By Atma Tattva Das
In the annals of South African Krishna consciousness, few names shine as brightly as that of Mukhara Devi Dasi. Her life story is a testament to unwavering dedication, selfless service, and an unshakable commitment to spreading the teachings of Srila Prabhupada. With a legacy deeply woven into the fabric of ISKCON South Africa, Mukhara Devi Dasi’s journey is a source of inspiration for generations of devotees, illuminating the path of devotion with her exemplary life.
Jayananda Das shared how his mother dedicated her life to the service of the Krishna Consciousness community in South Africa, embodying the ideals of selfless service. He fondly remembers, “So, that was her opulence: caregiving, feeding, offering help and assistance, and serving with all she had. That’s what she accomplished in her Krishna consciousness. So for that, we are very, very grateful because it was through her support that we achieved so much; she gave us access, and we got to render service to all the devotees who appeared throughout her life.”
Krishna consciousness often brings profound changes to individuals’ lives, sometimes leading to estrangement from family and friends who don’t understand the new path. In such a challenging phase, Mother Mukhara played a pivotal role in bridging the gap. Sukanti Radha Devi Dasi, a family member, recalls, “My aunt was also very instrumental in preaching Krishna Consciousness, especially to our family members. Although we went preaching in and around the area we lived in, she skillfully brought our then estranged family in slowly, one by one, sharing and explaining Krishna Conscious concepts, offering prasad, and lovingly drawing them back home.”
Jayananda’s mother had a unique and practical approach to spreading Krishna consciousness. Instead of imposing beliefs on others, she employed a gentle and thoughtful strategy; as Sukanti Radha remembers, “She had this thing about her, a potency of just knowing what needed to be said. And my uncle, her husband, was really good at explaining aspects of the Krishna Conscious philosophy in detail.”
Read more: https://iskconnews.org/remembering-mukhara-devi-dasi-the-legacy-of-an-early-south-african-devotee/
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