadeva, the source of all power. O my Lord who possesses nails and teeth just like thunderbolts, kindly vanquish our demon-like desires for fruitive activity in this material world. Please appear in our hearts and drive away our ignorance so that by Your mercy we may become fearless in the struggle for existence in this material world.” (Srimad-Bhagavatam, 5.18.8)

svasty astu vishvasya khalah prasidatam

dhyayantu bhutani shivam mitho dhiya

namash cha bhadram bhajatad adhokshaje

aveshyatam no matir apy ahaituki

“May there be good fortune throughout the universe, and may all envious persons be pacified. May all living entities become calm by practicing bhakti-yoga, for by accepting devotional service they will think of each other’s welfare. Therefore, let us all engage in the service of the supreme transcendence, Lord Sri Krishna, and always remain absorbed in thought of Him.” (Srimad-Bhagavatam, 5.18.9)

ugro ‘py anugra evayam

sva-bhaktanam nri-keshari

kesarivo sva-potanam

anyesham ugra-vikramaha

“Although very ferocious, the lioness is very kind to her cubs. Similarly, although very ferocious to non-devotees like Hiranyakashipu, Lord Nrisimhadeva is very, very soft and kind to devotees like Prahlada Maharaja.”

durgesv atavy-aji-mukhadishu prabhuh

payan nrisimha shura-yuthaparihi

vimunchato yasya mahatta-hasam

disho vinedur hyapatamsh cha garbhaha

“May Lord Nrisimhadeva, who appeared as the enemy of Hiranyakashipu, protect me in all directions. His loud laughing vibrated in all directions and caused the pregnant wives of the asuras (the demoniac) to have miscarriages. May that Lord be kind enough to protect me in difficult places like the forest and battlefront.” (Srimad-Bhagavatam, 6.8.14)

Ugra-Nrisimha Dhyana

(Meditation on the angry form of Lord Nrisimhadave)

mimamsamanasya samutthito ‘grato

nrisimha-rupas tad alam bhayanakam

pratapa-chamikara-chanda-lochanam

sphurat sata-keshara-jrimbhitananam

karala-damstram karavala-chanchala

kshuranta-jihvam bhrukuti-mukholbanam

stabdhordhva-karnam giri-kandaradbhuta

vyattasya-nasam hanu-bheda-bhishanam

divi-sprishat kayam adirgha-pivara

grivoru-vakshah-sthalam alpa-madhyamam

chandramshu-gauraish churitam tanuruhair

vishvag bhujanika-shatam nakhayudham

durasadam sarva-nijetarayudha-

praveka-vidravita-daitya-danavam

“Hiranyakashipu studied the form of the Lord, trying to decide who the form of Nrisimhadeva standing before him was. The Lord’s form was extremely fearsome because of His angry eyes, which resembled molten gold; His shining mane, which expanded the dimensions of His fearful face; His deadly teeth; and His razor-sharp tongue, which moved about like a dueling sword. His ears were erect and motionless, and His nostrils and gaping mouth appeared like caves of a mountain. His jaws parted fearfully, and His entire body touched the sky. His neck was very short and thick, His chest broad, His waist thin, and the hairs on His body as white as the rays of the moon. His arms, which resembled flanks of soldiers, spread in all directions as He killed the demons, rogues and atheists with His conchshell, disc, club, lotus and other natural weapons.” (Bhag.7.8.19-22)

Sri Nrisimha Pranama

(from the Nrisimha Purana, offered by Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu to Lord Jagannatha in Jagannatha Puri)

namas te narasimhaya

prahladahlada-dayine

hiranyakashipor vakshaha

shila-tanka-nakhalaye

“I offer my respectful obeisances unto You, Lord Nrisimhadeva. You are the giver of pleasure to Prahlada Maharaja, and your nails cut the chest of Hiranyakashipu like a chisel cutting stone.”

ito nrisimhah parato nrisimho

yato yato yami tato nrisimhah

bahir nrisimho hridaye nrisimho

nrisimham adim sharanam prapadye

“Lord Nrisimha is here and also there. Wherever I go Lord Nrisimha is there. He is in the heart and is outside as well. I surrender to Lord Nrisimha, the origin of all things and the supreme refuge.”

The Nrisimha Gayatris

Om Nrisimhaye vidmahe

vajranakhaya dhimahi

tan nah simhah pracodayat

“Om. Let us think well aware of Nrisimha, the lightning-nailed. May the Lion promote our thought.”

vajra nakhaya vidmahe

tikshna damstraya dhimahi

tan no narasimhah prachodayat

“Let us meditate on He who is known as the possessor of nails as hard as thunderbolts and sharp teeth. Let us be enthused by Lord Narasimhadeva.”

Sri Nrisimha Maha-mantra

ugram viram maha-vishnum

jvalantam sarvato mukham

nrisimham bhishanam bhadram

mrityur mrityum namamy aham

“I bow down to Lord Narasimha who is ferocious and heroic like Lord Vishnu. He is burning from every side. He is terrific, auspicious and the death of death personified.”

It is stated in Shastra that this mantra is the essence of all kavacha mantras, or mantras meant for wearing in a kavacha (capsule). The mantra is often written on a small piece of bark, such as from the botch tree. Then it is sealed in the capsule with a tulasi leaf or even flower petals that have been offered to the deity of Lord Narasimha. After worshipping the deity of Lord Narasimha with sixteen upacharas or items of worship, the pujari or priest performs a ritual called prana-pratistha: he calls the Lord to reside in the kavacha. He then worships the kavacha. Then it has full protective power. Men wear the kavacha around the neck or on the upper right arm, while women wear it around the neck or on the upper left arm. The Kavacha may be worn in all circumstances, at any time, or in any place.

SRI NRISIMHA KAVACHA

of the Trailokya Vijaya in the Samhita of Brahma

1. Sri Narada-uvaca

indr-adi deva vrndesa

pateshvara jagat-pate

maha vishnor nrisimhasya

kavacho bruhi me prabho
yasya prana thanad vidvan

trilokya vijayi bhavet

Sri Narad Muni said: “My dear father and lord, master of the Universe, lord of the multitude of demigods headed by Indra, kindly tell me the kavaca mantra of Lord Nrsimha, the incarnation of Visnu. O master, reading this kavaca aloud, a learned man will become victorious throughout the three worlds.”

2. sri brahmovaca

srinu narada vaksyami

putra shrestha tapodhana

kavacham narasimhasya

trailokya vijaya bhavet

“Lord Brahma said: My dear Narada, please hear me. O best of my sons, who are rich in austerity, I shall speak this kavaca of Lord Narasimha, which gives victory over the three worlds.”

3. yasya prapathanad vayami

trailokya vijayi bhavet

shresthaham jagatam vatsa

pathanat dharanat yataha

“My dear boy, by recitation of this kavaca an eloquent person will become victorious throughout the three worlds. It is by reciting this and meditating deeply on it that I (lord Brahma) am the creator of all these planetary systems.”

4. laksmir jagat-trayam pati

samharta cha maheshvaraha

pathanad dharanad deva

babhuvush cha digishvaraha

“It is by reciting and meditating upon this that Laksmi maintains the three worlds, and Lord Siva destroys them. Also the demigods in this way became controllers of the different directions.”

5. brahma mantra nayam vakshye

bhutadi vinvakaram

yasya prasadad durvasa

trailokya vijayi munih

pathanad dharanad yasya

shasta cha krodha bhairavaha

“I shall speak this essence of all Vedic mantras, which wards off all kinds of ghosts and hobgoblins. By its grace the sage Durvasa became victorious throughout the three worlds, commanding respect and most fearful in his anger.”

6. trailokya-vijayasyasa

kavachasya prajapatih

rshish chandash cha gayatri

nrisimho devata vibhuhu

“For this kavaca, which is directly perceived as giving victory over the three worlds, I (Brahma) am the Rsi, Gayatri is the metre, and the all powerful Nrsimhadev is the Deity.”

7+ 8 ksraum bijam me shirah pati

chandra-varno maha-manuhu

“ugram viram maha-visnum

jvalantam sarvatomukham

nrisimham bhishanam bhadram

mrtyu-mrtyum namamy aham”

dva-trimshad aksharo mantro

mantra-rajah sura drumaha

“One should place Lord Nrsimha’s mantra bija, ksraum, on one’s head, thinking, ‘May my head be protected by the moon-colored one, who is the greatest among humans. My obeisances unto the ferocious and powerful, the great Visnu, the fiery one, who’s faces are on all sides, the fearful one, Nrsimha, who causes the death of even death personified, or the one who can overcome death.’ One should place this mantra, composed of thirty two syllables upon his head. It is the king of all mantras. It is like a wish fulfilling tree for the demigods and devotees.”

9. kantham patu dhruvam ksraum hrid

bhagavato chakshusha mama

narasimhaya cha jvala

maline patu mastakam

“One should also place ksraum firmly upon his neck for protection. Placing the word bhagavate upon his heart, narasimhaya upon his two eyes, and jvala maline on the top of his head, one meditates upon the different parts of this narasimha mantra protecting the different parts of his body.”

10. dipta-damshtraya cha tatha

agni netraya cha nasikam

sarva-raksho-ghnaya sarva

bhuta-vinashanaya cha

“One should place on his nose the syllables dipta damstraya agni netraya sarva rakso ghnaya sarva bhuta vinasanaya. (Obeisances unto Him, whose teeth are blazing, whose eyes are fire, and who destroys all ghosts and raksasas.)”

11. sarva-jvara-vinashaya

daha daha pacha dvayam

raksha raksha sarva-mantra

svaha patu mukham mama

“Meditating on the protection of one’s face, one should place there the syllables ‘sarva jvara vinasaya daha daha paca paca raksa raksa. ksraum ugram viram maha visnum jvalanatam sarvatomukham nrsimham bhisanam bhadram mrtyu mrtyum namamy aham. ksraum bhagavate narasimhya jvalamaline dipta damstrayagni netraya sarva rakso ghnaya sarva bhuta vinasanaya svaha’. (This means: Unto He who vanquishes all fevers, oblations. Burn and burn, cook and cook, protect protect. My obeisances unto the ferocious and powerful, the great Visnu, the fiery one whose faces are on all sides, the fearful one, Nrsimha, who causes the death of even death personified, or who can overcome even death. Unto the Personality of Godhead Narasimha, garlanded with blazing energy, whose teeth are glowing and whose eyes are fiery, who kills all raksasas and demons and annihilates the ghosts, to You my oblations)”

12. taradi ramachandraya

namah payad gudam mama

klim payat pani-yugmam cha

taram namah padam tataha

narayanaya parshvam cha

am hrim kraum kshraum cha hum phat

“Meditating on the protection of one’s rectum, one should first sip water for purification and chant om Ramacandra namah. Sipping water again one should place the bija mantra klim on both of his hands together. Thereafter one should place om namah on his feet and narayanaya on his side, as well as the bija mantras am hrim kraum ksraum hum phat.”

13. varaksarah katim patu

om namah bhagavate padam

vasudevaya cha prishtham

klim krishnaya uru-dvayam

“Praying for the protection of one’s waist, one should place there the varaksara Om. One should place the syllables om namo bhagavate upon his feet, vasudevaya on his back, and klim krsnaya upon his two thighs.”

14. klim krishnaya sada patu

januni cha manuttamaha

klim glaum klim syamalangaya

namah payat pada dvayam

“Upon his knees, one should place the mantra klim krsnaya, thinking that the Lord may always protect me in His form as the best of human beings. Then one should sip water for purification and place the mantra klim glaum klim syamalangaya namah upon his feet.”

15. kshraum narasimhaya kshraum cha

sarvangam me sadavatu

“One should meditate upon the constant protection of the body, placing the mantra kshraum narasimhaya kshraum upon all his limbs.”

16. iti te kathitam vatsa

sarva-mantraugha-vigraham

tava snehan mayakhyatam

pravaktavyam na kasyachit

“Lord Brahma continued: My dear boy, thus I have told you the embodiment of the potencies of all mantras. Because of your great affection I have explained it to you, although it is not to be spoken to just anyone.”

17. guru-pujam vidhayatha

grihniyat kavacham tataha

sarva-punya-yuto bhutva

sarva-siddhi-yuto bhavet

“Having performed worship of the spiritual master, one may accept this kavaca. Having become enriched in his pious activities he will attain all perfections.”

18. shatam ashtottaram chaiva

purashcharya vidhih smritaha

havanadin dashamshena

kritva sadhaka-sattamaha

“Performing the ritualistic ceremonies of purification (purascarya) one hundred and eight times is equal to one tenth the effect received by that best of devotees who chants this kavaca.”

19. tatas tu siddha-kavacaha

punyatma madanopaman

sparddham uddhuya bhavana

lakshmir vani vaset tataha

“Laksmi, the Goddess of fortune, and Sarasvati, the Goddess of speech and learning, reside in the home of that fortunate soul who has become perfected by this kavaca, giving up the intoxication of competing with others for supremacy.”

20. pushpanjalyashtakam dattva

mulenaiva pathet sakrit

api varsa sahasranam

pujayah phalam apnuyat

“Simply offering eight times puspajali and reading only once the original version, one attains the result of even a thousand years of worship.”

21. bhurje vilikhya gutikam

svarnastham dharayed yadi

kanthe va dakshine bahau

narasimho bhavet svayam

“If one write this down on a leaf or bark of a tree and keeps it within a golden capsule on his neck or right arm, Lord Nrsimhadev will be personally present.”

22. yoshid vama-bhuje chaiva

purusho dakshine kare

vibhryat kavacham punyam

sarva-siddhi-yuto bhavet

“A woman may keep it on her left arm, a man on the right hand. Certainly this most auspicious kavaca brings all perfection to the bearer.”

23. kaka-vandhya cha ya nari

mrita-vatsa cha ya bhavet

janma-vandhya nashta putra

bahu-putravati bhavet

“A woman who is totally barren, or who bears only one child, or whose sons are lost or dead may become possessed of many sons.”

24. kavachasya prasadena

jivan mukta bhaven-naraha

trilokyam kshobhayasyeva

trailokya vijayi bhavet

“By the grace of this kavaca, a man becomes jivan mukta, liberated soul even within this life time. He is able to move the whole universe, and certainly becomes victorious throughout the three worlds.”

25. bhuta-preta-pishachash cha

rakshasa danavash cha ye

tam drishtva prapalayante

deshad deshantaram dhruvam

“Certainly bhutas, pretas, pisacas, raksasas, and danavas all immediately flee from the country and go to another upon seeing it.”

26. yasmin gehe cha kavacham

grame va yadi tishthati

tam deshantu parityajya

prayanti chatidurantaha

“In the home or even the same village where this kavaca exists, all such demoniac creatures, once having understood its presence, give up that place and go far away.”

Thus ends the Sri Nrsimha Kavaca, of the Trailokya Vijaya in the Samhita of Brahma.

Sri Nrisimha Kavacha of Prahlad

from the Brahmanda Purana.

shri nrisimha kavacha-stotram

nrisimha-kavacham vakshye
prahladenoditam puraa

sarva-raksha-karam punyam
sarvopadrava-naashanam

1. I shall now recite the Narasimha-kavacha, formerly spoken by Prahlada Maharaja. It is most pious, vanquishes all kinds of impediments, and provides one all protection.

sarva-sampat-karam chaiva
svarga-moksha-pradaayakam

dhyaatva nrisimham devesham
hema-sinhaasana sthitamah

2. It bestows upon one all opulences and can give one elevation to the heavenly planets or liberation. One should meditate on Lord Narasimha, Lord of the universe, seated upon a golden throne.

vivritasyam tri-nayanam
sharad-indu-sama-prabham

lakshmyaalingita-vaamaangam
vibhuutibhi rupaashritam

3. His mouth is wide open, He has three eyes, and He is as radiant as the autumn moon. He is embraced by Lakshmi devi on his left side, and His form is the shelter of all opulences, both material and spiritual.

chatur-bhujam komalaangam
svarna-kundala-shobhitam

saroja-shobitoraskam
ratna-keyuura-mudritam

4. The Lord has four arms, and His limbs are very soft. He is decorated with golden earrings. His chest is resplendent like the lotus flower, and His arms are decorated with jewel-studded ornaments.

tapta-kaanchana-sankasham
pita-nirmala-vasasam

indradi-sura-maulishthaha
sphuran manikya-diptibhih

5. He is dressed in a spotless yellow garment, which exactly resembles molten gold. He is the original cause of existence, beyond the mundane sphere, for the great demigods headed by Indra. He appears bedecked with rubies which are blazingly effulgent.

virajita-pada-dvandvam
shankha-chakradi-hetibhihi

garutmata cha vinayat
stuyamanam mudanvitam

6. His two feet are very attractive, and He is armed with various weapons such as the conch, disc, etc. Garuda joyfully offers prayers with great reverence.

sva-hrit-kamalasamvaasam
kritvaa tu kavacham pathet

nrisimho me shirah patu

loka-rakshartha-sambhavaha

7. Having seated Lord Narasimhadeva upon the lotus of one’s heart, one should recite the following mantra: “May Lord Nrisimha, who protects all the planetary systems, protect my head.”

sarvago ‘pi stambha vasaha
phalam me rakshatu dhvanim

nrisimho me drishau paatu
soma-suryagni-lochanaha

8. Although the Lord is all-pervading, He hid Himself within a pillar. May He protect my speech and the results of my activities. May Lord Narasimha, whose eyes are the sun, and fire, protect my eyes.

smritam me patu nriharih
muni-vaarya-stuti-priyaha

nasam me simha-nasas tu
mukham lakshmi-mukha-priyaha

9. May Lord Nrihari, who is pleased by the prayers offered by the best of sages, protect my memory. May He who has the nose of a lion protect my nose, and may He whose face is very dear to the goddess of fortune protect my mouth.

sarva-vidyadhipaha patu
nrisimho rasanam mama

vaktram patv indu-vadanam
sada prahlaada-vanditaha

10. May Lord Narasimha, who is the knower of all sciences, protect my sense of taste. May He whose face is beautiful as the full moon and who is offered prayers by Prahlada Maharaja protect my face.

Nrisimha patu me kantham
skandhau bhu-bhrid ananta krit

divyastra-shobhita-bhujaha
nrisimhah patu me bhujaha

11. May Lord Narasimha protect my throat. He is the sustainer of the earth and the performer of unlimitedly wonderful activities. May He protect my shoulders. His arms are resplendent with transcendental weapons. May He protect my shoulders.

karau me deva-varado
nrisimhah patu sarvataha

hridayam yogi-sadhyash cha
nivasam patu me harih

12. May the Lord, who bestows benedictions upon the demigods, protect my hands, and may He protect me from all sides. May He who is achieved by the perfect yogis protect my heart, and may Lord Hari protect my dwelling place.

madhyam patu hiranyaksha
vaksha-kukshi-vidaranaha

nabhim me patu nriharihi
sva-nabhi-brahma-samstutaha

13. May He who ripped apart the chest and abdomen of the great demon HiraNyaaksha protect my waist, and may Lord Nrihari protect my navel. He is offered prayers by Lord Brahmaa, who has sprung from his own navel.

brahmanda-kotayah katyam
yasyasau patu me katim

guhyam me patu guhyanam
mantranam guhya-rupa-drik

14. May He on whose hips rest all the universes protect my hips. May the Lord protect my private parts. He is the knower of all mantras and all mysteries, but He Himself is not visible.

uru manobhavah patu
januni nara-ruupa-drik

janghe patu dhara-dhara
harta yo ‘sau nri-keshari

15. May He who is the original Cupid protect my thighs. May He who exhibits a human-like form protect my knees. May the remover of the burden of the earth, who appears in a form which is half-man and half-lion, protect my calves.

sura-rajya-pradah patu
padau me nriharishvarah

sahasra-shirsha-purushaha
patu me sarvashas tanum

16. May the bestower of heavenly opulence protect my feet. He is the Supreme Controller in the form of a man and lion combined. May the thousand-headed Supreme enjoyer protect my body from all sides and in all respects.

mahograh purvatah patu
maha-viragrajo ‘ghnitaha

maha-vishnur dakshine tu
maha-jvalas tu nairritaha

17. May that most ferocious personality protect me from the east. May He who is superior to the greatest heroes protect me from the southeast, which is presided over by Agni. May the Supreme Vishnu protect me from the south, and may that person of blazing luster protect me from the southwest.

pashchime patu sarvesho
dishi me sarvatomukhaha

nrisimhah patu vayavyam
saumyam bhushana-vigrahaha

18. May the Lord of everything protect me from the west. His faces are everywhere, so please may He protect me from this direction. May Lord Narasimha protect me from the northwest, which is predominated by Vaayu, and may He whose form is in itself the supreme ornament protect me from the north, where Soma resides.

ishanyam patu bhadro me
sarva-mangala-dayakaha

samsara-bhayatah patu
mrityor mrityur nrikeshari

19. May the all-auspicious Lord, who Himself bestows all-auspiciousness, protect from the northeast, the direction of the sun-god, and may He who is death personified protect me from fear of the rotation of birth and death in this material world.

idam nrisimha-kavacham
prahlada-mukha-manditam

bhaktiman yah pathenaityam
sarva-papaih pramuchyate

20. This Narasimha-kavacha has been ornamented by issuing from the mouth of Prahlada Maharaja. A devotee who reads this becomes freed from all sins.

putravan dhanavan loke
dirghayur upajayate

kamayate yam yam kamam
tam tam prapnoty asamshayam

21. Whatever one desires in this world he can attain without doubt. One can have wealth, many sons, and a long life.

sarvatra jayam apnoti
sarvatra vijayii bhavet

bhumyantariksha-divyanam
grahanam vini varanam

22. He becomes victorious who desires victory, and indeed becomes a conqueror. He wards off the influence of all planets, earthly, heavenly, and everything in between.

vrishchikoraga-sambhuta
vishhapaharanam param

brahma-rakshasa-yakshanam
durotsarana-karanam

23. This is the supreme remedy for the poisonous effects of serpents and scorpions, and Brahma-raakshasa ghosts and Yakshas are driven far away.

bhuje va tala-patre va
kavacham likhitam shubham

kara-mule dhritam yena
sidhyeyuh karma-siddhayaha

24. One may write this most auspicious prayer on his arm, or inscribe it on a palm-leaf and attach it to his wrist, and all his activities will become perfect.

devasura-manushyeshhu
svam svam eva jayam labhet

eka-sandhyam tri-sandhyam va
yah pathen niyato naraha

25. One who regularly chants this prayer, whether once or thrice (daily), he becomes victorious whether among demigods, demons, or human beings.

sarva-mangala-mangalyam
bhuktim muktim cha vindati

dva-trimshati-sahasrani
pathet shuddhatmanam nrinam

26. One who with purified heart recites this prayer 32,000 times attains the most auspicious of all auspicious things, and material enjoyment and liberation are already understood to be available to such a person.

kavachasyasya mantrasya
mantra-siddhih-prajayate

anena mantra-rajena
kritva bhasmabhir mantranam

27. This Kavacha-mantra is the king of all mantras. One attains by it what would be attained by anointing oneself with ashes and chanting all other mantras.

tilakam vinyased yas tu
tasya graha-bhayam haret

tri-varam japamanas tu
dattam varyabhimantrya cha

28. Having marked ones body with tilaka, taking achamana with water, and reciting this mantra three times, one will find that the fear of all inauspicious planets is removed.

prasayed yo naro mantram
nrisimha-dhyanam acharet

tasya rogah pranashyanti
ye cha syuh kukshi-sambhavaha

29. That person who recites this mantra, meditating upon Lord Narasimhadeva, has all of his diseases vanquished, including those of the abdomen.

garjantam garjayantam nija-bhuja-patalam sphotayantam hatantam
rupyantam tapayantam divi bhuvi ditiyam kshepayantam kshipantam

krandantam roshayantam dishi dishi satantam samharantam bharantam
vikshantam purnayantam kara-nikara-shatair divya-simham namami

30. Lord Narasimha roars loudly and causes others to roar. With His multitudes of arms He tears the demons asunder and kills them in this way. He is always seeking out and tormenting the demonic descendants of Diti, both on this earth planet and in the higher planets, and He throws them down and scatters them. He cries with great anger as He destroys the demons in all directions, yet with His unlimited hands He sustains, protects, and nourishes the cosmic manifestation. I offer my respectful obeisances to the Lord, who has assumed the form of a transcendental lion.

iti shri brahmanda-purane prahladoktam
shri nrisimha-kavacham sampurnam

Thus ends the Narasimha-kavacha as it is described by Prahlada Maharaja in the Brahmanda Purana.

Five Prayers to Lord Narasimha

by Bhaktivinoda Thakura

Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakura has written five beautiful prayers in “Sri Navadvipa Bhava Taranga” for receiving the mercy of Lord Narasimha. These prayers are certainly assurance to all sincere devotees that the worship of Lord Narasimha is purely in the line of aspiring love and devotion to Sri Sri Radha and Krsna. Those prayers are as follows.

e dusta hrdaye kama adi ripu chaya

kutinati pratisthasa sathya sada raya

hrdaya-sodhana ara krsnera vasana

nrsimha-carane mora ei to’ kamana

Within my sinful heart the six enemies headed by lust perpetually reside, as well as duplicity, the desire for fame, plus sheer cunning. At the lotus feet of Lord Narasimha, I hope that He will mercifully purify my heart and give me the desire to serve Lord Krsna.

kandiya nrsimha-pade magibo kakhana

nirapade navadvipe jugala-bhajana

bhaya bhaya paya yan’ra darsane se hari

prasanna hoibo kabe more daya kari

Weeping, I will beg at the lotus-feet of Lord Narasimha for the benediction of worshipping Radha and Krsna in Navadvipa, perfectly safe and free from all difficulties. When will this Lord Hari, Whose terrible form strikes fear into fear itself, ever become pleased and show me His mercy?

yadyapi bhisana murti dusta-jiva-prati

prahladadi krsna-bhakta-jane bhadra ati

kabe va prasanna ho’ye sa krpa-vacane

nirbhaya karibe ei mudha akincane

Even though Lord Narasimha is terrifying toward the sinful souls, He offers great auspiciousness unto the devotees of Lord Krsna headed by Prahlada Maharaja. When will He be pleased to speak words of compassion unto me, a worthless fool, and thereby make me fearless?

svacchande baiso he vatsa sri-gauranga-dhame

jugala-bhajana hau rati hau name

mama bhakta-krpa-bale vighna jabe dura

suddha cite bhajo radha-krsna-rasa-pura

He will say, “Dear child! Sit sown freely and live happily here in Sri Gauranga-dhama. May you nicely worship the Divine Couple, and may you develop loving attachment for Their Holy Names. By the mercy of My devotees, all obstacles are cast far away. With a purified heart, just perform the worship of Radha and Krsna, for such worship overflows with sweet nectar.”

ei boli’ kabe mora mastaka-upara

sviya sri-carana harse dharibe isvara

amani jugala-preme sattvika vikare

dharaya lutibo ami sri-nrsimha-dvare

Saying this, will that Lord delightedly place His own divine lotus-feet upon my head? I will experience sublime love for the Divine Couple Radha-Krsna and undergo the ecstatic transformations called sattvika. Falling on the ground, I will roll about at the door of Sri Narasimha’s temple.

(Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakura, – “Sri Navadvipa Bhava Taranga”, 36-40)

Sri Ahovalam Stotram

(Obeisances to Ahovalam Narasimha)

(Use the same meter as the Brahma-samhita. These were written in glorification of the Deities in the holy place of Lord Nrisimha at Ahobalam)

lakshmi-kataksha-sarasi-ruha-raja-hamsam
pakshindra-shaila-bhavanam bhava-nasham isham
gokshira-sara-ghana-sara-patira-varnam
vande kripa-nidhim ahobala-narasimham

“I offer my obeisances to that ocean of mercy, Ahobala Nrisimha. He is a great swan swimming amongst the lotuses of Lakshmi’s furtive glances. He is the Supreme Lord, who puts an end to material imprisonment and who appeared from the stone of the Garuda pillar. His body has lines of colour: both a creamy colour and the colour of rain clouds.”

adyanta-shunyam ajam avyayam aprameyam
aditya-candra-shikhi-locanam adi-devam
abja-mukabja-mada-lolupa-matta-bhringam
vande kripa-nidhim ahobala-narasimham

“I offer my obeisances to that ocean of mercy, Ahobala Nrisimha. He has no beginning or end. He is unborn, everlasting, and immeasurable. He is the original God who gives brightness to the sun, moon, and to fire. He is like a honey bee intoxicated by his passionate desire for the lotus face of Lakshmi.”

kotira-koti-ghatitojjvala-kanti-kantam
keyura-hara-mani-kundala manditangam
cudagra-ranjita-sudhakara-purna-bimbam
vande kripa-nidhim ahobala-narasimham

“I offer my obeisances to that ocean of mercy, Ahobala Nrisimha. He looks splendid with his thick shiny mane tied back and with his body decorated with armlets, necklaces, and jewelled ear rings. His face is like the disc of the full moon, adorned with his crown.”

varaha-vamana-nrisimha-subhagyam isham
krida-vilola-hridayam vibhudendra-vandyam
hamsatmakam paramahamsa-mano-viharam
vande kripa-nidhim ahobala-narasimham

“I offer my obeisances to that ocean of mercy, Ahobala Nrisimha. He is the all-fortunate supreme Lord: Varaha, Vamana, and Nrisimha. His heart is frolicking with his own playful pastimes. The most intelligent persons pray to him, the Supreme soul, who fascinates the great sages.”

mandakini-janana-hetu-padaravindam
vrndarakalaya-vinodanam ujjvalangam
mandara-pushpa-tulasi-racitanghri-padmam
vande kripa-nidhim ahobala-narasimham

“I offer my obeisances to that ocean of mercy, Ahobala Nrisimha. His lotus feet are the source of the Ganges. His body is resplendent as he enjoys himself in his superexcellent abode, and his lotus feet are bedecked with Tulasi leaves and the flowers from the heavenly coral tree.”

tarunya-krishna-tulasi-dala-dhama-rabhyam
dhatri ramabhi ramanam mahaniya-rupam
mantradhi-raja-matha-danava-mana-bhangam
vande kripa-nidhim ahobala-narasimham

“I offer my obeisances to that ocean of mercy, Ahobala Nrisimha. His most favorite thing is fresh dark Tulasi leaves. He exhibits a magnificent form as he enjoys with his female assistants, the goddesses of fortune. He breaks the pride of the demons by destroying Ravana, that master of magic spells.”

SRI NAKHA STUTI

(offered to Madhvacarya)

paantvasmaam puruuhutavairi balavanmaatanga maadyadghataa
kumbhocchaadri vipaatanaadhi kapatu pratyekavajraayitaah
Shrimat kanthiravaasya pratatasunakharaa daaritaaraatiduura
pradhvasta dhvaatashaanta pravitata manasaa bhaavitaa nakivrnda

“May the wide-spread and auspicious nails of the lion-faced God, Narasimha, Who is in the company of His consort Laxmi, protect us. His nails are like thunderbolts and are highly skilled in tearing asunder the lofty mountain-like heads of the herds of strong and intoxicated elephants in the form of demons; the foes of Indradev. His nails are also meditated upon by the groups of devas with their broad minds which are concentrated upon Him and from which the darkness of ignorance is driven away to a great distance and the internal enemies of lust, anger, etc., are torn in twain.”

lakshmikaanta samantato vikalayannai veshituste saman
pashyaamyuttama vastu duurataarato paastam rasoyo stumah
yadrosotkara daksanetra kutila prantotthitogni sphurat
khadyotopamavisphylinya bhasitaa brhmeshushakrot karaan

“Oh consort of Laxmi! Although I’ve made an all round study of the shastras, I don’t find anything equal to You, Who are my master! The thing thought superior to You is therefore flung far and is similar to the 8th tuste (it does not exist). Brahma, Shiva, Indra and their hosts are reduced to ashes by the sparks of fire resembling sparking glowworms and issuing from the curved edge of Your right eye which is filled with masses of wrath.”

(from the Introduction of Sri Hari Vayuh Stuti of Trivikram Panditacarya)

Sri Narasimha Stuti

This is a powerful prayer to Lord Narasimha for one’s protection from the dark elements and demons within this material world. It was written by Pandit Trivikramacharya, a leading disciple of Sri Madhvacharya.

1. udaya ravi sahasra-dhyotitam ruksa-viksam

pralaya jaladhi-nadam kalpa-krid vahni-vaktram
sura-pati-ripu-vakshah-kshoda-rakta-kshitangam

pranata-bhaya-haram tam narasimham namami

The radiance of a thousand rising suns is the glow on the Lord’s face. His eyes are fiery and His voice roars like the turbulent ocean of devastation. His body is wet with the blood of Indra’s foe, Hiranyakashipu. Lord Narasimha, the redeemer of the fear ridden, I bow down to Your feet.

2. pralaya-ravi-karalakara-ruk chakra-valam
virala-yaduru-rocirocitashanta-ralam
prati-bhaya-tama-kopatyutkatoccatta-hasin
daha daha narasimasahya-viryahitam me

Your effulgence is dazzling like that of the destructive sun, pralayaravi. It glows and glitters, makes the wicked tremble with fear. You laugh in a piercing high tone at the fear, ignorance and anger of the demons. Burn Narasimha, burn my adversaries with Your unbearable power.

3. sara-sa rabha-sapadapata-bharabhirava
pracakita-chala-sapta-dvandva-loka-stutas tvam
ripu-rudhira-nishekenaiva shonamghri-shalin
daha daha narasimasahya-viryahitam me

Your lotus feet are reddened by the blood of the enemy. Fourteen lokas are scared by the stamping of Your feet. Demigods assemble, fear and tremble and pray for Your mercy. Burn Narasimha, burn my adversaries with Your unbearable power.

4. tava ghanaghana-ghosho ghoram aghraya jamgha
parigham alaghum uru-vyaja-tejo-girim cha
ghana vighatitam aga-daitya-jamghala-samgho
daha daha narasimasahya-viryahitam me

You take great pleasure in slaughtering the armies of the demons. You wield Your heavy mace in a most cunning manner with the force of a great mountain. As You chop demons into pieces others immediately flee for their lives. Burn Narasimha, burn my adversaries with Your unbearable power.

5. kataki-kata-karala-dhatakagrya-stha-labha
prakata-pata-tadit te sat-katishthati-patvi
katuka katuka dushtatopadrishti-pramushtau
daha daha narasimhasahya viryahitam me

The mountains of Your hips are nicely decorated with yellow garments, which appear just like lightning in its intense brilliance. Attacking fiercely he who had the foremost position (the seat of King Indra), You removed the threat of that exceedingly wicked one. O ferocious one! Burn Narasimha, burn my adversaries with Your unbearable power.

6. prakhara-nakhara-vajrotkhata-rukshari-vakshaha
shikhari-shikhara raktai rakta nandoha-deha
suvalibha-shubha-kukshe bhadra gambhira-nabhe
daha daha narasimasahya viryahitam me

As Your nails, sharp like thunderbolts, tore the abdomen of the enemy, blood surged from the body of the demon and bathed You. Your lotus-like navel is deep and Your abdomen is decorated with the auspicious three lines. Burn Narasimha, burn my adversaries with Your unbearable power.

7. sphurayati tava sakshat saiva nakshatra-mala
kshapita-ditija-vaksho-vyapta-nakshatra-marga
ari-dara-dhara-janvasakta-hasta-dvayaho
daha daha narasimasahya viryahitam me

Your two hands, as they directly burst open the chest of the son of Diti, appear just like a necklace of stars. Supporting him on Your knees, You tore his chest apart which blocked the path of the stars. Burn Narasimha, burn my adversaries with Your unbearable power.

8. katu-vikata-sataudho-dhattanad bhrashta-bhuyo
ghana-patala-vishalakasha-labdhavakasham
kara-parigha-vimarda-prodyamam dhyayatas te
daha daha narasimasahya viryahitam me

Your mane is burning and monstrous, and You cause the enemy to fall from his position by tearing apart his chest. Once attaining the opportunity, under the broad roof of the clouds and sky, You raise Your hand, powerful as a mace, to strike. I meditate upon You in this form. Burn Narasimha, burn my adversaries with Your unbearable power.

9. hata-lutada-laghisthotkantha-dashto ‘sta-vidyut
sata-shata-katianorah-pitha-bhit sushtu nistham
patati nu tava kanthadhishtha-ghorantramala
daha daha narasimasahya viryahitam me

Appearing brilliantly illuminated, Your neck, with hundreds of mane-hairs, is raised lightly and appears to be bitten by eight bolts of lightning. You divide the chest and very strong position of Hiranyakashipu. You are garlanded with his ghastly entrails. Burn Narasimha, burn my adversaries with Your unbearable power.

10. hata-bahu-mihirabhasa hy asamhara-ramho
huta-vaha-bahu-hetir hrepikananta-hetihi
ahata-yihita-mohan samvihansai ham asyam
daha daha narasimhasahya viryahitam me

The effulgence of many suns is destroyed by Your uncheckable potency. The many weapons sent against You are like sacrificial offerings, and You reply with unlimited weaponry. Put down, strike and slay my illusion. Burn Narasimha, burn my adversaries with Your unbearable power.

11. guru-guru-giri-rajat-kandarantargad eva
dina-mani-mani-shringevanta-vahni-pradipte
daddhad ati-kau-damstre bhishanojjihva-vaktram
daha daha narasimhasahya viryahitam me

My Lord, Your fearful countenance, with tongue extended and sharp teeth blazing as if illuminated from within, appears as the peak of a huge mountain of gems lit by the sunrise and by fire coming from within its caves. Burn Narasimha, burn my adversaries with Your unbearable power.

12. adharita-vibudhadhi-dhyana-dhairya vididhyad
vividha-vibudhadhi shraddha-pitendrari-nasham
vidadhad ati-katahoddhatanoddhatta-hasam
daha daha narasimhasahya viryahitam me

The enemy of Indra (Hiranyakashipu) made waves in the ocean of demigods and took the shraddha offerings meant for the forefathers. Confounding the intelligence of the demigods, he minimized their austerity and position in various ways. But You, O Narasimha, melted him in the pot of Your shrill laughter. Burn Narasimha, burn my adversaries with Your unbearable power.

13. tri-bhuvana-trina-matra-trana-trishardra

netra-trayam ati-laghitarchir vishtapavishtapadam
navatara-ravi-tamram dharayan ruksha-viksham
daha daha narasimhasahya viryahitam me

Every living being in the three worlds, down to the blade of grass, was scorched by the flame of Hiranyakashipu. But You, with Your three eyes, have annihilated this flame. Your appearance is threatening to the miscreants, and Your color is coppery like the newly risen sun. Burn Narasimha, burn my adversaries with Your unbearable power.

14. bhramad abhi-bhava-bhubhrid bhuri-bhubhara-sad

bhidbhida-nava-vibhava-bhru-vibhramadabhra-shubhra
ripu-bhava-bhayam etar bhasi bho bho vibho ‘bhir
daha daha narasimhasahya viryahitam me

You wander about without resistance, for You are the supreme power and the maintainer of the earth. Hail to You, O Lord; You are effulgent and fearful to Your enemies, although You fear no one. You divided into nine parts the burden of the earth (Hiranyakashipu) simply by the effulgence produced by the movement of Your eyebrows. Burn Narasimha, burn my adversaries with Your unbearable power.

15. shravana-khachita-canchat-kundaloccanda-ganda
bhrukuti katu lalata-shreshtha-nasarunoshta
varada surada rajat-kesarotsaritare
daha daha narasimhasahya viryahitam me

Your ears are prominent, Your earrings swing to and fro and Your face appears ferocious. Your eyebrows give Your forehead a threatening aspect, and You are most beautiful with Your high nose and reddish lips. O giver of benedictions, well-wisher of the demigods and devotees, the enemy is scattered by the effulgence the hair of Your mane. Burn Narasimha, burn my adversaries with Your unbearable power.

16. pravikavacha-kacha-rajad-ratna kotira-shalin
gala-gata galad-usradara-ratnangadadhya
kanaka-kataka-kanchi sinjini sudrikavan
daha daha narasimhasahya viryahitam me

You wear no armor, yet You are decorated by beautiful locks of shining hair and many ornaments made of jewels. Your bodily effulgence appears as if You had swallowed the newly-risen sun. Your hands exhibit various mudras, and Your waist is decorated with a gold chain, making a tinkling noise. Burn Narasimha, burn my adversaries with Your unbearable power.

17. ari-daram asi hetau chapa-banau gadam

san-mushalam api kapolam cankusham pasha-shulam
dadhad api vidhutantra-sragvi-bhinnari-vaksho
daha daha narasimhasahya viryahitam me

You are equipped with bow and arrow, as well as various astras or missiles, club, mace, rod for controlling elephants, noose, and trident. Placing the enemy upon Your lap and tearing open his abdomen, he is thus purified of all contamination, and therefore You take his intestines and wear them as a victory garland. Burn Narasimha, burn my adversaries with Your unbearable power.

18. cata cata cata duram mohayan bhramayarin
kada kada kada kayam jvalaya sphotayasva
jahi jahi jahi vegam shatravah sanubandham
daha daha narasimhasahya viryahitam me

Fall upon my foes, fall upon them, fall upon them. Bewilder them and drive them far away. Consume, consume, consume the bodies of the enemies; incinerate and burst them asunder. Conquer, conquer, conquer forcefully my foes and their followers. Burn Narasimha, burn my adversaries with Your unbearable power.

19. vidhi-bhava-vibudhesha-bhramakagni-sphulinga
prasavi-vikata-damshtrojjihva-vaktra trinetra
kala kala kala kalam pahi mam te subhaktam
daha daha narasimhasahya viryahitam me

Even Lord Brahma, Lord Shiva and King Indra are bewildered to see Your tongue, like a firebrand, pressed between Your gigantic teeth. O three-eyed one, Your face appears most fearful, like time personified. Sound out the fate of the demons and kindly protect me, Your surrendered servant. Burn Narasimha, burn my adversaries with Your unbearable power.

20. kuru kuru karunam tvam sankuram daitya-pote
disha disha vishadam me shashvatim deva-drishtim
jaya jaya jaya murte ‘narta jetavya-paksha
daha daha narasimhasahya viryahitam me

O supreme form, Have mercy, have mercy upon me. Dispel, dispel my ignorance just as You uprooted the child of Diti. You are never subjected to the sufferings of material existence. Neither are You defeated; indeed, whoever You favor will always triumph. Be victorious. Bestow upon me the divine vision to see You always. Burn Narasimha, burn my adversaries with Your unbearable power.

21. stutir iyam ahita-ghnisevita narasimhi
tanur iva parishanta-malini sabhitolam
tad akhila-gurum agrya-shrida-rupa-mahadbhihi
daha daha narasimhasahya viryahitam me

This prayer, offered in devotional service to Lord Narasimhadeva, destroys all inauspicious things. That Lord of the universe, the universal teacher, appearing as if garlanded by the destroyed body of Hiranyakashipu, bestows all good fortune and opulence upon His worshipers. Burn Narasimha, burn my adversaries with Your unbearable power.

22. likucha-tilaka-sunuh sad-dhitartanusari
narahari-nitim etam shatru-samhara-hetum
akrita-sakala-papa-dhvamsanim yah pathet tam
daha daha narasimhasahya viryahitam me

The Lord appears in a seemingly bitter form to act for the protection of His devotee Prahlada. Anyone who reads this description of the character of Lord Narahari causes his enemies to retreat, and his sins are undone and vanquished. Burn Narasimha, burn my adversaries with Your unbearable power.

108 Names of Lord Narasimhadev

1. Om narasimhaya namah

Obeisances unto the half-man half-lion Lord
2. Om mahasimhaya namah

Obeisances to the great lion
3. Om diyva-simhaya namah

Obeisances to the Divine lion
4. Om mahabalaya namah

Obeisances to the greatly powerful
5. Om ugra-simhaya namah

Obeisances to the angry terrifying lion
6. Om mahadevaya namah

Obeisances to the Lord of lords
7. Om stambha-ja-aya namah

Obeisances to One who appeared from the pillar

8. Om ugra-locanaya namah

Obeisances to one who possesses terrifying eyes
9. Om raudraya namah

Obeisances to the angry one
10. Om sarvadbhutaya namah

Obeisances to one who is wonderful in every way
11. Om srimanaya namah

Obeisances to the most beautiful
12. Om yoganandaya namah

Obeisances to the source of yogic bliss
13. Om trivikramaya namah

Obeisances to Lord Vamana (Who took three great steps)
14. Om harine namah

Obeisances to Sri Hari Who takes our troubles away
15. Om kolahalaya namah

Obeisances to the roaring (Varahadeva – Varaha-nrisimha)
16. Om cakrine namah

Obeisances to Him Who carries the disk
17. Om vijayaya namah

Obeisances to Him Who is always victorious
18. Om jaya-vardhanaya namah

Obeisances unto Him Who has ever increasing glories
19. Om panchananaya namah

Obeisances unto Him Who is five-headed
20. Om param-brahma-aya namah

Obeisances unto Supreme Absolute Truth
21. Om aghoraya namah

Obeisances to Him Who for His devotees is not horrible
22. Om ghora-vikramaya namah

Obeisances to Him Who has terrifying activities
23. Om jvalan-mukhaya namah

Obeisances to One Who has an effulgent face
24. Om jvala-maline namah

Obeisances to Him with effulgent garland of flames
25. Om mahajvalaya namah

Obeisances to He Who is most effulgent
26. Om maha-prabhuhaya namah

Obeisances to the Supreme Master
27. Om niti-laksaya namah

Obeisances to Him Who possesses all good (moral) qualities
28. Om sahasraksaya namah

Obeisances to the thousand-eyed One
29. Om durniriksyaya namah

Obeisances to Him Who is difficult to see (difficult to look at)
30. Om pratapanaya namah

Obeisances to Him Who oppresses His enemies with great heat
31. Om mahadamstraya namah

Obeisances to Him Who possesses huge teeth
32. Om yudha-prajnaya namah

Obeisances to the Supremely intelligent in battle (ready to fight)
33. Om canda-kopine namah

Obeisances to Him Who is likened to an angry moon
34. Om sada-sivaya namah

Obeisances to the All auspicious Lord
35. Om hiranyakasipu-dhvamsine namah

Obeisance to Him Who destroys Hiranyakasipu
36. Om daitya-danava-bhanjanaya namah

Obeisances to He Who destroys the masses of the race of demons and giants

37. Om guna-bhadraya namah

Obeisances unto Narasimha Who is full of wonderful qualities
38. Om mahabhadraya namah

Obeisances to Him Who is very auspicious
39. Om bala-bhadraya namah

Obeisances to Him Who is auspiciously powerful
40. Om subhadrakaya namah

Obeisances to the extremely auspicious One
41. Om karalaya namah

Obeisances to He Who possesses a wide open mouth
42. Om vikaralaya namah

Obeisances to Him with very wide open mouth
43. Om vikartaya namah

Obeisances to the Lord Who performs wonderful activities
44. Om sarva-kartrikaya namah

Obeisances to the Lord Who performs ALL activities
45. Om sisumaraya namah

Obeisances to Him Who also appears as Matsya
46. Om trilokatmaya namah

Obeisances to the Soul of the three worlds
47. Om isaya namah

Obeisances to the Lord known as the controller
48. Om sarvesvaraya namah

Obeisances to that supreme controller
49. Om vibhuaya namah

Obeisances to Narasimha Who is the BEST
50. Om bhaivaradambaraya namah

Obeisances to Him Who causes terror by roaring in the sky
51. Om divyaya namah

Obeisances to That Divine Person Narasimha
52. Om acyutaya namah

Obeisances to our infallible Lord Nara-simha
53. Om kavine namah

Obeisances to the Supreme intelligent (poet)
54. Om madhavaya namah

Obeisances to the husband of Srimati Laksmi devi
55. Om adhoksajaya namah

Obeisances to Him Who is beyond understanding (or beyond explaining)
56. Om aksaraya namah

Obeisances to the infallible One
57. Om sarvaya namah

Obeisances to He Who is the origin of everything
58. Om vanamaline namah

Obeisances to Him Who wears garland of forest flowers (or adorned by His loving devotees)

59. Om varapradaya namah

Obeisances to the Merciful Lord Who grants boons to the deserving like Prahlada

60. Om visvambaraya namah

Obeisances to Narasimha Who maintains the universe
61. Om adbhutaya namah

Obeisances to Him Who is wonderful
62. Om bhavyaya namah

Obeisances to He Who determines the future (Who is the future for His devotees)

63. Om sri-visnave namah

Obeisances to that Narasimha Who is the all pervading Lord Vishnu
64. Om purusottamaya namah

Obeisances to Narasimha Who is the Supreme Enjoyer
65. Om anaghastra namah

Obeisances to Him Who can never be wounded by weapons
66. Om nakhastraya namah

Obeisances to Him Who has sharp nails for weapons
67. Om surya-jyotine namah

Obeisances to Narasimha the source of Suns rays
68. Om suresvaraya namah

Obeisances to Narasimhadev, Lord of devatas
69. Om sahasra-bahu-aya namah

Obeisances to Nara-hari the thousand-armed Lord
70. Om sarva-jnaya namah

Obeisances to Him Who is the all-knowing
71. Om sarva-siddhi-pradayakaya namah

Obeisances to Him Who awards all perfections to the sadhakas (devotees)
72. Om vajra-damstraya namah

Obeisances to Narasimha Who has teeth like lightning bolts
73. Om vajra-nakhaya namah

Obeisances to Narasimha Who possesses nails like piercing lightning bolts
74. Om mahanandaya namah

Obeisances to the source of supreme bliss – Atmananda – Narasimha
75. Om param-tapaya namah

Obeisances to the source of All austerities, spiritual energy (and taptah – heat)

76. Om sarva-mantraika-rupa namah

Obeisances to that Divine Personality Who although one, he appears as the many mantrika formulas

77. Om sarva-yantra-vidaramaya namah

Obeisances to Him Who destroys all machines (demoniac plans/arrangements/vehicles for demoniac works)

78. Om sarva-tantratmakaya namah

Obeisances to Narasimha the essence of, and proprioter of all tantras (ritual rites – pujas)

79. Om avyaktaya namah

Obeisances to the Lord Who appears unmanifest
80. Om suvyaktaya namah

Obeisances unto Nara-simha Who for His devotees becomes wonderfully manifest from the pillar (or when needed)

81. Om bhakta-vatsala namah

Obeisances to the Lord Who always has the well-being of His devotee at heart

82. Om vaisakha-sukla-bhototthaya namah

Obeisances to That Narasimhadeva Who appeared during waxing moon of the month of Visakha (April-May)

83. Om saranagata-vatsalaya namah

Obeisances to the Lord Who is kind to those surrendered to Him (like the mother lioness who is kind to her cubs)

84. Om udara-kirtine namah

Obeisances to Nara-simha Who is universally famous
85. Om punyatmaya namah

Obeisances to Him Who is the essence of piety
86. Om mahatmaya namah

Obeisances to That great personality, Nara-simha
87. Om candra-vikramaya namah

Obeisances to Him Who is the performer of moonlike or great deeds, or who performs deeds that eclipse all others.

88. Om vedatrayaya namah

Obeisances to the Lord of the three original Vedas (Rg, Yajur, Sama)
89. Om prapujyaya namah

Obeisances to Narasimha Who is supremely worshipable
90. Om bhagavanaya namah

Obeisances to Narasimha the Supreme Personality of Godhead
91. Om paramesvaraya namah

Obeisances to He Who is the Supreme Controller (Nara-simha-deva)
92. Om srivatsamkaya namah

Obeisances to the Lord Who is just like Krishna, being marked with symbol of Laksmi

93. Om jagat-vyapine namah

Obeisances to Narasimha Who pervades the entire universe
94. Om jagan-mayaya namah

Obeisances to the Supreme Mystic Who makes the material world seem real

95. Om jagat-palaya namah

Obeisances to the protector of the universe (Nara-simha)
96. Om jagannathaya namah

Obeisances to the Lord of Universe
97. Om mahakhagaya namah

Obeisances to Him Who moves in the air or with the movement of the air (is everywhere)

98. Om dvi-rupa-bhrtaya namah

Obeisances to Him Who has double form (man-lion)
99. Om paramatmaya namah

Obeisances to Him Who is the Supersoul of All beings
100. Om param-jyotine namah

Obeisances to Him (Nara-simha) Whose effulgence is the source of Brahman

101. Om nirgunaya namah

Obeisances to Narasimha Who possesses transcendental qualities (not those of the material nature)

102. Om nrkesarine namah

Obeisances unto Him man-lion (or having a lion’s mane while appearing part human)

103. Om para-tattvaya namah

Obeisances to the Supreme Absolute Truth (One Who is of the Supreme nature)

104. Om param-dhamaya namah

Obeisances to He Who comes from the Supreme Abode
105. Om sac-cid-ananda-vigrahaya namah

Obeisances to Narasimha Whose Form is made of eternal knowledge and bliss

106. Om laksmi-nrsimhaya namah

Obeisances unto the Man-Lion Form together with the Supreme Goddess of Fortune Srimati Laksmi-devi

107. Om sarvatmaya namah

Obeisances unto the universal, primeval soul (the Supreme Personality of Godhead – Narasimhadeva)

108. Om dhiraya namah

Obeisances unto Narasimha who is always sober (being never bewildered)

Om prahlada-palakaya namah Obeisances unto Narasimha Who is the protector of Prahlada Maharaja, and those of that nature – surrendered unto Him.

Read more: http://www.dandavats.com/?p=85553

By Madhavendu Das 

Lord Nrisihadeva is very merciful to His devotees, and his mercy can be experienced in Andhara Pradesh, at a village called Darpally near Niazamabad, where a couple lives with the bare necessities of life.

This devotee was Lord Nrisimhadeva’s Pujari and developed attachment to Lord Narasimha deva. After his marriage he came back to his village and started Lord Gauranitai’s Vigraha seva at his home. But from the core of his heart he was prying to serve Lord Narasimhadeva’s vigraha on the same alter. His wife helped him in various ways to have Lord Nrisimhadevas Vigraha but they failed and finally decided that if the Lord wants then He will come on His own.

One day they went to visit Lord Nrisimha deva Temple at a nearby village, where their marriage took place. It was evening and they were sitting on the bank of the temple pond. At that time they were both praying to Lord Narasimhadeva’s vigraha from their hearts. at the same time, the temple pond was being cleaned and a large stone covered with mud was excavated and kept behind the couple. Upon turning to leave, they were surprised to see two black eyes watching them from the mud. They curiously removed the mud to see more of the form and they gradually found that Lord Narasimhadevha was there. They fell in love with the deity on the spot and wanted to have him. They felt disappointed as the deity belonged to the temple and left disappointed. Mataji eagerly wanted to bring the lord to her home. Generally nobody visited the temple after 5 pm, so Prabhuji went around 10 pm that evening. He prayed sincerely to the Lord to come to their home and give them an opportunity for His service. The lord’s Vigraha does not budge even with five men trying to move Him, but agreed to be lifted and transported by the devotee to his home.

That devotee wanted to take Narasimhadeva to Mayapur. Although much troublesome and risky, he managed to take him. Since this deity was submerged under water for so many years, the devotee wanted to bathe him in the Ganges. While the Lord was bathing, he didn’t want to come out and after many sincere prayers did he agree to come out. Who can comprehend of the inconceivable pastimes of the Lord with his beloved devotees?

Gauarchandra das is that fortunate soul. He joined ISKCON twelve years ago as a Brahmacari, and served various departments in ISKCON-Secunderabad, Hyderbad, Banglore, and Mayapur.

H. H. Subhaga Swami Maharaj likes this Nrisimhadeva very much and visits the Lord along with his diciples. H. G. Gaurachandra Prabhu organizes village programs for His Holiness.

Book Distribution:

His Holiness loves to preach KC among villagers and has discovered a promotional way to sign and distribute Srila Prabhupada’s books. His Holiness encourages his followers to distribute Srila Prabhupada’s books and says that as many Srila Prabhupada’s books are distributed, that much preaching is successful.

There was a sweet program held at a nearby village on the eve of 7th January
2009. The program started with an ecstatic nagar sankirtan, lead by Narayani Mataji ( from Spain, who leads the Vrindavan Srila Prabhupad Samadhi kirtans), Isha Prakash Prabhu (Australia), Anuradha mataji, Anandalila mataji (Poland), Krishna Sudama Das (Iran) and other devotees. His Holiness told the story of Prahlad Maharaj and the children of the village had a sweet exchange of throwing flower petals on His Holiness and devotees. The program ended with blessing the children to make their life successful and become Krishna conscious. Finally there was Prasahadam distribution and the whole village joyously honored Mahaprashadam. At another program held on the 10th January 2009, H. H. held an ecstatic fired up Kirtan, sending all the participants floating along with the beat of the mridanga and cartals. During the lecture, H. H. quoted Srila Prabhupad’s famous statement “I am simply the pen, and Krishna has written these books personally” and emphasized the value and importance of these transcendental literatures. Many people took his words seriously and many books were distributed.

Lord Nrisimhadeva ki jay–
Srila Prabhupada Ki Jay–

Source: http://www.dandavats.com/?p=85547

Srimad-Bhagavatam 7.5.22-34. Los Angeles, May 27, 1972,
720527SB.LA

Prabhupada: So today, appearance day of Lord Nrisimhadeva. Lord Nrisimhadeva appeared on this Nrisimha Caturdasi on account of His devotee, Prahlada. As it is stated in the Bhagavad-gita, yada yada hi dharmasya glanir bhavati bharata, abhyutthanam adharmasya [Bg. 4.7]. Paritranaya sadhunam vinasaya ca dushkritam, sambhavami yuge yuge [Bg. 4.8]. The Lord appears with two purposes. Paritranaya sadhunam: just to give protection and rescue the devotees, and to kill the demons, vinasaya ca dushkritam. So Prahlada Maharaja, five-years-old boy, his only fault was that he was Krishna conscious. He was devotee of Krishna. That was his only fault. And the father was so unkind to a child, even five years old. He could not excuse, “Oh, let this boy do whatever, chanting Hare Krishna.” No. The demons are so much against God consciousness that even at his home he would not allow his own child to become God conscious. This is demoniac civili… So you’ll find many critics, many enemies, because you are making progress in Krishna consciousness. So the demons are always against this Krishna consciousness movement. That is the whole history. Just like Lord Jesus Christ, he was crucified. What was his fault? He was preaching God consciousness, that’s all. This society is so cruel. So Prahlada Maharaja was tortured in so many ways. The torturing methods, I think you will find as you will see in today’s picture, how Prahlada Maharaja was tortured.
So one day, Hiranyakasipu… After all, he was his son. Affection was there. So one day, Hiranyakasipu asked the boy,

prahradanucyatam tata
svadhitam kincid uttamam
kalenaitavatayushman
yad asikshad guror bhavan
[SB 7.5.22] So he asked his son, “My dear son, what you have learned? The best thing, what you have learned from your teachers, so you kindly let me know.” So Prahlada Maharaja informed that “I have learned like this.” What is that?

sravanam kirtanam vishnoh
smaranam pada-sevanam
arcanam vandanam dasyam
sakhyam atma-nivedanam

iti pumsarpita vishnau
bhaktis cen nava-lakshana
kriyeta bhagavaty addha
tan manye ’dhitam uttamam

[SB 7.5.23-24] Tan manye ’dhitam uttamam: one who is engaged in the matter of hearing about Vishnu, sravanam kirtanamvishnoh. We are engaged in hearing and talking and chanting about so many things non-Vishnu. Just like you’ll find thousands of, millions of different types of magazines sold in your country, in all countries. Some of the magazines are sex literature, some cinema literature, some this literature, that… So many different types. There is one paper I have seen, “Diabetes Literature.” There are many patients of diabetes, so they have formed a society, “Diabetic Society.” I have seen it. (laughter) And there are many diabetic patients, they are being hoaxed, that “You pay two dollars per year, and you get all information how to protect yourself from diabetes disease.” So in America two dollars is nothing, but it is collecting millions and millions of dollars, Diabetic Society. Diabetic magazine. So that sort of hearing and chanting is not needed. We are not interested in all these magazines, because we are followers of Prahlada Maharaja. He’s our acarya. He’s guru. Prahlada Maharaja’s guru is Narada, and Narada is also our guru. Narada is guru of Vyasadeva. So we are a branch, but the original guru is Narada, Brahma-sampradaya. So Prahlada Maharaja is also a disciple of Narada Muni. So he teaches that sravanam kirtanam vishnoh [SB 7.5.23].
We have to hear and talk and chant about Vishnu. Sravanam kirtanam vishnoh smaranam pada-sevanam. To remember Him always, to worship His lotus feet, pada-sevanam. Arcanam, temple worship, to keep the Deity nicely worshiped, offer foodstuff, arati, this is called arcanam. Vandanam, offering prayers. Just like we offer prayer, govindam adi-purusham tam aham bhajami **. These are prayers. There are so many prayers. Kesava-dhrita buddha-sarira, keshava-dhrita narahari-rupa. These are all prayers. This is also part of devotional service.

sravanam kirtanam vishnoh
smaranam pada-sevanam
arcanam vandanam dasyam
sakhyam…

[SB 7.5.23] Arcanam vandanam dasyam. To be always in service of the Lord, dasyam; sakhyam, to make friendship with Him, to consider Krishna as your friend. He says… Even if I do not say that He’s my friend, He says, “I am friend of everyone.” Suhridam sarva-bhutanam [Bg. 5.29]. He’s friend of everyone. We don’t want His friendship, but He wants our friendship. He wants us to go back to home, Godhead; we don’t want. So He is more anxious to take us, exactly like the father is more affectionate than the son. That’s a fact. So He’s the supreme father. So He wants that we may be happy, and therefore He comes to show us. He sends His representative, son. He leaves behind Him books so that we may go back to home, back to Godhead. So, sakhyam. He’s always sitting with me, within my heart. I am in the heart, and Paramatma is also within the heart as friend to give me advice that “Why you are bothering in this material world? Please come back to home, back to Me.” This is going on. Sakhyam atma-nivedanam. Atma-nivedanam means fully surrendered. So there are examples of devotees who, sarvatma-nivedanam. Just like Bali Maharaja. He gave everything to Krishna, even his body, everything, whatever, his kingdom, money, everything.
So Prahlada Maharaja says, iti pumsarpita vishnau bhaktis cen nava-lakshana. All these items means hearing. Hearing about Vishnu, chanting about Krishna, giving everything to Vishnu, offering prayers to Vishnu, offering arcana, temple worship, Vishnu. In this way Prahlada Maharaja summarizes that “Anyone who is doing like this, everything about Vishnu…” iti pumsarpita vishnau bhaktis cen nava-lakshana, “this nine kinds of different devotional services,” kriyeta bhagavatay addha, “directly to the Supreme Personality of Godhead,” tan manye ’dhitam uttamam, “I think he is the best learned man in the world. He is the most learned.” Tan manye ’dhitam. “He has studied everything very nicely.” Actually, that is the fact. Jnana, knowledge Knowledge means to know Krishna, God, and the Vedic injunction is, yasmin vijnate sarvam evam vijnatam bhavanti. If you understand the Supreme Lord, then you understand everything. You haven’t got to study differently different subject matters. Just like we sometimes talk of science, of astronomy, economics, politics. We talk sometimes. But we are not going to, or we didn’t study all the subject matter separately. But in course of our studying Krishna consciousness, we know something of everything. So Prahlada Maharaja says, tan manye adhitam uttamam: “One who is engaged in these nine kinds of devotional services directly…” So Prahlada Maharaja recommends, kriyeta bhagavaty addha tan manye ’dhitam uttamam.

nisamyaitat suta-vaco
hiranyakasipus tada
guru-putram cedam rusha
prasphuritadharah

As soon as he heard, “Oh, what this nonsense boy is speaking?” he became so angry that sphuritadharah. When one becomes angry, his lips vi…, I mean to say, jumps. What is called? Quiver, yes. So he became so angry that it is said, sphuritadharah. (He) immediately called his teacher. He’s king… Because he thought, “The rascal teachers, they have taught him like this. I have entrusted the boy to the teachers, to brahmanas, and they have taught this Krishna consciousness. So call him. Otherwise, how is that this small boy, five years old only, he’s talking just like a great saint? So call his teacher!”

brahma-bandho kim etat
te vipaksham srayatasata
asaram grahito balo
mam anadritya durmate

Hiranyakasipu became bitterest enemy of Vishnu because his brother Hiranyaksha, he was killed by Vishnu taking the shape of Varaha. You know the story. Since then, Hiranyakasipu was bitterest enemy. “Oh, He has, Vishnu has killed my brother. So He is my greatest enemy.” So he won’t hear anything about Vishnu. Any Vishnu devotee, he will punish him, even his own son. That was his policy. So he immediately called him, the teachers, and addressed him,

brahma-bandho kim etat te
vipaksham srayatasata
asaram grahito balo
mam anadritya durmate

So here… Teachers are generally brahmanas. Not generally. To become teacher is the business of the brahmanas. Brahmana means they have got six kinds of… Everyone must have livelihood. This material world is that you must work; otherwise you cannot get your livelihood. That is the law, whatever you may be. So the brahmanas’ means of livelihood, six things: pathana pathana yajana yajana dana pratigraha. Pathana means he must be a very learned scholar, study the Vedic literature, and must teach others also. That is brahmana’s business. And in that way, whatever the disciples bring, that is his income. No salary, no contract, that “If you pay me hundred dollars or five hundred dollars weekly, then I can teach you.” No. There is no such contract. Teaching is free. It is the business of a brahmana to give free education to everyone. Now, it is the… Just like in our institution, I am your teacher, but there is no such contract that you have to pay me. But you pay me more than anything. So pathana pathana, that is the means of livelihood of brahmana. And kshatriya, they are kings. They can levy tax of the citizens because they are giving protection from being hurt by others. Kshatriya means one who gives protection (to) a man being hurt by others. That is the real root meaning. Kshatriya. And vaisya means they should, krishi-gorakshya-vanijyam, they should engage themselves in producing foodstuff, foodgrains, krishi, protect cows. Especially gorakshya. As the king is meant for giving protection to the man, similarly, a vaisya is supposed to give protection to the cows, or they keep cows and produce milk products. They are vaisya. And sudra, simply service. So these are the different types of employment of different kinds of social order. And a king, the king has to see that everyone is employed. Not that hundreds of people are unemployed, and government has to give welfare, subsidy. Not like that. The king’s duty is that everyone is independently earning his livelihood. That is king’s duty.

So here the teachers are addressed here brahma-bandho. Brahma-bandho means a person who is born by a brahmana father but is not acting as a brahmana. He’s called brahma-bandho, dvija-bandhu. Dvija-bandhu, one who is born of a, actually born of a brahmana father, but he’s not acting as a brahmana. So Hiranyakasipu addressed the teachers brahma-bandho, not brahmana. “Because you are untrustworthy. I gave you, I entrusted you with my son to be taught, and you have taught him this Krishna consciousness. So against my will…” He says practically, brahma-bandho kim etat te vipaksham srayatasata: “I entrusted my child for being educated by you, and you have instigated him to speak in favor of my enemy, Vishnu? Vishnu is my enemy. How is that?” Asaram grahito balo mam anadritya durmate. “This rascal boy, he does not care for me, and he has learned this Krishna consciousness, and you have taught him. How is that?”

santi hy asadhavo loke
durmaitras chadma-vesinah
tesham udety agham kale
rogah patakinam iva

“So I think these demigods who are followers of Vishnu, they are coming in disguise and poisoning my son by teaching Krishna consciousness, and you did not take care of him. So what is this?” Then the teachers replied,

na mat-pranitam na para-pranitam
suto vadaty esha tavendra-satro
naisargikiyam matir asya rajan
niyaccha manyum kad adah sma ma nah

They said, “My dear King, don’t think we have taught him like this. It is not… I know, it is not our duty to teach him against your will. But his Krishna consciousness is not due to our teaching; neither somebody is coming in disguise and teaching him.” Na mat-pranitam na para-pranitam. “He is neither taught by us, nor by anyone else.” Suto vadaty esha tavendra-satro. Indra-satro. The enemy… The Hiranyakasipu is the enemy of the demigods; therefore he is addressed as Indra-satro. As he addressed the brahmana, brahma-bandho, so they retaliated also, that “You are enemy of the demigods.” Naisargikiyam, “By nature he is doing that. We try to forbid him. We try to stop him chanting Hare Krishna, but still he’s doing.” Matir asya rajan niyaccha manyum kad adah sma ma. “You don’t be angry upon us. We never did it.” So… “He is, by his own nature he chants, he preaches, he’s doing all this.”

gurunaivam pratiprokto
bhuya ahasurah sutam
na ced guru-mukhiyam te
kuto ’bhadrasati matih

Then he again asked his son, “Now I understand that your teacher has not taught you all these things. You rascal, where you have learned all this Krishna consciousness?” (laughter) Abhadra. Kuto abhadrasati matih: “Wherefrom you got this rascal wisdom? Tell me.” So this is the position, you see. Even father becomes enemy. Now, Prahlada Maharaja is replying. Prahlada Maharaja is replying,

matir na krishne paratah svato va
mitho ’bhipadyeta griha-vratanam
adanta-gobhir visatam tamisram
punah punas carvita-carvananam

[SB 7.5.30] “My dear father, don’t be afraid. It is not a thing to be taught.” Matir na krishne. “Nobody can become Krishna conscious,” matir na krishne parato, “being taught by others,” matir na krishne paratah svato va, “or by mental speculation or thinking oneself,” mitho ’bhipadyeta, “or by making conference meeting, religious meeting, conference.” No. Three things. One thing is to learn Krishna consciousness by speculative method, self-realization. Just like so many people are very much interested that “Why shall I go to a guru? I can realize myself. I shall meditate.” So that is called svatah. And paratah means by others’ instruction. And mitho, mitho means by assembly. So who? Now, griha-vratanam. If one is griha-vrata… There are two things: grihastha and griha-vrata, or grihamedhi. “So those who are griha-vrata…” because he is pointing out his father’s position, that he’s griha-vrata. He has no other business. He simply wants to get money, hiranya. Hiranya means gold, and kasipu, a nice apartment. That’s all. So he says that griha-vratanam, “If one makes it his point to remain in a comfortable home life, for him, either by speculation or by teaching or by meeting, he’ll never develop Krishna consciousness.” Griha-vratanam. Then what is their position? Now, adanta-gobhir visatam tamishram: “They are unable to control their senses, and as such, they are entering into the darkest region of material existence.” Punah punas carvita-carvananam: [SB 7.5.30] “Their only business is chewing the chewed.” They have no other ways. Griha-vratanam, those who want to be happy materially, actually they are chewing the chewed. Material happiness means sex life, ultimate, utmost, topmost happiness. So people are simply trying to, how to utilize this sex life in so many ways, in pictures and in… I do not wish to discuss. In dancing, in club, in so many ways. Because they cannot control the senses. The same thing, same thing, the same sex life in different way. Sometimes a naked dance, sometimes in this way, sometimes in that way. Therefore it is called punah punas carvita-carvananam [SB 7.5.30]. I have heard that some people go to Florida and they spend fifty thousand dollars per week for organizing naked dance. So naked woman he has seen so many times, but still he spends more money to see it in a different way. That is called punah punas carvita-carvananam [SB 7.5.30], “chewing the chewed.” So persons who are too much attached to sense gratification, and they have made it their conclusion that “We shall be happy within our family life or this social life…” Vidyapati sings, tatala saikate vari-bindu sama suto-mita-ramani-samaj(?). Our society means… Society, friendship, and love. There must be woman, must be children, suto-mita-ramani-samaje. So there is some pleasure, undoubtedly. Otherwise, why people are working so hard to stick to this position? Vidyapati sings that tatala saikate vari-bindu sama suto-mita-ramani-samaj(?). There is undoubtedly some pleasure, but that pleasure is so insignificant that it can be compared: a drop of water on the desert. Desert, if you want to utilize desert to make it a garden or productive field, you have to pour water. The whole ocean water you have to pour there. Now, if somebody says, “All right, you want water. Now take this one drop water,” then what it will do? Similarly, our heart is hankering after so many things. We are hankering… Actually we are hankering after Krishna, but we do not know. We are trying to satisfy our hankering in so many ways in material life. Actually we are hankering after Krishna. Just like a small child, it is crying. It cannot express, but it is wanting the mother’s breast feeding. So you cannot stop him crying unless it is transferred to the mother. Similarly, actually we love Krishna. That is a fact. Because we love Krishna… Therefore you, who did not hear even the name of Krishna, say, four or five years ago, why you after so much Krishna? This is the proof, that actually we are after Krishna. This Krishna consciousness movement is being accepted in Western countries by the younger generation. Why? Because every one of us, we love Krishna. But it is now covered by maya. We have to simply take out the covering, maya; then we are Krishna conscious.
That is explained in the Caitanya-caritamrita,

nitya-siddha krishna-bhakti ‘sadhya’ kabhu naya
sravanadi-suddha-citte karaye udaya

That Krishna consciousness is not an artificial thing, that we are making some propaganda on Krishna consciousness, publishing some books, magazines, and our preachers are going place to place. No, there are so many propaganda is going on. But they are not so effective. And our, what means we have got to make propaganda? We simply make this propaganda, “Please chant Hare Krishna.” That’s all. Of course, we do sincerely. So if we propagate sincerely and seriously, as Caitanya Mahaprabhu has ordered, yare dekha, tare kaha ‘krishna’ upadesa… [Cc. Madhya 7.128]. We must be sincere. Then, if we canvass, “Please chant Hare Krishna,” it will be effective. It will be effective. The business is not very serious or very difficult. Caitanya Mahaprabhu says, yare dekha, tare kaha ‘krishna’… “Anyone you meet, you simply request him about hearing about Krishna.” So… But if one is so much covered by materialistic enjoyment, it takes little time. It takes little time. Otherwise, automatically there is love for Krishna, and sravanadi-suddha-citte…

Therefore Prahlada Maharaja says, sravanam. If we hear about Krishna constantly, through realized souls, not professional—if we hear, satam prasangan mama virya-samvido [SB 3.25.25]—then automatically, our dormant Krishna consciousness come out. So Prahlada Maharaja says, therefore, that “Those who are determined to become happy within this material world, they cannot be raised to Krishna consciousness either by personal teaching or by making conference or by mental speculation.” That is not possible, because he is determined. So our duty is that we should know that in the materialistic way of life we shall never be happy. This is called knowledge. And vairagya. So this vairagya and knowledge is not so easy. Prahlada Maharaja says, adanta-gobhir visatam tamisram: it is not possible. That means he assures his father, “Don’t be worried. You will never be Krishna conscious. (laughter) Because your only aim is to stick to home and money and women. Therefore rest assured, you’ll not be … It is not that a person like you will be raised to Krishna consciousness.” Then? How you have done? The next question should be: Why they are sticking to this materialistic way of life? That is answered by Prahlada, na te viduh svartha-gatim hi vishnum [SB 7.5.31]. “These persons, those who are so much materially attached, they do not know the ultimate goal of life is Vishnu, the Supreme Personality of Godhead, Vishnu.” That is actually the ultimate goal of life. We are here in this material world, forgetting Krishna, to enjoy, to lord it over the material nature. Everyone is trying to become the lord, master of material… That is struggle. Nobody can become lord or master of this material world. But that struggle to become master, they are taking it happiness. They are taking it happiness. That is the nature of persons who are influenced by the modes of passion. They’ll work hard, and that will, they will take it is very good, pleasing. Because they do not know that the… Na te viduh svartha-gatim hi vishnum durasaya ye bahir-artha-maninah [SB 7.5.31]. They are hoping against hope to become happy within this material world. That is the whole history. Take the history, any history, modern history. There are so many empires: the Roman Empire, the Carthaginian Empire, the Greek Empire, the British Empire recently, Hitler’s Nazism, and so many. For some time they become very powerful. Just like Hiranyakasipu, he’s now very powerful. He’s thinking, “Nobody can…” Now today he’ll be killed. Kesava-dhrita narahari rupa is coming. So this demonic civilization will never be successful. That’s a fact. But they are so fool, they do not see even historical evidences. So many empires failed. The Roman Empire failed, the British Empire failed. Still, somebody is trying to create another empire, another, different empire. Just like your President Nixon, he’s trying to influence all other nations under his control. Why? Of course, I should not speak all these things. There may be criticism. But that is the way, going on. That is the way. We can understand. We can understand politics, economics, everything, but we do not bother about. But our aim is that this way of life, to increase materially happiness, it will never be successful. That is our conclusion. We are not fools that we have given up everything for advance in Krishna consciousness. Because we know that this, this way we shall never be happy. It is not possible. That is explained by Prahlada Maharaja. These rascal people who are so much materially attached… Krishna also says in the Bhagavad-gita,
bhogaisvarya-prasaktanam
tayapahrita-cetasam
vyavasayatmika buddhih
samadhau na nigacchati

[Bg. 2.44] Those who are too much attached, bhoga, material enjoyment, aisvarya, material opulence … Bhogaisvarya-prasaktanam tayapahrita-cetasam. Persons whose heart has been misled by this kind of civilization, they cannot take to Krishna consciousness. Therefore to become too much materially opulent is a disqualification for attaining Krishna consciousness. It is a disqualification. Because they don’t care. Just like in our temple, not very rich men, they are coming, because they (say,) “What is this nonsense, Krishna consciousness? We have got everything. These boys, they haven’t got to eat anything; therefore they are chanting Hare Krishna on the street. That’s all.” They think like that. “They’re needy. All right, they are needy. Give them some money.” That’s all. They don’t like to take anything from us because the same business, matir na krishne paratah svato va. They’ll never understand, because their aim is grha-vratanam. They want to be happy… Although they are seeing there is no happiness, they never can be happy, still… This is called punah punas carvita-carvananam [SB 7.5.30], chewing the chewed. One, the sugarcane, is chewed by somebody. It is thrown away. And if somebody else comes and chew it again, what juice he will have it? So punah punas carvita… Na te viduh svartha-gatim hi vishnum [SB 7.5.31]. Durasaya ye durasaya vishaya vasi (reads Sanskrit commentary) tantraya karanam te hi vishnum na viduh. Tatra hetu svasminn eva arthe purushartha yesham tesham gatim gramyam. Na tu te ’pi guru pati syat vishnu jnasyasi tatra bhak bahir vishaye bahavo yesham te bahir arthas tann eva guru tena mantra silam yesham te.

So one who is fixed up in this conclusion, that “We shall become happy with this materialistic way of life,” they cannot take to Krishna consciousness. And they do not know also that our ultimate goal of life is Krishna, Vishnu. Then why it is so? Now, andha yathandhair upaniyamanas te ’pisa-tantryam uru-damni baddhah. They have become blind. They are blind themselves, and they are also led by blind leaders. The leaders, at the present moment, leaders, they say that “Why you are going to church? Why you are going to temple? If you want your bread…” Just like in Christian religion you go to church, “O God, give us our daily bread.” But the atheist class, they are propagating, “For bread, why you are going to church? You make industry, you make business, and you get bread.” But actually… We were just talking that there are so many unemployment. Our Karandhara prabhu was… No. Who was talking? Syamasundara. Syamasundara said that the computer… What is called, computer? It can do thousands of men’s business. So they have discovered this machine. That means thousands of men will be unemployed. That is actually happening in your country due to so many machines. Now, take for example, formerly… You have seen the picture, Krishna, Vrindavana picture, Krishna’s father transferring Krishna. They were going on bullock carts, no motorcar. You have seen the picture. So formerly, transport was bullock carts. The cows and the bulls, the bulls were employed for agricultural purpose, for drawing the carts. So there was no necessity of motorcar. Now you have got motor, motor-tractor. You don’t want the bullocks. Therefore kill them. How you can utilize them? Therefore you must have slaughterhouse to kill them. And as soon as you kill them, then you have to eat them. So this is the, I mean to say, entanglement. If you kill, then you become responsible for being killed. The subtle laws…

Therefore, without knowing our ultimate goal of life is Vishnu, na te viduh svartha-gatim hi vishnum… [SB 7.5.31]. That is our interest. The human form of life is offered by nature after so much evolutionary process. Just to understand Vishnu, God, this is the only business. But instead of attending our real business, we are trying to be happy in other ways. Then you can say that “If we are engaged in real business, then how the economic question will be solved? We have to work.” That’s all right, you work. But work simple. Why you have invented so much botheration? Work is there. If you have cows and if you have got land, then you till the land, get grains, and there is milk, there is fruit, there is flower. Anywhere, you can live peacefully. Whole economic question is solved. And because we have forgotten, we have missed the real point, that our life is meant for God-realization. We are simply increasing botheration. Punah punas carvita. Adanta-gobhir vishatam tamisram. Andha yathandhair upaniyamanah. The leaders are blind; we are also blind. So they are advising that “If you want to solve your economic problem, why you are going to church? Why you are going to temple? Come here, increase business, industry. Take loan and start business.” That’s all. This is going on. But actually, the more we are trying to mislead this people… Because they are thinking it is all right. They are… That the social condition is becoming more and more grave. That’s a fact. We are trying to solve one problem, but many other problems are coming because we do not know what is the ultimate goal of life. Because we are missing the real point.

Therefore Prahlada Maharaja said, na te viduh svartha-gatim hi vishnum durasaya ye bahir-artha-maninah [SB 7.5.31]. These rascals, they are thinking that by so-called economic development, by exploiting material resources, we shall be happy. That is not possible. The best example your country has given. You have exploited the material resources, and other countries are also following, but where is the happiness? Instead of happiness, there is “hippyness.” (laughter) So still, they have no eyes to see that “Where we are going?” Adanta-gobhir visatam tamisram punah punas carvita-carvananam [SB 7.5.30]. Because we cannot control our senses, we are driving, we are being pushed towards the darkest region of material existence, very hard to leave. Darkest region means that we are going to become animals next life. Because this is animalistic civilization. Nature gave us the opportunity to realize God, but God-realization is meant for human being. The human being, if he does not realize God, he’s simply engaged in animalistic way of life—eating, sleeping, mating—then nature will call, “All right, sir, again become animal.” Punar mushiko bhava: “Again become a mouse.” You know this story? Punar mushiko bhava. There is a story. There is a very nice story. One rat, mouse, he came to a saintly person. Everyone comes to saintly person for some blessing, you see. Real blessing they don’t want. Some material blessing. Real blessing, Krishna, they don’t want. If you give him some blessing that “You become very rich man and…” These are all very well, this. So this mouse also came and begged the saintly person, “Sir, I am in difficulty. If you give me some blessing?”
“What is that?”
“The cat chases after me always. I’m very unhappy.”
“So what do you want?”
“Now, if you make me a cat, then I can get relief from this thing.”
“All right, you become cat.” So he became cat.
So after few days, again he comes. “Sir, again I am in trouble.”
“What is that?”
“The dog is chasing me.” (laughter) Don’t laugh, hear seriously. “Dog is chasing me.”
“All right, then, what do you want?”
“Now, make me a tiger.”
“All right, you become a tiger.”
So when he became a tiger he was staring on the saintly person like this.
So he asked, “Why you are staring upon me? You want to eat me?”
“Yes.”
So he again curses, punar mushiko bhava: “Again you become mouse. Again you become mouse.”

So that is our position. We are advanced in civilization. Now we want to kill God. So we are again going to be uncivilized, to remain in the forest and to remain naked. Actually, they are practicing that: nature’s way. So again they are going to be aborigines. And that is being practiced. They are going to the forest, they remain naked. So actually, punar mushiko bhava: “Again become mouse.” Civilized human being means God conscious, happy life, no trouble, no enviousness, everything happy, no hard labor. Why hard labor? Everything is there. You just employ your little intelligence, you get sufficient food by grains, by fruits, by flowers, milk. There is no difficulty if we remain in our own way. So that is the difficulty, that we do not know that our ultimate goal of life is God-realization. Then God has got all arrangement. You cannot produce fruits and grains in factory. They are given by God. Why? That “You eat them and be Krishna conscious, chant Hare Krishna.” But we don’t want that. We want slaughterhouse, unnecessarily. Actually, if you go to the store… There are so many stores. How many stores are selling only meat? It is not possible. Ninety-nine percent fruits, vegetables, grains you are taking, and maybe a little percentage of meat. So why you cannot give up this little percentage? If you think that meat is very palatable, why don’t you live on meat? Russia is also trying like that. That has become the fashion. In Moscow, it was very difficult to find out nice grains. With great difficulty Syamasundara used to spend two hours daily to secure these things.

So this is the problem. Na te viduh svartha-gatim hi vishnum durashsaya ye bahir-artha maninah [SB 7.5.31]. They are trying to be happy by the arrangement of these material activities. Andha yathandhair upaniyamanas te ’pisa-tantryam. They do not know that the material nature is so strong that you cannot get out of it unless you are prepared to suffer more and more. If you take to natural life and live peacefully and take to Krishna consciousness, that is your real life. And if you simply increase botheration and problems, then you’ll have to suffer. That is the position of modern civilization. Actually, superficially we see that material advancement of material science, people have got so many machines, so many facilities. But actually, they are in trouble. Just like I gave you one example: the computer machine. It can work for thousands of men. So thousands of men means the thousands of men must be unemployed. And especially in your country, they are taking advantage of this machine because the salary is If you want to pay to the worker, a big, big salary. So they want to save. They are taking machine, and they think they will save money, so many workers. But the workers are becoming unemployed. The government has to give them welfare. The government will tax. That’s all. (laughter.) Government will not give money, welfare, from government’s pocket. The government will increase your taxation. So you are…, you stop payment by importing some machine, now you have to pay that money to the government. This is called entanglement. This is a crude example. I don’t say that you stop all this business, but the material world is like that. You want to solve something; instead of solving, you’ll create so many problems. This is material life. Because our life is not meant for solving problems and creating problems. Our life is meant for understanding God. Then everything is all right. But that you have given up.

na te viduh svartha-gatim hi vishnum
durasaya ye bahir-artha-maninah
andha yathandhair upaniyamanas
te ’pisa-tantryam uru-damni baddhah

[SB 7.5.31] They do not know that you cannot go an inch beyond the stringent laws of material nature. That is not possible.
Then the next question is that how… People are not interested in Krishna consciousness, and then, they are misled by blind leaders. So how, what is the solution? That is Prahlada Maharaja saying,

naisham matis tavad urukramanghrim
sprisaty anarthapagamo yad-arthah
mahiyasam pada-rajo-’bhishekam
nishkincananam na vrinita yavat

Therefore one has to take shelter of a pure devotee. That is the only solution. He says, naisham matis tavad urukramangrhim. The beginning was that “They are not interested in Krishna consciousness.” Then how to become Krishna conscious if that is the solution? Then Prahlada Maharaja says, naisham matis tavad: “So long one does not approach a pure devotee,” mahiyasam nishkincananam, “great personalities, who has no more any material interest,” nishkincana, “and takes the dust of his lotus feet on the head…” Naisham matis tavad urukramanghrim: “So long one does not approach such personality, there is no possibility of becoming Krishna conscious.” Naisham matis tavad urukramanghrim. As soon as one approaches the pure devotee and takes the dust of his lotus feet and puts it on his head, immediately, anartha apagamah, he’ll be freed from all this nonsense. That means he’ll forget this idea that “Materially we can advance.” This is the process. So we have to approach a nishkincana, who has nothing to do with this material world. His only ambition is to serve more Krishna. And if somebody approaches him and takes the dust of his lotus feet, then he can understand. Mahiyasam pada-rajo-’bhishekam nishkincananam na vrinita yavat. (aside:) Our time is over? All right.

So in this way Prahlada Maharaja talked with his father, and the father became more angry. Instead of taking the lesson … Murkhaya upadesa hi prakopaya na santaye. If you teach lesson to a foolish person, he’ll be simply angry. He’ll not take your lesson. How it is so? Payah-panam bhujanganam kevalam visha-vardhanam. If you keep a snake and if you want to make friendly behavior with him, that, “My dear snake, don’t bite any more. I’ll give you milk and banana. You eat here and stay here nicely,” he’ll not… His poison will increase, and one day he will… There is a story in the Hitopadesa: one day, one… The same thing. So payah-panam bhujanganam kevalam visha-vardhanam. So these are lessons, stories. So his father, Hiranyakasipu, became more and more angry. So one day… Because after all, son and father… The son was simple boy. So one day he said, “Prahlada, I shall now kill you. I shall see how your Krishna saves you.” So immediately, Prahlada was seeing to the pillars of the hall. He was king. So Hiranyakasipu asked him, “Is your God, Krishna, in the pillar?” He said, “Yes, sir. Yes, my father, He is there.” So immediately, with anger he broke the pillar and Nrisimhadeva came out.
Now we can honor Him. (end)

(Srila A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada. Srimad-Bhagavatam 7.5.22-34. Los Angeles, May 27, 1972. )

Srila Rupa Goswami mentions some of the benefits of worshipping a Nrsimha shalagram sila in his book, Padyavali:
“A tulasi leaf offered to the lotus feet of the Nrsimha shalagram sila destroys the sin of murder. Water that has washed the lotus feet of the Nrsimha shalagram sila destroys the sin of theft. Foodstuff offered to the Nrsimha shalagram sila destroys the sin of drinking liquor. Sincere surrender to the Nrsimha shalagram sila destroys the sin of adultery with the wife of the spiritual master. Association with the devotees of the Nrsimha shalagram sila destroys the sin of offenses to the devotees. This is the extraordinary glory of the Nrsimha shalagram sila.”

[ Srila Rupa Goswami: Padyavali, Verse 116]

AGNIDEVA PRABHU. KIRTAN GOING ON NOW VIA ZOOM.
This 3min video was recorded at 2pm NZ time. 100 devotees are participating in the zoom call.
Today, HG Agnideva prabhu, the legendary kirtaneer, departed this world to return to the lotus feet of Srila Prabhupada, to continue his service eternally.
He will be missed by thousands of devotees.

Video: click here

Source: https://www.dandavats.com/?p=117919

We are saddened to announce the passing of His Grace Agnideva Dasa on April 28th at 8:34 PM MDT in Salt Lake City, Utah, following a severe stroke he suffered on Sunday after Caru Das’s memorial service in Spanish Fork.

According to a post by Anuradha Dasi, “He was surrounded by a room full of devotees, with 99 devotees joined on Zoom—godbrothers, godsisters, senior devotees, and well-wishers. Kirtan continued throughout, creating a deeply peaceful and sacred atmosphere. The nurses and doctors present were visibly moved, standing in quiet amazement at the beauty of the moment.”

Agnidev was a senior disciple of His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Srila Prabhupada, receiving initiation in 1974. He was a renowned kirtaniya, preacher, and recording artist whose devotional music inspired devotees worldwide for decades.

A small local ceremony and cremation are planned for tomorrow morning in Salt Lake City. We will share confirmed timing and any additional details as they become available.

We are also gathering a fuller biography and appreciations, which will be shared on ISKCONNews.org.

Agnideva (far right) reaching out to Srila Prabhupada, who is distributing prasadam.

Source: https://iskconnews.org/his-grace-agnideva-dasa-departs-in-utah-following-a-stroke/

By Mahatma Priya Das

Dear devotees,
With a heavy heart, we share that at 8:34 PM Mountain Time this evening, at the hospital in Salt Lake City, we said goodbye to our beloved Agnidev Prabhu.
He was surrounded by a room full of devotees, with 99 devotees joined on Zoom—godbrothers, godsisters, senior devotees, and well-wishers. Kirtan continued throughout, creating a deeply peaceful and sacred atmosphere. The nurses and doctors present were visibly moved, standing in quiet amazement at the beauty of the moment. We sincerely apologize to those who experienced the technical difficulties during the call. In a way, we couldn’t help but smile, remembering how Agnidev would often joke about not being a “tech person.” Still, we are deeply grateful to all of you who stayed with us and remained present in spirit. The cremation is planned for tomorrow in Salt Lake City, Utah. between approximately 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM. It will be a small, local ceremony. We will share confirmed timing and any additional details as soon as they are available.
Thank you for your prayers, your presence, and your love.
Hare Krishna.

Source: https://www.dandavats.com/?p=117914

The Saint in the Streets: Honoring the Disappearance of Sri Jayananda Prabhu

The global ISKCON community pauses to honor the disappearance day of one of its most beloved pioneers: Sri Jayananda Prabhu.

While many of the great acharyas we celebrate appeared centuries ago in the sacred land of India, Jayananda Prabhu’s story took place in the modern West. Yet, his pure devotion, unmatched humility, and absolute surrender to his spiritual master, His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, earned him the eternal title of a true Vaishnava saint.

Srila Prabhupada himself proudly declared, “Everyone should follow the example of Jayananda. I am very proud that I had such a nice disciple.”

The “All-American Boy” Finds His Calling

Born as Jim Kohr, Jayananda was the picture of the “all-American boy.” He was handsome, strong, and highly educated, holding a degree in mechanical engineering from Ohio State University. Yet, despite his bright material prospects, he felt a deep, empty space in his heart that a standard career could not fill. He ended up driving a taxi in San Francisco, searching for a deeper meaning to life.

In 1967, his search ended when he read a small ad in a local newspaper about a swami from India holding kirtans in a storefront. That swami was Srila Prabhupada. Jayananda attended, and from the moment he saw Prabhupada and heard the Holy Names, his heart was captured. He became one of the very first disciples to join the pioneer San Francisco temple.

The Embodiment of Humility and Hard Work

Jayananda Prabhu did not seek high positions, honor, or praise. He found his absolute joy in the background, executing the most physically demanding and humble services.

He was famously known as the driving force behind the very first Ratha Yatra festivals in the West. Jayananda would spend months in a warehouse, working tirelessly to construct the massive wooden carts for Lord Jagannatha. He would source the wood, weld the metal, and stay up all night making sure everything was perfect for the Lord’s pleasure.

But his service didn’t stop there. He was expert at everything:

He would wake up before everyone else to clean the kitchen and wash dishes.

He would drive his old taxi to earn money to support the temple.

He would personally go out to the flower markets at dawn to beg for leftovers to decorate the temple.

He had no false ego. Whether he was talking to a wealthy donor or a homeless person on the streets of San Francisco, Jayananda treated everyone with genuine, loving respect. Because he was so completely free of pride, people were naturally magnetized to him and, consequently, to Krishna.

A Glorious Departure

In the late 1970s, Jayananda was diagnosed with terminal leukemia. Even as his physical body grew weak and painful, his consciousness remained toweringly strong and completely fixed on Krishna. He spent his final months actively planning the New York Ratha Yatra festival from his hospital bed.

When Jayananda Prabhu left his body on May 1, 1977, Srila Prabhupada was deeply moved. He instructed that Jayananda’s disappearance day should be celebrated every year just like that of any great ancient Vaishnava acharya. Prabhupada confirmed that because of his pure, selfless service, Jayananda had directly returned to the spiritual world to be with Krishna.

Carrying on the Legacy of Jayananda Prabhu

Jayananda Prabhu proved to the modern world that pure Bhakti is not about where you are born or how much scripture you can memorize—it is about the sincerity of your desire to serve.

As we remember him today, let us pray for a fraction of his mood:

Seek Humble Service: Look for the services that no one else wants to do, and execute them with love.

Chant Sincerely: Let us increase the quality of our rounds today, remembering the intense love Jayananda had for the Maha-mantra.

Sri Jayananda Prabhu ki jai!

Source: https://www.dandavats.com/?p=117917

On May 1, 1977, the day before the festival honoring the appearance of Lord Nrisimha, Srila Prabhupada’s dear disciple Jayananda Dasa passed from this world. 

Shortly thereafter, Srila Prabhupada wrote in a letter, “Jayananda’s death is glorious. . . . He has left his body very wonderfully, and he has been transferred to Vaikuntha. . . . Everyone should follow the example of Jayananda. I am very proud that I had such a nice disciple. If possible Jayananda’s picture should be hung in the ratha [festival chariot] of Lord Jagannatha, and in all of our temples a day may be set aside for holding a festival in his honor, just as we do on the disappearance day of the other great Vaisnavas.”

Jayananda Prabhu was one of Prabhupada’s first disciples in San Francisco, the site of ISKCON’s second temple. During his years of dedicated service to Srila Prabhupada, he inspired many, many people, devotees and non-devotees alike.

Jayananda was the all-American boy. Handsome, strong, intelligent, born in a more than middle-class family, Jayananda (Jim Kohr) took a degree in mechanical engineering from Ohio State University. With a background like that, it is surprising that Jayananda ended up as a cab driver in San Francisco. Karandhara once asked him why he didn’t get a better-paying job. “I didn’t fit in with the upper class crowd,” he said.

Always introspective in nature, Jayananda felt empty and unsatisfied within himself during his college years. He would often say that he was “never happy” before joining Krishna consciousness. His depression was almost suicidal when, in 1967, he read a small article in a San Francisco paper, about an Indian Swami who had come to the Bay Area to propagate the chanting of the names of God. Jayananda recalled feeling a “ray of hope” when he read that article. Thinking the Swami may have something to offer, Jayananda made up his mind to attend the Swami’s lectures. 

Srila Prabhupada’s early lectures in the Bay Area were mostly attended by hippies, and Jayananda was one of the only “straight” people there. Jayananda later recalled that, “I wasn’t much of a religionist, but I was attracted to Srila Prabhupada.” He was especially fond of attending the early morning lectures because at that hour, most of the hippies would be in bed. On some occasions Jayananda would be the only guest listening to Srila Prabhupada speak from the Bhagavatam.

Srila Prabhupada was always fond of Jayananda, and sometimes he would invite his budding disciple to take prasad with him in his room. “Srila Prabhupada would cook prasad and serve me,” Jayananda recalled. “He didn’t say anything – he just kept feeding me, and I kept eating.” Jayananda soon donated his life savings of $5,000 to Srila Prabhupada to help His Divine Grace print the Bhagavad-Gita As It Is. As more and more devotees joined ISKCON in the Bay Area, Jayananda continued to work as a cab driver and supported the Temple by contributing all of his earnings.

Jayananda knew how to attract people to Krishna consciousness with the prasadam weapon. When a new devotee came, for example, Jayananda would see to it that he was sumptuously fed with prasadam. When Jambavan Das was just becoming a devotee, Jayananda would bring him a plate of prasadam so big that he thought he could never eat it all. When he finally did finish the plate, Jayananda immediately put an identical plate down before him. “I can’t eat that,” said Jambavan. “Srila Prabhupada said that we should eat ’til we waddle like a duck,” said Jayananda. Jambavan would finish the second plate.

Another example of his attachment to Krishna consciousness is Jayananda’s love for kirtan (chanting). Jayananda was always eager to take the whole Temple out on hari-nama chanting parties. He had a special attraction for chanting in the streets. Whether kirtan was held in the temple or in the street, Jayananda could always be seen dancing and chanting enthusiastically.

Of all the processes of Krishna consciousness, Jayananda was most attached to preaching. Whether it was during the Sunday feast, while making incense runs, or while building Ratha-yatra carts, Jayananda was always trying to find some person with whom he could share his ecstasy in Krishna consciousness. His preaching was very simple and easy to listen to. “We just have to keep chanting and have faith in the Name.” “We just have to chant and take prasadam. Srila Prabhupada is so kind to give us such a simple process.”

Humility was certainly Jayananda’s most prominent quality. He treated everyone as his superior, even new devotees. He avoided praise like the plague. Devotees got to know that if they wanted to be around him, they’d better not praise Jayananda. Otherwise he would simply leave. He was very special, and yet no one paid any special attention to him. That was just the way he liked things.

Jayananda would use his personal charm with people to get them to give everything free or at a discount for Krishna. Without spending huge sums of money, he would personally collect nearly all the bhoga, flowers, lumber, paint, and everything else needed to put on Ratha-yatra each year.

Although he was a senior devotee and could have had anything he wanted, he always dressed in old dhotis and work clothes which he’d buy for one dollar per set at the Salvation Army thrift store.

Jayananda’s final meeting with Srila Prabhupada took place in New York City at the 1976 Ratha-yatra. When Prabhupada arrived at the airport, Jayananda drove the car to pick him up. Prabhupada was sitting in the back seat and he asked, “Who is driving?”

The devotees said, “This is Jayananda.” “Oh, I know Jayananda,” said Prabhupada. “He gave me $5,000 to print my Bhagavad-Gita.”

The ultimate expression of Jayananda’s fearlessness came at the end of his life when he was diagnosed with leukemia and cancer of the lymph glands. Even in his last few months in L.A. temple, Jayananda never succumbed to fear or self-pity.

The festival managers will readily admit that, without Jayananda’s presence, the first Ratha-yatra festival in L.A. would not have taken place in 1977. Thus he proved that by engaging in devotional service, one transcends even the fear of death.

Source: https://www.ramaiswami.com/

“My Dear Jayananda,

Please accept my blessings.

I am feeling very intensely your separation. In 1967 you joined me in San Francisco. You were driving my car and chanting Hare Krsna. You were the first man to give me some contribution ($5000) for printing my Bhagavad-gita. After that, you have rendered very favorable service to Krsna in different ways. I so hope at the time of your death you were remembering Krsna and as such, you have been promoted to the eternal association of Krsna…as you were hearing Krsna-kirtana, I am sure that you were directly promoted to Krsna-loka.

janma karma ca me divyam evam yo vetti tattvatah

tyaktva deham punar janmanaiti man eti so’ rjuna

(BG 4.9)

Krsna has done a great favor to you, not to continue your diseased body, and has given you a suitable place for your service. Thank you very much.

Your ever well-wisher,

A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami

Breaking the Bonds of False Fatherhood’”

– Letter to: Jayananda, Bombay, 5 May, 1977

Sriman Jayananda Thakura left his body in full glory during the auspicious time of brahma-muhurta on May 1, 1977, listening to a tape of his beloved spiritual master chanting in his ear, and with a maha garland from Lord Jagannatha cradling his neck and resting on his chest. Srila Prabhupada remarked that “Jayananda’s death is glorious,” and instructed all the devotees from all over the world to commemorate the auspicious disappearance day of Jayananda Thakura as we do for the other great Vaishnava saints in our Gaudiya Vaishnava sampradaya. He also instructed that Jayananda Thakura’s picture be placed in the Ratha-yatra cart of Lord Jagannatha, and to this day, a picture of this Vaishnava saint is always seen on Lord Jagannatha’s cart.

Jayananda Thakura, formerly known as Jim Kohr, was born in a good, upper middle-class family and was a strong, handsome and intelligent man. Even though he got a degree in mechanical engineering from Ohio State University, he surprisingly ended up being a cab driver in San Francisco, and when asked why he didn’t get a better-paying job, he’d say that he “didn’t fit in with the upper class crowd.”

Jayananda Thakura was always introspective and compassionate by nature. His sister Gaynelle Kohr Pietrangelo recalls the one time when they went on a family holiday to the beach in California, Jim (Jayananda Thakura) spent hours on the beach picking ticks and fleas off a homeless dog because he simply “couldn’t stand to watch its suffering.”

During his college years, Jayananda always felt unsatisfied within himself. He felt empty and dejected to the point that his depression became almost suicidal. He later frequently stated that he was “never happy” before joining Krishna consciousness. In 1967, when Srila Prabhupada was in the Bay Area, Jayananda Thakur came across an article in the San Francisco paper about an Indian Swami who had come to the Bay Area to preach and spread the chanting of the names of God. This gave young Jim the feeling of a “ray of hope”, as he recalled it, and he decided to attend the Swami’s classes. He very much preferred and enjoyed the early morning classes with the Swami, and would sometimes be the only person there in the morning Bhagavatam class.

It was quite apparent how fond Srila Prabhupada was of Jayananda Thakura. Srila Prabhupada made a comment once during an initiation lecture in San Francisco in 1968. Chuckling, he said “Jayananda looks like Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu…Yes. He was tall and stout and strong, Caitanya Mahaprabhu.”He would constantly ask for Jayananda Thakura when he came to the temple, and sometimes even make repeated requests for his disciple. When finally located in some distant place, engaged in service, Jayananda Thakura would refuse to go, saying “No. I can’t go to see him. I’m too dirty. I’m too fallen.” Srila Prabhupada would sometimes invite his budding disciple to take prasadam with him in his room. Jayananda Thakura recalled, “Srila Prabhupada would cook prasadam and serve me. He didn’t say anything – he just kept feeding me, and I kept eating.”

Jayananda Thakura’s humility was true and genuine – everyone who associated with him knew that it was his most prominent quality. He’d stay back after festivals to do work so others could go see Srila Prabhupada. He would let others lead kirtan, do arati and give class, and would do menial work like cleaning toilets, taking out garbage, washing dishes or fixing cars and sankirtana buses instead because he felt himself unworthy. Once a new boy came to the temple to help out and he was directed to Jayananda Thakura, who was taking out the garbage. He told the boy, “I’m the garbage man around here. For years I’ve been watching garbage men carry out trash, and now Krishna is giving me a chance to do this for Him.” The boy helped Jayananda Thakura collect the garbage and take it to the garbage dump, and he later became a devotee. He recalled thinking, “If the garbage men at this temple can be so blissful, just imagine what the rest of the devotees are like!“

Jayananda Thakura was always very conscious of Krishna being present in everything. Whenever a little prasadam would fall on the ground, Jayananda Thakura would bend down on all fours and lick it up – to him, prasadam was worshipable. He was well known for always being very enthusiastic to cook, offer and distribute prasadam on a grand scale. Whether he was out buying bhoga, or arranging park permits, or going out on Harinama, or working on the Ratha-yatra carts, he would always carry some prasadam with him and distribute it to everyone. He even said “prasadam” in a special way that would make whoever he was speaking to want to immediately take it.

Jayananda Thakura’s glories are endless, and it was obvious that he not only understood the philosophy but realised it as well. Srila Prabhupada wrote a letter to Jayananda Thakura in September of 1967 saying, “Your service attitude for Krishna and your sincere attempts at being advanced in Krishna Consciousness will work with you and make your life more and more glorious and a happy state. I’ve been very glad that you are appreciating by yourself the effects of sincere Krishna Consciousness. I’ve nothing new to instruct you, the same old instruction namely constant chanting and attentively hearing the transcendental vibration Hare Krishna is the only process for self realization in this age. In San Francisco while you were driving your car and I was sitting by you hearing your transcendental vibration, this very sincere attempt has enriched your consciousness and my only instruction is that you may constantly do this habit without fail.”

In 2012, a memorial for Jayananda Thakura was established in Sri Rajapur Jagannatha Mandir in Sri Mayapur Dhama, where he is honored by all who visit. His Grace Prahlada Priya Prabhu (ACBSP) donated Jayananda Thakura’s jacket and it is kept in Jayananda Thakura’s samadhi.

Sriman Jayananda Thakura was, as many devotees say, ISKCON’s first saint. He exemplified the qualities described in the Bhagavad-gita:

“For one who worships Me, giving up all his activities unto Me and being devoted to Me without deviation, engaged in devotional service and always meditating upon Me, who has fixed his mind upon Me, O son of Pritha, for him I am the swift deliverer from the ocean of birth and death.”
(Bhagavad-Gita 12.6-7)

“One who is not envious but who is a kind friend to all living entities, who does not think himself a proprietor, who is free from false ego and equal both in happiness and distress, who is always satisfied and engaged in devotional service with determination and whose mind and intelligence are in agreement with Me –he is very dear to Me.”
(Bhagavad-Gita 12.13-14)

All glories to Srila Jayananda Thakura!

Source: http://www.dandavats.com/?p=61612

In this lecture, Guru Prasad Swami Maharaj explains the famous verse from Chapter 8 of the Bhagavad-gita: “Whatever state of being one remembers at the time of death, that state one attains in the next life.” He teaches that a person’s consciousness at death determines the next destination. If one remembers Krishna at the final moment, one can attain a divine spiritual state. If the mind is absorbed in material thoughts, one remains bound to material existence.

He gives the example of Maharaja Bharata, who became attached to a deer and remembered it at death. As a result, he took birth as a deer in the next life. This shows that the thoughts cultivated throughout life naturally arise at death. Therefore, one must practice Krishna consciousness daily rather than hoping to remember God only at the final moment.

Maharaj describes death as the “final examination” of life. Just as students study and are tested at the end of a course, spiritual practice is tested at death. The body is temporary and constantly declining, but the soul is eternal. Real intelligence means preparing for the soul’s future, not living only for bodily maintenance.

He addresses the common excuse that family duties, business, and responsibilities leave no time for spiritual life. To answer this, he gives the example of Bhaktivinoda Thakur, who managed family life, government service, extensive writing, and deep devotional practice. This proves that spiritual life is possible when one has sincerity and discipline.

Finally, he explains how to remember Krishna constantly. By understanding that everything belongs to Krishna, one can see the world as His energy. Just as seeing a national flag reminds one of the government, seeing creation should remind one of the Creator. In this way, daily life becomes connected with remembrance of Krishna, leading to success at life’s final moment.

Source: https://www.dandavats.com/?p=117912

In this talk, HG Amogh Lila Prabhu explains that the real strength of any company, organization, or family is not money, technology, or buildings, but people. Human beings should not be treated merely as “resources,” but with dignity, care, and respect. He says people usually do not leave organizations—they leave bad bosses or unhealthy relationships. Therefore, managing relationships is essential.

He explains that IQ (Intelligence Quotient) alone is not enough for success, because intelligent people can also misuse their intelligence. EQ (Emotional Quotient) alone is also incomplete, because overly emotional people may lose focus and balance. Therefore, SQ (Spiritual Quotient) is necessary, as it helps manage both IQ and EQ. Spirituality gives a person steadiness, compassion, and proper judgment.

Prabhuji also warns that many people sacrifice relationships in pursuit of career success and wealth, but later end up lonely. A large house, money, and status mean little if there is no family warmth, love, or companionship. He quotes the idea that some people are so poor that all they have is money.

Using simple examples, he says grapes sold in bunches are more valuable than scattered grapes. Likewise, united people have greater strength and value. The sticks of a broom clean only when tied together; separately they become useless. Unity creates power.

He further explains that all kinds of people are needed in life. Some people encourage us, some add joy, and some criticize us. Praise gives inspiration, but criticism gives improvement. Both are valuable.

Finally, he says relationships do not die naturally—they are murdered by ego. The mentality of “Why should I bend?” destroys families, friendships, and teams. Humility, willingness to adjust, and letting go of ego are the real keys to maintaining healthy and lasting relationships.

Source: https://www.dandavats.com/?p=117909

Agnidev Das, a senior disciple of Srila Prabhupada, was admitted to the hospital overnight after suffering a severe brain stroke. He is currently unresponsive and has no movement in his arms or legs.
Doctors have indicated that no further medical interventions are available, and are focused on keeping him comfortable.
Devotees are requested to please offer prayers for Agnidev Das and to share this message with others.
Devotees are also requested not to call his wife, Krishna Presthaya Devi Dasi, as she is managing a great deal at the hospital.

Source: https://www.dandavats.com/?p=117904

By Kulavati Krishnapriya Devi Dasi, 

Some journeys begin with certainty while others begin with questions that refuse to be silenced—and for Ujjvala Radhe Devi Dasi, known professionally as Dr. Uma Pallavi Pothu, it was the latter. 

What began as a sincere search for answers has blossomed into a life of extraordinary purpose, where intellect, faith, and service meet with compelling strength. Today, as a psychologist, author, Bhakti Shastri teacher, and counselor at ISKCON Hyderabad, she has spent over two decades carrying the timeless wisdom of the Vedic tradition, thereby transforming inquiry into illumination for countless others.

Read more: https://iskconnews.org/a-vaishnavis-journey-from-questions-to-service-and-spiritual-leadership/

Hare Krishna Dear Devotees & Well-wishers,
Please accept our humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada!

As we continue through the sacred days of Narasimha Navaratri, the anticipation is building with just **2 days remaining** before the divine appearance of **Sri Narasimhadeva**, the protector of the universe.
Yesterday, April 27th, was truly unforgettable…
The beginning of the Sri Lakshmi Narasimhadeva Parikrama was simply magical as the Lord rode on His Simha Vahana.

As the Lord came out to give His merciful darshan, devotees eagerly gathered to receive His blessings. The path was decorated with vibrant rangolis. The Lord made several stops along the way, gracefully parading across the campus, accepting offerings and arati from devotees—just as is the cherished tradition here in Mayapur, and the sound of kirtan created a deeply spiritual and uplifting mood.
It truly felt like a moment of grace, simple, powerful, and unforgettable.

Sri Lakshmi Narasimhadeva Shobha Yatra (April 27–29)
For three auspicious days, Sri Sri Lakshmi Narasimhadeva continues to bless all devotees through His **grand procession (Shobha Yatra)**, riding on three divine vahanas:

Gaja Vahana – Elephant carrier
Garuda Vahana – Garuda carrier
Simha Vahana – Lion carrier
Each day offers a unique darshan and a chance to connect more deeply with the Lord.

April 28 (Dvadasi): Maha Sudarshana & Narasimha Yajna
On this sacred Dvadasi, the powerful **Maha Sudarshana Yajna** along with the **Narasimha Yajna** will be performed.
These yajnas are performed for:

Protection from obstacles and negativity
Spiritual purification and strength
Invoking divine blessings for all

We warmly invite you to take darshan and be part of this sacred offering.

April 29–30: Narahari Nama Kirtan
Continuing the celebrations, we will have **non-stop Narahari Nama Kirtan**:
10:00 AM – 10:00 PM (both days)

Let us come together and immerse ourselves in the holy names, creating a space of devotion and joy.

A Loving Invitation to Serve
These sacred festivals are carried out through the devotion and support of the Vaishnava community.
If you feel inspired, you can offer your seva by contributing towards:

Yajna arrangements
Bhoga offerings
Decorations and festival seva
Supporting kirtan and devotee services

Every offering becomes a direct service to Sri Narasimhadeva.

Donate Now: https://www.mayapur.com/festivals/Narasimha-Caturdasi

As we approach this divine appearance day, let us take shelter with sincerity and faith.
May Sri Narasimhadeva protect and guide us always.

With prayers and gratitude,
Gopijanavallabha Das
Haribol

Source: https://www.mayapur.com/en/blog/just-2-days-to-go-welcoming-sri-narasimhadeva