Spiritual life has been challenging in every age, even in the satya yuga! Although in the satya yuga, conditions were very easy and very nice. There was no need to work; grains were growing naturally, fruits were everywhere. All that needed to be done was meditation but it needed to be done for a very long time – that was the problem. Now everything has to be done for a short time and quick results are there but in satya yuga, everything had to be practiced for an extremely long time. So then again, the opportunity was there to get deviated – the mind; that also happened.

So, spiritual life in all times has been, is and will be a challenge. There always will be that personal element of fight in spiritual life. Srila Prabhupada called it a ‘war with maya’ and it always will be a war with maya because maya will always test us, not only in this yuga where life is difficult but in all yugas. Therefore we cannot think that especially now, it is very difficult! Now it is very difficult to practice spiritual life and at other times, it was much more easy. That is false reasoning because that is overlooking the fundamental nature of spiritual life which is that spiritual life involves surrender. Surrender is required! That is Krsna’s requirement:

naham prakasah sarvasya
yoga-maya-samavrtah
mudho ‘yam nabhijanati
loko mam ajam avyayam (Bhagavad-gita 7.25)

I keep myself covered to those who are not surrendering unto me. That is a principle which not only applies now but always applies – Krsna covers himself.

This is not a lecture where I am sort of whipping the audience. Some may misunderstand my presentation and think that I am trying to beat my audience and telling them, “Fight… come on, do it!”

No, that is not it. I am saying that it is up to you. It is entirely up to you. If you want to do it, do it! If you don’t want to do it, then don’t do it. If you want to chant Hare Krsna, chant! If you don’t want to chant Hare Krsna, then sleep or try to enjoy the senses – as you like, because ultimately, it is a choice. Krsna consciousness is a choice. We have a choice, it is up to us. No one can be forced. We cannot force people, it is not possible…

For a little while we can do a very strict program and be very strict – check that everybody gets up, make sure that everyone is chanting, make sure that everyone does everything right and then… they will anyway do what they want because sooner or later, everyone will follow what he desires. So it is a choice. Therefore, I say, no push from my side but opportunity, yes! The opportunity is there.

It is the same for me because who is pushing me!? I don’t know. All I can say is that I have to also chant sixteen rounds every day. It may not be a big number but some days it is. Today, only four done, so late. That is bad. Sometimes, I am on this nice program of chanting sixteen rounds before mangal aartik – those are the good times. I always say that sixteen rounds before mangal aartik are the best. Sixteen rounds before darshan are second best. Sixteen rounds before darkness are third best. Sixteen rounds after dark… heavy (sigh)! Late night rounds are those that you have to chant. Those are the rounds that you don’t want to chant… Today, I will try to finish before dark or better, before noon!

Source:https://www.kksblog.com/2016/11/krsna-consciousness-is-a-choice/

The London Saturday Night Harinama Sankirtan Party's ranks were
boosted this weekend as many Srila Prabhupada disciples came along to
celebrate Srila Prabhupada's Disappearance Day, which had fallen
earlier in the week.

Please find photos below.


Slideshow (please turn on sound):
http://davidc.zenfolio.com/maha_harinama_sankirtan_05112016/slideshow

Gallery:
http://davidc.zenfolio.com/maha_harinama_sankirtan_05112016


Sri Harinama Sankirtan Yajna Ki Jaya!

Srila Prabhupada Ki Jaya!

Nitai Gaura Premanande! Hari Hari bol!

Please find below photos from Annakuta, Go Puja and Govardhan Puja
2016 at Bhaktivedanta Manor.


Slideshow (please turn on sound):
http://davidc.zenfolio.com/govardhan_annakuta_gopuja_2016/slideshow

Gallery:
http://davidc.zenfolio.com/govardhan_annakuta_gopuja_2016


With best wishes,

   Hare Krishna,

      David.

During the London leg of my tour of the West, the most memorable engagement was a talk show at Queens College, Cambridge University. The format was that the program coordinator acted as a host for a talk show entitled “Debunk the monk.” He shot a flurry of questions at me, challenging my beliefs and practices and the students got into the spirit and followed shoot. I was enlivened by the program format and the QA soon went in the direction of science and spirituality, as I had hoped.

Ever since I had read Richard Dawkins “The God Delusion” about a decade ago, I had been itching for an opportunity to counter the many fallacious arguments therein. And here in UK, in the land of Dawkins, I was handed that opportunity when a student quoted Dawkins and repeated his question: “If God created everything, who created God?” The question was like giving a juicy half volley to an aggressive batsman and I duly dispatched it, repeating the answer I had written here and spoken here. As the students heard logical and persuasive answers, they opened up and we went over the whole gamut of standard questions about God ranging from his relationship with science (my one-line answer: God is not an explanatory alternative to science; he is the explanatory foundation for science) and the problem of evil (my one-line answer: Suffering exists not because of God but in spite of God – he is the cure for suffering, not its cause).

Overall, this was my most intellectually intense QA session on science & spirituality, far more intense than what I have had with IIT students in India. After the QA session, the coordinator said that next year they would try to organize a bigger program at the celebrated Cambridge Union.

While going to the program venue and returning form it, I crossed over the famous mathematical bridge at Cambridge. For many students, that bridge is an intellectual pilgrimage place and it would have been for me too, twenty years ago; it would have filled me with awe at the power of science and the brilliance of scientists.

But now it filled me not so much with awe as with sadness. While I do respect the knowledge-acquiring power of science and the change-producing power of technology, I am increasingly aware of how science has been hijacked by materialists and atheists to propagate their own world-view.

Pioneering scientists saw their scientific discoveries as spiritual insights into God’s way of working through nature – consider Newton’s quote on making a discovery: “O God, I think Thy thoughts after Thee.” Unfortunately, over the centuries, science has become increasingly divorced from spirituality, till we now have Dawkins claiming that science enabled him to become “an intellectually fulfilled atheist.”

The rupture of science and spirituality has fragmented the human person between the heart that seeks higher purpose to life and a head that seeks rational explanations of nature. Bhakti-yoga with its potent experiential dimension has the potential to be recognized as a spiritual science, thereby helping heal this divorce at the core of humanity.

Of course, that healing operation needs hundreds of brilliant brains working in tandem and we can only do our small part and wait for Krishna to arrange for his agents to do the rest.

While the talk show enlivened me, walking over the mathematical bridge sobered me as I contemplated the enormous intellectual work that remains undone.

Source:http://www.thespiritualscientist.com/2016/11/science-spirituality-talk-show-cambridge-university-undoing-unfortunate-divorce/

Honoring our Godbrothers and Godsisters
by Padmapani dasa

“Regarding serving your godbrothers, this is a very good practice. The Spiritual Master is never without His followers, so to serve the Spiritual Master also means to be the servant of His disciples. When you want to serve the king, you must also serve his minister, secretary, and everyone who serves him. And to serve his servants may please him more than to serve the king personally. So the Spiritual Master is not alone. He is always with His entourage. We are not impersonalists. We take care of every part of the whole, as much as one should take care of his hat as well as his shoes. Both are equally important for the upkeep of the body. I hope that you will understand this rightly.” (Srila Prabhupada Letter, January 23, 1969)

“Relationship between Godbrothers must be very genuine and pleasing. Otherwise, the future of our institution will not be very hopeful.” (Srila Prabhupada Letter, October 1, 1969)

“We are never alone in Krsna consciousness; you have got so many wonderful brothers and sisters who are really your family, and besides that the spiritual master is always in his instructions, and Krsna is there within your heart, so you need not feel you are ever alone.” (Srila Prabhupada Letter, August 11, 1972)

“Your appreciation for the service of your God-brothers is very much laudable. This is actually a devotee’s business that everyone should appreciate the value of other devotees. Nobody should criticize anyone. Because everyone is engaged in the service of the Lord, according to one’s capacity, and the thing is, Krishna wants to see how much one is sincere in rendering Him service. Materially we may think that his service is greater than his, that is our material vision. Actually on the spiritual platform, the service rendered by a calf to Krishna and service rendered by Radharani and Her Associates, to Krishna, there is no difference. Krishna is so kind and liberal that everyone’s service, when it is sincerely offered to Krishna, He accepts.” (Srila Prabhupada Letter, August 19, 1968)

“If somebody worships a devotee, that worshipment is more valuable than worshiping Krishna. Krishna says like that. So this is a process… Vaisnava process is parampara process. So today this nice girl is going to be initiated. She must learn this science, this very nice science, and you all Godbrothers and sisters will help her. Anyone who is trying to be Krishna conscious, he should be given or she should be given all kinds of facilities.” (Srila Prabhupada Lecture, Montreal, August 15, 1968)

“Godbrothers are not meant for being servants. Without the spiritual master’s order, nobody can utilize the service of a godbrother as one’s personal servant. We address each other as prabhu, so how can we engage our godbrother as servant?” (Srila Prabhupada Letter, November 23, 1974)

“Everyone should remember that we are serving Krishna, and everyone should remember, ‘The other person is serving Krishna. And because he is serving Krishna, he is not my servant; he is my master.’ That should be always in view. Therefore we address, ‘prabhu’: ‘You are my master.’ We never address, ‘You are my servant.’ We are trained up to say my brother, that ‘prabhu,’ ‘such and such prabhu.’ Prabhu means master. Nobody think himself that he is master. He should always think that everyone is his master because he’s serving the master. This is our philosophy.” (Srila Prabhupada Conversation, Vrindavan, November 24, 1976)

“But one thing is you must stop this fighting between brothers. Otherwise the whole program will be spoiled.” (Srila Prabhupada Letter, September 8, 1969)

“Yes, you wait there for me and be engaged as you are doing, chanting, reading, etc. Nobody is your enemy, rest assured. All of your godbrothers are as good as you are.” (Srila Prabhupada Letter, September 15, 1972)

“One of the symptoms of a devotee is that he is kind, so if our Godbrother becomes ill it is our duty to help him get the proper medicine and treatment so that he can recover.” (Srila Prabhupada Letter, April 5, 1974)

“So there is no question of ill treating of our own Godbrothers simply because they are sick, nor should you allow such neglect to go on. So long we have this material body there will be sickness, but we have to remain on the transcendental platform nevertheless.” (Srila Prabhupada Letter, April 5, 1974)

“If you have any specific grievance, please let me know, but don’t be disturbed by any sort of disagreement with your God-brothers and sisters. Each and every living entity is an individual soul and as such disagreement is quite possible in our dealings with one another but we have to consider the central point of interest.” (Srila Prabhupada Letter, January 15, 1968)

“Please go on cooperating between your godbrothers. I’m always with you never mind if I am physically absent. Please convey my blessings to all the boys and girls and tell them that I’m very eager to return.”(Srila Prabhupada Letter, September 16, 1967)

“Affection for God-brothers is nice, it is a good sign. Affection for God-brothers as well as for all other living entities, even they are not God-brothers, these signs are seen in the advanced devotees.” (Srila Prabhupada Letter, July 29, 1968)

“Take assistance from your godbrothers and godsisters there, and engage yourself purely in the business of Krishna Consciousness. This will bring all success to you. You can be certain of this.” (Srila Prabhupada Letter, February 14, 1969)

“Please convey my blessings to your godbrothers and godsisters with you. I hope that this will meet all of you in good health.” (Srila Prabhupada Letter, February 21, 1969)

Devotee: “Srila Prabhupada?”

Prabhupada: “Huh?”

Devotee: “Also this morning you said that we should try to only love Krishna.”

Prabhupada: “Yes.”

Devotee: “And nothing else.”

Prabhupada: “Yes.”

Devotee: “But if we love our Godbrothers, is that also loving Krishna?”

Prabhupada: “Oh, yes. Because they are of Krishna. What are your Godbrothers? They are Krishna’s servant. So if you do not love your Godbrothers, that means you reject your part of Krishna.”

Devotee: “So also our children, like that?”

Prabhupada: “Eh? Eh?”

Devotee: “Also…”

Prabhupada: “Yes, if you love children for making them Krishna conscious, then it is loving Krishna.”

(Srila Prabhupada Morning Walk, Los Angeles, January 11, 1974)

“I have asked you all to address your Godbrothers as prabhu. This prabhu means boss. If everyone of us thinks of his fellow worker as boss there is no question of misunderstanding. The mistake is that being addressed as boss or prabhu one thinks himself as exactly Prabhu or the boss. One should not forget himself as humble servant even though one is addressed as prabhu. The spiritual master is offered respects as they are offered to the Supreme Lord. Unfortunately if the spiritual master thinks that he has become the Supreme Lord then he is doomed. A bona fide spiritual master always think of himself as the servant of the Lord. One should never forget to be humble in dealings. If everyone of us would conduct our business in that spirit of prabhu and servant then there is very little chance of being misunderstood. Sometimes misunderstanding may take place but it should be adjusted in a spirit of service attitude to the prabhu.” (Srila Prabhupada Letter, November 28, 1967)

“We cannot change the original rules and regulation, but there is variety. We are not impersonalist. Every person has got to serve the Lord in a particular way, and that is allowed. The central point is Krishna. So although there are parties, if the central point is Krishna, so there is no dissension. It is a competition, that ‘My Godbrother, my Godsister, is serving such a way. She is so well versed in this art. Why not try myself to do something?’ This is variety. That is not this ordinary party strife if we make Krishna the center.” (Srila Prabhupada Lecture, Dallas, March 4, 1975)

“Everyone is envious. If his neighbor, if his brother, if his friend becomes more prosperous than himself, he becomes envious. This is material nature. Similarly, in our Krishna consciousness movement, if we become envious, ‘Oh, my Godbrother, oh, he has become so popular. He is making so much progress. So put some impediments towards his progressive path,’ this is also material. The Vaikuntha consciousness is that if your neighbor, if your brother is prosperous or progressive, then one should think, ‘Oh, he’s so nice that he has served God so nicely. God is so pleased upon him that he is making so nice progress.’ That is Vaikuntha consciousness. And material consciousness is that ‘Oh, he has advanced so much. Oh, let me check him.’ This is material. That is going on. The whole world, enviousness.” (Srila Prabhupada Lecture, London, July 7, 1972)

“It would not be possible for me to preach all over the world except for your cooperation, you and your Godbrothers and sisters who are maintaining centers all over the world.” (Srila Prabhupada Letter, January 9, 1974)

“A qualified disciple increases the importance of the Spiritual Master. So I find in you some good qualities. You think yourself as very humble but you appreciate the services of your God-brothers and I am very much pleased on your such behavior.” (Srila Prabhupada Letter, November 15, 1968)

“I am so much grateful to you for being such a strong soldier in pushing on this movement. Please continue in this way and give example to your Godbrothers and sisters. Please offer my blessings to all the L.A. Prabhus.” (Srila Prabhupada Letter, November 13, 1970)

“Material nature means dissension and disagreement, especially in this Kali yuga. But, for this Krsna consciousness movement its success will depend on agreement, even though there are varieties of engagements. In the material world there are varieties, but there is no agreement. In the spiritual world there are varieties, but there is agreement. That is the difference. The materialist without being able to adjust the varieties and the disagreements makes everything zero. They cannot come into agreement with varieties, but if we keep Krsna in the center, then there will be agreement in varieties. This is called unity in diversity.” (Srila Prabhupada Letter, October 18, 1973)

“My point is that even if somebody does not go in one line with the rest of the godbrothers, he can remain separately, but it does not mean that he may disobey the principles that I have laid down. So long as one follows the principles, he continues to be my disciple.”

(Srila Prabhupada Letter, November 7, 1975)

“Whether you live in temple or outside temple, the rules and regulation and the process must be followed. Then you are successful. It doesn’t matter that you have to live in the temple. If he does not agree with other godbrothers, friends, he can live separately. But he must follow the rules and regulation. That is wanted.” (Srila Prabhupada, Morning walk, February 3, 1975)

“Each and every one of you is very important assistant for me, so do not try to leave us, but try to adjust things as far as possible, but my last request to you both is that if you find such difficulty to live with your God-brothers, you can live with me.” (Srila Prabhupada Letter, October 18, 1968)

“I can understand that previously there must have been some quarrel amongst you and that sometimes happens amongst god-brothers. Whatever is done is done; the main thing is we must not carry grudges or continue to quarrel amongst one another.” (Srila Prabhupada Letter, December 25, 1973)

“You write to say, ‘I really miss Swamiji and my God-brothers’ association so much.’ But I may remind you that I am always with you. And so wherever I am there, and you are there, all your God-brothers are there. Please remember always the humble teachings that you have received from me, and that will make you always associated with me, and with your other God-brothers.” (Srila Prabhupada Letter, August 24, 1968)

“I understand that your God-brothers are as your younger dependent brothers; kindly treat them as your younger dependent brothers and try to advance them in Krishna Consciousness as good as you can.”(Srila Prabhupada Letter, January 21, 1968)

“I have heard how the new devotees are all executing their devotional services very enthusiastically and with sincerity and humility. Yes, I have asked them to take instruction from you, one of their elder Godsisters. Whatever you have learned — you are one of the old students — whatever you have gathered by experience, you must hand them over to the new students. This is called parampara.” (Srila Prabhupada Letter, March 6, 1970)

“On the whole I am very pleased with your management. The Ekadasi program is very nice. Krishna is giving you good sense and intelligence. Take care of your god-brothers and god-sisters very carefully.” (Srila Prabhupada Letter, September 19, 1970)

“We have so much work to do, we cannot lose our solidarity. Do not cause a crack there with any fighting spirit or competition. Whenever I hear complaints or disturbances in our centers my mind becomes too much disturbed and I cannot properly translate my books. So please spare me from such disturbance by cooperating all together Godbrothers and Godsisters.” (Srila Prabhupada Letter, January 7, 1974)

“During the festival hundreds of devotees from countries all around the world all very much appreciated that these transcendental spots, Mayapur and Vrindaban are place of spiritual inspiration for all devotees of ISKCON. They are the best places in the world to come and chant Hare Krishna and prepare for going Back to Home, Back to Godhead. So you can help by your contribution so that all your Godbrothers and Godsisters can come and find shelter here. As for yourself and your child, these places are for you also.” (Srila Prabhupada Letter, April 3, 1974)

“With Blessings for all your God-brothers and sisters, I am

Your ever well-wisher,

A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami”

(Srila Prabhupada Letter, December 12, 1967)

Source:https://theharekrishnamovement.org/2016/11/02/honoring-our-godbrothers-and-godsisters/

Sometimes people think that the ancient Vedic literature no longer has any real usefulness in this day and age. That it is little better than an antique of foregone days. However, this article shows the universal and ever-relevant nature of the Ramayana, and how it explains the symptoms of society when there is no ruler, or when there is an unqualified leader. This is from the discussion between Markandeya and the great sages and Visishtha when they urge him to install a proper king onto the throne. When there is no such ruler of a country, they describe an assortment of symptoms and problems in society that become prominent, and thus spoil life for the citizens. The descriptions are of a society that is falling apart, wherein the citizens are troubled by the lawlessness and corruption that abounds.

However, these symptoms are what we find so common in today’s world, which shows the timeless nature of the instructions given by these great sages.

Nonetheless, in other situations in the Ramayana, we find remedies for these problems. Such as when Vibhishana instructs Ravana on some of the duties of a king, which we briefly look at. However, Ravana did not like being instructed in this way because he was not interested in acting like a good king anyway, similar in ways to some of the rulers we see today.

Furthermore, the descriptions of Ayodhya when Lord Rama returns to lead the people shows the effects on society when there is a good and proper ruler, and how such a ruler should lead society for the ultimate good of everyone. It also shows the influence that such a king can have all over the land, which we obviously need more than ever in this world. So let us look at these descriptions.

THE RESULTS OF A LEADERLESS SOCIETY.

This especially points out how the Ramayana held views on the means for a harmonious society, and what helped provide or prevent it. This section outlines how a society without a leader, or without one that is qualified, will never be harmonious, and will actually exhibit symptoms that will prevent such a united society. Although these describe a time thousands of years ago when facilities were different, it can still be compared to what we would expect to see, or not see, in this day and age. Amazingly, many of the symptoms that are described are the same conditions as we see in society today.

The reason why I wanted to elaborate on these teachings is that as we look around this world, many parts of it seem to be falling apart with each passing day. How can we change things? It is time that people of the world understand what to look for in a leader if we are going to live harmoniously with ourselves or with nature. It is time that we know who to elect if we are going to have a leader who provides the right kind of protection and guidance, and who holds and practices the proper virtue if we are going to steer society in the right direction. And that is, unfortunately, not someone we often see today. It is not that the Ramayana is some kind of outdated book that no longer provides no wisdom, but we will see that it still holds practical advice that will help us correct our misguided aims of life by reconsidering the insight as given by the sages in the Ramayana. So let us take a look at some of these verses, and we will see many of the same indicators right now of a leaderless society that it describes.

This is from the Ayodhya Kanda, Canto 67, verses 9-38, as described by Markandeya and other great sages to urge Vasishtha to install a qualified prince onto the throne.

“In a land destitute of a ruler, the thundering cloud wreathed with lighting does not drench the earth with rain water.” 9

So here we see that drought is common when there is no proper ruler, or when society is misdirected. In such a situation, people no longer work in harmony with nature so that it reciprocates with the needs of the people. People often feel that nature is something to dominate and control, to take what they want from it. But actually we are a part of nature and should be in harmony with it. Otherwise, nature merely reflects the mass consciousness of the people who inhabit the planet, and thus drought is not uncommon.

“In a rulerless land, handfuls of seeds are no longer scattered (for fear of uncertainty of crops). (Nay) in a rulerless land, a son is not amenable to the control of his father, nor his wife amenable to the control of her husband (there being no executive authority to enforce correct conduct).” 10

Herein we see that a leaderless society becomes lawless, with no respect for authority on any level.

“In a rulerless land, people do not construct assembly halls (for public gatherings, there being no such gatherings), nor do joyous men plant lovely gardens (for fear of their being destroyed by enemies of peace and order) or build sacred houses (such as temples and buildings for the free accommodation of travelers and strangers, etc).” 12

In this way, no one builds elaborate structures since the lawless or the enemies will come and destroy them because of a lack of respect for the culture, or to drive out those who are not of the same disposition or religion.

“In a rulerless land, festivals (in honor of deities) in which actors and dancers exhibit their art in a highly ecstatic mood, and convivial gatherings promoting the welfare of the state do not gather strength.” 15

Again this shows how a sophisticated culture will be set to ruin by adharmic forces if there is not a ruler who can gather the means to defend it.

“In a rulerless land, parties to a law-suit are not able to have their dispute settled, nor are those given to hearing stories from the Puranas, etc., pleased with such stories told by those to whom the narration of such stories is agreeable.” 16

It may be somewhat amusing to see this description being a result of a rulerless land, especially in India where lawsuits are known to take many months or even years. Without a qualified leader who can execute an efficient system of law and order, the court system becomes increasingly backlogged with cases that are not resolved, not because they can’t be dealt with, but because of a lack of efficiency and honesty in the judicial system, and the interest of the courts to resolve such cases without accepting bribes or other complications before such cases are heard.

“In a rulerless land, virgins decked with gold ornaments do not for their part go united to gardens to sport at dusk (for fear of being abducted or violated by miscreants).” 17

These days no one can go out at night or even in daylight without the risk of being robbed or abducted. This is surely a sign of a lack of proper leadership wherein the citizens know that a crime will be punished, and people will be protected. Without good leaders, criminals know they can get away with many criminal acts.

“In a rulerless land, wealthy husband and cowherds, even though well protected (by their attendants) do not sleep with open doors (for fear of thieves and dacoits).” 18

Again, all doors to a house must be locked where there are criminals, or those who have no respect for authority, which means the authority is too weak to uphold the law and give appropriate punishment to criminals.

“In a rulerless land, the sound of plucking the bow-string with the palm produced by Kshatriyas uninterruptedly discharging arrows while practicing the use of bows is not heard.” 21

This merely indicates that those like the police or soldiers meant to protect the people are in limited numbers, and are not around to help keep law and order. This is usually because the leaders put their interests and priorities in other directions rather than in protecting law abiding citizens or in building a strong military or police force to defend the country and citizens.

“In a rulerless land, merchants travelling far and wide do not safely move about fully equipped with abundant salable goods.” 22

“In a rulerless land, nothing is one=s own in the eyes of anyone. Like fishes, men always devour one another. 31

Again, here we see that in a land without a qualified ruler, merchants cannot move about without the fear of being robbed or killed for their merchandise. In such a case, society is hardly civilized at all.

“In a rulerless land, there is no acquisition of property and no security of possessions. Nor is the army able in a rulerless land to vanquish the foes in a battle.” 24

Even the army becomes ineffective and without proper direction when there is no qualified leader, thus leaving the country vulnerable and unable to oppose its foes, or uphold law and order.

“In a rulerless land, self-controlled ascetics moving all by themselves and contemplating on the Self with their own mind and taking up their abode wherever the evening falls do not move about (freely for want of hospitable householders).” 23

Herein it is described how ascetics who hold the knowledge of the spiritual path are not very abundant, prominent, nor are they often respected. People in general lose interest in such topics when there is no ruler to show by example how to uphold, respect or protect the Dharmic path.

“In a rulerless land, men well-versed in sacred lore do not meet (freely) holding disputations in forests and groves.” 26

Again we see the lack of respect for those who hold within themselves spiritual knowledge, who no longer roam about ready to give such wisdom to the masses, knowing that they may simply meet with the contradictions and criticisms of materialistic people.

“In a rulerless land, flowers, sweetmeats and sacrificial fees are not brought together for the worship of deities by self-controlled men.” 27

In fact, even proper worship, pujas, and Dharmic traditions are soon lost without a leader who will uphold their protection. This means that such a leader must follow or at least respect the Dharmic traditions and the deep spiritual knowledge that is preserved therein.

“A state without a ruler is really no better than rivers without water, a woodland without grass and cows without a keeper. 29

“If there is no king demarcating good and evil in the world, oh, this world will be reduced to (utter) darkness as it were and nothing can be clearly perceived.” 36

In other words, a land without a qualified ruler is a wasteland wherein the real goal of life is not understood, nor is it practiced, and mere existence with the attempt to avoid so many problems is all that is left to achieve, and that also only with great struggle. With this as the standard, such a society is reduced to utter ignorance of the true purpose of life.

WHAT THE KING IS MEANT TO BE

Now that we have seen some of what the Ramayana presents as dangers of a lack of real leadership, there are also a few verses that give insight to what a real ruler should be. This points out the power of such a king by these qualities, if he possesses them.

“(Just) as the eye ever strives for the good of the body (by serving as a guide to it and showing it the right path), so does the king, who is the fountain of truth and righteousness, ever strive for the good of the state. 33

“The king is truthfulness and virtue (incarnate); the king constitutes the nobility of birth in men of a high pedigree. The king is the mother as well as the father; the king is the benefactor of men. 34

“(Even) Yama (the god of retribution); Kubera (son of Vishrava, the god of riches), Indra (the ruler of gods), and the very mighty Varuna (the deity presiding over water) are outstripped by a king of excellent conduct by virtue of such conduct (inasmuch as he combines in himself the virtues of all the above-named deities).” 35

HOW A KING SHOULD GUIDE SOCIETY

A king is not only supposed to maintain law and order, but a real king, a Vedic king, should also provide the means that people can attain the real and spiritual goal of life. So now we look at the solutions to the above problems with how a king should give proper guidance to the people. This is described by Kumbhakarna while rebuking Ravana for all of his misdeeds. Naturally, Ravana, typical of many politicians today, did not like to hear such advice, simply because he had no intention of following it. But it is described in the Ramayana for our benefit.

From Yuddha Kanda, Canto 63, verses 7-21, it explains:

“Holding consultation with his ministers, he who takes into consideration the five aspects of the threefold duties (with reference to hostile kings) moves along the right path.” 7

In this case the five aspects means: 1. The method of initiating an action, 2. The person or material to be worked with, 3. The time and place of action, 4. Provisions necessary to make it successful, and 5. The calculated chances of success. And these aspects are used in three kinds of circumstances when dealing with enemies, which are: 1. The way to attain peace through reconciliation, 2. Acceptance of their allegiance through the acceptance of gifts, or 3. Invasion to force coercion toward peace. A ruler must be strong enough to make these considerations or he will be pushed aside or removed by the enemy who will take over his territory.

“A king who seeks to determine his duty in accordance with the science of polity and perceive his friends too, along with the ministers, understand aright.” 8

Herein, as explained, a king has to realize who he can trust among friends and ministers, and then he can move forward with confidence. This is essential if the king or ruler expects to stay in power or hold onto his position.

“The self-controlled king who, having deliberated with his ministers, bestows gifts, takes to (expedients of) conciliation and, sowing dissension among the hostile ranks, exhibits prowess, O prince of ogres, or resorts to them (all) together and takes recourse both to right action and the reverse of it at the right time and pursues virtue, worldly gain and sensuous pleasure at the proper time never meets with disaster in the world.” 11-12

Herein, when it says a self-controlled king, it means a king with spiritual wisdom and virtue. Without understanding what real virtue is, no one can fulfill the proper role of a leader, or for that matter even a husband, teacher, father, or one who employs others. But more important than merely knowing what true virtue is, is the need to follow it and live according to those virtues, which is especially expected for any ruler. Only by applying this kind of wisdom and virtue will a king encounter success and avoid disaster, not only in his personal life but also for his country.

“A king should take action (only) after considering what is salutary in consequence to him in consultation with his ministers who make their living by their intelligence and know the reality of things.” 13

Herein the point is simple, that regardless of how intelligent a ruler may think he is, the saying is two heads are better than one, and a king must consult with his qualified ministers to make sure of the proper action to take. However, this verse also refers to ministers who know the reality of things, as opposed to those who are merely academically trained.

“People whose mental level is in no way higher than that of beasts, and (yet) who have been allowed to take their seat among counselors, desire to express their views through (sheer) impudence without fully knowing the import of the scriptures. The advice tendered by such people, who having no knowledge of the scriptures, are (equally) ignorant of the science of wealth, or who seek immense wealth, ought not to be followed. 14-15

“Men who tender unwholesome advice in a salutary garb through (sheer) impudence should be excluded from deliberation as they mar the (very) purpose (of the deliberation).” 16

Here is said the obvious, that those who are not qualified, though they may try to appear so by such things as academics, wealth, etc., and with pride may try to force their opinion on others, should not be given any consideration. No one should listen to them, not the citizens and least of all the king, because they will only take the country in the wrong direction, causing problems that will later take much time and money to correct. History shows many examples of this, from which we should learn. Furthermore, those who are not true friends of the king or of the citizens and have their own agenda, or who have been bought off by the enemy, will bring the ruler and the country to ruin, as explained in the next few verses:

“Getting united with shrewd enemies, (evil-minded) counselors in this world prevail upon their master to undertake wrong actions in order to bring him to ruin. 17

“A ruler should make out (the reality of) those ministers who have been won over by the enemy to their side (through bribe, etc.) and, thus, have become enemies though appearing as friends, (as discerned) through their (actual) behavior when a final decision is being taken after deliberation. 18

“Aliens find out the weakness of a ruler who is (easily) led away by false appearances and rushes headlong into actions … A king who, disregarding the enemy, does not actually protect himself, undoubtedly meets with reverses and is dragged down from his position.” 19-20

SOME OF THE SYMPTOMS OF RAJARAMA

What follows are descriptions of some of the symptoms of a proper and royal leadership, such as when Lord Rama ruled over the land. This shows the effects on society when there is a good and proper ruler, and how such a ruler should lead society for the ultimate good of everyone. It also shows the influence that such a king can have all over the land, and that any problems within the kingdom, at least in the olden days, was considered to be the fault of the king who then had to take responsibility and account for them through his own efforts, knowing it was his own lack of quality for the existence of such problems. Therefore, the people should make sure to avoid an unwanted and unqualified ruler and check that the leaders are properly qualified with knowledge and habits of virtue before being elected. Otherwise, the adversities and difficulties of life will be many.

This is from the Yuddha-Kanda, Canto 128, verses 98-106. This is when Bharata gives back the kingdom of Ayodhya to Lord Rama.

“While Sri Rama ruled over the kingdom (of Ayodhya), there were no widows to lament (over their loss) nor was there any danger from beasts of prey or snakes, nor again was there any fear of diseases. 98

“The world had no robbers or thieves, nor did anyone suffer harm. Nor again did old people (ever) perform obsequies relating to [the death of their] youngsters. 99

“Every creature felt pleased, (nay) everyone was devoted to righteousness. Turning their eyes towards Sri Rama alone, creatures did not kill one another.” 100

This is the effect of a qualified leader, that his influence can change the whole atmosphere in the cooperation among people, in reducing or eliminating the criminal mentality, in the endeavor to work in harmony with nature, and in everyone to have empathy for all creatures and fellow citizens. This may not be wholly possible in this day and age, but a qualified leader can certainly move humanity in this direction. But if a leader is merely posing as a great personality while harboring wicked or materialistic desires and misguided intentions, the whole country will be directed toward ruin.

“So long as Sri Rama ruled the kingdom (of Ayodhya), people lived to an age of thousands of years, were blessed with thousands of sons, and remained free from diseases and grief. 101

“So long as Sri Rama ruled the kingdom, the talks of the people centered around Sri Rama, Sri Rama, and Sri Rama alone. (Nay) the world itself appeared (to them) as transformed into Sri Rama. 102

“Trees in Ayodhya ever remained firmly rooted and bore fruit and flowers perpetually. Clouds sent down rain (only) when desired and the wind was (ever) delightful to the touch. 103

“Remaining entirely free from avarice and satisfied with their own avocations, the Brahmanas (priestly class), the Kshatriyas (the warrior class), the Vaishyas (members of the mercantile class), and the Shudras (the laboring class), remained content in their own duties. 104

“So long as Sri Rama ruled, the people remained devoted to pious observances and never told lies. (Nay) all were endowed with auspicious bodily marks and all were given to righteousness. 105

“With his (three younger half-) brothers, the glorious Sri Rama ruled for ten and one thousand years.” 106

THE KING IS FORCED TO ACCEPT 1/6TH OF KARMA OF HIS SUBJECTS

From the Ramayana we also understand how important it is for the ruler of people to watch or patrol over their territory to make sure that all unfairness, criminal activities, or unrighteous acts are immediately put to a stop. This is because all such actions produce contrary reactions, not only for the people and the country, but also for the ruler, which is reflected back on them through the acts of nature, disrespect from the citizens, and the dark future created for their next life. Therefore, this shows the importance of electing a ruler who will not neglect his responsibilities of leading the people properly, uphold virtue and spiritual wisdom, and protect and defend the citizens and country without hesitation.

In this regard, the Uttara-Kanda, Canto 74, verses 30-33, explains: “Whenever one performs unrighteous deeds not to be performed, and rooted in lack of prosperity, [such a person] indeed goes to hell, however the king also undoubtedly (goes to hell). Righteously ruling over the subjects, the king shares one sixth portion of the (merit) that accrues from pious deeds performed by study and penance. (However) the king also partakes of one sixth (of his subject=s bad karma) if he does not protect the subjects (by leading them properly). So you, O lion among kings, investigate your territory. Whenever you see unrighteous actions done, then make efforts (to put them right); thus righteousness and longevity will prevail among men [as well as for the king].”

REFERENCES

Srimad Valmiki-Ramayana, Sanskrit Text and English Translation, Gita Press, Gorakhpur, India, 1995.

Source:http://www.dandavats.com/?p=32998

On the sacred day of Govardhan Puja, 31st October 2016, Bhaktivedanta Manor hosted a gathering at the House of Lords at the Palace of Westminster to acknowledge the 50th anniversary of the incorporation of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), Founder-Acharya His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada.

The House of Lords is the upper house of the UK Parliament and was built to advise the Crown Imperial since 1295. The House of Lords scrutinise bills that have been approved by the House of Commons and regularly reviews and amends them. In this capacity, the House of Lords acts as a check on the House of Commons that is independent from the electoral process. The Queen’s Speech is delivered in the House of Lords during the annual State Opening of Parliament.

With the kind permission of the Lord Speaker, the event was hosted in the Principal State Room for an incredible yet intimate gathering of profiled guests renowned in their own disciplines.

Bhaktivedanta Manor has built a tremendous track record in improving the quality of life in the UK through the spiritual initiatives of ISKCON. The peer sponsor, Lord Dholakia welcomed the gathering by recollecting on the challenging yet exciting journey of ISKCON in UK through Bhaktivedanta Manor. Quoting in particular the background to the building of New Gokul, Britain’s foremost centre for cow protection and working oxen at Bhaktivedanta Manor, Lord Dholakia expressed his privilege in being instrumental to helping to protect Lord Krishna’s sacred cows. Soon after, New Gokul was hailed as a blue-print for the future of farming and The Independent and Daily Telegraph newspapers reported the New Gokul project as being the “Hilton of all farms.”

Bhaktivedanta Manor’s temple president, Srutidharma dasa, described the significance of the 50thanniversary of the incorporation of ISKCON and how it is being celebrated in the UK. Having detailed multiple projects and programmes of Bhaktivedanta Manor, the president announced the start of a new chapter in its history in June, 2016 as the ground-breaking ceremony for the long awaited Shri Krishna Haveli building was led by (now former) UK Prime Minister David Cameron. The ceremony itself formed part of the Manor’s offerings to celebrate the 50th anniversary of ISKCON, upon which Mr Cameron heartily congratulated ISKCON by praising the founder on his creation of a “global mission.” The president invited all to participate in this project so that the current generation can leave a legacy. He concluded by explaining that even if those present are not here in the next 50 years, at least the future generation will have the opportunity to leverage from this legacy to celebrate the 100thanniversary may be here at the House of Lords.

Managing Director of Bhaktivedanta Manor, Gauri das, presented the journey in finally receiving planning permission to build the Shri Krishna Haveli. Over many years of work including the development of a planning brief, a public consultation, and one and a half years awaiting a determination, Bhaktivedanta Manor listened carefully and patiently to local resident concerns and worked hard to balance the needs of the temple and the local community. In the end the concerns were all addressed and thus unanimous permission was granted on the Queen’s 90th birthday. Having described the plan of the Haveli, a video was played to illustrate the new project. The video showed Mr Cameron garlanding the Deity of the Founder-Acharya who had stated “if only he had lived to see what the Manor has become; a mock Tudor country house donated by a Beatle, serving as a hub of worship, celebration and selflessness.” The video also showed Mr Cameron congratulating ISKCON on its 50th anniversary. He went on to say: “I look at what you have done in the past fifty years and I think how much you can achieve in the next fifty. In fact, the next half century begins right now as we begin building the new Krishna Haveli, and I’m delighted to be putting the first tool in the ground.”

His Holiness Bhakti Charu Swami travelled in from India to present the keynote speech. His Holiness began by reflecting on his privilege in being present at a historical place of British Parliament where many significant decisions had been made throughout history that affected the entire world. His Holiness described the objective behind ISKCON and the many sacrifices made by Srila Prabhupada in its establishment. In detailing the prediction of Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu, His Holiness demonstrated how Srila Prabhupada inundated the entire world with a spiritual revolution that places a solution to all problems of life and the world through devotional service to Lord Krishna. His Holiness shared some of his intimate moments with Srila Prabhupada to exemplify the magnanimity of the Founder-Acharya. Out of love for Srila Prabhupada, His Holiness once expressed how he wished that he could’ve served Srila Prabhupada when he was alone in the beginning days in New York. Srila Prabhupada affectionately responded saying that he was never alone since Krishna was always with him. His Holiness described how ISKCON came to the UK and requested for all people to seriously consider the message of Srila Prabhupada for the upliftment of each individual and mankind.

Member of Parliament, Shailesh Vara, closed the evening by describing the unique contribution that ISKCON brings to society and the importance of its message. Shailesh thanked His Holiness and Bhaktivedanta Manor for hosting the celebration of the 50th anniversary at the House of Lords. Event organiser, Sri Radharamana dasa commented: “On this night of Govardhan Puja, the anniversary of ISKCON’s incorporation has been resounded to the world through the House of Lords. Furthermore, it has been an absolute privilege to have this glorification initiated through an intimate associate servant of Srila Prabhupada who travelled from India to deliver the keynote speech. We remain indebted to His Holiness Bhakti Charu Swami maharaja for taking time out of his schedule to participate in this unique offering in the 50th anniversary year of the incorporation of ISKCON.”

Source:http://www.dandavats.com/?p=33009#prettyPhoto

Dear devotees,

Please accept our humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada.Srila Prabhupada said that a GBC member could have “thousands of secretaries,” and in keeping with this principle the Governing Body has designed new posts for senior devotees to be engaged in assisting the GBC expand the oversight of the Society’s development. One such post is that of Global Duty Officers (GDO), who help the Governing Body and its members by taking up important services giving support and leadership in fields such as preaching initiatives, educational programs, administration and legal matters. They can assist and serve in special projects commissioned by the GBC, assist GBC Standing Committees, assist Global Ministries, assist committees involved in the Strategic Planning Network, and attend and serve during GBC meetings.

At their half-yearly meeting in Mumbai in October the GBC Body appointed the following devotees as Global Duty Officers, for a renewable one-year tenure:

Bhakti Prabhava Swami

Devakinandana Das (Singapore)

Gauranga Das

Govardhan Das

Hanuman Das

Krishnadas Kaviraja Das

Mathuresa Das

Mukunda Madhava das

Parabhakti Das

Praharana Dasi

Radha Krishna Das

Satya Gopinath Das

Srivallabha Das

Srivasa Das

Srivasa Pandit Das

Tapana Misra Das

Tirtharaja Das

The GBC Nominations Committee (NC) is presently fine-tuning the details of their engagement and looking for new applicants. Although becoming a GDO is not an automatic stepping stone to become a GBC – and it is a valuable service in itself still, serving as a GDO for two years is a prerequisite for becoming a GBC, along with receiving the appropriate training at the GBC College for Leadership Development, established by the GBC to help in preparing ISKCON leaders.

There are currently about 35 GBC members overseeing the whole world, about double the number there were when Srila Prabhupada was physically present, but the number of temples and centers around the globe now is approaching 700, more than six times the number in his time. The GBC members meet twice a year, and if their numbers increase proportionately, in keeping with the number of centers, there would soon be hundreds of GBCs.

The average GBC member is now in his or her 60s, and some are in their 70s. There is an obvious need for younger generations of devotees to gradually take over the reins of the movement, and the GDO service is one which will facilitate competent devotees to become trained and gain experience which will allow them to take up GBC service in due course.

The next batch of GDOs will be appointed in February 2017, at the Annual General Meeting of the GBC; the deadline for applications is December 1 st . If you have any interest or if you know of someone who would, please contact us at:

gbcnominations@gmail.com

Hoping this meets you well.

Your servants,

The GBC Nominations Committee

[Tamohara Das (Chairman), Prahladananda Swami, Praghosa Das, Gopal Bhatta Das

(Convenor), Bhakti Caitanya Swami, Anuttama Das, Laxmimoni Dasi, Gauranga Das,

Aniruddha Das, Revati Raman Das]

Please find below a few phone snaps of the Vyasana and bhoga offerings
from Srila Prabhupada's Disappearance Day 2016 at Bhaktivedanta Manor.

A small murti of Srila Prabhupada was given abhishek earlier in the
day, pushpanjali was performed after the 12:30 arati, and many
devotees read out heart-felt offerings.

http://davidc.zenfolio.com/srila_prabhupada_disappearance_day_2016


If you are in the UK and can come to London please join our maha
harianama sankirtan party THIS SATURDAY EVENING (5th November).  It
will leave the ISKCON-London Soho Street temple after Gaura Arati -
please also come for that and offer a candle to Sri Damodara for
Kartik.

Photos from last year to insire you:
http://davidc.zenfolio.com/maha_harinama_sankirtan_14112015


Srila Prabhupada Ki Jaya!

Today we honor the disappearance day of His Dive Grace A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada with a half day fast and are celebrating your disappearance with remembrances and prayers.

The Disappearance of a Vaisnava was explained very nicely by Srila Prabhupada is a lecture given on the disappearance day lecture of Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Goswami Maharaja Prabhupada on Dec. 13, 1973 in Los Angeles:

“So spiritually, appearance and disappearance, there is no difference. Just like in material point of view, if a person takes birth… Suppose you get a son born, you become very happy. The same son, when passes away, you become very unhappy. This is material. But spiritually, there is no such difference, appearance or disappearance. So although this is the disappearance day of Oṁ Viṣṇupāda Śrī Śrīmad Bhaktisiddhānta Sarasvatī Ṭhākura, so there is nothing to be lamented. Although we feel separation, that feeling is there, but spiritually, there is no difference between appearance and disappearance.”

For today’s post we are going back in time…to the first issue of Back to Godhead Magazine after Srila Prabhu’s departure.

Srila Prabhupada Speaks Out
text excerpted from; Back to Godhead Magazine

His Final Instructions

During his last months, Srila Prabhupada was not very active physically, and he spoke relatively little. Yet when he did speak, his words were full of spiritual strength. These excerpts from Srila Prabhupada’s last statements reveal the mind of the pure devotee and universal teacher. And they show that Srila Prabhupada is indeed a transcendental personality, whose devotion to Lord Krsna and to the mission of spreading love of Krsna is undying.

“I cannot speak. I am feeling weak. I wanted to travel to Chandigarh and other places, but I changed my program because my health is deteriorating. I decided to come here to Vrndavana (the land of Lord Krsna). If death takes place, let it take place here.”

“There is nothing new to be said. Whatever I had to say, I have already said in my books. Now you must all try to understand it and continue with your endeavors. Whether I am present or not present doesn’t matter. Just as Krsna is living eternally, the living being also lives eternally. But especially… kirtir yasya sa jivati: ‘One who has done service to the Lord lives forever.’ You have been taught to serve Krsna, and with Krsna we’ll live eternally. Our life is eternal. Na hanyate hanyamane sarire: the disappearance of this temporary body doesn’t matter. The body is meant for disappearance. So, live forever by serving Krsna. Thank you very much.”

“There are two things—life and death. So if I die, where is the wrong in that? If I die, that is natural.”

“Our money is only spent for Krsna—Krsna’s palace, Krsna’s temple, Krsna’s worship, ‘Krsna’s glorification. It is not for our personal enjoyment. This is human life.”

“And I also want you to organize varnasrama society [the Vedic social structure]. Divide society: brahmana [intellectual class], ksatriya [administrators], and so on. There should be social division, just as there is a division of the different parts of our body. This will help people. Don’t waste the human form of life by sinful living. I have already given the ideas in my books, so you should all read them. You are intelligent, all of you. Caitanya Mahaprabhu said para-upakara—do good to others, do not exploit them. Any human being has the ability to chant Hare Krsna. Give them chanting. And also make the situation favorable. Is that clear?

“This is our mission: whatever we have, teach others. The whole world is filled with distress. Therefore our Gurukula school is meant for this purpose: to teach the students, and let them go all over the world to teach others. Durlabha manava janma sat-sange/ taraha e bhava-sindhu re [‘Human life, especially in the association of devotees, is very rarely obtained. So please take advantage of this opportunity to cross over the ocean of material existence’].”

“My Guru Maharaja [spiritual master] said, ‘Whatever money there is, use it to print books.’ He was so happy to print books. So, do it all very nicely. My Guru Maharaja used to say, ‘Go on printing, go on printing.’ I printed my books, now you do the same ‘

“Printing of spiritual books is our life-force. Print more books. This material body is only bones. But go on printing—this is life. We are not concerned with bones and stones. Our concern is the living force: apareyam itas tv anyam prakrtim viddhi me param. The living force is sustaining these bones. In the material world, people are all simply protecting bones and flesh; they have no [spiritual] idea.

“Take matter—you mix earth, water, put it into fire, and then make a building. But matter cannot act automatically. Matter cannot have mind or consciousness or impetus. It is nonsense to say that matter gives rise to life. Matter has no sense. Life is the superior energy; matter is useless. Bhumir apo ‘nalo vayuh [the material elements] are useless. But there is another, superior nature. Yayedam dharyate jagat And that nature is actually governing the whole, universe.

“You [disciples] are all intelligent and experienced men; you can go on managing this movement. If I depart, there is no cause for lamentation. I will always be with you through my books and my orders. I will always remain with you in that way.”

“I didn’t waste a single moment. I tried my best, and it has been successful ,to some, extent”

“Have sankirtana [congregational chanting of God’s holy names]. All Europeans, Americans, Africans-United Nations under Caitanya Mahaprabhu’s flag. Do everything just as I have shown you. It is possible. This is the real United Nations. You try, under the protection of Caitanya Mahaprabhu, and things will be successful. Others will simply waste their time and be disappointed. They will change from one body to another and suffer.”

“As soon as one forgets Krsna and wants to enjoy life independently, he falls down.”

“Material motives should be given up, and everything favorable should be engaged in Krsna’s service. Then there will be success.”

When asked who would succeed him as the leader of the Krsna consciousness movement, Srila Prabhupada replied: “All of my disciples will take the legacy. If you want, you can also take it. Sacrifice everything. I—one—may soon pass away. But they are hundreds, and this movement will increase. It’s not that I’ll give an order: ‘Here is the next leader.’ Anyone who follows the previous leadership is a leader. I don’t make any distinction between Indian and European. All my disciples are leaders… as much as they follow purely. If you want to follow, then you can also lead. But you dont want to follow. ‘Leader’ means (one who is a first-class disciple. Evam parampara-praptam. One who is perfectly following. Our instruction is, guru mukha-padma-vakya. Do you know this? Ara na kariha mane asa. [My only desire is to have my consciousness purified by the words emanating from the lotus mouth of my spiritual master’]. To become a leader is not very difficult, provided one is prepared to follow the instructions of the bonafide guru.

Text excerpted from: The Bhaktivedanta Book Trust International, Inc., Rights and Permissions, copyrights@bbti.org, http://www.bbti.org

Source:https://theharekrishnamovement.org/2016/11/03/his-final-instructions/

Avatar Art: Neo-Vedic Paintings Celebrating Life by Steven J. Rosen (Satyaraja Dasa) and co-author Kaisori Bellachoffers a beautiful artistic smorgasbord of the most popular figures in India's array of avatars, gods, sages, and demons. The alluring paintings of which this volume is comprised, portrayed by contemporary artists, mostly ISKCON devotees, focus on stories from the Srimad Bhagavatam (Bhagavata Purana), the Mahabharata, and the Caitanya-caritamrta. The text illuminates the art.

Here, at last, is a BBT art book that reads like an art book. More than just another volume of “painting, lila-explanation, painting, lila-explanation,” this work not only elaborates on the content of the paintings but also explains the art in terms of actually being works of art. Why was one particular color used as opposed to another? How does this compare to a similar painting in the Western tradition? These sorts of questions often lead to thought-provoking answers. 

Overall, this book insightfully brings to bear the spiritual in art both from Eastern and Western theological perspectives, finally explaining Vaishnava art in some accessible context. Satyaraja Prabhu was a student at the High School of Art and Design and then majored in fine art and painting at New York Community College before joining the Hare Krishna Movement. This informs his writing in this particular book, his latest among his 30-some-odd titles. 

The book opens with a lengthy Introduction explaining the basic principles of bhakti (devotion) and rasa(relationship) and how these two deeply spiritual ideas impact art in general. From there we learn about “spiritual art in the West,” briefly exploring the work of everyone from Kandinsky to Rothko. The authors show how most spiritual art is dominated by abstraction and seeing God in nature, largely because specific information about God and His personal form are lacking.

This leads to a discussion of spiritual art in India, ultimately exploring the form of Krishna and His incarnations. We then follow this more specific aspect of spiritual art as it makes its way to the Western world, complete with the founding of the ISKCON art department and the beautiful, award-winning pieces found throughout ISKCON temples and peppered throughout Srila Prabhupada’s books. 

After setting up the book in this way, key personalities and stories from the Srimad Bhagavatam, the Mahabharata, and the Caitanya-caritamrta are highlighted with traditional art and, more specifically, with ISKCON art, both from the early days of the movement until the present day. 

Since this is a follow-up to Satyaraja’s first BBT book, “The Hidden Glory of India,” it is designed as part of a series, sporting the same size and style of that initial volume.  

With 102 paintings by 27 artists, this full color book, in 224 pages, clearly depicts the entire tradition of Krishna Consciousness, at least in nutshell form. And it does so with considerable style and visual delight. The book is a must for artists and lovers of art and, well, for all who want to fully appreciate the visual beauty of Krishna Consciousness.

* * * 

The book is available at krishna.com (http://store.krishna.com/avatar-art-neo-vedic-paintings-celebrating-life/). Wholesale and retail orders can be made from NA BBT by phone: 1-800-927-4152. 

Source:http://iskconnews.org/avatar-art-a-book-review,5903/

By Namhatta ISKCON Vrindavan:

The Transcendental Pastimes Of Lord Jaganatha's 2nd Rathayatra in Mathura Vrindavana.

17th Oct 2016, During the auspicious month of Damodar, ISKCON Vrindavana Namhatta Department organized the 2nd grand Rath Yatra festival in Mathura to celebrate the 50th anniversary of ISKCON. The event co-ordinated with the 2016 Braja Mandal Parikrama with the parikrama devotees gathered in Mathura that very day to attend the festival on Oct 17, 2016. Due to the overwhelming support of the residents of Mathura and the enthusiastic participation of local and visiting devotees, the celebration is now marked to be an annual event on ISKCON Vrindavana's calendar.

For photos please go to the link:

https://www.facebook.com/587926797996015/photos/?tab=album&album_id=1025091094279581

Celebrations began at 9:00 am with a Pandal Program at Kedar Dham Mathura.. Festivities began with a devotional welcoming of Sri Sri Jagannatha , Subhdra and Baladeva with a showering of floweres and kirtan. A marvelous feast of numerous preparations and arati was offered to the Lord of the Universe. Sweet kirtan and discourse was given by HG Panca Gauda Prabhu, HG Deena Bandhu Prabhu, HG Dadhi Bhaksa Prabhu, HH BA Janardan Swami, HH Gaurnarayan Swami, HH Prabodhananda Swami, HH Radha Raman Swami.

Numerous Prabhupada disciples were present and many countries of the world were represented through the attendance of devotees from abroad. Also the Vrajamandal Parikrama devotees numbering about 1500 had their schedule coordinated to join in the event and many Mathura-vasis , naturally bound in affection to the Lord by birth, also participated. Prasadam was distributed to about 2500 devotees in the morning.

Ratha Yatra Started at 1:00 pm, with Jagannatha Astakam by HH Prabhodhananda Swami and Maha Aratik by HG Pancagauda Prabhu.

After about half an hour, Sri Sri Jagannatha , Subhdra and Baladeva were seated on the Ratha, Many thousands of devotees came forward to pull the Cart of the Lord in ecstasy sending the wheels of the Lord's Rath in motion at 2:30 pm. In a scene reminiscent of Jaganatha Puri, the Ratha got stuck in the middle of Chowraha for over 90 minutes. By the Lords mercy, this transcendental advertisement attracted even more of the residents of Mathura who were about their daily affairs. In the evening, many thousands more than expected Mathuravasis attended the post-Rathayatra evening celebration. If the Ratha had happened to get stuck in any other part of the route it would have caused very severe traffic problems in an already congested urban network.

“ Just like in Jagannatha Puri, Ratha-yatra festival, sometimes the ratha, chariot, will be stuck up, will not move. People draw it, but does not move. Even King Prataparudra engaged some elephants, and the ratha is not moving. And Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu would say, "All right, let Me try." So He would go back side of the car and with His head push it, and very easily it will go.” (*Lecture on SB 1.16.11 -- Los Angeles, January 8, 1974* )

Many Coconuts were broken and, in the tradition of the Gajapati King, a golden broom was used to clear the path for the Lord. It seemed that all business owners, ashrams and other locals were sprouting from every corner to offer arati, flowers and many types of preparations and refreshments which were then distributed to the assembled devotees in the form of Lord Jaganatha's transcendental Remnants.

And very melodious and enthusiastic kirtans drowned all the participants in the ocean of transcendental bliss. Everyone was jubilant on this occasion as the atmosphere was surcharged with Hare Krishna Mahamantra. Local residents were captivated by the dancing foreign devotees and the next day all the local news papers published pictures of foreign matajis in colorful saris dancing before the Lord's cart.

To an onlooker of the procession, the first thing to see was a large banner announcing ISKCON's 50 Year Celebration. Next was a larger than life poster of Prabhupada followed by an 8 ft high replica of his Bhagavada-Gita As It Is. After this there was a well organized skillful team of matajis quickly applying beautiful rangoli decorations to the roadside. Finally one could then bear witness to the transcendental form of the Lord Who's beauty is comparable to the ocean of devotees joyfully pulling the cart while chanting His Name.

Ratha Yatra finally concluded at Hirakunja Residency at 6:30 pm with a wonderful feast Prasadam for a devotee crowd swelling to more than 3000 strong followed by Sandhya Arati, lamps in offering to Lord Damodara. A cultural program of dance and drama went into the late hours of the evening.

If you are planning to come to Vrindavan during the month of Kartik in the years to come, please take note and participate in ISKCON's Mathura Rathayatra. The event is only *30* minutes from ISKCON's Krsna Balarama Temple in Vrindavana. Arrangement is made for the free travel of devotees to and from the event by bus however the journey can easily be negotiated by auto rickshaw.

By Srila Prabhupada's mercy the event is proving to be a very sweet celebration that harnesses the devotional enthusiasm of the residents of Mathura and ISKCON devotees both local and abroad.

Time is ticking and I’m reflecting on what I’ve actually contributed to the world. Though trying to avoid the egotistical desire to ‘make a mark,’ we are impelled to share the ‘fruits’ we have received. Spiritually, morally, and even legally, knowledge brings a certain responsibility. In certain circumstances, to withhold information that can greatly assist others would be considered violent and unethical. Thus, I often consider how to develop myself into a better instrument to proliferate spiritual understanding. Projects have come and gone, ideas have worked and then fallen apart, some initiatives were thriving and then slowed own… and then I sometimes think – what will I really have to show after all is said and done? Everything I’m trying is a ‘work-in-progress’, and slow progress at that!

I was contemplating these thoughts yesterday, attempting to hone in on what is actually required to build strong, sustainable, successful, spiritual projects. My conclusion: intensive care. If we don’t intensively care for projects, in no time you’ll find those projects will end up in the ICU, nearing death. How much do I deeply, genuinely, actually care about what I’m trying to achieve? To care means:

To never give up
To be ready and willing to do whatever it takes
To give your quality time and undiverted attention
To be constantly meditating on your goal
To maintain your enthusiasm, despite an absence of results and reciprocation
To engage all your physical and mental capacities
To harbor no hidden agendas or personal motivations
To go that ‘extra mile’ that nobody else would consider
To be so immersed in the goal, that ‘getting the credit’ pales into insignificance

Now I’m wondering how many of my ‘dreams’ and ‘aspirations’ I genuinely care about. Achievements demand blood, sweat and tears. The classic syndrome of a lazy mind is to wishfully desire to emulate something or someone, oblivious to the endless hours of painstaking effort that’s been invested. The easier they make it look, the harder they’ve been working. Today I’m remembering the incredible sacrifices, unending compassion and resolute determination of Srila Prabhupada. He tried everything, went everywhere, and approached everyone, leaving no stone unturned. No amount of social commentary, historical analysis or academic reasoning can account for the miracle of his life. He genuinely cared, and that touched hearts and moved mountains.

Throughout life, people always reminded me to “put my heart into it.” Now I’m beginning to appreciate the profundity of that simple wisdom.

Source:http://iskconnews.org/intensive-care,5904/

In his list for society at large, Bhismadev mentions, “To equally distribute wealth.” So, are we speaking here about communism? It sounds like Bhismadev is the pre-runner of Karl Marx! No, to equally distribute wealth means that there should be no excessive poverty, that no-one should be deprived of their basic needs of life. It is not that everyone should be equally wealthy. This is not appropriate. Reward should be there relating to endeavour and there is also the influence of karma – some are born more wealthy and some are born more poor. So these differences in society are fine but not to the exploitation of others. Those who have wealth have to take responsibility for the well-being of others.

Source:https://www.kksblog.com/2016/11/equality/

750+ Ahmedabad youngsters participated in youth fest ‘UMANG’ - ISKCON Youth Forum Ahmedabad.
Umang, festival of Joy, was an enlivening experience for all the 750+ participants whose level of enthusiasm soared as the festival changed gears, bringing new twists and turns for the young blood.

​Thought provoking and intellectual talk was presented by HG Sundar Gopal Pr, graduate from IIT Delhi, who explained scientifically the dynamics of ‘Pleasure Hunt’.
Through his scientific and logical presentation, videos he proved that everyone is hunting for false pleasure. The session was very interactive and gave a food for thought to every reasonable person.
Youth present was intrigued by simple yet effective presentation and also participated in it positively.

​It was followed by Funny yet leasson giving drama 'Me & My Mind’ that gave a message that how our mind is so restless and always make disturbances in our life by presenting various type of sense objects in front of us like Movies, Alcohol, Pub & Hub, and how we can control it by chanting Hare Krishna maha-mantra, and reading Bhagavad Gita.

​A ten-minute guest lecture was delivered by HG Jashomati Nandan Prabhuji, who urged students to live a life based on the scriptures, while continuing with their studies and work.

The Rock Kirtan led by Sanatana Gauranga Das made every participants jump up and down for a half an hour.

The festival ended with the distribution of sanctified food, or prasadam, which everyone relished as they shared their exhilarating experience with devotees.

Source:http://www.dandavats.com/?p=33043