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

Bhakta David: 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.
Find them here: https://goo.gl/obkvXD
If you are in the UK and can come to London please join our maha harinama 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.

Source:http://www.dandavats.com/?p=33048

ISKCON Youth Forum (IYF) is the youth wing of Sri Sri Radha Govind Temple, a branch of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON). IYF is aimed towards nourishing the hearts of today’s youth with the sublime message of the scriptures and helping them flourish in their lives in a wholesome manner.

Happiness and the true fulfillment of the soul and unending success have been the goals of humanity from eternity. The purpose of life is a life of purpose and what makes a life valuable is the perfect blend of knowledge, skills and values. Most of us simply go through life but in the pursuit of going through life, we forget to grow through life. Therefore the reality is” one cannot upload love, one can’t download time, one can’t google all of the life’s answers therefore one must actually live some of his life.

Spirit of ISKCON Youth Forum
For a sincere human being to live a life of pure principles is a great challenge. ISKCON youth Forum is serving as an oasis in the sense that it is ‘life-giving and transforming’ society in a stress –ridden fast-paced rat race society’ that is like a desert. Thus ISKCON Youth Forum is committed to provide a facility like an Oasis in the middle of a desert to keep oneself surcharged in remembrance of the Supreme Lord, Sri Krishna always. The inspiration is the spiritual inspiration to practice devotion to God with full enthusiasm and developing the spiritual knowledge which acts like a beacon in the sea like unending mysteries of life. IYF is striving towards rekindling the wisdom and reviving their loving and serving propensities.

Mission
Change is an inevitable part of the life and history has witnessed numerous revolutions as part of the change. Most of these revolutions were spearheaded and lead by the youths only. As India makes rapid advancements in the field of technology and is recognized the world over for its vast and untapped resources, especially the ‘human’ resource, with 55% of the population in the age group of 18-25, the future seems bright. But along with this euphoria, there is also a darker side to the reality; one that finds today’s youth battling with drug and alcoholic addictions, pre and post marital infidelities and mental depressions. Therefore ISKCON Youth Forum has ventured into wisdom literatures with the desire to bring about positive revolutions in the misguided life of modern youths. Now ISKCON Youth Forum has taken a good shape in many prestigious cities of India.

The goals of IYF are as follow:

Training in soft skills like Public Speaking, Stress management, Leadership and Management by the application of the timeless wisdom in the modern scenario.
Bringing out the potential in the individual like Concentration, Motivation, Self Confidence etc.
Blending the character with competence in bringing about A Long Enduring Success.
Dealing With Sensitivity And self-awareness In Thought, Words And Action
Organizing Outing For Experiencing Closer Touch With The Nature And The Marvelous Gift Of The Supreme Divine

Source:http://www.dandavats.com/?p=33052

Indian lady: How does one contact the spiritual master? Through a book can you contact the spiritual master? 
Prabhupada: No, you have to associate. 
Syamasundara: “Can you associate through a book?” she asked. Prabhupada: Yes, through books, and also personal. Because when you make a spiritual master you have got personal touch. Not that in air you make a spiritual master. You make a spiritual master concrete. 
>>> Ref. VedaBase => His Divine Grace Srila Sac-cid-ananda Bhaktivinoda Thakura’s Appearance Day, Lecture – London, September 3, 1971
Find them here: https://goo.gl/EyDjDM

Source:http://www.dandavats.com/?p=33057

On the 4th of November 2010, 22:25 PM Moscow time Purnacandra Goswami passed away. It is a great loss for the entire ISKCON community.

On September 15th Maharaja was hospitalized with internal bleeding, and from October 19th he was in coma. Despite deep coma he manifested some signs of consciousness every time when devotees would come to him to chant the holy name.

Purnacandra Maharaja joined Srila Prabhupada’s movement when he was 17 years old. For more than 38 years he served ISKCON with great dedication. His knowledge of the Vedic scriptures was vast and profound. For many years he was teaching Bhakti-sastri course and many other courses to the devotees.

He had very deep attachment to Sri Vrindavana-dhama. He divided his preaching time between Russia and Balkans, but Karttik he would always spend in Vrindavan. Over the last few years he was writing a book dedicated to Lord Krishna’s pastimes in Vrindavana. He was always deeply absorbed in the holy names. The concentration and intensity with which he would chant the holy name every day was incomparable.

By Niranjana Swami

The following is a partially-edited transcript of a short talk I gave during the memorial service for Purnacandra Goswami in Moscow on November, 9, 2010.

We are gathered here to pay our respects to His Holiness Purnacandra Goswami. For those of you who know him, you know that he is a person of substance. I often speak about this topic –substance versus form. If there is substance then everything else will eventually follow.

For the life of a Vaisnava this substance is his Krsna Consciousness, the activities which are performed by him in Krsna Consciousness, and the ability to share that Krsna Consciousness with others. That is the essence of our Krsna Consciousness Movement. And that substance is the heart of a Vaisnava. A Vaisnava is one who fully dedicates his life in service to the Supreme Lord. He feels compassion for the suffering of others.

Purnacandra Maharaja was such a Vaisnava. He was not interested in the external affairs of this world. I know that because of my personal association with him. I’m sure that we’ll hear more confirmation of this from others today– that Maharaja was more interested in sharing substance and less concerned about structure or form. That is one quality of Purnacandra Maharaja I’ve always appreciated.

Purnacandra Maharaja would oftentimes keep his firm commitment to substance even at the risk of being unpopular. He was not at all interested in winning some popularity contest. He was interested in preserving that which was passed on to him by his spiritual master.

Many times I would be with him and I would observe how meticulous he was in his simple, basic activities of sadhana. Sometimes I would come to see him and he would be sitting and chanting his japa alone, very much absorbed in chanting the holy name. His meditation was on his relationship with his spiritual master, and his service to his spiritual master, while aspiring for eternal devotional service to the Supreme Lord.

Because he always preserved this substance in his life, I am confident that it will continue to maintain his life as he continues serving his spiritual master and his worshipful Lord.

In many respects Purnacandra Maharaja was more of a teacher by his example. And though he taught this way, through this firm dedication to the simple, basic practices of Krsna Consciousness, we also know that he was very learned in sastra. He was very meticulous about his study of Srila Prabhupada’s books and the books of our previous acaryas. He was always eager to share his realizations and knowledge obtained from his studies.

Purnacandra Maharaja didn’t need large crowds to be satisfied sharing what he had learned and what he attained in his Krsna Consciousness. He would share his Krsna Consciousness even with a small group of devotees, or even with one devotee. I personally experienced this when we would sit and talk as he would share his realizations with me. This is another one of his qualities I will always remember. I’m sure that many of you who know Purnacandra Maharaja will also remember this quality of his too.

There is more that I could say about my remembrances of Maharaja but I’d like to just focus on this feature of him as a person of substance. So I’ll stop here and maybe I’ll have an opportunity some other time to speak about other remembrances of him.

I am also very eager to hear from those devotees with whom this substance was shared. I’m quite sure that their words will be a testimony to my words. I consider these Vaisnavas very fortunate to have an intimate, close relationship with him.

Thank you very much.

Source:http://www.dandavats.com/?p=33060

In order to understand Shri Nityananda Prabhu’s image in the Gaudiya Vaishnava tradition, we have to know the Avatara doctrine, which describes the way the Lord appears in this world in behalf of His spiritual energies. Shri Nityananda  Prabhu is a manifestation of compassion, of mercy and of divine love. He is the supreme Person, God himself who stepped into history and made His appearance in this world in the second half of the sixteenth century, according to the Western calendar. Like in the Shrimad Bhagavatam literature, which narrates Shri Krishna-Balarama’s adventures, in the Caitanya Caritamrita and the Caitanya Bhagavata, respectively written by Krishnadas Kaviraja Gosvami and Vrindavana das Thakur, they narrate Shri Krishna Caitanya Mahaprabhu’s and Shri Nityananda Prabhu’s divine adventures.

Krishna Caitanya Mahaprabhu is Krishna himself, who is manifested with a special rasa, that of Shrimati Radharani. Shrimati Radharani’s love for Krishna is experienced and manifested in full by Shri Caitanya Mahaprabhu who lives in Shrimati Radharani’s rasa and that ontologically  represents the divine union between Radha and Krishna. Shrimati Radharani is endlessly and for ever in love with Krishna, the same as Shri Caitanya Mahaprabhu’s love is everlasting and infinite.

Like Shri Krishna, whose brother and inseparable friend is Shri Balarama, Shri Caitanya has an inseparable friend too, whose name is Shri Nityananda. They are inseparable in the feelings of love that join them together. Shri Nityananda Prabhu would have shared Shri Caitanya Deva’s company all time long, however he had to fulfill his mission in behalf of His beloved associate: to travel from city to city in order to spread the holy name of the Lord. Therefore Nityananda, together with one of his best friends, Shrila Haridas Thakur, engaged himself completely in the diffusion of the sacred science, practising Harinama Kirtana and Harinama Sankirtana. In this way, by sharing this responsibility with other dear devotees, in this supreme mission that is the diffusion of love for God, Shri Nityananda Prabhu became one of the most dear Shri Krishna Caitanya Mahaprabhu’s spiritual associates.

Like Balarama, enterprising, strong, outgoing, generous, always compassionate towards the devotees, whose manifestation was considered as one of the original spiritual Master, the same Shri Nityananda Prabhu preached the sacred science and  spread his teachings to all the people of good will, in the practice of Bhakti.

Source:http://matsyavatara.blogspot.in/2013/05/in-order-to-understand-shri-nityananda.html