Some of the most exciting book distribution incidents have taken place at the Mumbai Central Railway Station. It all began in the mid 80's, when book distribution as a part of regular service in the
Radha Gopinatha temple in Chowpatty was still at a nascent stage. With very few devotees distributing books, nobody had ever thought of going to the railway station.
One day Krishnananda Prabhu decided to take the initiative and told me to accompany him. I had just joined the temple. As a teenager coming from a small town, I felt the big city to be overwhelming. I was definitely nervous, and with one glance at the confident, smart- looking men of Mumbai, always on the move, I was put off. I was convinced I couldn't do book distribution. Impossible. But Krishnananda Prabhu was adamant. He was the temple commander, and since he had ordered me to pack my book bag, I had no choice but to comply. For a new bhakta, there was no question of personal likes or dislikes.
When we reached the platform, Krishnananda Prabhu was in his element. Tapping a traveler on the shoulder, he introduced himself as a Master of Science (MSc.) and Master of Technology (Mtech) from the U.S.A. The English-speaking, smart sadhu baffled all of them and induced them to take Prabhupada's books. Well, he could do it in that style and with good success. For me, this was a nightmare. My worst fears came true when all of a sudden he put a few books in my hand and pushed me inside a compartment, "Go, just give Prabhupada's books to all. Come on!" As I heard his firm voice, I almost fainted. I was trembling, and seeing the passengers seated in the train, with all eyes on me, I was on the verge of tears. Not able to muster up enough strength, I gave up, went to a vacant seat in a corner and sat down all alone. I began sighing, "Krishna, why are You doing this to me? Please take me out of this mess.Ó With no one to share my tale of woe, I was miserable.
Just then a complete stranger came up to me, smiled, and asked me what I had in my book bag. Sitting up straight, I clumsily showed him the books. He exclaimed aloud, ÒOh! These books are wonderful" and immediately took a few big books and a dozen small books. I was ecstatic. I ran looking for Krishnananda Prabhu, hardly able to contain my excitement. Sharing my joy and seeing the sparkle in my eyes now, he commented, ÒYour days are numbered. You will be hooked on this.
Today, more than two decades later, book distribution is one of the main activities of the Chowpatti temple, with three bus parties going out during the marathon and many devotees engaged full-time in book distribution.
Comments