“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

Today is Rukmini-dvadasi, the appearance day of Srimati Rukmini-devi. There have been wonderful festivities all day, beginning with the special darshan of the Deities in Their flower outfits, and just now a wonderful abhiseka. During the abhiseka I really felt like I was in Vrindavan. There was so much devotion, spontaneous devotion—every time the pujaris poured another substance on the Deities, there would be gasps and cries of ecstasy and approval. It was really wonderful. And that is life in Krishna consciousness—somehow being captivated by Krishna, the beauty of Krishna, manifest in His deity forms, His holy names, and His words and descriptions, the revealed scriptures. We want, somehow or other, to be absorbed in Krishna, and that absorption, encouraged by all these different activities, will cleanse the heart naturally and make us happy.

In terms of tattva (ontology), Krishna is the Absolute Truth. From Him everything emanates. He is the cause of all causes.

isvarah paramah krsnah
  sac-cid-ananda-vigrahah
anadir adir govindah
  sarva-karana-karanam

“Krsna, who is known as Govinda, is the Supreme Godhead. He has an eternal, blissful, spiritual body. He is the origin of all. He has no other origin, and He is the prime cause of all causes.” (Brahma-samhita 5.1)

Once, on a morning walk here at Cheviot Hills Park, I asked Srila Prabhupada, “We say that Krishna is the origin of all, but sometimes people question us, ‘You say Krishna is the origin, but what is Krishna’s origin?’ What should we answer?” And Prabhupada replied, “You should tell them that according to our information, Krishna is the origin of everything and has no origin, but if you find someone or something that is the origin of Krishna, we will worship that person or thing—but until then you should worship Krishna.”

So, Krishna is the origin, but in terms of tattva, there are two basic categories: vishnu-tattva and shakti-tattva. Krishna is the source of all Vishnu forms, beginning with Balarama (Krishna’s first expansion), Vasudeva, Sankarsana, Pradyumna, and Aniruddha—so many expansions on the side of the energetic (Vishnu). Similarly, there are so many expansions on the side of the energy (shakti), and the first is Srimati Radharani. From Her expand so many gopis in Vrindavan, so many queens in Dvaraka, and so many Laksmis in Vaikuntha.

krsna-kanta-gana dekhi tri-vidha prakara
  eka laksmi-gana, pure mahisi-gana ara
vrajangana-rupa, ara kanta-gana-sara
  sri-radhika haite kanta-ganera vistara

“The beloved consorts of Lord Krsna are of three kinds: the goddesses of fortune, the queens, and the milkmaids of Vraja, who are the foremost of all. These consorts all proceed from Radhika.” (Cc Adi 4.74–75)

Of all Krishna’s queens in Dvaraka, Rukmini-devi is the principal. Ultimately, she is an expansion of Srimati Radharani. All of Rukmini’s qualities are present in Radharani, though Radharani manifests some qualities that Rukmini doesn’t.

Many of Rukmini and Krishna’s pastimes are described in Srimad-Bhagavatam, and they are relishable and instructive. When I first read the story of Rukmini and Krishna in the Krsna book, I thought that it was the most wonderful story—one that could make a fabulous movie, with romance, suspense, chivalry, adventure, and a truly happy ending. I thought, “This is amazing. You get everything in Krishna consciousness—but completely pure and spiritual.”

Rukmini was the daughter of the king of Vidarbha, and when sages and saintly persons visited the royal palace, they would glorify the transcendental beauty, prowess, and character of Krishna. Sages knew Krishna to be the Supreme Personality of Godhead, and so they were pleased to glorify Him. And because He was acting as a ruler, kshatriyas were also pleased to speak about Him. By hearing about Krishna, Princess Rukmini became attached to Him (we could say she fell in love). She had never met Him, but just by hearing about Him she developed great faith, attraction, and love for Him and decided that He would be the perfect husband for her.

This is instructive for all of us, that if we hear about Krishna without envy we will also become attracted to Him. Of course, Rukmini was a very pious, religious, pure-hearted girl. In fact, she was an expansion of Srimati Radharani. But because she was pure and religious and cultured, hearing about Krishna had an especially powerful effect on her heart. In the same way, if we lead pure lives as ordained by scripture, as taught by Srila Prabhupada, when we hear about the beauty and qualities and pastimes of Krishna, we will also become attracted.

Thus Rukmini, a most qualified princess, became attached to Krishna, the most qualified prince, and decided to marry Him. But her eldest brother, Rukmi, was envious of Krishna and forbade her marriage with Him. Instead, he arranged her marriage to his friend Sisupala, who was practically from birth envious of and antagonistic toward Krishna.

Other than Rukmi, all Rukmini’s family members and well-wishers, including her father, favored her match with Krishna. And Rukmini, Krishna’s eternal consort, could not think of marrying anyone else. Later, she told Krishna that only a woman who had not relished the fragrance of the honey of His lotus feet could accept someone else as her husband or lover. Any other suitor would be a “living corpse”—a bag covered with skin, whiskers, nails, and hair and filled with flesh, bones, blood, stool, mucus, bile, and air. “The aroma of Your lotus feet,” she averred, “which is glorified by great saints, awards people liberation and is the abode of Goddess Laksmi. What woman would take shelter of any other man after savoring that aroma? Since You are the abode of transcendental qualities, what mortal woman with the insight to distinguish her own true interest would disregard that fragrance and depend instead on someone who is always subject to terrible fear?” She insisted that she would depend only on Krishna, who has an eternal, blissful, spiritual form.

Understanding the entire situation, Rukmini, in a bold move, sent a message to Krishna through a trustworthy brahman, expressing her heart’s desire to have only Him as her husband and suggesting how He could steal her away from the assembly at her proposed marriage the following day.

Rukmini was so beautiful and attractive that not only Sisupala but many kings and princes desired her. That is what we experience in the material world: Pretty much everyone looks at us as objects to exploit and enjoy, however sweetly they may act or speak. For example, at the end of almost any phone call to a large business, the company’s rep will ask, “Is there anything else I can do for you?” It’s all scripted. The ultimate purpose is to get your money, but they ask ever so politely, “Is there anything else I can do for you today?” Underneath it all, people want to get something from you for themselves. They want to exploit your body, your mind, or your resources. They are just like the lusty kings and princes hovering around Rukmini.

In that delicate predicament, that awkward situation, Rukmini reached out to Krishna, cried out to Him to save her. That was the only recourse she had, and ultimately that is the only recourse any of us has. We are in an ocean surrounded by sharks ready to devour us, and the only one who can save us is Krishna.

daivi hy esa guna-mayi
  mama maya duratyaya
mam eva ye prapadyante
  mayam etam taranti te

[Lord Krishna says,] “This divine energy of Mine, consisting of the three modes of material nature, is difficult to overcome. But those who surrender unto Me can easily cross beyond it.” (Gita 7.14)

Rukmini surrendered herself to Lord Krishna with utter, complete sincerity, and the Lord reciprocated and delivered her. Sometimes we also pray to Krishna, but with some duplicity. We want Krishna’s help but at the same time still desire to enjoy materially, without Krishna. There is a saying about soldiers in combat: “There are no atheists in foxholes [pits dug for cover from enemy fire].” There are no atheists in foxholes because someone in extreme danger will naturally pray to God, knowing intuitively that only God can save him. But after he has been saved from his immediate danger, the person will tend to forget God and again think, “I’m the controller, I’m the enjoyer, I’m the proprietor,” and return to his ordinary, self-centered, inauspicious way of life.

Princess Rukmini was completely sincere. She wanted only to serve Krishna, and nothing else. Nothing else would satisfy her. And so she concluded her message to Krishna:

yasyanghri-pankaja-rajah-snapanam mahanto
  vanchanty uma-patir ivatma-tamo-’pahatyai
yarhy ambujaksa na labheya bhavat-prasadam
  jahyam asun vrata-krsan chata-janmabhih syat

“O lotus-eyed one, great souls like Lord Siva hanker to bathe in the dust of Your lotus feet and thereby destroy their ignorance. If I cannot obtain Your mercy, I shall simply give up my vital force, which will have become weak from the severe penances I will perform. Then, after hundreds of lifetimes of endeavor, I may obtain Your mercy.” (SB 10.52.43)

Now, one could argue that yes, Rukmini wanted Krishna, but along with Krishna she got a beautiful palace—there are descriptions in the Bhagavatam of the extraordinary opulence of Dvaraka—and so many nice children and servants and maidservants, and so much affluence. Actually, there is no harm in opulence as long as Krishna is in the center. The main thing is that Krishna should be in the center. A chaste and faithful wife—this is another instruction from the narration of Rukmini and Krishna in the Bhagavatam—will follow her husband. If he is in an opulent position, so be it; or if by circumstances he falls into a poor condition, still she will stay with him. And sometimes it happens that the poor husband, by the grace of Krishna, becomes opulent.

One example is Sudama Vipra. He was Krishna’s friend from when they were students in gurukula, in the ashram of Sandipani Muni. Sudama was a peaceful and learned brahman, detached from sense enjoyment, and he ended up being very poor. Krishna was a prince, the husband of the goddess of fortune, and He naturally ended up being supremely opulent. One day, Sudama’s wife, weak from hunger and distressed (more for her husband’s sake than for her own), implored him, “The Supreme Lord Krishna is nearby in Dvaraka. He is a personal friend and is compassionate to brahmans. Please approach Him, and He will surely give you, a suffering householder, abundant wealth.”

Sudama was not very keen on asking for something material from Krishna, but he did like the idea of seeing Him. In accordance with proper etiquette, he wanted to bring some gift, and he asked his wife if there was anything in the house he could take. They had nothing, so she begged four handfuls of flat rice from neighboring brahmans, tied it in a torn piece of cloth, and gave it to her husband as a present for Lord Krishna. Thus Sudama set out to Dvaraka, constantly thinking of Krishna.

When Lord Krishna caught sight of the brahman, He immediately stood up, went forward to meet him, and embraced him with great pleasure. He seated him very nicely on His own bedstead and washed his feet, while Queen Rukmini, the divine goddess of fortune herself, personally fanned the poor brahman. After some affectionate, philosophical talks about their times in service to their guru, Krishna asked His friend, “What gift have you brought Me?” Sudama felt so ashamed and embarrassed, he simply remained silent and bowed his head. Then the Lord, who knew everything, snatched the flakes of chipped rice tied in the old cloth and exclaimed, “What is this?” He ate a palmful of the rice, but when He was about to eat a second, Queen Rukmini caught hold of His hand and said, “One palmful is enough.” According to Visvanatha Cakravarti, she was thinking, “If You eat all of this wonderful treat Yourself, what will be left for my friends and servants and me?”

Rukmini told Krishna, “This is more than enough to satisfy You. Your pleasure alone assures Your devotee of opulence in this life and the next.” In Krsna (Ch. 81), Srila Prabhupada comments, “This indicates that when food is offered to Lord Krsna with love and devotion and He is pleased and accepts it from the devotee, Rukmini-devi, the goddess of fortune, becomes so greatly obliged to the devotee that she has to go personally to the devotee’s home to turn it into the most opulent home in the world.”

Sudama spent the night in Lord Krishna’s palace, and the next day, after being duly honored by the Lord, without having asked Him for any material benefit, he set off for his home. Walking along the road, he felt blissful, satisfied just by the Lord’s darshan. And he thought that the merciful Lord, considering that if he suddenly became rich he would become intoxicated with material happiness and forget Him, had not granted him even the slightest wealth.

Thus the brahman eventually reached home. In place of his former meager residence, however, he found a celestial palace with beautiful gardens and servants and maidservants. And when Sudama’s wife came forward to greet him, she looked just like the goddess of fortune herself. Without Sudama’s having asked Krishna for anything, and without Krishna’s having told Sudama that He would give him anything, He gave him more than Sudama or his wife could ever have imagined. And Sudama never forgot Lord Krishna. He concluded:

kincit karoty urv api yat sva-dattam
  suhrt-krtam phalgv api bhuri-kari
mayopanitam prthukaika-mustim
  pratyagrahit priti-yuto mahatma

“The Lord considers even His greatest benedictions to be insignificant, while He magnifies even a small service rendered to Him by His well-wishing devotee. Thus with pleasure the Supreme Soul accepted a single palmful of the flat rice I brought Him.

tasyaiva me sauhrda-sakhya-maitri-
  dasyam punar janmani janmani syat
mahanubhavena gunalayena
  visajjatas tat-purusa-prasangah

“The Lord is the supremely compassionate reservoir of all transcendental qualities. Life after life may I serve Him with love, friendship, and sympathy, and may I cultivate such firm attachment for Him by the precious association of His devotees.

bhaktaya citra bhagavan hi sampado
  rajyam vibhutir na samarthayaty ajah
adirgha-bodhaya vicaksanah svaya
  pasyan nipatam dhaninam madodbhavam

“To a devotee who lacks spiritual insight, the Supreme Lord will not grant the wonderful opulences of this world—kingly power and material assets. Indeed, in His infinite wisdom the unborn Lord well knows how the intoxication of pride can cause the downfall of the wealthy.” (SB 10.81.35–37)

Firmly fixed in his determination by his spiritual intelligence, Sudama remained absolutely devoted to Krishna, and without avarice, he, with his wife, remained in the opulent position awarded them by Him. Being completely purified by constant remembrance of the merciful, affectionate Lord Krishna, Sudama attained the Lord’s supreme abode.

So, we are not against opulence, and we are not for poverty—we are for Krishna. Sometimes, however, opulence can be an impediment. We may be tested: “Do I want Krishna more or maya more?” And sometimes poverty, in a way, can be an impediment. But whatever is destined for us will come to us. We don’t have to bother about it. It is ordained. Some people are rich automatically, and some people are poor. It is ordained. Whatever happiness is due to us will come, and whatever distress is due to us will come, but the main thing is Krishna, to have Krishna, to make Krishna—the Deity of Krishna, the holy name of Krishna, the pastimes of Krishna, the philosophy of Krishna, everything Krishna—the center of our lives. And if Krishna, the husband of the goddess of fortune (and Rukmini, the goddess of fortune herself) wants, He will give us more facility to serve Him. That is what He did with Sudama Brahman. Knowing that the brahman would not misuse the facility, that he would remain a humble, devoted servant, Krishna gave him everything.

So, if we worship Rukmini-Dvarakadisa and make Them the center of our lives, we may enjoy some of Their opulence. New Dvaraka itself is quite opulent, so we are already enjoying some of Their opulence. But material opulence is incidental, because material things without Krishna will not make us happy. The real thing is Krishna. Only Krishna can make us happy, and with Krishna we will be happy—with or without material things.

Today’s festival is wonderful because it infuses us with thoughts of Krishna, inspires our attraction for Krishna. That is why Srila Prabhupada established this temple, installed the Deities, and trained the devotees, so that they could always be busy with Krishna, busy for Krishna, and by association, inspire and teach others also how to be absorbed in Krishna. Among the main processes in the present age of Kali, the foremost is the chanting of the holy names: Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare/ Hare Rama, Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare. So let us chant Hare Krishna, dance, feast on krsna-prasada, and be happy in Krishna consciousness.

Hare Krishna.

[A talk by Giriraj Swami on Rukmini-dvadasi, May 14, 2011, New Dvaraka, Los Angeles]

Source: https://girirajswami.com/blog/?p=17992

On 16th March 2026, Sahibabad witnessed a historic milestone—the grand inauguration of the ISKCON Sahibabad temple, where Lord Jagannath, Baladeva, and Subhadra were installed amidst Vedic rituals, ecstatic kirtans, and the heartfelt devotion of thousands.
This is one of the twenty ISKCON temples within the Delhi region.

Sahibabad is the name for a group of industrial, residential and commercial areas within the jurisdiction of Ghaziabad Municipal Corporation (Vasundhara Zone)[1] in Ghaziabad District of Uttar Pradesh, India. It touches the borders of Delhi, Noida and City Zone of Ghaziabad and constitutes a part of the Delhi National Capital Region.The atmosphere was electrified with conch shells, mridangas, and the chanting of the Hare Krishna mahā-mantra, as the Lord of the Universe entered His new palace.

The story of ISKCON Sahibabad began in 2003, when Ms. Usha Rani Khanna Mataji gifted the land through a formal Gift Deed, in the divine presence of HH Gopal Krishna Goswami Maharaj,former Chairman of the GBC. This act of heartfelt devotion planted the seed for a spiritual lighthouse in Sahibabad.

Shreshtha Golokhe Prabhuji played a pivotal role in realizing the ISKCON Sahibabad temple. His support and service during the foundational years helped transform a vision into a vibrant spiritual reality.

Why Sahibabad? The Value of a Temple in an Industrial Town

The opening of ISKCON Sahibabad is more than a spiritual event—it is a cultural and social transformation for the city. Known as a bustling industrial hub, Sahibabad is home to thousands of laborers and factory workers whose lives are often marked by long hours and little respite. Srila Prabhupāda once wrote that laborers should “chant Hare Krishna and push the buttons of machines,” reminding us that spiritual life is not separate from daily work but can sanctify it.

Temple President Sachinandan Prem Das has announced initiatives that directly address this vision:

• Harinam Sankirtan & Free Food Distribution: Regular programs will bring the holy name and prasadam to thousands of laborers, offering both spiritual nourishment and physical sustenance.

• Seminars for Industrialists & Managers: Special workshops will guide leaders of production houses in applying Krishna consciousness principles to management, ethics, and community welfare.

In this way, ISKCON Sahibabad bridges devotion with daily life—uplifting both workers and leaders, and infusing the industrial town with spiritual values.

A Royal Palace for the Lord

The temple itself is a marvel of devotional architecture:

• Ceiling: Depicts Navadha Bhakti—the nine processes of devotional service.

• Temple Hall: Vietnam marble flooring radiates elegance and purity.

• Side Walls: Korean marble adorned with paintings of Krishna’s four life stages.

• Altar: Engraved with all 18 chapters of the Bhagavad Gita, merging scripture with worship.

• Exterior: Built with red stone, symbolizing strength and timelessness.

The deities of Jagannath, Baladeva, and Subhadra—standing three feet tall—are the largest in the entire NCR region, making Sahibabad a rare and magnificent destination for darshan.

A Collective Offering of Love

The inauguration was graced by eminent ISKCON leaders including HH Guru Prasad Swami Maharaj, HG Devakinandan Prabhu, HG Sundar Gopal Das, and many others. Their presence reminded devotees that ISKCON Sahibabad is part of Srila Prabhupāda’s global mission.

The celebration included:

• Ceremonial Entry with abhishekam, flower showers, and melodious kirtans.

• Community Participation where families, youth, and elders joined hands in seva.

• Prasadam Distribution to over 3,500 devotees and guests, turning the event into a feast of unity.

A Spiritual Heartbeat for Sahibabad

The temple now offers daily darshan of Radha Madanmohan, Gaura Nitai, and Jagannath deities, along with seva opportunities such as Nitya Seva, Sadhu Bhojan, and Gita Daan. Beyond worship, it promises to be a center of culture, learning, and community transformation.

Closing Reflection

The inauguration of ISKCON Sahibabad is not just the consecration of a temple—it is the awakening of a spiritual heartbeat for the city. With Lord Jagannath’s smiling glance now permanently gracing Sahibabad, the community has gained a sanctuary where devotion, culture, and learning converge.

For an industrial town, this temple is more than a place of worship—it is a spiritual lighthouse, guiding workers, families, and leaders toward eternal service and love for the Supreme Lord.

Source: https://www.dandavats.com/?p=117773

Nimai dasi: A group of Leicester devotees are taking on the National Three Peaks Challenge in a bid to raise funds for the renovation of ISKCON Leicester, one of the city’s most notable historic buildings.

The 22 `dads and lads’, including the Temple’s Head Pujari, will embark on the mission on 24th April, 2026, aiming to summit the highest peaks in Scotland, England, and Wales within 72 hours. Together, they hope to raise £20,000 to support the ongoing restoration of the landmark temple in Leicester City Centre.

The challenge was inspired by Ananda Hari Das who runs a skin clinic in the city.

Ananda Hari previously completed a climb in Snowdonia with friends in 2020. That experience sparked the idea of taking on the Three Peaks Challenge. this time with a charitable purpose.

“This project to renovate ISKCON’s building in the heart of the city centre was important for us all,” he said. “We like the thought of pushing our limits to serve Radha Madhava’s stunning temple.

“This isn’t just a renovation; it’s a transformation. We’re contributing to the future use of the building, which will be a spiritual sanctuary a vibrant space for Krishna’s festivals and public events, and a historic gem for generations to come.

“This building is a cornerstone of our city’s heritage and identity. We’re enduring 72 hours of gruelling trekking to ensure this space remains a thriving resource for ISKCON’s activities and everyone in Leicester. The climb will be tough, but with support, we can restore this landmark to its former glory.”

Built in 1874 by renowned architect Joseph Goddard, the Grade II* listed former bank building is recognised as an important part of Leicester’s architectural heritage.

It was acquired by the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) in 2011. The building is currently being restored into a community centre and heritage hub,

Pradyumna Das, President of ISKCON Leicester, said: “It is now 15 years since we acquired the building. After investing in renovations in 2016, we completed a full overhaul of the original roof at a cost of £1.1 million. We are now ready to develop the ground floor, including the Grand Banking Hall, into a community hub for wellbeing, celebration, and heritage.

“Though we can’t all join the team, this challenging effort is a welcome contribution to our fundraising, and we are deeply grateful for their support.”

The group is encouraging the community to get behind the challenge and support their efforts to preserve and revitalise one of Leicester’s most treasured historic buildings.

For more information, to donate, and to follow the challenge, see:

https://gofund.me/487d3ef0d
 
Source: https://www.dandavats.com/?p=117757

This year’s annual 12-Day Matching Fundraiser is focused on helping to open the Temple of the Vedic Planetarium on Srila Prabhupada’s 50th Disappearance Anniversary, November 1, 2027. The Grand Opening celebrations will continue for three months as our beloved Mayapur Deities are relocated into Their new palace home. Please consider sponsoring a Prabhupada 50 KRSNA Ring, an exact replica of Srila Prabhupada’s personal KRSNA ring, or give a donation of any amount. Payments towards existing pledges will also be matched (go to the Pledge Payments page). The auspicious Akshaya Tritiya day begins the fundraiser on April 19, and Nrsimha Caturdasi is the final day on April 30.

This auspicious window is known for spiritual growth, charity, and multiplied blessings—making it the perfect time to give back and make a meaningful impact.

Giving during this sacred time is said to bring endless spiritual benefits (akshaya punya)—and now, your contribution goes twice as far.

Source: https://www.dandavats.com/?p=117900

By Atma Tattva Das, 

On the auspicious occasion of Akshaya Tritiya, ISKCON UK has formally recognized the UK bus tour as an official national initiative, marking a significant step forward in youth outreach and coordinated preaching efforts nationwide.

The announcement follows a sustained period of planning and consultation led by organizing members, including Eka-varna Das, who described the process as one of alignment with established standards.

“For us, the journey to approval was really about aligning with the standards already set within ISKCON by the GBC and UK leadership,” he said. “The main challenge was bringing everything together, taking all the ideas, structures, and requirements, and compiling them into one clear, cohesive proposal that met those standards smoothly.”

Read more: https://iskconnews.org/uk-bus-tour-receives-official-recognition-opening-new-chapter-for-youth-outreach/

Her Grace Saudamini Devi Dasi, a beloved disciple of Srila Prabhupada and the wife of Ravindra Svarupa Prabhu, passed away in the sacred dhama of Sridham Mayapur, at approximately 1:00 AM IST on April 26, 2026.  In Philadelphia, she departed during yesterday’s 8 hour kirtan.

After more than fifty years of dedicated service in the West, she and her husband moved to Mayapur in 2024 to spend their final years in the spiritual atmosphere of Lord Caitanya’s birthplace.

For decades, from the early 1970’s to 2014, Mother Saudamini was a foundational pillar of the ISKCON Philadelphia temple and community, where she lived and served with great devotion as the Head Pujari, Vice President, and Mother of the community.  While her husband served the movement through global leadership and scholarship, she was the heart of the temple’s worship, dedicated to the meticulous care and service of the presiding deities, Sri Sri Radha Saradbihari, Lord Jagannatha, Baladeva, and Subhadra, and Sri Sri Gaura Nitai. In the midst of many outside influences, together they served very hard to keep ISKCON Philadelphia a Srila Prabhupada centered Temple.

She was initiated by Srila Prabhupada in 1971.  Both she and Ravindra Svarupa Prabhu graduated from the University of Pennsylvania.  They passed up their professional and personal aspirations to take up a life of austerity serving full-time in Srila Prabhupada’s movement, where, in addition to their full-time services, they raised three children, Radhikika, Yudhistira, and Rupa.

We will hold a memorial service at ISKCON Philadelphia on Sunday, May 3, at 3 pm, where devotees and friends will share memories and offer Holding it next Sunday will give us time to get the word out to family, god-family, and well-wishers. We encourage all devotees in the Philadelphia community to attend and offer their respects, glorify, and learn about this important devotee in our Temple’s history.

Read more: https://iskconnews.org/remembering-her-grace-saudamani-devi-dasi/

“They like to be pulled by their tails,” explained the lion trainer, “and make sure you smile.”

This video portrays the simple yet hardworking life of a village, where people begin working early each day and continue with their routine. However, when the brahmacharis from Govardhan Eco Village arrive, a positive transformation is felt. Their kirtan is not just music—it touches hearts and brings everyone together. Stickers and calendars are not merely items, but daily spiritual reminders. Dancing becomes a symbol of unity for the whole village. Prasadam is shown as sacred food, lovingly offered and joyfully received. The message emphasizes that Govardhan Eco Village is not only changing villages, but also transforming people’s minds and lives. Viewers are invited to become part of this uplifting change.

Source: https://www.dandavats.com/?p=117874

On 24th April 2026 in Pune, on the occasion of the inauguration of the State Bank of India’s (SBI) Local Head Office (LHO) for Maharashtra Circle, Shri Chaitanya Health and Care Trust received a grant of ₹2 Crores from the State Bank of India (SBI) Foundation for the SBI Gram Saksham project.

The grant was presented by the Hon’ble Finance Minister of India, Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman, in the presence of Shri M. Nagaraju (Secretary, Department of Financial Services), Shri Challa Sreenivasulu Setty (Chairman, State Bank of India), and Shri Siddhilingesh (Senior Manager, State Bank of India & Programme Head – SBI Gram Seva).

The SBI Gram Saksham project focuses on watershed development and water security in Palghar, Maharashtra, enabling year-round irrigation and sustainable agriculture through the creation of farm ponds, wells, and community-led efforts.

Along with improving water access, the initiative promotes organic farming and enhanced rural agricultural practices, ensuring higher and sustainable income for farmers and strengthening their livelihoods.

This has led to multiple cropping cycles, increased productivity, and reduced migration across tribal communities.

Over the past five years, Shri Chaitanya Health and Care Trust has consistently delivered impactful work and has been recognised as an excellent implementation partner for the SBI Gram Saksham project.

The grant was received by Jadu Thakur Das (Mr. Jay Joshi), Head – Strategy & Communication, Govardhan Rural Development, marking a significant step towards rural transformation.

Source: https://www.dandavats.com/?p=117890

Andharupa Dasi ACBSP: Today, our hearts are heavy as we share that our beloved Godsister and dear mentor, Her Grace Saudamani Devi Dasi, has departed this world to return to the eternal shelter of Lord Caitanya.
As a dedicated disciple of His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, Saudamani Mataji was a pillar of strength and a beacon of devotion for over 50 years. Her life was a masterclass in the “art of remembrance,” as she tirelessly shared her personal realizations and memories of Srila Prabhupada.
Saudamani Mataji was a “Vaishnavi saint” whose presence inspired many to deepen their own devotion. She faced her final days with the same integrity, tolerance, and humor that characterized her life, leaving us with a profound example of how to live and leave this world in pure Krsna Consciousness.
As we offer our humble obeisances at her lotus feet, we pray that she is now joyfully reunited with Srila Prabhupada and her beloved Lords in Goloka Vrindavan.
“He lives forever by his divine instructions, and the follower lives with him.”
Hare Krishna.

Source: https://www.dandavats.com/?p=117892

By Sidharth Chhabra

In the Srimad Bhagavatam 1.5.22 purport, Srila Prabhupada said:“When advancement of knowledge is applied in the service of the Lord, the whole process becomes absolute. The Personality of Godhead and His transcendental name, fame, glory, etc., are all nondifferent from Him. Therefore, all the sages and devotees of the Lord have recommended that the subject matter of art, science, philosophy, physics, chemistry, psychology, and all other branches of knowledge should be wholly and solely applied in the service of the Lord.”

A research group at Michigan State University is now using the latest advances in medical science and machine learning to study the effects of chanting the Maha-mantra. The group is looking for eager students to join the research.

Read more: https://iskconnews.org/mantra-meditation-research-phd-internship-opportunities-at-msu/

By Rukmini Devi Dasi 

Around a dozen religious scholars, clergy, and spiritual practitioners gathered at ISKCON of DC in Potomac on April 17–18, 2026, for the 29th Annual Vaishnava-Christian Dialogue, an ongoing forum dedicated to fostering mutual understanding and spiritual exchange between the Vaishnava and Christian traditions.

This year’s theme, “The Spirituality of Interfaith Dialogue,” invited participants to reflect not only on theological questions, but also on the personal and devotional dimensions of genuine encounter across the two traditions. Rukmini Devi Dasi, one of the co-founders of the dialogue, along with her husband Anuttama Dasa, shared her personal reflection on this year’s gathering:

Read more: https://iskconnews.org/this-is-heaven-vaishnava-christian-dialogue-cultivates-divine-presence-in-dc-gathering/

Today marks the seventh day of Chandan Yatra, completing the first seven days of this beautiful festival. Each day, the Lord is dressed in different vesas, bringing a fresh and joyful darshan for everyone.

Today, Madhava and Chota Madhava appeared in Chakra Narayana Vesa. The soft blue tones and delicate decorations give such a calm and cooling feeling. Even Giriraj Govardhan looks especially beautiful today, dressed in blue and decorated so gracefully, adding to the whole atmosphere of Vrindavan mood.

Chota Radha Madhava are dressed in bright yellow, surrounded by so many fresh flowers. The combination of yellow, blue, and the natural floral setting creates such a gentle and pleasing darshan. Krishna with His flute and peacock feather, and Srimati Radharani in her golden yellow dress, look so natural and full of life, as if They are simply enjoying Their time in the forest.

Alongside this, we can remember a prayer by Rupa Goswami:

“The elephant of my mind is drowning in the waters of material illusion. Held by the crocodile of the threefold miseries, it cries in fear. O Lord Hari, please rescue it with Your Sudarshana chakra.”

It gently reminds us to bring our thoughts and struggles to the Lord and depend on Him for clarity and shelter.

Today is also the final day of the Boat Festival for Chota Radha Madhava. For the past seven days, Their boat pastimes have brought a peaceful joy, as They moved gently on the water and gave darshan to everyone.

The festival continues, and soon we will see the Boat Festival of Lord Jagannatha. Just yesterday, He appeared in Govardhana Vesa, also dressed in blue, reminding us of His pastime of lifting Govardhana Hill and caring for all His devotees.

May these days of Chandan Yatra quietly bring peace to the heart and keep us connected in remembrance.

Jaya Jagannatha
Jaya Radha Madhava

Source: https://www.thewalkingmonk.net/post/_bond