Bhaktivedanta Manor’s public  Rama-Navami festival  was honoured to welcome a distinguished array of guests, hosted graciously by the Communications team.

Among those attending were three local Mayors and other dignitaries representing a wide spectrum of faiths and communities, including  Miatta Fahnbulleh MP , Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Minister for Devolution, Faith and Communities);  Dr. Sayed Ali Abbas Razawi , Chief Imam of Scotland; Lord Raval of Hertsmere, Flight Lieutenant Nigam Joshi , Chair of the Defence Hindu Network at the Ministry of Defence; and  Sergeant Vilas Jain  of the British Army, representing the Jain community.

Miatta Fahnbulleh MP expressed her delight at the warmth of the welcome she received and was particularly touched by the devotional performances of the children. The Chief of Staff to the Imam noted, “…the Chief Imam thoroughly enjoyed his time with yourself and the community, and found the entire experience incredibly spiritually uplifting…” Flight Lieutenant Joshi shared that visiting  Srila Prabhupada’s quarters  with his wife was “…a profoundly moving experience”.

The  International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON)  continues to exemplify respect for all faiths, promoting harmony through interfaith dialogue and collaboration. Members recognize the spiritual value in diverse religious traditions and actively engage in activities that foster mutual understanding and peace. The life of  Lord Rama , celebrated for his unwavering dharma, compassion, and courage, remains a timeless source of inspiration for people of all backgrounds, offering ethical guidance and spiritual lessons that transcend any single faith.

Source: https://www.dandavats.com/?p=117759

By Sharmila Radhika devi dasi

The third annual UK National ‘Rise’ Retreat began in joyful fashion this Easter weekend with a vibrant harinam through Nottingham city centre. Devotees filled the streets chanting, singing and dancing as curious passersby stopped to watch. It was the perfect opening for a weekend dedicated to this year’s theme: The Community of Love.

Inspired by Keshava Swami, the Rise Retreat has grown steadily since its beginnings in 2024 with around 300 participants. Attendance rose to 500 in 2025, and this year more than 800 devotees gathered from across the UK and beyond.

The retreat was honoured by the presence of esteemed guest speakers including Jayadvaita Swami, Visakha dasi, Yadubara dasa, Vaisesika dasa, Nirakula dasi, Kripamoya dasa, Guru Carana Padma dasi, Gauranga dasa and Dayal Mora dasa, who shared insights through classes, discussions, and personal interactions. Praghosa dasa (GBC for the UK, Ireland and Scandinavia) was the MC, bringing a warm, light-hearted and humorous tone that was appreciated throughout.

At the centre of the main hall were the beautiful forms of Jagannath, Baladeva and Subhadra, along with Gaura Nitai and Srila Prabhupada. Their presence formed the spiritual centre of the gathering. Days began with mangal arati and japa, followed by guru puja, classes, and rotating lectures that offered both philosophical depth and practical reflection. Each evening, devotees gathered for absorbing kirtans.

Among the many presentations were classes exploring lessons from Lord Caitanya’s South India pilgrimage, reflections on the Matchless Gifts days, and a presentation on the cultural development of the Hare Krishna movement. Other sessions addressed important community themes such as resolving conflict with compassion, building a culture of care, and exploring why devotees sometimes leave – and what can be done to support and strengthen communities.

There were also thoughtful explorations on finding your mission within the mission, along with engaging Q&A sessions where participants could raise questions and hear insights from senior devotees. A special screening of the Hare Krishna! The Mantra, the Movement and the Swami Who Started It All documentary gave attendees the chance to reflect on the early history and global impact of the movement.

Families were warmly included throughout the retreat, with Krishna Club activities where children could learn, play, and connect with one another.

Drama was another highlight of the retreat. A delightful children’s drama, organised by Hari Lila devi dasi, was warmly received by all. This was followed by an engaging production from the Rise Drama Team, led by Niskincana dasa, depicting pastimes of Caitanya Mahaprabhu and King Prataparudra.

An inspiring aspect of the retreat was seeing multiple generations gathered together – children, youth, adults, and elders – each finding something meaningful in the programme.

The weekend also provided an opportunity to connect and serve together. Devotees from many communities met, collaborated, and formed new friendships. Delicious prasadam, prepared under the direction of Thirupati dasa and his dedicated team, nourished the hundreds in attendance.

One of the retreat’s main organisers, Mayank Badoni and Urjesvari devi dasi, commented: “It is truly extraordinary to witness for the Rise Retreat is bringing devotees across the UK and beyond together in spiritual upliftment and service. By the mercy of Lord Jagannath, Baladev and Subhadra Devi, everyone is leaving spiritually nourished and inspired, which is the purpose of Rise.”

Many of the guest speakers commented on the privilege of being part of the retreat and encouraged participants to carry the inspiration of the weekend back to their local communities, strengthening relationships and devotional life.

As devotees departed Nottingham at the end of the Easter weekend, there was a shared sense that something meaningful had taken place. The Rise Retreat continues to grow – not only in numbers but in spirit, unity, and service – with the hope that The Community of Love experienced there will continue to flourish across the UK and beyond.

Read more: https://www.dandavats.com/?p=117771

The disappearance day of a pure devotee is observed in the Gaudiya Vaishnava tradition as a deeply meaningful spiritual occasion. For the devotees of International Society for Krishna Consciousness, especially those connected with ISKCON Delhi, the disappearance day of His Holiness Srila Gopal Krishna Goswami Maharaj is on 14 April 2026, which is a time of heartfelt remembrance and introspection.

While externally it appears as a moment of separation, internally it is an opportunity to deepen our connection with his instructions, his service mood, and his unwavering dedication to the mission of A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada.

Source: https://www.dandavats.com/?p=117764

By Kulavati Krishnapriya Devi Dasi, 

In a significant step toward bridging India’s ancient intellectual heritage with modern academic research, the Indian Institute of Technology Bhubaneswar (IIT Bhubaneswar) and the Bhaktivedanta Research Center (BRC) formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding on March 19, 2026. The partnership signals a growing institutional consensus that India’s classical knowledge traditions deserve a central place in contemporary scholarly discourse.

The signing ceremony brought together senior representatives from both institutions. On behalf of IIT Bhubaneswar, the MoU was signed by Prof. Dinakar Pasla, Dean of Sponsored Research and Industrial Consultancy. Dr. Sumanta Rudra, Dean of Academics and Trustee at BRC, signed on behalf of the Bhaktivedanta Research Center. Witnessing the occasion were Dr. Akshaya Kumar Rath and Dr. Naresh Chandra Sahu, Associate Professors at IIT Bhubaneswar’s School of Humanities, Social Sciences, and Management; Shri Pradeep Kumar Sahoo, Deputy Registrar for Continuing Education, Alumni, Corporate, and International Relations; and Adrita Sarkar, Digital Humanities Executive at BRC.

Read more: https://iskconnews.org/iit-bhubaneswar-signs-mou-with-brc-to-advance-indian-knowledge-systems/

Gita Valley (ISKCON Gita Nagari) has released its Q1 2026 quarterly update, titled “Soil, Soul, and Sweet Abundance,” offering a glimpse into a season marked by spiritual programs, community service, and continued growth.

Among the highlights are the community’s ongoing efforts to expand and strengthen its mission. The update points to continued development following Gita Valley’s recent rebranding and expansion plans, as well as ongoing improvements to infrastructure and community facilities. The quarter also emphasized sustainable living and devotional culture through conscious cooking programs, educational events, and opportunities for residents and guests to participate in farm life and spiritual practice.

The report presents Gita Valley as a growing example of simple living and high thinking, combining agricultural life, education, and Krishna consciousness in a way that continues to attract new visitors and well-wishers. Readers interested in learning more about the community’s recent activities can read the full quarterly update on their website. You can also follow their activities and events on their Facebook and Instagram accounts.

Read more: https://iskconnews.org/soil-soul-and-sweet-abundance-at-gita-valley-in-rural-pennsylvania/

Over four days in New Vrindaban, more than 40 devotees gathered for a Leadership & Management Course led by Anuttama Dasa.
It was simple, practical, and grounding—how to lead and serve with clarity and care.
As Jaya Krsna shared, even compared to his MBA, this was one of the most practical courses he’s experienced.
Grateful for the association, the learning, and the shared intention to serve better.

Read more: https://www.dandavats.com/?p=117755

Varuthini Ekadasi

(Krishna Paksha, Vaisakha — April–May)

Sri Yudhisthira Maharaj said, "Oh Vasudeva, I offer my most humble obeisances unto You. Please now describe to me the Ekadasi of the dark fortnight (krishna paksha) of the month of Vaisakha (April-May), including its specific merits and influence."

Lord Sri Krishna replied, "Oh King, in this world and the next, the most auspicious and magnanimous Ekadasi is Varathini Ekadasi, which occurs during the dark fortnight of the month of Vaisakha. Whosoever observes a complete fast on this sacred day has his sins completely removed, obtains continuous happiness, and achieves all good fortune. Fasting on Varathini Ekadasi makes even an unfortunate woman fortunate. Upon anyone who observes it, this Ekadasi bestows material enjoyment in this life and liberation after the death of this present body. It destroys the sins of all and saves people from the miseries of repeated rebirth. By observing this Ekadasi properly, King Mandhata was liberated. Many other kings also benefited from observing it, kings such as Maharaja Dhundhumara, in the Ikshvaku dynasty, who became free from leprosy resulting from the curse that Lord Shiva had imposed upon him as a punishment. Whatever merit one obtains by performing austerities and penances for ten thousand years is achieved by a person who observes Varuthinii Ekadasi. The merit one achieves by donating a great amount of gold during a solar eclipse at Kurukshetra is gained by one who observes this one Ekadasi with love and devotion, and certainly attains his goals in this life and the next. In short, this Ekadasi is pure and very enlivening and the destroyer of all sins. Better than giving horses in charity is giving elephants, and better than giving elephants is giving land. But better still than giving land is the giving of sesame seeds, and better than that is giving of gold. Still better than giving gold is giving food grains for all the forefathers, demigods (devas), and human beings become satisfied by eating grains. Thus there is no better gift of charity than this in the past, present or future. Yet learned scholars have declared that giving away a young maiden in marriage to a worthy person is equal to giving away food grains in charity. Moreover, Lord Sri Krishna, the Supreme Personality of Godhead, has said that giving cows in charity is equal to giving food grains. Still better than all these charities is teaching spiritual knowledge to the ignorant. Yet all the merits one can attain by performing all these acts of charity are attained by one who fasts on the Varuthini Ekadasi. One who lives off the wealth of his daughters suffers a hellish condition until the inundation of the entire universe, Oh Bharata. Therefore one should be especially careful not to use the wealth of his daughter. Oh best of kings, any householder who takes his daughter's wealth out of greed, who tries to sell his daughter, or who takes money from the man to whom he has given his daughter in marriage such a householder becomes a lowly cat in his next life. Therefore it is said that whoever, as a sacred act of charity, gives away in marriage a maiden decorated with various ornaments, and who also gives a dowry with her, obtains merit that cannot be described even by Chitragupta, the chief secretary of Yamaraja in the heavenly planets. That very same merit, however, can be easily achieved by one who fasts on the Varuthini Ekadasi.

Observances

On Dashami (the day before Ekadasi), one should give up:
Eating on bell-metal plates, eating any kind of urad-dahl, eating red-lentils, eating chick-peas, eating kondo (a grain that is primarily eaten by poor people and that resembles poppy seeds or agarpanthas seeds), eating spinach, eating honey, eating in another person's house/home, eating more than once, and participating in sex of any kind.

On Ekadasi itself, one should give up:
Gambling, sports, sleeping during the daytime, betal nuts and its leaf, brushing one's teeth, spreading rumours, faultfinding, talking to the spiritually fallen, anger, and lying.

On Dwadasi (the day after Ekadasi), one should give up:
Eating on bell-metal plates, eating urad-dahl, red-lentils, or honey, lying, strenuous exercise or labour, eating more than once, any sexual activity, shaving the body, face or head, smearing oils on one's body, and eating in another's home.

Conclusion

Lord Sri Krishna continued, "Whoever observes the Varuthini Ekadasi in this way becomes free from all sinful reactions and returns to the eternal, spiritual abode. One who worships Lord Janardana (Krishna) on this Ekadasi by staying awake throughout the entire night, also becomes free from all his previous sins and attains to the spiritual abode. Therefore, Oh king, he who is frightened of his accumulated sins and their attendant reactions, and thus of death itself, must observe Varuthini Ekadasi by fasting very strictly. Finally, Oh noble Yudhisthira, he who hears or reads this glorification of the sacred Varuthini Ekadasi obtains the merit earned by donating one thousand cows in charity, and at last he returns home, to the Supreme abode of Lord Vishnu in the Vaikunthas."

Source: https://www.mayapur.com/en/blog/glories-of-varuthini-ekadasi

From Back to Godhead

The phrase “culture of distraction” has been around for a while. I guess I was just too distracted to notice it.

We’re constantly bombarded with so much information that focusing on anything is extremely difficult. Economists wonder how that affects productivity in the workplace. Psychologists wonder what it’s doing to our minds.

Controlling one’s mind is the purpose of yoga, and Krishna consciousness is the yoga of bhakti, or service to Krishna with love. As with any type of yoga, practicing bhakti-yoga in an atmosphere where we’re deluged with information can be tough. The digital age seems to control us, as yesterday’s inventions become today’s necessities. When I compare my childhood to that of kids today, I wonder how they can concentrate on anything, their minds so easily disappearing into a virtual world that’s becoming more and more like the bricks and bats of the real world.

Srila Prabhupada championed the simple agrarian life as ideal for spiritual pursuits. We find, though, that most people today reject that kind of life. We’re just not accustomed to it. (I sometimes joke that even most devotees today would rather live in Dwaraka than Vrindavana.) Maybe we’re so used to the distractions of modern life that we feel lost without them. But we must beware the risk of getting swept away by the flood of technology. To stay secure, we need time for yoga. We need time to pause and think.

The Back to Godhead magazine is meant to help us slow down and gain perspective. Reading BTG, Srila Prabhupada’s books, and those of his followers makes us philosophers, people who can watch the flow of the times and not get drowned in it.

Praying to Lord Narsimha in the Srimad-Bhagavatam (7.9.28), Prahlada Maharaja praises his guru for having rescued him from materialistic life: “I was gradually falling into a blind well full of snakes, following the general populace. But Your servant Narada Muni kindly accepted me as his disciple and instructed me how to achieve this transcendental position [of Krishna consciousness]. Therefore, my first duty is to serve him. How could I leave his service?”

Throughout history, “following the general populace” has meant movement away from what’s ultimately for people’s true benefit. The general populace moves to the direction of Maya, Lord Krishna’s energy and the ruler of the material world. Srila Prabhupada writes, “The material world is an illusory energy to deviate the living entities from the path of self-realization.”

In Kali-yuga, the current age, Maya seems to be doing her best work, creating distractions at the speed of mind. What’s a yogi to do?

Rupa Gosvami, one of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu’s chief disciples, gave the solution: use the products of Maya in Krishna’s service. Instead of rejecting technology outright or letting it divert us from the most human of enterprises self-realization we can use it to connect with Krishna, thus spiritualizing both the technology and our lives.

Prabhupada wanted his disciples to use technology to spread Krishna consciousness. And he said that, along with chanting Hare Krishna and reading about Krishna, the ideal way to control the mind is to constantly think about how to give Krishna consciousness to others. Technology now allows us to do that while savoring the serenity of a simple life and watching the cows graze in the pasture outside our window. Now that’s a distraction even I can handle.

Source: http://www.dandavats.com/?p=14700

As a genuine spiritual master, His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada takes personal responsibility for the advancement of each of his students in the spiritual life of Krsna consciousness. Although now his transcendental instructions are available in book form, when Srila Prabhupada first began the Krsna consciousness movement, the only way his new disciples could get the answers to their many questions was to ask Srila Prabhupada personally. Therefore, since 1966, Srila Prabhupada has written literally thousands of personal letters to his disciples, answering their questions, giving them encouragement and opening their eyes to newer and newer realizations of Krsna. A bona fide spiritual master is by nature very kind to his disciples, and as their ever well-wisher, he blesses them with genuine spiritual understanding. Some of Srila Prabhupada’s instructions are presented here.

“Your appreciation of the movement is very keen and interesting. Actually, I was also attracted by my guru maharaja [spiritual master] when he convinced me that God lives and we can live with Him. I find the same conviction in you, and it has given me such great pleasure. Yes, it is the greatest discovery. In human society under the spell of illusion, men are doing things each on his own responsibility, and they are becoming entangled in material existence. This is the greatest blunder in human society. They have not only forgotten God but they have declared openly that God is dead. This declaration of the foolish human society is thc greatest blunder in life. I therefore appreciate your conviction, and I am still more glad that you are determined to propagate this message to the world at large. I am sure you can do this because all of you who have come to me are sincere souls and you have understood the inner force of Krsna consciousness. Please try to propagate this movement together.”

“I know that you are a sincere devotee of Lord Krsna. When you drive your car you always chant ‘Hare Krsna,’ and when I was by your side I could understand how heartily you have accepted the philosophy of Krsna consciousness. Krsna is very kind to all, but He is especially kind to His sincere devotees. Krsna is always with us, within our hearts, and He is always ready to give us direction, but because everyone is independent, Krsna responds cooperatively. If anyone voluntarily cooperates with Krsna’s desire, He responds to his call very eagerly. Krsna descends to teach us Bhagavad-gita, begging our cooperation, and anyone who cooperates with Him becomes blessed. You are sincerely cooperating with Krsna, and therefore all you boys and girls in San Francisco are working together harmoniously. Harmony means Krsna consciousness. Without Krsna consciousness there cannot be harmony in the world. Your acknowledgement, ‘Krsna has been very merciful to me,’ is remarkable. You are realizing the fruit of chanting.”

“The sentiments you have expressed are very nice, and they are just suitable for spiritual advancement. The actual Vaisnava [devotee] always feels himself lowly and unqualified, but this submissiveness and humbleness is his actual qualification for becoming perfect in Krsna consciousness. In material life everyone is thinking, ‘I am so wonderful, I am so expert,’ but actually the living entity is an insignificant spark of the Supreme Personality of Godhead, Sri Krsna. So when we see that we are becoming aware of our infinitesimal nature, then we begin to also understand something of how infinitely great Krsna is. One cannot be falsely puffed up and still expect to make progress in spiritual life. Rather, one must learn to accept his constitutional position as Krsna’s tiny servant. Then Krsna is pleased to reveal Himself to such a devotee, and the devotee becomes more and more perfect in rendering transcendental service to the Lord.”

“It is a fact that wherever we go, if we simply let people hear our chanting and if we repeat what we have heard from the bona fide spiritual master, then surely many, many sincere souls will become attracted to our movement. This is because Krsna consciousness is lying dormant in every living entity, just as fire is dormant within a match. If we simply strike the match, then the fire within will come out in blazing light. Our method of striking the match is Hare Krsna, Hare Krsna, Krsna Krsna, Hare Hare. This vibration is sufficient to awaken the sleeping spirit soul to the fact that Krsna is there, and if we try to remember Him always and spread His message of Bhagavad-gita, then our life becomes perfect, and we are perfectly acting in our position as part and parcel of the Lord. The boys and girls of America are generally good souls; that is why they have taken birth in such a nice country. Now they should perfect all of their opulence by engaging everything in Krsna consciousness.”

“The more we struggle for advancing our Krsna consciousness movement, the more we become advanced on the path. Really, devotional service means that we have to employ our energies for the purpose of Krsna consciousness, and it does not matter what the volume of such energy is because different persons have different types of energies. But the best means is to apply one’s energy as far as possible. That is the secret of success in Krsna consciousness. It is not that one has to acquire the energy of an elephant or that one has to become a very learned or intelligent man; one simply has to become sincere and employ whatever energy he has in his possession in the service of the Lord. That is the secret of success in Krsna consciousness.”

“Just as you are thinking of me so often, you should know that I am often thinking of you also. So if you can remember to always remember Krsna and the instructions of your spiritual master, then surely this will bring the highest benediction to yourself and to those with whom you come into contact. To the extent that we are thinking of Krsna, to that extent maya has no influence. But as much as we are desiring to forget Krsna and trying to enjoy ourselves, to that extent we must suffer the pains of maya. Our remedy for material life is very simple simply to chant for Krsna, to dance for Krsna, to work and prepare nice foods for Krsna. Then we become fully free from all other influences. Please always remember this secret and show all others by example.”

“We should learn to depend on Krsna more and more. Actually, Krsna is always guiding us as Supersoul, but due to our forgetfulness, we do not understand that Krsna is our friend everlasting. With advancement in Krsna consciousness one is able to realize that Krsna is always with His devotees—not only with His devotees but also with the nondevotees, but the devotees can recognize His presence and the nondevotees cannot. The more you make advancement in Krsna consciousness, the more you will see Krsna everywhere—not only on the bank of the river but also on streets, in trees, lamp posts and so on. The more you see in that way, the more you know that you are making tangible advancement in Krsna consciousness. Actually, there is nothing but Krsna all around us. This is explained in the Gita. He is the taste of water, the light of the moon, the fragrance of the flower, the light of the sun, the sound in the sky, the power of the strong and so on. One who is actually making progress in Krsna consciousness can see Krsna everywhere. At every stage of life, who can avoid the sunlight, the moonlight, the fragrance of the flower, the taste of the water, the sound in the sky and so on? But one has to learn that Krsna is there in all these vatieties of existence. Without Krsna there is nothing. It is simply by the influence of maya that we forget the relationship of Krsna with everything that be.”

“You have accepted me as father, so I have also accepted you as my dear and real son. The relationship of father and son on the spiritual platform is real and eternal; on the material platform such relationships are ephemeral and temporary. Although I cannot give you anything as father, still I can pray to Krsna for your greater and greater advancement in Krsna consciousness. Your sincerity and service mood will always help you in advancing your genuine cause.”

“I thank you very much for your nice letter and for your inquisitiveness. You are Krsna’s part and parcel. As you love your hands and legs and you feel when your hand is in trouble, similarly Krsna feels for you when you are in trouble. The hand has value when it is attached to the body. Similarly, we have value when we are Krsna conscious. The hand has no value detached from the whole body. Krsna is the whole, and we are His parts and parcels. Try to understand this philosophy.

“The hand and body are created at the same time. It is not that the body is created first and then the hand is created. Our relation with Krsna is like that of the hand and the body. Therefore, Krsna and ourselves are both eternal, and there is no history of eternity: it has no beginning and no end.”

“Personally I have no credit for myself, but I am trying to act as a faithful servant of my predecessors and just present without adulteration the message which I have received from my spiritual master. Similarly, if this message is presented by all of you who have accepted me as the spiritual master, then all the people of the world may be benefited by receiving this transcendental message of Krsna consciousness. Try to execute this mission wholeheartedly and faithfully, and all of you try to broadcast the message to your best capacity.

“Your humbleness is very much appreciated by me. This humbleness is the sign of progress in Krsna consciousness. A Krsna conscious person always thinks himself the lowest creature in the world, and the more one thinks like that, the more he becomes elevated. A Krsna conscious person is never falsely puffed-up. He is satisfied with his position as the servant of the servant of the servant of Krsna.”

Source: http://www.dandavats.com/?p=28731

By Atma Tattva Das,

ISKCON Hungary demonstrates how a spiritually grounded community can grow while remaining faithful to its devotional core. Across rural farmland, urban temples, educational institutions, and national relief programs, the Hungarian Yatra moved forward with a clear emphasis on cohesion, public engagement, and sustainability. What emerges is a portrait of a community integrating devotion, professionalism, and societal relevance.

Reflecting on 2025, GBC Secretary Radha Krishna Das emphasized that the most meaningful development was not any single achievement, but a deeper internal shift. “We saw tangible growth, over 1.3 million plates of prasādam distributed, increasing book distribution, and expanding public recognition at the highest levels of society, but what stood out was that these were not isolated successes. They reflected a deeper maturation of the community.” He explained that as relationships, service, and mission began reinforcing one another, the Yatra moved toward closer alignment with Śrīla Prabhupāda’s vision, where inner cultivation and outward contribution develop together.

Read more: https://iskconnews.org/iskcon-hungary-deepening-roots-expanding-reach/

vedavyaso ya evasid daso vrindavano’dhuna

sakha yah kusumapidah karyatas tam samavishat

Vedavyasa became Vrindavan Das Thakur. Krishna’s friend Kusumapida also entered into him for special purposes. (Gaura-ganoddesha-dipika 109)

Vedavyasa described Krishna-lila in the Srimad Bhagavatam. Non-different from Vyasa, Vrindavan Das described Mahaprabhu’s lila in his Chaitanya Bhagavat. His book was first called Chaitanya Mangala, but when Locana Das gave the same name to his biography of the Lord, it was dubbed “Chaitanya Bhagavat”.

Vrindavan Das was born on the Krishna-dvadashi of the month of Vaishakh in 1429 of the Shaka era (1507 AD). Some say he was born in Mamgachi in the Nabadwip area, others say his birthplace was in Kumarahatta. His father was Vaikunthanatha Vipra, who originally came from Sylhet (Sylhet), his mother Narayani Devi. Narayani was the daughter of Srivasa Pandit’s elder brother, Shrinalina Pandit. 

Whether born in Mamagachi or in Kumarahatta, Vrindavan Das later lived in the village of Denuria, within the Matreshvara precinct of Burdwan district. Thus Denuria is considered to be his Shripata. He spent some of his childhood with his mother in Mamagachi, at the home of his maternal grandparents where Narayani was married.

Vrindavan Das’s Gaura-Nitai deities are still worshiped at the Mamagachi home. When his father died, he and his mother moved to Srivasa’s house where he received Mahaprabhu’s special blessings.

Because of the copious blessings he received from Nityananda Prabhu, Vrindavan Das is said to have been his initiated disciple.

Anyone who follows in the footsteps of Vrindavan Das, the incarnation of Vyasa, and both practices and preaches the Vaishnava religion is always engaged in an effort to bring about the ultimate well-being of everyone.

Vrindavan Das Thakur’s disappearance day is the Krishna Dashami of Vaishakh. There is some dispute the exact year of his disappearance which was likely 1511 Shaka (1589 AD).

Source: https://ramaiswami.com/vrindavana-dasa-thakura-disappearance/

Thank you Oh Srimati Radharani, Oh Divine Mother for giving this fallen and sinful soul entrance into Your personal abode, Sri Vrindavan. I know that I am fully unqualified to step onto this holy land of Yours but Your mercy is unfathomable, unimaginable and incalculable.

Vrndavana Vilasini was attached to a hippie life of independence but found that lifestyle to be no protection from painful events and the intense suffering they caused. In her travels around America, she met devotees, heard the holy name, and took prasada. Finally, she ended up back in Seattle, Washington, her hometown.
One day, I was visiting the Seattle temple when the president, Makhanlal, said to me, “Do you want to meet someone who loves God more than anyone else?” I said, “Sure!” A little later, on June 8, 1972, he invited me to join the devotees on a six-hour drive to the Portland, Oregon airport to meet that special person, His Divine Grace A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada. I had no idea how powerful a meeting that would be.
I was peering out of the airport lounge window when the plane taxied to a stop. In those days, arriving passengers deplaned by walking down a set of airplane stairs and then a short way across the tarmac before entering the terminal. I was anxious and curious. Who would he be who loves God more than anyone? Passengers poured out of the plane. Finally, I saw Srila Prabhupada.
The moment Prabhupada appeared at the plane door my heart jumped. I was transfixed. He began showering his mercy on us from that first moment. It appeared to me that he was totally effulgent and was not walking on the ground. I was astonished. Even though I was far away, my deep bond of love for him began at that moment. It was a heart-to-heart connection, something I had never experienced before. His heart said to my heart, “I love you, I will never leave you.” My heart replied, “I love you, and I will never leave you.” It was an unbelievable, unexpected internal bond of love and affection. For two or three hours, even as I went through my normal motions, I was experiencing the shock of another reality. I experienced the whole world – every radio, every person, every single blade of grass – as if everything and everyone was chanting Hare Krishna. Prabhupada gave that gift to me.
Ever since that day, I always feel Prabhupada is here with me. He’s my life and soul, my best friend, and closer to me than the air I breathe.
After meeting Srila Prabhupada in Portland, I flew to Los Angeles and joined the temple on Watseka Avenue. My connection to that community is a bond I have never broken. I was so happy to be there. Three months later, on Sri Balarama’s Appearance Day, Prabhupada initiated me. In the ceremony, all the initiates repeated the regulative principles they were vowing to follow. I wanted to please him, so after I recited the regulative principles, I looked up at him like a little kid and added, “And always remember Krishna and never forget Krishna.” Prabhupada laughed. He said, “Your name is Vrndavana Vilasini Devi Dasi. It’s a name for Radharani, the one who enjoys in Vrndavana.”
For seventeen years, day in and day out, I tried to please Prabhupada by distributing his books in L.A. and Denver. For ten of those years I distributed books full-time in addition to dressing the Deities in the mornings. We had so much energy then! For the next seven years, due to health problems, I had to cut back on sankirtana, so I distributed books part-time and managed the women’s ashram at the L.A. temple. I loved distributing books and, even today, I carry small books with me wherever I go in case I meet interested people. When Srila Prabhupada left this world, I put on white in order to dedicate myself fully to his service. In 1989, I moved to Vrndavana and taught at the gurukula for six years. Now, by Prabhupada’s mercy, I live on the banks of the Yamuna not far from his old home, the center of the universe, Radha-Damodara temple.
When I was engaged in those various services, I never felt limited by being in a woman’s body and I still don’t. The reason is that Srila Prabhupada did not see us as limited. He made us all, men and women, completely confident to do any service. When people asked Prabhupada about women being less intelligent, he said, “If you think you’re a woman, you’re always going to have troubles. Don’t think you’re a woman, think you’re a spirit soul, a servant of Krishna.” He never made women feel inferior, unequal. We had equal opportunity for service: women dressed the Deities, cooked for Them, gave class, had traveling preaching parties, and so many other services.
Prabhupada gave me the desire to serve and please him. That is the real bond. It’s because of his mercy that I’m enthusiastic, that I have a taste. When I first read that verse Prabhupada liked – yasya deve para bhaktir, yatha deve tatha guru, if you have implicit faith in guru and Krishna, then you will know all the imports of the Vedas – I thought, “I don’t have that firm faith, but I’ll pray for it and I am sure Prabhupada will give it.” I have faith in the process and follow as best I can. Krishna consciousness is simple, but we have to be patient and tolerant.
I did not have as much personal association with Srila Prabhupada as some of my godsisters and godbrothers. Even so, my connection with him is still strong. I attended a few darshans and was too shy to ask questions, but I saw and heard him speak many, many times. I was in the Los Angeles temple, which he visited often. When he came, the whole temple would go to the airport and hold a huge kirtan. It was such a wonderful, joyous experience. When he left, we would also have a huge kirtan, and I would weep like a child for her father. In L.A., I had the great good fortune to hear all his Srimad-Bhagavatam classes. And I received his maha-prasada, and lots of it. I also helped clean his quarters every day, especially his bathroom.
Prabhupada would go on a morning walk every day, except when it rained. We would clean his quarters while he was on the walk. Once, it rained every day for a few days and we did not get to clean his rooms during that time. Then finally it stopped raining and Prabhupada went out on a walk. The person in charge, assuming Prabhupada would go for a long walk, decided we would do a maha-cleanup that day to make up for the missed days. But a short time later, Prabhupada returned, surprising us all. As Prabhupada stood at the door to his rooms, the devotee tried to explain that he thought because it was sunny, Prabhupada would be out longer. Prabhupada just looked at him and replied, “Where there is Krishna, there is sunshine. Where there is no Krishna, there is darkness.” Then he put his head up, in that royal way he had, and walked in and shut the door.
I was also in India at the opening of the Krishna-Balaram Mandir in 1975 – my first time in India – as well as in Delhi and Vrindavana in 1976. I preached and distributed lots of books at the Delhi pandals and also when Prabhupada opened the Hyderabad temple – an opening I also attended. I was so fortunate. That fortune is his mercy, causeless mercy.
Prabhupada is an extraordinary transcendental personality; he descended from Goloka Vrindavana. He’s still glancing at us and sending us personal letters through his books. If we can offer our bhoga to a picture of Prabhupada and it becomes prasada, how is it that we can’t talk to him? We can. How is it we can’t get his glance? We can. It’s a matter of faith. We have faith that our bhoga becomes prasada, so why don’t we have faith that he can talk to us? He does. He is our eternal well-wisher and our Sri Guru. When we make him our life and soul and serve him with love, affection, and gratitude, he reciprocates. It’s a matter of faith. Jaya Srila Prabhupada!
(In the photo Vrndavana Vilasini Devi Dasi playing kartals)

Source: http://www.dandavats.com/?p=27638

From Back to Godhead

When Charles asked his son and daughter-in-law a Hare Krishna couple to move in with him, he knew he’d have to adapt, but his reward was more than he could ever imagine.

Charles was born in 1917. He grew into a man of courage and principles, serving his country in the U.S. Navy for twenty years and then the Civil Service for twenty more. Assigned to a submarine fleet during World War II, he saw his share of pain and suffering and, like many veterans, came to value a safe, secure home for his wife and two young children. Charles was proud of his country and its ideals and strove to instill values in his children that would enable them to grow into responsible, God-fearing citizens.

When his son Charlie, at the age of 24, announced his plan to join the Hare Krishna movement, Charles was shocked. What! Why? Where had Charles gone wrong? Like many parents, Charles was horrified that his son was choosing a path radically different from what he had envisioned for him. It seemed the foolish choice of a young man who couldn’t know the world as Charles did. He did his best to talk his son out of it, but it was no use. Ultimately, he could only accept Charlie’s decision and hope that someday Charlie would change his mind.

Little did Charles realize what a praiseworthy path his son had chosen. Giving up the usual pursuit of wealth and social status, Charlie instead chose to develop love for God, Sri Krishna. Charles had no way of knowing that he himself would someday reap great benefits from his son’s actions. In the Srimad-Bhagavatam, Lord Krishna assures a boy that because of his saintly behavior, his “entire dynasty has been purified.” Although to Charles his son’s decision seemed a rejection of his family values, Charlie would bring his family a spiritual opulence more transforming than any material success.

Moving in with Dad

In 1973 Charlie joined the Hare Krishna movement and was initiated by Srila Prabhupada, receiving the spiritual name Godruma Dasa. At the time, Charles was not in close contact with his son, who was spreading Krishna consciousness in the U.S.A., Japan, and India.

In 1983 Godruma married a girl named Visnupriya. They returned to the U.S.A. in 1985 because his mother was ill. Charles was excited to see his son after so long and couldn’t help but notice the changes in him. Godruma had become peaceful, friendly, and tolerant. Charles welcomed Visnupriya, who was moved by his kindness and wonderful sense of humor.

In 1986 Charles lost his beloved wife to cancer. Heartsick, he asked Godruma and Visnupriya to come live with him in Jacksonville, Florida. Moved by his loneliness, the young couple agreed. But they all had concerns about their different ways of life. Godruma and his wife wanted to keep up their spiritual practices. There could be no meat, fish, eggs, onions, or garlic in the house. Nothing could be eaten unless the food was blessed by offering it to Krishna. They would want to keep worshiping their deities, Sri Sri Radha Madana-mohana, installing Them in Charles’s house. Godruma and Visnupriya would need to rise early, before 4:00 A.M., to chant Hare Krishna and perform their morning worship before going to work. Then in the evenings they would cook an offering and once more worship their deities and read from Srila Prabhupada’s books.

Contemplating all of these changes, Charles decided it was a small price to pay for the closeness of his family.

“I guess I can learn,” he told them, adding that the most difficult thing would be to remember to offer his food to Krishna.

“But I can give it a shot!”

“We had several discussions about his needs and ours,” says Visnupriya. “We didn’t want to impose on him, and he really wanted to see if he could adapt. I had serious doubts but was amazed at how quickly he adapted to the changes. Godruma and I went through culture shock too. This was the first time we were not living at a temple, and the nearest one in Alachua was eighty miles away. We wanted to continue to follow Srila Prabhupada’s instructions to the best of our ability.”

They soon became a close-knit family. Godruma and Visnupriya shared Prabhupada’s teachings with Charles, and Charles shared his home with them. Charles would listen to tapes of Srila Prabhupada’s singing and speaking, often commenting on how convinced Prabhupada sounded when he spoke. Charles appreciated what Srila Prabhupada had done for his son, feeling that Godruma had become a better person.

The young couple would invite devotee friends over, filling the house with feasting and the holy names. In time, Charles grew to look forward to these gatherings. He developed a special fondness for the food, known as krsna-prasadam, or “the mercy of Krishna.” Visnupriya’s sister, Sashi Mukhi, would bring her children Siddhartha and Sujata over. Charles grew to love the children and Sashi Mukhi’s cooking.

Deteriorating Health

To everyone’s great sorrow, Charles developed prostate cancer. He received conventional treatment, but throughout the years 2000 and 2001 his health deteriorated. He was in and out of the hospital. Although Charles had recognized the benefits of the Hare Krishna movement for Godruma, and had come to love the devotees and their ways, he had not accepted the deep philosophy of the Vedas and the teachings of Srila Prabhupada. He saw himself as someone apart from the Hare Krishna devotees.

One day, listening to Visnupriya and her nephew discussing reincarnation and life after death, Charles said, “When I go, it will be the end for me. Nothing exists after death.”

Although the prostate cancer went into remission, Charles developed chronic leukemia. He also suffered from shingles, which made it impossible for him to walk. So Charles, all his life the strong and capable provider, was now forced to rely on others.

Charles’s doctor prescribed physical therapy for his legs, and the therapist would come to their home. One day the therapist mentioned that he had often seen Hare Krishna devotees on the campus of the University of Florida. Godruma offered the therapist a copy of the Bhagavad-gita, but the man hesitated to accept it.

Charles chimed in, “You really should take the book. It will help you.”

The therapist took the book.

Charles was in immeasurable pain. He didn’t regain his ability to walk. On a return stay in the hospital, he developed a urinary tract infection. There seemed no end to his misery.

He turned to Visnupriya and said, “You’ve got to help me.”

Reaching for the only solace she could offer, Visnupriya told him that if he prayed to Krishna, he would feel a lot better.

Helplessly, Charles replied, “Really?”

The three of them decided to end all of Charles’s treatment and bring him back home. Godruma and Visnupriya would care for him and surround him with their love and with the sound of the holy name. They told their beloved father that they would play a tape of Srila Prabhupada chanting the Hare Krishna maha-mantra twenty-four hours a day. Charles would only need to listen. And to relieve his distress, he could learn to chant Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare/ Hare Rama, Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare.

“I’m too old to learn that,” Charles protested. “Can I just chant ‘Krishna, Krishna’?”

“Absolutely,” they replied.

Difficult situations can often reveal our dependence on God. There are, it is said, no atheists in the foxhole. And the old fighter, in the depths of his helplessness and pain, was opening to the possibilities of God’s love. He began to love the sacred chanting that was his constant companion.

When hospice workers visited the house and asked about the unusual music, Charles happily told them, “This is our family music. Why don’t you sing along?”

When faced with unbearable pain or depression, Charles would call out, “Krishna! Krishna!”

Sacred Protection

During the summer of 2001, he started having terrible apparitions. He would see ghosts, skeletons, terrorists, wild animals, and dead bodies.

In fright he would cry out, “They’re coming to get me!”

Visnupriya and Godruma increased the spiritual protection. They placed sacred tulasi beads around his neck. (He had been eating tulasi leaves offered to Krishna since 1986 and was very fond of them.) And every morning Godruma started giving him caranamrta (water that has bathed deities). In his line of vision they placed large pictures of Srila Prabhupada, Gaura Nitai (Caitanya Mahaprabhu and Nityananda), Krishna-Balarama, and Radha-Syamsundara.

Watching this, Charles quietly noted, “You are preparing for my departure.”

Visnupriya could only admit to the truth.

“But,” she comforted him, “we want you to be surrounded by auspiciousness.”

As the terrible days of his increasing illness passed, Charles began to find more and more solace in Krishna consciousness. Visnupriya and Godruma would bring him special gifts from the temple, such as prasadam, flower garlands, and sanctified water. He rejoiced in the smallest signs of Krishna’s mercy on him.

One day Charles suffered a great deal and was afraid. Visnupriya gave him a Back to Godhead magazine, and he was pleased to recognize the picture of Nagaraja Dasa, whom he had met.

“Oh, I know him!” Charles said, “I think I’ll read this magazine.”

Reading Back to Godhead helped calm him down.

Godruma and Visnupriya read to him as much as they could from the Bhagvad-gita and Krishna, the Supreme Personality of Godhead. Charles listened to the reading intensely.

“I don’t understand everything you read,” he told them, “but please continue. I love to listen.”

In September the nurses said they saw a difference in Charles. He seemed peaceful, even though his physical deterioration continued unabated. One evening Visnupriya was sitting at his side when she noticed he was smiling.

“There’s someone standing at the foot of my bed,” he told her.

“Who is it, Dad?” she asked.

Charles pointed to the picture of Srila Prabhupada near his bed.

“It’s him.”

Incredulous, Visnupriya grabbed Charles’s hand.

“Are you sure?”

“Yes.”

Charles smiled.

“Dad, you’re going to be O.K.,” Visnupriya said in wonder. “You have the shelter of Srila Prabhupada.”

When this happened several more times, Visnupriya let go of her own fear and worry. Obviously, her father-in-law was under much greater care than her own.

A Blessed End

In the final weeks of September, as the level of pain greatly increased, Charles became peaceful. He loved looking at his picture of Srila Prabhupada. Then, on October 2, Charles found it difficult to breathe. Godruma had been giving him sacred Ganges water every morning and evening for the past two weeks, and he was eating tulasi from a garland from Radha-Syamsundara in Vrndavana, India. The nurse told Godruma and Visnupriya that their father had just a few hours to live.

They were filled with a jumble of feelings. They loved him dearly and didn’t want to say good-bye, but there was no chance of recovery. They had hoped and prayed that he would find his own way to Krishna, and he had. Death would not end the real Charles, the spiritual being who had come to love the sound of Krishna’s name. It would only end his body. Whatever lay ahead for Charles was surely wonderful and auspicious.

Godruma and Visnupriya sat chanting as Charles gradually dimmed from consciousness. They urged him to chant Krishna’s name.

With great difficulty, Charles said, “Ah, K . . . r . . . s . . . na, K . . . r . . . s . . . na.”

Those were his last words before he lost awareness. His son and daughter-in-law continued to chant. They
anointed his body with sacred water and marked him with tilaka (sacred clay). Sashi Mukhi arrived and joined in the chanting. The room was tranquil and charged with spiritual energy. At 11:00 P.M., he stopped breathing.

Visnupriya and Sashi Mukhi, filled with the peace of the room, went outside. They gazed up at the moon. It seemed so bright, and the sky was beautifully clear. They considered that according to the Vedas that particular full moon occurring during the month of Purusottama was an auspicious time, and they marveled at the way Charles had transformed his life into something so pleasing to the Lord. They rejoined Godruma and spent the night chanting and reading the Bhagavad-gita.

Krishna Svarupa Dasa from the Alachua temple community performed the last rites for Charles before cremation. Following Vedic custom, on the thirteenth day after his departure the family sponsored feasts in his memory at ISKCON temples in Alachua, Atlanta, and Hyderabad.

Source: http://www.dandavats.com/?p=27972

From Back to Godhead

Dear Sivarama Swami,

Hare Krsna. Please accept my humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada. I hope you do not mind my writing to you. I have never written to a spiritual master before. You do not know me. My name is Bhaktin Dora and I live in Pecs (Hungary). I am 14 years old, and I live at home with my mother and older sister.

Some years ago I went to the Hare Krsna Festival with a friend. I was not very interested, but I enjoyed the chanting and dancing at the end. After it was over I bought a book, The Science of Self-Realization. I do not know why; generally I never read. I think it was because of the chanting.

I took the book home and cannot remember what happened to it. One day my mother found it and was very angry with me. She thought that I was reading this kind of thing. You see, our family members are all very strict Catholics. They thought Krsna consciousness was some kind of “brainwashing.” Actually I wasn’t reading the book; I had forgotten all about it. Somehow it just “appeared.” Anyway, my mother was going to throw it away.

My grandmother, who is 68, was in the kitchen at the time. She lives in the apartment upstairs. She came in and took the book. She looked at it and scolded me in a very heavy way. I thought that would be the end of it. I did not mind so much, as I was in a lot of maya at the time.

About a week later I overheard a conversation between my mother and grandmother. Granny was saying that this was not some ordinary book. She said that what Prabhupada was saying is what Jesus Christ said and that Krsna is God. I was very surprised. She said we should listen to what Prabhupada said and chant Hare Krsna because that was the religion for this age. There was a lot of talk about how Christianity was no more and no one was following the Bible but what Prabhupada said was pure and perfect.

Things really took a turn from there. One day my grandmother visited the nama-hatta [local Krsna center] here and began to chant on beads. She also began to buy Prabhupada’s books one by one. She was spending all her pension buying what she called the “beautiful holy Bhagavatam.” Sometimes she could only afford to eat potatoes, but she kept buying the books. The devotees even came to her flat and helped her set up an altar. When I went upstairs, there were Krsna pictures everywhere.

That was really the beginning. One night Granny had a dream about Prabhupada. Something really happened to her then. I don’t know what it was, but she began to get very enthusiastic. Next she began to get the whole family involved. I mean, not just me and my mother and sister, but her two sons, their wives and six children, as well as her brothers, sisters, and relatives. Before, she used to carry a Bible with her and quote Jesus Christ. Now she has a Bhagavad-gita and quotes “the good Lord Prabhupada.” She became a veritable transcendental terror. Everyone in the family has to chant at least one round a day. In addition Granny made everyone become a vegetarian, including my dog Sikra, and we offer our food to a picture of Prabhupada and Lord Caitanya.

Now I am also getting out of maya and chanting and reading a little also. Where I go to school my friends inquire about Krsna, since they know I am a devotee. The whole family goes to the nama-hatta, all sixteen of us. During the Christmas marathon [for book distribution], we all tried to distribute Prabhupada’s books. Even Granny would take books with her to the market and sell them to the vendors. Everyone is afraid of her because she is fearless. They all think she has gone crazy, but she doesn’t care.

Now she is saving to go to Budapest to see the newly installed Deities. She has heard that Lord Caitanya and Lord Nityananda “came” to Hungary and are being worshiped there by the devotees. She says she wants to see God just once in this life.

At this year’s Hare Krsna festival, you were speaking to the guests after the kirtana. You must remember my grandmother because she came and sat right beside you and asked so many questions. At the end when you stood to leave, she even kissed your hand, remember? I also wanted to ask a question, but I was shy. Could I please ask you now? I hope you do not mind, Maharaja.

I want to know what kind of man Srila Prabhupada was. He must be so dear to Krsna to have spread this message all over the world. What are these books that changed my family so much? How is it possible that he can speak so powerfully through them? You must feel very fortunate to be his disciple. How great a man he is! Sometimes when my Granny chants in front of a picture of Krsna she cries. How does Prabhupada do that? I want to cry like that too. Granny dreams of Prabhupada, and sometimes she talks to his picture. Although it says on the cover of the book that he passed away, is Prabhupada really dead, or is he still alive? Do you think I can meet him some day?

I am sorry that I have gone on so. I would like to be a good devotee one day and help you and Prabhupada spread Krsna consciousness. Please could you answer my questions?

Your servant,
Bhaktin Dora

Sivarama Swami: Srila Prabhupada, what is this brand of mercy that you gave this old lady I just barely met, which you never gave me? She never met you, never saw devotees. She is not even initiated by you. What is this kindness that you bestow upon her, which you do not give me, your “fortunate disciple”?

What am I referring to? It is just this. After having come in contact with you for just a few months, what inspiration did you give this Granny in that dream? What did you move in her heart that made her change her life in its final days, that made her turn against the current of banality and tradition and strike out alone to change her world? No sympathy, no association, no institutional support. Boldness I do not possess, changes I do not have strength to make.

Srila Prabhupada, I want to know what you say to her from your picture when she talks to you? I have so many pictures. You do not speak to me through them.

Although I worship Deities daily, I continue to see them as made of marble and wood. How is it this old lady has the conviction that God has “come” to her country? Why have you not given such vision to me? I want to cry like that too. When will you give me that mercy?

Srila Prabhupada, this is one letter, from one girl who came in contact with you. How many millions of such souls are there who have yet to write, who are directly experiencing your mercy daily, who read your books with implicit faith, whom you talk to in dreams and pictures, whose lives you change abruptly and reward with tears when chanting the holy names?

How many people cross the boundaries of rules and regulations by the strong boat of your mercy and practice and taste Krsna consciousness in a realm beyond logic and good fortune? When will you one day bestow some of this special mercy upon me that you give them?

If I am not to acquire it directly, even after begging for it, then I will serve such souls who have reached your mission. I will offer them prasadam, give them your books, and show them how to practice. I will chant with them. Thus I can hope to gain a new perspective of your greatness, even though I may never fully understand it.

Source: http://www.dandavats.com/?p=27998

We joined ISKCON during the Zonal days. Now we are old, maybe cynical, — but convinced about Srila Prabhupada and the importance of his transcendental books.

My friend Rasada Prabhu knew that his days were numbered, left his body and left his legacy funds to be spent on Srila Prabhupada’s books — a substantial amount of £166,000.

Read more: https://foodforalluk.com/vrindavan-books

Source: https://www.dandavats.com/?p=117739