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**Nanda Kumar das Remembers Srila Prabhupada**
 

The first instruction I received from Srila Prabhupada came with a touch of humor and learning. On my first day cooking for him, I was incredibly nervous. After preparing and serving his lunch, I took his plates to the kitchen, forgetting to wipe the spot on his desk. A few moments later, Prabhupada rang his buzzer and pointed out the overlooked detail. Apologizing profusely, I quickly corrected my mistake. The next day, I forgot again, and he addressed me more firmly, though still with kindness. From then on, I never neglected to wipe the spot, and he never chastised me again.
 

Once, early in my service, he asked me to prepare halava. At the time, I was inexperienced in Vedic cooking, so I called the temple to find the recipe but could not get the proper proportions. Coming from a health-conscious background, I decided to use honey instead of sugar. The result was a disaster—a dense, rock-hard halava that he barely touched. Prabhupada’s response was gracious; he said nothing about it at the time. Later, when Kartikeya Swami prepared a fluffy and light halava, Prabhupada praised it and encouraged me to learn the recipe. Since then, I have always followed the correct method: two and a half cups water, one cup farina, one cup butter, and one and one-third cups sugar.
 

Cleanliness and punctuality were paramount to Srila Prabhupada, especially for cooks and pujaris. On one occasion, we visited a Krishna temple in a small Indian village. The altar was dirty, and the pujari seemed disheveled. Troubled by this, I asked Prabhupada later if Krishna was truly present in such a neglected temple. He explained that Krishna was indeed present and emphasized that we must maintain our own standards without judging others. He reminded me that all rules and regulations are meant for personal application, not for criticizing others. His ability to see the devotion in others, even when their external practices differed, was profound.
 

Once, in Los Angeles, it was a chilly morning, and I was unprepared, wearing only a kurta. Prabhupada noticed I was cold and insisted I take one of his chaddars. I hesitated, but he gently insisted, showing his deep care. These moments revealed his kindness and fatherly affection.
 

Driving Prabhupada on his morning walks was a cherished duty. One memorable morning, a dog charged at us as we passed a house. Unbeknownst to me, the dog was restrained by an invisible fence. For a moment, I thought I might be injured or worse, but I found solace in the thought that it would happen while serving Prabhupada. He remained calm, his serene presence a source of strength.
 

During another walk, a monkey tried to enter Prabhupada's room in Vrindavan. Armed with a stick, I confronted it, recalling Prabhupada's earlier teachings on handling animals with a firm but non-violent approach. I succeeded in chasing it away, but the experience underscored his teachings on composure and mindfulness.
 

Prabhupada's humility was one of his most remarkable qualities. I recall a gathering where he expressed gratitude for the devotees’ affection and service. Despite being deeply revered, he described himself as a mere servant of his guru, Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura. His words, filled with sincerity and humility, moved everyone to tears.
 

In London, I witnessed Prabhupada’s interaction with George Harrison. George asked if he should join the temple and shave his head. Prabhupada, recognizing George's unique position, advised against it, encouraging him to spread Krishna consciousness in his own way. This ability to recognize and nurture individual potential was a hallmark of Prabhupada's guidance.
 

Once, when Prabhupada’s health was fragile, a doctor suggested a raw food diet. Coming from a health-conscious background, I eagerly embraced the idea and prepared raw meals for him. Prabhupada accepted the suggestion initially but later emphasized that devotional service and spiritual nourishment were more important than rigid adherence to dietary trends.
 

Prabhupada’s teachings often emphasized applying Krishna consciousness in our own lives rather than judging others. He once told me I was the “king of fault-finders,” encouraging me to focus inwardly and cultivate humility. This lesson has remained a cornerstone of my spiritual journey.
 

Being with Prabhupada in Vrindavan during his final days was a deeply emotional experience. As his health declined, devotees begged him to stay, expressing their need for his presence. Moved by their devotion, Prabhupada agreed but eventually departed a few weeks later. His unwavering dedication to Krishna and his devotees continues to inspire me.
 

My time with Srila Prabhupada was filled with lessons, love, and unforgettable moments. His wisdom and compassion remain a guiding light in my life, a reminder of the profound impact one pure soul can have on countless others.

Source: http://www.dandavats.com/wp-content/nectar/2024-11-15-12-08-38.html