“Who’s the Girl with Krishna?”
Yesterday Parama Karuna, Mathuradhis and I were at a mall in San Jose reading about Radharani in the Nectar of Devotion. Srila Prabhupada (and Srila Rupa Goswami) was talking about how devotional service is greater than Krsna because it attracts Him and that the symbol of devotional service in the highest degree is Radharani.
So when we were about to distribute books again Parama turned to me and said, “Isn’t it amazing that no one here has heard of Srimati Radharani?!” Around us was the mayhem and madness of last minute shoppers bustling and jostling for last minute Christmas presents in their last minute nightmare before the clock struck twelve and the gifts they forgot to get turn them into pumpkins. It was obvious that the Hladini Shakti was not foremost on their minds.
But then Mathuradhis met a couple who were more thoughtful. They bought a book from him and went on their way. I saw them walk past me with the book in their hands and mused that I had wanted to stop them a few minutes before they met Mathura. Somehow I had missed the opportunity but Krsna hadn’t.
I guess this couple wanted to know more because moments later they were standing next to me discussing between themselves the pictures in that book. So I poked my head into their conversation and asked if they understood those pictures. A conversation ensued.
We covered the usual topics of karma and reincarnation and what Christmas means to a monk but then the girl asked me a question that stopped me in my tracks. The book they had only had pictures like changing bodies, karma and such. There were no pictures of the Spiritual World but our conversation had led me past the demigods to the real Boss, the real CEO in the sky, Krsna and His eternal abode of Goloka Vrndavana. And this lady, Sally, suddenly asked me out of the blue, “Who’s the Girl [with Krsna]?”
It seems like the secret is out. Is it really that no one knows about the real CEO in Vrndavana, Radharani? Where did Sally find out?
We may think that our efforts to give some knowledge in this world are in vein that no one really reads the books let alone understands them. We may pacify ourselves by reading the Nectar of Devotion and learning that the devotional service we are performing is attracting Krsna and therefore any other result is irrelevant. But it seems that there is some tangible result as one person yesterday inquired into Someone that even we the ones who have the most faith in trying to preach to a forgetful society may not have realized was out there preaching with us.

Source : http://www.dandavats.com/?p=29520

By Nrtya Kisori Dasi

The Phoenix is a cyclically regenerated bird: it obtains new life by arising from the ashes of its predecessor; sometimes decomposing leads to rebirth. TKG Academy may be one such example.

Srila Prabhupada desired good education and training for ISKCON’s children. He thus established Gurukulas, beginning with the Dallas Gurukula in 1972. He gave instructions for the proper care of the children, their practices and the contents of their studies.

Unfortunately, imperfections in the execution of those instructions by some immature followers, to say the least, led to the failure of the program and its closure. Many lives have been negatively affected.

However, visionary leaders in our society rose from those “ashes”. Gurukula education isn’t all evil. Past mistakes should be used as learning experiences and ailments should be amended. Taking the essence of Srila Prabhupada’s instructions and applying them according to time, place and circumstances can lead to wonderful outcomes.

TKG Academy strives for such success. With qualified and experienced teachers, dedicated to the educational goals set by Srila Prabhupada, we promote academic excellence as a way to facilitate the children’s future stability while maneuvering the responsibilities of life in this material world. Our students are expected to become respectable citizens, leaders of society. Spiritual philosophy and practices are woven in all subjects and form the basis of the educational vision.

The day-school is now thriving. Srila Prabhupada’s mood and mission are the guiding principles and all decisions are aligned accordingly. Its foundations are well rooted in the ancient wisdom of Vedic knowledge as taught by him, while keeping the pace of the demands of living in today’s society. This current manifestation, which struggled to grow out of the burnt past, is expected to be long-lived, just like the Phoenix.

Not only is it surviving, it’s expanding! Our enrollment has doubled within the past few years and we have outgrown our current facility. By the grace and arrangement of Sri Sri Radha Kalachandji, a building nearby became available for our purchase; a building which the devotees have been “eyeing” for years and working to persuade its owner to sale for almost a decade! Finally, just when the need for additional space for our school became acute, Krsna arranged for him to have a change of heart and become more detached. He agreed to sell and we are now in the process of acquiring the building and making all the necessary renovations for both buildings. By His mercy and according to His will, the building is expected to be ready before the upcoming school year. We feel excited and enlivened to make such an offering to Srila Prabhupada on his 120th Vyasa Puja and ISKCON’s 50th anniversary!

We herein beg the devotees for their mercy and blessings that we can complete this project and please Sri Guru, Sri Gauranga and Their devotees!

Thank you very much.

For more information, please visit our website: http://www.tkgacademy.com/giving/ or our Facebook page: https://m.facebook.com/TKG.Academy/

Source: http://www.dandavats.com/?p=29513

Russian President Vladimir Putin signed into law last week a measure punishing any kind of religious evangelization outside of churches, which some observers have called one of the most restrictive move in “post-Soviet history.”

“This new situation resembles the Soviet Union in 1929. At that time confession of faith was permitted only in church,” Hannu Haukka, president of Great Commission Media Ministries, told National Religious Broadcasters, according to Breitbart News. “Practically speaking, we are back in the same situation. These anti-terrorist laws are some of the most restrictive laws in post-Soviet history.”

The law, which is supposed to be aimed against the spread of terrorism and extremism, has also been approved by the Russian Parliament’s upper chamber. The move blocks the sharing of faith in any place that is not a government-sanctioned house of worship.

Charisma News reported that thousands of churches in Russia are coming together in prayer and fasting against the move, based on information shared by Haukka.

“The church is appalled at the news of the new law. About 7,000 evangelical/protestant churches are in fasting and prayer at the moment over the news,” Haukka said.

The Christian Post reported earlier this month that several Christian groups in Russia have already spoken out against the draconian measures, with the Seventh-day Adventist’s Moscow-based Euro-Asia Division stating that it is nearly “impossible” for religious believers to comply with the requirements.

“If this legislation is approved, the religious situation in the country will grow considerably more complicated and many believers will find themselves in exile and subjected to reprisals because of our faith,” the group said before Putin’s signature.

Under the new law, foreign missionaries will not be allowed to speak at churches unless that have a work permit from Russian authorities; any kind of discussion about God with non-believers would be considered missionary activity and punishable by law; and religious activities even in private homes will not be allowed.

What is more, anyone from the age of 14 found to be preaching will be subject to prosecution, and every citizen is required to report religious activity to the authorities, or face punishment him or herself.

Haukka asked Christians around the world to join in prayer with the Russian churches as they face uncertain times.

“Russia is closing down in an awful way. The new law is in total conflict with the purpose and the task given to the church by the Lord. The law will send the church back into Soviet era Communist persecution,” he asked.

NRB President Jerry A. Johnson further called on the United States government to pressure Russia to repeal what he described as an “unjust law.”

“Let’s pray this new iron curtain of Christian persecution in Russia will be lifted quickly and without harm to our brothers and sisters in Christ,” Johnson said.

Read more at http://www.christianpost.com/news/thousands-fasting-after-russian-president-putin-signs-law-banning-evangelism-outside-of-churches-166345/#xaDd6OKRRGeST6SI.99

Source:http://www.dandavats.com/?p=29475

Srila Prabhupada is attributed to have said the above - playing on a famous poem by Byron.

ISKCON turns 50 today. And I would like to acknowledge that significant milestone by expressing my gratitude towards this "framework" established by Srila Prabhupada, without which, I and millions of others would not have had access to Krsna consciousness.

That ISKCON, an organisation operating within the material world (but, according to Srila Prabhupada, not exclusively - there is a Goloka/Navadvip branch) to have faults should not be a surprise, nor a legitimate basis for withdrawing one's support, participation or appreciation.

Just as a material body - even one inhabited by a sincere devotee - is not immune to pathogens or disease, an organisational vehicle operating within the material world, is susceptible to all of the issues that can plague any organisation. For us to become disillusioned or cynical because of these very real challenges suggests a naive idealism or perhaps a "consumer/enjoying mentality." ISKCON is a gift bequeathed to us by Srila Prabhupada - a framework for associating and cooperating with other devotees in pursuance of offering Lord Caitanya's benediction to the masses.

Should we be surprised or dismayed that there are some very real challenges in operating such a Society at this current time (Kali Yuga) and in dealing with the exponential growth which continues to typify ISKCON throughout the world, dealing with matters for which we have had precious little training or historical precedents?

Based on the above quotation, Srila Prabhupada was more than aware of the various issues and potential issues that the Society's members would have to deal with. Apparently, he didn't see them as a legitimate basis for withdrawing support, participation and appreciation. Serving the spiritual master's order is not meant to involve comfort and convenience necessarily. Serving cooperatively - in a prevailing environment of discord, division, scandal, intrigue, etc - is tapasya. Putting aside one's own preferences to serve a higher cause - in this case, the pleasure of the spiritual master.

Much has been published over the years about the Society's flaws - perhaps an expression of love gone awry - and such focus may serve to distort people's impressions of what the Society is.

While I am not in any illusion about the very real challenges that the Society still faces, I would like to offer my appreciation for this wonderful gift that Srila Prabhupada has bestowed on me and others and gratitude both to him and to all the devotees who continue to steadfastly serve its purposes for the benefit of the millions who benefit from its work in the world.

- to the heroic souls who joined in the pioneering days and endured various hardships to help Srila Prabhupada get things started 
- to those who have taken responsibility to staff and run the temples - places where we can congregate, hear and chant, take darsana and prasadam
- those who take all kinds of risks and inconvenience to introduce the innocent to Krsna consciousness 
- to those who take responsibility and risk to help others connect to the parampara
- to those who continue to make Srila Prabhupada's writings and other media accessible to all peoples

I am deeply grateful and appreciative.

I feel blessed to have come into contact with Srila Prabhupada's teachings through the agency of ISKCON and its devotees.

And to feel sustained by such sanga and facilities - seeing that gift extended to successive generations of my family.

I feel so grateful to feel welcomed and supported at my local temples.

Long may the Society prosper and become increasingly effective at serving the purposes that Srila Prabhupada intended

Source:https://www.facebook.com/damodara.dasa/posts/10205166133987934

This morning I was just reflecting on how hot the weather has been, and how much all the plants are in need of water. Then, as I was reading the following verses from the Srimad Bhagavatam and I was thinking that we are all in need of Krsna, who is like the rain, and who’s beauty is compared to the dark clouds in the sky.

…After the scorching heat of the summer season, it is very pleasing to see dark clouds in the sky. The Lord wears a peacock feather in His hair, and His bodily complexion is just like a blackish cloud.

…The Lord’s beauty is compared to rainfall because when the rain falls in the rainy season, it becomes more and more pleasing to the people. After the scorching heat of the summer season, the people enjoy the rainy season very much. Indeed, they even come out of their doors in the villages and enjoy the rainfall directly. Thus the Lord’s bodily features are compared to the clouds of the rainy season.

…No one can say that the body of the Lord is wanting in beautiful parts. It is completely pūrṇam. Everything is complete: God’s creation, God’s beauty and God’s bodily features. All these are so complete that all one’s desires can become fully satisfied when one sees the beauty of the Lord. Both materialists and spiritualists can enjoy the beauty of the Lord. Because the Supreme Lord attracts everyone, including demons and devotees, materialists and spiritualists, He is called Kṛṣṇa. (from purport to SB 4.24.45-46)

Full text and purport

Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam
By His Divine Grace A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupāda
Canto Four, Chapter 24, Text 45-46

snigdha-prāvṛḍ-ghana-śyāmaṁ
sarva-saundarya-saṅgraham
cārv-āyata-catur-bāhu
sujāta-rucirānanam
padma-kośa-palāśākṣaṁ
sundara-bhru sunāsikam
sudvijaṁ sukapolāsyaṁ
sama-karṇa-vibhūṣaṇam

snigdha—glistening; prāvṛṭ—rainy season; ghana-śyāmam—densely cloudy; sarva—all; saundarya—beauty; saṅgraham—collection; cāru—beautiful; āyata—bodily feature; catuḥ-bāhu—unto the four-armed; su-jāta—ultimately beautiful; rucira—very pleasing; ānanam—face; padma-kośa—the whorl of the lotus flower; palāśa—petals; akṣam—eyes; sundara—beautiful; bhru—eyebrows; su-nāsikam—raised nose; su-dvijam—beautiful teeth; su-kapola—beautiful forehead; āsyam—face; sama-karṇa—equally beautiful ears; vibhūṣaṇam—fully decorated.

TRANSLATION

The Lord’s beauty resembles a dark cloud during the rainy season. As the rainfall glistens, His bodily features also glisten. Indeed, He is the sum total of all beauty. The Lord has four arms and an exquisitely beautiful face with eyes like lotus petals, a beautiful highly raised nose, a mind-attracting smile, a beautiful forehead and equally beautiful and fully decorated ears.

PURPORT

After the scorching heat of the summer season, it is very pleasing to see dark clouds in the sky. As confirmed in Brahma-saṁhitā: barhāvataṁsam asitāmbuda-sundarāṅgam. The Lord wears a peacock feather in His hair, and His bodily complexion is just like a blackish cloud. The word sundara, or snigdha, means “very pleasing.” Kandarpa-koṭi-kamanīya. Kṛṣṇa’s beauty is so pleasing that not even millions upon millions of Cupids can compare to it. The Lord’s form as Viṣṇu is decorated in all opulence; therefore Lord Śiva is trying to see that most opulent form of Nārāyaṇa, or Viṣṇu. Generally the worship of the Lord begins with the worship of Nārāyaṇa, or Viṣṇu, whereas the worship of Lord Kṛṣṇa and Rādhā is most confidential. Lord Nārāyaṇa is worshipable by the pāñcarātrika-vidhi, or regulative principles, whereas Lord Kṛṣṇa is worshipable by the bhāgavata-vidhi. No one can worship the Lord in the bhāgavata-vidhi without going through the regulations of the pāñcarātrika-vidhi. Actually, neophyte devotees worship the Lord according to the pāñcarātrika-vidhi, or the regulative principles enjoined in the Nārada-pañcarātra. Rādhā-Kṛṣṇa cannot be approached by the neophyte devotees; therefore temple worship according to regulative principles is offered to Lakṣmī-Nārāyaṇa. Although there may be a Rādhā-Kṛṣṇa vigraha, or form, the worship of the neophyte devotees is acceptable as Lakṣmī-Nārāyaṇa worship. Worship according to the pāñcarātrika-vidhi is called vidhi-mārga, and worship according to the bhāgavata-vidhi principles is called rāga-mārga. The principles of rāga-mārga are especially meant for devotees who are elevated to the Vṛndāvana platform.

The inhabitants of Vṛndāvana—the gopīs, mother Yaśodā, Nanda Mahārāja, the cowherd boys, the cows and everyone else—are actually on the rāga-mārga or bhāgavata-mārga platform. They participate in five basic rasas—dāsya, sakhya, vātsalya, mādhurya and śānta. But although these five rasas are found in the bhāgavata-mārga, the bhāgavata-mārga is especially meant for vātsalya and mādhurya, or paternal and conjugal relationships. Yet there is the vipralambha-sakhya, the higher fraternal worship of the Lord especially enjoyed by the cowherd boys. Although there is friendship between Kṛṣṇa and the cowherd boys, this friendship is different from the aiśvarya friendship between Kṛṣṇa and Arjuna. When Arjuna saw the viśva-rūpa, the gigantic universal form of the Lord, he was afraid for having treated Kṛṣṇa as an ordinary friend; therefore he begged Kṛṣṇa’s pardon. However, the cowherd boys who are friends of Kṛṣṇa in Vṛndāvana sometimes ride on the shoulders of Kṛṣṇa. They treat Kṛṣṇa equally, just as they treat one another, and they are never afraid of Him, nor do they ever beg His pardon. Thus the rāga-mārga, or bhāgavata-mārga, friendship exists on a higher platform with Kṛṣṇa, namely the platform of vipralambha friendship. Paternal friendship, paternal service and conjugal service are visible in the Vṛndāvana rāga-mārga relationships.

Without serving Kṛṣṇa according to the vidhi-mārga regulative principles of the pāñcarātrika-vidhi, unscrupulous persons want to jump immediately to the rāga-mārga principles. Such persons are called sahajiyā. There are also demons who enjoy depicting Kṛṣṇa and His pastimes with the gopīs, taking advantage of Kṛṣṇa by their licentious character. These demons who print books and write lyrics on the rāga-mārga principles are surely on the way to hell. Unfortunately, they lead others down with them. Devotees in Kṛṣṇa consciousness should be very careful to avoid such demons. One should strictly follow the vidhi-mārga regulative principles in the worship of Lakṣmī-Nārāyaṇa, although the Lord is present in the temple as Rādhā-Kṛṣṇa. Rādhā-Kṛṣṇa includes Lakṣmī-Nārāyaṇa; therefore when one worships the Lord according to the regulative principles, the Lord accepts the service in the role of Lakṣmī-Nārāyaṇa. In The Nectar of Devotion full instructions are given about the vidhi-mārga worship of Rādhā-Kṛṣṇa, or Lakṣmī-Nārāyaṇa. Although there are sixty-four kinds of offenses one can commit in vidhi-mārga worship, in rāga-mārga worship there is no consideration of such offenses because the devotees on that platform are very much elevated, and there is no question of offense. But if we do not follow the regulative principles on the vidhi-mārga platform and keep our eyes trained to spot offenses, we will not make progress.

In his description of Kṛṣṇa’s beauty, Lord Śiva uses the words cārvāyata-catur-bāhu sujāta-rucirānanam, indicating the beautiful four-armed form of Nārāyaṇa, or Viṣṇu. Those who worship Lord Kṛṣṇa describe Him as sujāta-rucirānanam. In the viṣṇu-tattva there are hundreds and thousands and millions of forms of the Supreme Lord, but of all these forms, the form of Kṛṣṇa is the most beautiful. Thus for those who worship Kṛṣṇa, the word sujāta-rucirānanam is used.

The four arms of Lord Viṣṇu have different purposes. The hands holding a lotus flower and conchshell are meant for the devotees, whereas the other two hands, holding a disc and mace, or club, are meant for the demons. Actually all of the Lord’s arms are auspicious, whether they are holding conchshells and flowers or clubs and discs. The demons killed by Lord Viṣṇu’s cakra disc and club are elevated to the spiritual world, just like the devotees who are protected by the hands holding the lotus flower and conchshell. However, the demons who are elevated to the spiritual world are situated in the impersonal Brahman effulgence, whereas the devotees are allowed to enter into the Vaikuṇṭha planets. Those who are devotees of Lord Kṛṣṇa are immediately elevated to the Goloka Vṛndāvana planet.

The Lord’s beauty is compared to rainfall because when the rain falls in the rainy season, it becomes more and more pleasing to the people. After the scorching heat of the summer season, the people enjoy the rainy season very much. Indeed, they even come out of their doors in the villages and enjoy the rainfall directly. Thus the Lord’s bodily features are compared to the clouds of the rainy season. The devotees enjoy the Lord’s beauty because it is a collection of all kinds of beauties. Therefore the word sarva-saundarya-saṅgraham is used. No one can say that the body of the Lord is wanting in beautiful parts. It is completely pūrṇam. Everything is complete: God’s creation, God’s beauty and God’s bodily features. All these are so complete that all one’s desires can become fully satisfied when one sees the beauty of the Lord. The word sarva-saundarya indicates that there are different types of beauties in the material and spiritual worlds and that the Lord contains all of them. Both materialists and spiritualists can enjoy the beauty of the Lord. Because the Supreme Lord attracts everyone, including demons and devotees, materialists and spiritualists, He is called Kṛṣṇa. Similarly, His devotees also attract everyone. As mentioned in the Sad-gosvāmī-stotra: dhīrādhīra-jana-priyau—the Gosvāmīs are equally dear to the dhīra (devotees) and adhīra (demons). Lord Kṛṣṇa was not very pleasing to the demons when He was present in Vṛndāvana, but the six Gosvāmīs were pleasing to the demons when they were present in Vṛndāvana. That is the beauty of the Lord’s dealings with His devotees; sometimes the Lord gives more credit to His devotees than He takes for Himself. For instance, on the Battlefield of Kurukṣetra, Lord Kṛṣṇa fought simply by giving directions. Yet it was Arjuna who took the credit for fighting. Nimitta-mātraṁ bhava savyasācin: “You, O Savyasācī [Arjuna], can be but an instrument in the fight.” (Bg. 11.33) Everything was arranged by the Lord, but the credit of victory was given to Arjuna. Similarly, in the Kṛṣṇa consciousness movement, everything is happening according to the predictions of Lord Caitanya, but the credit goes to Lord Caitanya’s sincere servants. Thus the Lord is described herein as sarva-saundarya-saṅgraham.

Source:https://theharekrishnamovement.org/2016/07/13/the-beauty-of-the-lord-2/

Today marks a half century for ISKCON. It is predicted to progress for 100 centuries. From that perspective, ISKCON is pretty much in its infancy. But from where we are standing, 50 years seems a long journey since its official inception July 13 1966.

I have been privileged to be a part of this esteemed institution. I have had the opportunity to meet many like minded souls and very pure souls. I cannot say I can find any other place in this entire planet earth where brilliant minds and pure souls gather in all in one place. I have made many friends in part due to this institution. For that, I am very grateful.

Initially, the incorporated ISKCON was simply a band of lose devotees in one building under an effulgent leader. Who knew, after 50 years, it would truly become a global organization that it is today. This also means global challenges. When we have devotees from diverse backgrounds gathering in one place, there is bound to be difference of opinion perhaps not in ideology but in execution of ideology. Therefore, it is necessary to have leaders who have sound management skills who can manage resources and people efficiently. As for ideological differences if any, we must go back to the books and tapes of Srila Prabhupada.

As long as ISKCON puts its Founder Acharya always in the center by following his instructions’ strictly, then I believe nothing can stop ISKCON for the next 100 centuries. I want to thank all the devotees’ who tirelessly work as a cohesive unit, despite differences, to serve the different instructions’ of Srila Prabhupada, a beacon of light for this dark age of quarrel and hypocrisy.

My humble obeisances and heartfelt gratitude to the Founder Acharya of ISKCON His Divine Grace AC Bhaktivedanta Swami to have the vision to establish a spiritual movement that is a receptacle for genuine seekers of truth!

Source:http://servantoftheservant-ananda.blogspot.in/2016/07/iskcon-50.html

The ISKCON 50 Global office launched the Inspiration Series videos on July 13th, the exact day that ISKCON was incorporated as a legal entity fifty years ago in 1966. 

The Inspiration Series is a set of over 16 short videos that feature ISKCON leaders explaining the importance of the 50th anniversary of ISKCON and encouraging devotees to participate enthusiastically all over the world. 

They can be viewed on the YouTube channels of ISKCON 50 and ISKCON Desire Tree.

The series which was produced by ISKCON 50 and filmed by ISKCON Desire Tree features ISKCON leaders such as Radhanatha Swami, Gopal Krishna Goswami, Bhakticharu Swami, Bhakti Purushottam Swami, Anuttama Das, Devakinandan Das, Rameshvara Das and several others. 

“We want as many people as possible to participate enthusiastically in the 50th anniversary,” explained Romapada Das, the producer of the series who is the International Coordinator for the 50th anniversary. “Devotees naturally draw personal inspiration from many of our stalwart leaders. Therefore, we hope that by watching the clips where our leaders talk about the 50th anniversary, more and more devotees will feel encouraged to participate locally in the celebrations.”

The Global Office plans to release two to three videos every week from 13th July.

“The first videos we are releasing are those of Radhanatha Swami and Anuttama Das,” said Parampara Vani Das from ISKCON Desire Tree who headed the filming team. “These can immediately be viewed on our YouTube channels. We hope to release all the films in six weeks.” 

“The 50th anniversary is one of the most important milestones in this lifetime for many of us,” explained Anuttama Das, GBC Minister for Communications and a member of the International Executive Committee of ISKCON 50. “The Inspiration Series is therefore an important tool for helping our worldwide devotee community understand the importance of the 50th, and motivate them to play an active part in it.”

 # # #

The Inspiration Series video with Radhanatha Swam can be viewed on the ISKCON 50 YouTube channel by clicking here, and on the ISKCON Desire Tree channel by clicking here. 

The Inspiration Series video with Anuttama Dasa can be viewed on the ISKCON 50 YouTube channel by clicking here, and on the ISKCON Desire Tree channel by clicking here. 

For more information, please contact the Global Coordinator, ISKCON 50 at: romapada@iskcon50.org   

Source:http://iskconnews.org/iskcon-50-inspiration-series-videos-launched-on-incorporation-day,5685/

Among their many plans for ISKCON’s 50th anniversary, ISKCON Mumbai’s four temples – Juhu, Mira Road, Khargar and Chowpatty – have launched a website that allows devotees to submit their written offerings to Srila Prabhupada in the shape of e-cards.

With the project they aim to collect 108,000 e-card offerings from devotees worldwide, which would shatter the previous Guiness World Record of 65,000 e-cards submitted.

The deadline to offer your e-cards at http://offeringstosp.com/ is July 28th, the Vaishnava calendar date for ISKCON’s 1966 Incorporation by Srila Prabhupada in New York.

On that day the Mumbai temples will offer a beautiful printed card to their Srila Prabhupada murtis from his society, citing the number of devotees from each country or city who have written their e-offerings to him. Temples around the world will also be encouraged to print out cards and do the same.

Currently at just 1,700 offerings, the project has a very long way to go to reach its goal in a very short time. However organizer and ISKCON Chowpatty communications director Leela Radha Dasi is hopeful that the word will get out and devotees will see the value of making their offering.

Even if the offerings only reach a few thousand, though, she feels it will still be worth it. “The World Record is not so important,” she says. “The important part is that devotees come together to give their offerings to Srila Prabhupada. And we will offer the card to his murti on July 28th whatever the number is.”

 Of course, there are many devotees and temples all around the world putting on different events and making different efforts for Srila Prabhupada, whether it’s distributing 50 books each in the year, or doing 50 Harinamas, or telling government leaders about Prabhupada’s achievements at a VIP dinner.

So why is the e-card offering important? Leela Radha feels it’s a chance for all those different devotees in their different temples to participate in one group activity for ISKCON 50.

“Srila Prabhupada faced so many struggles and worked so selflessly to bring us closer to Krishna,” she says. “From one small center on 26 2nd Avenue, 650 temples have grown, and from just a few devotees in that center he has given us a worldwide family.”

So, just as a family all comes together to write in a card for the birthday or anniversary of their parents, Leela Radha explains, we can make a similar offering to our spiritual father.

“When my son comes together with all his brothers and sisters and gives me something, it is all the more touching,” she says. “So in the same way we can please our spiritual master by showing our unity and the the bond amongst us. As he expressed many times, seeing all the devotees cooperating together is most pleasing to Srila Prabhupada.”

The e-offerings are also an opportunity for devotees to put in writing their personal feelings of gratitude to Srila Prabhupada. There’s no word limit, and the website software keeps them confidential, hidden even from those working on the project.

“You can write anything – something about what you have done for him for ISKCON 50, prayers to guide you in your spiritual life, or just how thankful you are,” Leela Radha says. “Srila Prabhupada may not be physically present, but he is with us, and I am sure he will accept our offerings. So let’s all come together and present something special to him.”

Source:http://iskconnews.org/e-card-offering-for-50th-aims-to-break-world-record,5686/

Reflecting on the senseless killings going on around the world, one wonders at the state of humanity.

Animals kill other animals for hunger. Humans kill other humans, but not to eat. Their hunger is for revenge, or power and control. They will also kill out of pure anger or envy – energies that have taken over their lives, heads and hearts. They will kill to prove a point – my way of life is better than your way of life, my religion is better than your religion, my color is better than your color.

That puts us less than animals.

As living creatures we humans and animals are very similar. We both eat, sleep, mate, and defend – these are the main four activities of living and surviving life. But the human body has something more – an intelligence to step back and question why. Why are we here? What is the point of all this eating, sleeping, mating, and defending? Who started this? Who made us and what are we made for?

Animals also have intelligence but not of this kind. This is the special gift of the human body. If we don’t use it, if we don’t ask, explore, question life, question death, question suffering, we live just as the animals do. More sophisticated ways of eating, sleeping, mating, and defending, perhaps – but just the same as animals.

Each one of us has a choice to make in life – the choice to live consciously or unconsciously, the challenge to live as a human and not as an animal. Each one of us has the responsibility to be the best we can be as humans and make our time in this body count.

When the body is alive, either human or animal, that is a symptom of the presence of the soul. We are the life in the body. We don’t have a soul – we are the soul. Our body changes – from youth to mid-life and on to old age. We travel with that changing body and death simply means we leave one body and go to another. Like moving from one house to another, the soul lives in many bodies – both human and animal.

Who is that soul? Who am I? Where have I come from and where am I going? Can I influence the journey and destination?

These are questions only humans can ask. Don’t forget to do so. For your own sake and the sake of humanity.

Source:http://iskconofdc.org/question-humanity/

ISKCON-London launched its 50th Anniversary celebrations in August last year, with a festival celebrating the 50th Anniversary of Srila Prabhupada's departure from India to the West. Now, in this special month, ISKCON's incorporation month, a number of wonderful events have been planned. 

What better way to kick-off the celebrations than with the chanting of the holy names? The events commenced with London Mellows kirtan weekend on 9th and 10th July. Kirtaneers from across the UK community came together to make a special offering of 24 hours of kirtan for the pleasure of Srila Prabhupada. It was recorded live by Radha Krishna Records, ISKCON-London’s record label, and they will be producing a 50th Anniversary album which will be released later this year.

On the actual incorporation day, 13th July, there was an all-day festival at the Temple. This was a glorious day of celebration and Their Lordships were offered new outfits in honor of the occasion, there were special themed classes, kirtan, maha harinama, and prasadam feast. ISKCON-London joined Bhaktivedanta Manor on a joint initiative themed “Day of Gratitude” to distribute 5,000 cupcakes to commuters at key locations in central London.

(Read BBC-report about the event: http://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-london-36786023?SThisFB%3FSThisFB)

The Mayor of London was given boxes of cup cakes by devotees. 

On the evening of 15th July, there will be an evening with Yogesvara dasa who will be launching his new book, ‘Swami in a Strange Land’ providing the community with an opportunity to further meditate on Srila Prabhupada’s mood and pastimes.

The Incorporation Week will end with London Rathayatra on 17th July. Lord Jagannath will bring a splash of spiritual culture to the streets of Central London at the annual street parade from Hyde Park to Trafalgar Square, where the festival will culminate with stage performances, stalls and other festivities. This was one of Srila Prabhupada’s favourite festivals that he brought to the West. In honor of the 50th Anniversary, there will be a special 50th booth, literature and activities to raise awareness of ISKCON amongst the public.

Srila Prabhupada emphasised, "Books are the basis of our movement". Any celebration is incomplete without the distribution of books. A 50th Anniversary Book Marathon will take place from 18th to 29th July. 

On 29th July there will be an evening of bhajans with Agnidev dasa as part of the ISKCON50 Holy Name Series.

The third summer Open Day of the year will be taking place on 30th July, encouraging the public to explore contributions of ISKCON in the last 50 years. Newcomers are invited to find out more about the philosophy and practices of Krishna Consciousness.

The grand finale will be the Kirtan on the Thames Boat Event on 31st July. This National Signature Event will be a day of chanting, dancing and feasting on a cruise around the famous landmarks of London. Special lineup of kirtaneers will include BB Govinda Swami, Kadamba Kanana Swami, Agnidev dasa, Radha Londonisvara dasa and Jahnavi Harrison.

As well as ISKCON-London community members, Temple Presidents, community members and congregational leaders are expected from UK yatras including Birmingham, Bhaktivedanta Manor, Brighton, Closet Krishna, Crawley, Manchester, Newcastle, Nottingham and more, making it a truly national event. This will be a special event and one of the highlights of the year!

Source:http://iskconnews.org/special-month-of-activities-at-iskcon-london-to-celebrate-50th,5687/

ISKCON Auckland New Zealand: Preparations are starting for a great weekend, celebrating Srila Prabhupada’s 50th anniversary of ISKCON.
Friday night: Maha Harinam plus Rathyatra
Saturday: Abhishek of SriSri Radhagiridhari
Sunday: VIP guests, Abhishek of Srila Prabhupada and lots more!

Source:http://www.dandavats.com/?p=29511

The Mayor of London was given boxes of cup cakes by devotees

Devotees of Hare Krishna have handed out cupcakes in London to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the founding of the International Society of Krishna Consciousness.

More celebrations took place at the Radha-Krishna Temple in Soho, where the Hindu-inspired spiritual movement has had a centre for 47 years.

Processions of Krishna followers have become a familiar sight on streets.

They chant the Hare Krishna mantra and distribute books and vegetarian food.

To mark the occasion, the deities at the temple were offered new outfits and a feast was held

Followers get ready for the procession

The procession makes its way down Oxford Street

Women chanted and danced

Devotees handed out cupcakes to commuters

The Soho Street temple is next to the Govinda vegetarian restaurant, where food is first offered to Krishna

“Our tradition is all about love, and our way of giving back to London today is by sharing cupcakes,” a follower said

Source: http://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-london-36786023

13th July 2016, the 50th anniversary of the incorporation of ISKCON

Over fifty years ago in September 1965, an elderly Indian monk stepped off the piers of New York harbour wearing orange Indian robes and sporting a dignified vaishnava tilak mark on his forehead. He was carrying just seven dollars, a few sets of clothes and two trunk-loads of books. The aristocratic looking monk was A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, who had been sent by his spiritual master from India to preach the message of the Bhagavad-gita to the western world.

In just ten short years, Srila Prabhupada, who came to America almost penniless, established a worldwide community of devotees practising India’s ancient science of bhakti-yoga, wrote 75 books, and established over 108 centres across five continents, that made ‘Hare Krishna’ a household name all over the globe.

The legacy

Behind Srila Prabhupada’s success lay a spiritual tradition that traced its origins to a disciplic succession which had originated more than 5000 years ago. Srila Prabhupada carried with him the essential message of Lord Krishna as given in the Bhagavad-gita: all souls are eternal, and real happiness is found by awakening our loving relationship with the all-attractive Supreme Personality of Godhead.

Srila Prabhupada was a spiritual master in the line of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu, the 16th century saint and avatar, who taught that the best way to awaken our joyful spiritual identity is to chant the names of God, especially the Hare Krishna maha-mantra.

The succession

Sri Chaitanya’s tradition continued through a series of spiritual masters to Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakura, a prominent thinker of Bengali Renaissance, and a leading philosopher, savant and spiritual reformer.

He single-handedly revived the teachings of Lord Chaitanya in India in late 19th and early 20th century. Srila Bhaktivinoda was hailed by contemporary scholars as the most influential Gaudiya Vaishnava leader of his time.

His son, Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati Thakura carried on the legacy of his father by establishing the Gaudiya Math. It grew to sixty-four branches across India and had three centres abroad.

The mission initiated by Srila Bhaktivinoda and developed by Srila Bhaktisiddhanta emerged as ‘the most powerful reformist movement’ of Vaishnavism in Bengal of the 19th and early 20th century.

Srila Prabhupada met Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati in 1922, and accepted him as his guru.

The Mission

Srila Prabhupada accepted formal initiation into Gaudiya Vaishnavism from Srla Bhaktisddhanta Saraswati in 1933.

Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati picked out Srila Prabhupada and instructed him to spread the message of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu in English to the Western world. Once, he requested Srila Prabhupada: “If you ever get money, print books’.

Srila Prabhupada took both of these instructions as his life’s mission. Soon, he started a magazine called Back to Godhead in 1944. He singlehandedly typed, proofread, published and distributed the magazine on the streets of India.

In 1956, he moved to reside in the holy town of Vrindavan, and in 1959, he accepted the renounced order of life, or sannyasa.

Srila Prabhupada set sail for the USA on 13 August 1965, on board the steamship, Jaladuta.

After two heart attacks, illness and sickness, Srila Prabhupada arrived in America on 17 September 1965.

While the ship was docked in Boston Harbour, Srila Prabhupada wrote two poems in which he revealed his prayerful dependence on Lord Krishna for the success of his mission.

In one of his compositions, he appealed to Lord Krishna: “How will I make them (the American public) understand this message of Krishna consciousness? I am very unfortunate, unqualified and most fallen. Therefore I am seeking Your benediction so that I can convince them, for I am powerless to do so on my own.”

The Beginning

Srila Prabhupada initially stayed in Butler, and later moved to New York in 1966. Many ‘hippies’ flocked to hear his teachings.

He finally set up a store-front centre at 26, Second Avenue. On 13 July 1966, he incorporated the ‘International Society for Krishna Consciousness’ (ISKCON). In August 1966, Srila Prabhupada led the first public chanting of the Hare Krishna Mahamantra

In 1966, Srila Prabhupada established the ISKCON Press to publish Gaudiya Vaishnava literature. In 1967, he travelled to San Francisco where the Hare Krishna mantra was sung at the Mantra Rock Dance

He also organised the first ever Jagannatha Ratha Yatra in San Franciso. In 1968, Macmillan published Srila Prabhupada’s Bhagavad-gita commentary

In the same year, Srila Prabhupada sent three married couples to London, where they met the Beatles in 1969.

Apple Records released the Hare Krishna mantra, which sold 70,000 copies on the first day, and appeared on Top of the Pops. Srila Prabhupada visited London in 1969, and stayed at John Lennon’s estate.

The expansion

By 1970, Srila Prabhupada had established temples in USA, UK, India, parts of Asia, South America and Australia. In 1970, Srila Prabhupada returned to India with his Western disciples.

Srtila Prabhupada had elaborate plans for India upon his return. He established several centres in India including major temples in Mumbai, Vrindavan and Mayapur

In 1971, Srila Prabhupada visited Russia and initiated a young man as his disciple.

Later Srila Prabhupada established the Governing Body Commission to manage the affairs of ISKCON.

Srila Prabhupadaleft this world in November 1977. By then he had:

• Established over a hundred temples and farm communities

• Travelled the world seven times

• Initiated over five thousand disciples

• Written over 80 books

• Founded the world’s largest publishing and distributing house for Vedic literature

• Started the world’s largest vegetarian food relief programme

• Introduced Indian festivals and culture such as Ratha Yatra to scores of Western cities around the world

• Initiated the concept of ‘simple living and high thinking’ through several farm communities around the world

It was Srila Prabhupada who fulfilled a prediction made by Lord Chaitanya 500 years ago that ‘in every town and village’ the holy name of Krishna will be heard.

The explosion

Srila Prabhupada’s disciples carried on the Founder’s vision by continuing to expand his movement under the guidance and instructions he had left behind.

In the fifty years since 1966, ISKCON has achieved many milestones, as given below:

• 650 – the number of ISKCON centres, temples and schools worldwide

• 520 million – the number of books and magazines published by Bhaktivedanta Book Trust and distributed by ISKCON devotees worldwide

• 3 billion – the number of free plates of sanctified vegetarian meals distributed worldwide since 1966

• 18 million – the number of people who worship in ISKCON temples around the world, every year

• 1.2 million – the number of meals distributed every day to needy school children in India by ISKCON Food Relief Foundation, also known as ‘Annamrita’ as part of the Government’s mid-day meal programme

• 340,000 – the number of patients treated by ISKCON hospitals such as Bhaktivedanta Hospital in Mira Road, the Bhaktivedanta Hospice in Vrindavan, mobile clinics and eye camps

• 260,000 – 2.6 million devotees walked 260,000 kms visiting 52,000 towns and villages in 170 countries as part of the worldwide padayatra to bring the holy name to every town and village around the world

• 100,000 – since 1966 over 100,000 devotees around the world have taken spiritual initiation into the Gaudiya tradition

• 6000 – there are more than 6000 Hare Krishna festivals held every year around the world

• 3600 – the number of home study groups (Bhakti Vriksha groups) around the world

• 110 – the number of Hare Krishna restaurants around the world

• 65 – the number of eco-friendly farms run by ISKCON to practice ‘simple living and high thinking’

The books

In the 1970s, Srila Prabhupada translated almost sixty volumes of books including:

• Bhagavad-gita

• SrimadBhagavatam

• Chaitanya Charitamrita

• Nectar of Devotion

• Nectar of Instruction

• Sri Ishopanishad

ISKCON temples and inspired members began selling them at temples, mobile travelling parties and public venues. In 1972, Srila Prabhupada established the Bhaktivedanta Book Trust (BBT). BBT is now the world’s largest publisher of books in Indian and Vedic religion and philosophy.

Srila Prabhupada’s books have been translated into more than eighty languages and are studied in university courses. His books have won praise for from professors at universities including Harvard, Oxford and Edinburgh.

The most important contribution of Srila Prabhupada’s books is that they have transformed the lives of millions, who lead a life based on the principles of ‘devotion to God and service to all’.

The temples

ISKCON’s 650 temples are hubs of devotional activity and spiritual rejuvenation. People from different backgrounds, cultures and nationalities unite together in these spiritual oases. Life in ISKCON communities revolves around the worship of Deities in the temples.

Activities in ISKCON temples are very varied and include community development, devotional counselling, formal training, development of cultural expressions, dramatics, dance and music, fine arts, writing, costume design and others.

One of ISKCON’s most ambitious temple projects is the Temple of the Vedic Planetarium. Located inMayapur, West Bengal at the birth place of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, this temple will have a central dome, which at 113 metres, will be taller than St. Paul’s in London and the Taj Mahal. It will host the world’s largest chandelier which will double as a 3-D rotating model of the universe, and have a Vedic Planetarium showcasing cosmology according to the Srimad Bhagavatam.

The chanting

ISKCON devotees can be found singing the Hare Krishna mahamantra on the streets of most cities of the world. This is a tradition that was founded by Lord Chaitanya Mahaprabhu who brought the congregational chanting of the Hare Krishna mantra from people’s homes out to the streets, where people could benefit spritually by hearing the Lord’s holy names.

Singing the holy names of God has been a spiritual practice in India for thousands of years. Following in Lord Chaitanya’s footsteps, Srila Prabhupada made the Hare Krishna maha-mantra a worldwide phenomenon.

Devotees chant the mantra in two ways:

• Japa: a private meditation for personal spiritual upliftment

• Kirtana: public congregational singing and dancing

The festivals

Srila Prabhupada carried on the ancient Vedic tradition of celebrating many major festivals that bring devotees and the general public together in a spirit of joy and service.

ISKCON devotees celebrate many festivals in a mood of offering the best of everything to God, and sharing it with others:

• Janmashtami commemorates the appearance of Lord Krishna, the Supreme Personality of Godhead

• Gaura Purnima or the advent of Lord Chaitanya, is one of ISKCON’s primary annual festivals

• Radhashtami, or the birthday of SrimatiRadharani, is celebrated by decorating the Deities with clothing made entirely of flowers. Many temples organise an elaborate evening festival to celebrate Radhashtami where the Deities are paraded in a boat to the accompaniment of devotional singing and dancing

• At the Govardhan Puja festival, devotees walk, dance and sing around a symbolic hill of grains and sweets

• Ratha Yatra, the festival of chariots, commemorates the pulling of God back into our hearts and to Vrindavana

The food

Srila Prabhupada trained his disciples in the art of cooking delectable vegetarian meals offered to Lord Krishna. Known as prasadam, or the mercy of the Lord, it attracts many people to Krishna temples and restaurants. Today, ISKCON provides millions of sanctified vegetarian meals all over the world.

Hare Krishna food is available at temples, Krishna restaurants, catering venues and free food outlets for the poor and homeless. Many people wonder what makes Krishna food so tasty. Hare Krishna food is is carefully prepared as an offering of love to Krishna or God with the best ingredients and cooking, while meditating on pleasing Krishna. This spiritual potency that becomes extraordinarily appealing and allows one to practically experience the mercy of God.

The farms

Srila Prabhupada stressed the basics of a simple and sustainable life in harmony with the self, nature and God.

In 1969, he started ISKCON’s first farm community in West Virginia, USA, called ‘New Vrindavan’. ISKCON now has 65 farm communities around the world based on the principles of ‘simple living and high thinking’.

ISKCON farms have many features such as:

• Cow protection and animal welfare

• Organic agriculture

• Slaughter-free dairy farming

• Efficient water and waste management

• Development of local communities surrounding the farm

• Rain water harvesting

• Sustainable energy deployment

• Child and adult education

The community

ISKCON performs many social activities for the communities that it serves. The founding principles for ISKCON’s social programmes are to check the imbalance of values in life, achieve real unity and peace, and to promote a simpler and more natural way of life.

In 1974, Srila Prabhupada witnessed two poor orphans fighting with dogs over scraps of discarded food. Overcome with compassion and moved by this sight, Srila Prabhupada declared, “No one within ten miles of our temples should go hungry’.

This vision of Srila Prabhupada helped to establish the Hare Krishna Food for Life project, which with its affiliates, is the world’s largest food relief programme, with over 3 billion meals served worldwide.

ISKCON’s ‘Annamrita’ project distributes nourishing meals to more than 1.2 million underprivileged students across 6000 schools of India.

ISKCON runs several schools and educational institutions around the world including those for deprived communities.

Bhaktivedanta Hospital in Mumbai is famous for combining professional medical services in a spiritual setting. ISKCON organises eye camps and mobile clinics in remote rural areas.

ISKCON has provided emergency aid and disaster relief after calamities such as earthquakes and floods.

Devotees serve every living being, while recognising them as a part and parce of the Supreme Lord. The spirit of compassion not only relieves them of matrial miseries, but goes beyond that to bring them closer to the Supreme Lord Krishna, which is the final remedy for all miseries of material life.

This spirit of compassion was exemplified by Lord Chaitanya in his instruction to Sri Sanatana Goswami, where he said:

jive–doya name-ruci vaisnava–sevana

iha chara dharma nahi suna sanatana

“Listen O Sanatana, there is no other religious obligation or duty greater than compassion for all living beings, taste for the holy name of the Lord, and serving the devotees of the Lord.”

The academia

Recognising the importance of engaging with the academic and scientific world in their language, Srila Prabhupada founded theBhaktivedanta Institute (BI) in 1976 with his disciples.

The Institute aims to advance the study of the nature and origin of life, utilising Vedic insights into consciousness, the self, and the origin of the universe.

BI has organized four international conferences, hundreds of panel discussions and talks, and published over thirty books. Many of its research papers are taught in renowned universities in America and Europe.

In 1993, ISKCON’s intellectual mouthpiece, the ISKCON Communications Journal was started. It featured papers by many famous scholars and academics.

In 1997, ISKCON devotees set up the Oxford Centre for Hindu Studies, the world’s first academy of its kind for the study of Hindu culture. Since its inception the Centre, which is a Recognised Independent Centre of Oxford University, has attracted world-class scholars and students, launched pioneering educational projects, and opened up the field of Hindu Studies for an international audience.

The ‘Heart of Hinduism’ a study resource published by ISKCON Educational Services in the UK was used as a recognised Religious Education toolkit for use in schools across the UK for teaching Hinduism.

ISKCON has organised several academic conferences in collaboration with universities such as Harvard and Bath, where scholars have presented papers of a high academic standard..

The appreciations

ISKCON and Srila Prabhupada have received many commendations and appreciations from political and business leaders, academics, and the media.

In 1995, the New York Times said that ISKCON’s reputation is “like the one Mother Teresa has in Calcutta” while reporting on Hare Krishna Food for Life efforts during the Chechyan war.

In 1998, India’s former Prime Minister, Atal Behari Vajpayee appreciated the contribution of Srila Prabhupada by saying:“The voyage of Bhaktivedanta Swami Srila Prabhupada to the United States in 1965 and the spectacular popularity his movement gained in a very short spell of twelve years must be regarded as one of the greatest spiritual events of the century….The ISKCON movement has few parallels in the world in terms of its rapid global spread, its trans-national, trans-ethnic, and trans-professional appeal, its outward simplicity, and the devotional energy of its followers.”

Nelson Mandela who attended a Hare Krishna Food for Life festival in Durban once said, “”I extend our warmest thanks on behalf of all of us here today for the kindness and dedication that you (Hare Krishna Food for Life) have shown by bringing us all together. Your goal of a hunger-free South Africa is one that is shared by the government and the ANC. Your efforts are making a practical contribution to this most urgent task.”

An editorial in the Times of India in 2006, praised the cultural contribution of ISKCON to India’s reputation in foreign countries when it said,“Guess again if you think Bollywood, or Indian writing in English, is the country’s biggest cultural export. You may not come across any of these if you visit Cochabamba in Bolivia or Gaborone in Botswana; what you will find instead is a centre of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness.” Editorial in The Times of India, 2006.

In 2010, CNN listed Srila Prabhupada among 10 “Famous folks who launched careers after 50”.

At the inauguration of ISKCON’s Vedic cultural centre in Pune in 2013, President of India, Pranab Mukherjee said, “Swami Srila Prabhupada’s greatest legacy was that he was an exemplary ambassador of India’s timeless values. In the years that he spent spreading his simple message, Swami Srila Prabhupada convinced hundreds of thousands of Indians and westerners about the profound value of his philosophy which they embraced along with a Vedic lifestyle.”

In 2016, Britain’s the Prime Minister while attending a 50th anniversary celebration at Bhaktivedanta Manor in London said, “I look at what you (the Hare Krishnas) have done in the past fifty years and I think how much more you can achieve in the next fifty.”

ISKCON has achieved many significant milestones and created a spiritual revolution that has transformed the hearts and minds of millions of people around the world. The ancient wisdom of Bhagavad-gita that was taught by Lord Krishna, exemplified by Lord Chaitanya’s sankirtana movement, codiefied by His disciples such as Srila Rupa Goswami and Srila Sanatana Goswami, and revived by preceptors such as Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakura and Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati Thakura, finally exploded into every corner of the world because of the compassion of His Divine Grace A. C. Bhaktisiddanta Swami Prabhupada.

As pointed out by Bredan O’ Connor in an article he wrote in the UK for the Independent, “We are all Hare Krishnas now, and … the movement’s influence on the world we live in now is enormous.”

Source:http://www.dandavats.com/?p=29461

Srila Prabhupada: “In Dvapara-yuga one could satisfy Krishna or Visnu only by worshiping Him gorgeously according to the pancaratriki system, but in the Age of Kali one can satisfy and worship the Supreme Personality of Godhead Hari simply by chanting the holy name.” (Narayana-samhita)

Source:http://www.dandavats.com/?p=29436

The ungrateful, inappropriate and irrational ways in which people act can infuriate us to no end. We deal with our anger by letting it loose (passionate and vengeful outbursts) or locking it up (emotionally disconnecting). Both expressions, however, are indicative of our own shortcomings. Allowing someone else’s negativity to displace our own consciousness, means there is still work to do. We seek emotional deposits from others because we haven’t become full in ourselves. But isn’t that natural? Aren’t relationships based on mutual emotional dependency? Surely it’s reasonable and legitimate to expect some human decency in our social intercourse. Well, in one sense yes, but if you understand the nature of this world, the power of material psychology and the inherent weakness of each individual, then you won’t be surprised when people aren’t so forthcoming. Only when we are internally nourished and solidly connected to the original spiritual source, can we wholeheartedly give ourselves and remain unaffected by the reciprocation (or lack of) that we receive.

Impractical, unattainable and utopian? Well, that is the saintly challenge before us. Spiritualists are extraordinary, not simply because of their knowledge, faith or dedication, but because of their unique and outstanding character. Their conduct is entirely different from the ‘common’ person. They incessantly give the best of themselves, again and again, because something deeper is impelling them to continue. It reminds me of Mother Teresa’s famous poem:

People are often unreasonable, illogical and self centered;
Forgive them anyway.
If you are honest and sincere, people may cheat you;
Be honest and sincere anyway.
If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives;
Be kind anyway.
The good you do today, people will often forget tomorrow;
Do good anyway.
You see, in the final analysis, it is between you and God;
It was never between you and them anyway.

History has documented a long list of saints, but what about now? The world could do with a few more spotless personalities, and we all have our part to play. If not me, then who? If not now, then when? Nobody feels qualified, it won’t be easy, and there will never be an ideal time. Along with dynamic projects to change the world, I’m increasingly thinking about the ‘Inside Job.’ Our life contribution is not simply based on what we do, but also who we are. To be more humble than a blade of grass, more tolerant than a tree, perpetually offering respect to others, and expecting nothing in return. As I fall short of these exalted ideals, I pick myself up, dust myself down, and continue to confront my inflated pride and ugly ego. The ‘Inside Job’ is testing but exciting. It’s a work in progress, and I’ll have to start putting some overtime in.

Source:https://sutapamonk.wordpress.com/2016/06/22/the-inside-job/

Millions will be watching ISKCON 50 Celebrations on 13th July 2016 from 4-5pm. 
Keshav Murari Das, TP- ISKCON Rohini: DD Channel will be broadcasting a special program on ISKCON’s 50th Anniversary on the exact day of 50th Anniversary, 13th July, 2016 Wednesday from 4-5 pm. They will also feature ISKCON 50 documentary prepared by ISKCON 50 Global team during the show.

Source:http://www.dandavats.com/?p=29449

Tomorrow marks the 50th anniversary of the global Hare Krishna movement and 5000 cupcakes will be freely distributed between 7am & 9am at Euston, Kings Cross, Victoria, BBC HQ and GOOGLE HQ to celebrate!

Source:http://www.dandavats.com/?p=29457

Fifty years ago, a 70-year-old monk travelled from India to the United States in the hope of starting a spiritual revolution.

His name was Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada and on July 13, 1966 he incorporated the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), formalising what is widely known as the Hare Krishna movement.

ISKCON now runs 602 temples, 54 schools and 65 farming communities across the globe.

This month, the New Govardhana Hare Krishna community at Eungella, near Murwillumbah in northern New South Wales, hosted about 1,000 visitors to mark the 50th anniversary of ISKCON.

New Govardhana president Ajita Dasa said the milestone proved the Hare Krishnas belonged to a serious religious institution.

“It means the establishment has gone through what most religious organisations have gone through,” he said.

“We’ve had teething problems, we’ve dealt with it, and the fact ISKCON is still around helping people means it’s here to stay.”

ISKCON belongs to the Vedic or Hindu culture with its philosophies based on the Sanskrit texts the Bhagavad-gita, Bhagavat Purana and Srimad Bhagavatam.

Devotees practice bhakti yoga and worship Lord Krishna.

New Govardhana devotees

Ajita said there were about 2,000 Hare Krishna devotees in northern New South Wales, with about 100 living permanently at New Govardhana.

Jivjago moved to the community five months ago after being invited by a devotee he met at a Queensland music festival.

“I wanted to see a community or some people living this lifestyle, so they said ‘come visit the farm, but you might never leave’ and I’m still here,” he said.

“I was searching for a spiritual community that supports this calling we have to understand ourselves and our relationship with the universe or the source.

“I’ve found peace. I used to have a bit of anxiety and depression but it was just because I was lacking spiritual balance.”

The village also plays host to many international visitors like South Korean woman Jhulan who has lived on-site for two years.

“I was travelling and looking for something, for some truth, and I’ve found it here,” she said.

“I didn’t have money and they had a free feast every Sunday and I came here and fell in love.

“I believed in a higher consciousness but I didn’t call it God, now I call it Krishna.”

Everyday Hare Krishnas

Devotee Krishnarupa Devi Dasi lives near New Govardhana and said most Hare Krishnas were “everyday people” with ordinary lives.

“We have a core group who are celibate monks and women who live in an ashram environment and their entire focus is temple service, and then we have a very broad congregational group who have mortgages, children, work,” she said.

“But their faith is not something they just turn on on a Sunday like many other religions; an average devotee will focus and meditate a lot on their spiritual life.

“From a practical level, they might not have so much time to do specific service in the temples but their inner life is very rich and devotional.”

Krishnarupa is ISKCON’s women’s representative on the Australian national council.

She said the movement had been perceived by some as sexist in the past.

“There was a little period in our history when it was harder for women to take leadership roles — a few short years,” Krishnarupa said.

“In the last few decades, women have taken much more managerial roles and have a voice in the management of the temples.

“It varies in degrees depending on the temple, but here in Murwillumbah we have an equal role and lead some of the temple classes and prayers.

“Women can be perceived as second class citizens in Vedic society, but it’s actually not correct.”

Krishnarupa became a Hare Krishna in the 1970s when the movement was new to Australia.

“I thought I would either be a Carmelite nun or a Buddhist nun and when I finished high school, I started to train as a teacher and during that time I had a lot of the usual angst-ridden years of growing into myself,” she said.

“The Hare Krishna movement had just started in Melbourne and I was interested, but not quite ready.

“Some months later, a friend of mine became a Hare Krishna and I went to see him at the temple thinking ‘oh my goodness, he’s been brainwashed, I’ve got to go and save him’.

“He gave me the Bhagavad-gita and said ‘have a read of this book’ and then I became a devotee.

“What attracted it to me was that it answered my questions in a philosophical and rational way, and it made me feel very satisfied and content.”

Source: http://www.abc.net.au/news/2016-07-11/hare-krishna-community-celebrates-50-years-as-religious-movement/7585602

“I’m spending a day with Hare Krishnas next week.”

“Oh, you be careful Leanne.”

“Why?”

“They all take drugs.”

“Have you been reading that Daily Mail again Dad?!”

To be fair, my Dad was not the only one who voiced concern or raised an eyebrow when I told him I was spending a day with a relatively unfamiliar religious group. And everyone begged the question, ‘Why?’

To be honest, I couldn’t say exactly. I knew nothing of the faith, bar that when I worked in an office in Soho many years ago, every evening the ring of bells, drums, singing and chanting would chime through my office windows, as the Tottenham Court Road Hare Krishna group passed by. My colleagues would often make comments, not always approving. I however was envious. There I was, sat in a sterile air-conditioned box, staring numbly at a spreadsheet and battling yet another computer-screen induced headache. And there they were, having the time of their lives, singing and dancing, looking deliriously happy and free of such Western imprisonment. I wanted in.

Six years and a lot of life experience later, I found my opportunity. On one of my other adventures I was told about an all female Hare Krishna Temple in Walthamstow, run by a lady called Kamala. A few texts between Kamala and I were exchanged and it was set that one week later I would visit the house and stay overnight. At first I was ecstatically excited but as the days passed I grew nervous.

“They’re all on drugs Leanne.”

“Isn’t it a cult?”

“What if they try and brain wash you?”

Flippant comments stirred my brain and I began to wonder what I was doing. Bar a recommendation from a near stranger, I knew nothing of these people, the place or the faith. I didn’t even have the address! I turned to Google. As I typed in Hare Krishna, the first suggestion came up: ‘Hare Krishna CULT’. Oh crap.

I started to worry. Should I be going? I had a talk with my gut – a very good friend of late. Surprisingly, Gut seemed ok about the situation; it was Head that was spinning out of control. So I told Head to bog off and find something else to worry about.

But when Friday came, Head was still there. Rain poured down as I walked the completely unfamiliar streets of Walthamstow and I again began to feel uneasy. That week’s insanely horrific incident, which had occurred in Woolwich in the name of religion, had stirred my fears of unknown streets, people and beliefs. What was I doing? It was bank holiday Friday. Why wasn’t I hanging out with my mates instead? Gut told me to carry on walking.

As I reached 631 Forrest Road, I read the brightly painted sign that read ‘Bhakti Yoga‘. As I looked for the way in, I noticed two men standing outside the shop next door, eyeing me suspiciously. I eyed them suspiciously back. The front door to the temple was ajar so I nervously pushed it open and walked in.

Immediately my fears dissipated. From the grey skies of the outside world, I was hit with a wash of colour; pastel pink and purple walls and a warmth that felt uncannily like home. An attractive and unexpectedly conventional looking lady from Manchester bounded towards me smiling. I’m not entirely sure what I was expecting but ignorance suggested someone far more alternative. “You must be Leanne?’ she beamed, “I’m Kamala. I’m so pleased you made it.”

Kamala showed me around the house, which was filled with the aromas of incense and home cooking. “And here is the lounge. If you find it a bit too much for you, feel free to just come up here and take time out. Make the place your home.”

She explained that today the devotees were celebrating the birth of Lord Nrsimhadeva, who is half man, half lion. Devotees pray to Lord Nrsimhadeva for protection and to eradicate their material desires. We discussed the fact we were both brought up as devout Catholics but as adults have abandoned the faith, finding it rather negative and guilt ridden. It was comforting to have something so primary in common.

After a few introductions to several ladies creating an enormous feast in the kitchen, I was led, mint tea in hand, into the main prayer room. Singing and chanting was well under way and Kamala sat me down on a prayer mat. When the song finished she introduced me to the group and stated that I was a comedian. I winced, fretting that now everyone would be nervous of me, assuming me to be the woman who has come to mock their faith. They didn’t judge however, simply smiled and welcomed me in.

Kamala opened a hymn book, from which people were taking turns to lead sung prayers. She pointed to a foreign text and highlighted the English translation below. I couldn’t even follow the lyrics never mind sing them. I felt a little awkward being at the front with Kamala and everyone watching me not join in, so after reading the English text I closed my eyes and simply listened. I was astounded by how beautiful their voices were. When the next song ended I whispered to Kamala, “Are you only allowed in if you can sing?” She laughed and repeated this to the whole group. I felt embarrassed but they accepted the compliment graciously.

Towards the end of each song, the group became more jubilant and ecstatic, banging drums and clanging tiny cymbals. Without looking at them, I could ‘hear’ the smile on their faces. It made me smile too.

About two hours in I slipped away to the kitchen for some water, parched from the hard work of listening to people sing. Little did I know that all the devotees had been fasting from both water and food for the last 24 hours. And there I’d been, heedlessly swigging mint tea in front of the entire congregation.

Whilst in the kitchen I assisted one of the devotees in cooking the vegetarian feast. As I ‘helpfully’ watched her toil away, she told me of the faiths core beliefs. We discussed karma and reincarnation and the notion that past sins affect our current lives, no matter how well we live our lives today. It was a concept I found hard to accept. Regardless, she neither preached nor tried to convert me. She also said that whilst it is almost impossible to be perfect, as long as we are always striving to be better people, we are heading in the right direction.

At around 9pm we were invited into the prayer room to give an offering to Lord Nrsimhadeva. There were now around 50 people singing and chanting. We took it in turns to pour a concoction of what I believe was ghee, sugar, yogurt, guda and honey over a statue of Lord Nrsimhadeva. I had a childlike excitement of doing something so unusual.

The energy was electric as people swung joyfully up and down the room, singing, clapping, beating and clanging. I joined them in the dancing and clapping and I looked around the room to see everyone’s faces beaming with delight.

When the singing finally came to a close, we sat and ate a delicious feast. Devotees came and sat with me, keen to find out more about the ‘comedian’ who had come to write about them. Everyone was kind and open and most interestingly, not a great deal different from myself. A lovely lady, again a former Catholic, sat with me for an hour. She reiterated something that many others had also stated, that there was no pressure for me to convert or to come regularly. She said I was welcome any time, whether next week or in a year. She even encouraged me to bring friends. I’m sure those vehemently against religion (which seems to be increasingly the norm these days) will see this as a cunning ploy to reel me in. But I can quite honestly say that I would happily return and enjoy all that the temple and the devotees have to offer without feeling any pressure to become a devotee myself.

In the past, I have heard the derisory term ‘Happy Clappers’ used to describe Hare Krishnas but I now see this as a rather ironic affront. They do clap and they are indeed very happy but not because of any drugs, brainwashing or cult-like behaviour. From what I witnessed, Hare Krishnas simply relish in the unity of being together, believing in something that to me seems inherently pure. Of all faiths, this seems like one of the most joyous. And with the world being the way it is today, who doesn’t need a little more joy in their lives?

Source: http://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/leanne-davis/hare-krishna-for-a-day_b_3372838.html?edition=uk

I was reminded while reading the Srimad Bhagavatam today, that this is an election year.

…rogues and thieves in the guise of protectors arrange for a voting system, and in the name of democracy they come to power by hook or crook and exploit the citizens. Even long, long ago, asuras, persons devoid of God consciousness, became the heads of state, and now this is happening again. The various states of the world are preoccupied with arranging for military strength. Sometimes they spend sixty-five percent of the government’s revenue for this purpose. But why should people’s hard-earned money be spent in this way? Because of the present world situation, Kṛṣṇa has descended in the form of the Kṛṣṇa consciousness movement. This is quite natural, for without the Kṛṣṇa consciousness movement the world cannot be peaceful and happy.
( from purport to SB 10.1.17)

Full test and purport

Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam
By His Divine Grace A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupāda
Canto Ten, Chapter 1, Text 17

bhūmir dṛpta-nṛpa-vyāja-
daityānīka-śatāyutaiḥ
ākrāntā bhūri-bhāreṇa
brahmāṇaṁ śaraṇaṁ yayau

bhūmiḥ—mother earth; dṛpta—puffed up; nṛpa-vyāja—posing as kings, or the supreme power personified in the state; daitya—of demons; anīka—of military phalanxes of soldiers; śata-ayutaiḥ—unlimitedly, by many hundreds of thousands; ākrāntā—being overburdened; bhūri-bhāreṇa—by a burden of unnecessary fighting power; brahmāṇam—unto Lord Brahmā; śaraṇam—to take shelter; yayau—went.

TRANSLATION

Once when mother earth was overburdened by hundreds of thousands of military phalanxes of various conceited demons dressed like kings, she approached Lord Brahmā for relief.

PURPORT

When the world is overburdened by unnecessary military arrangements and when various demoniac kings are the executive heads of state, this burden causes the appearance of the Supreme Personality of Godhead. As the Lord says in Bhagavad-gītā (4.7):

yadā yadā hi dharmasya
glānir bhavati bhārata
abhyutthānam adharmasya
tadātmānaṁ sṛjāmy aham

“Whenever and wherever there is a decline in religious practice, O descendant of Bharata, and a predominant rise of irreligion—at that time I appear Myself.” When the residents of this earth become atheistic and godless, they descend to the status of animals like dogs and hogs, and thus their only business is to bark among themselves. This is dharmasya glāni, deviation from the goal of life. Human life is meant for attaining the highest perfection of Kṛṣṇa consciousness, but when people are godless and the presidents or kings are unnecessarily puffed up with military power, their business is to fight and increase the military strength of their different states. Nowadays, therefore, it appears that every state is busy manufacturing atomic weapons to prepare for a third world war. Such preparations are certainly unnecessary; they reflect the false pride of the heads of state. The real business of a chief executive is to see to the happiness of the mass of people by training them in Kṛṣṇa consciousness in different divisions of life. Cātur-varṇyaṁ mayā sṛṣṭaṁ guṇa-karma-vibhāgaśaḥ (Bg. 4.13). A leader should train the people as brāhmaṇas, kṣatriyas, vaiśyas and śūdras and engage them in various occupational duties, thus helping them progress toward Kṛṣṇa consciousness. Instead, however, rogues and thieves in the guise of protectors arrange for a voting system, and in the name of democracy they come to power by hook or crook and exploit the citizens. Even long, long ago, asuras, persons devoid of God consciousness, became the heads of state, and now this is happening again. The various states of the world are preoccupied with arranging for military strength. Sometimes they spend sixty-five percent of the government’s revenue for this purpose. But why should people’s hard-earned money be spent in this way? Because of the present world situation, Kṛṣṇa has descended in the form of the Kṛṣṇa consciousness movement. This is quite natural, for without the Kṛṣṇa consciousness movement the world cannot be peaceful and happy.

Source:https://theharekrishnamovement.org/2016/07/11/krishna-has-descended-in-the-form-of-the-krishna-consciousness-movement/