Although staying in Paddington, Prabhupada requested a simple room, equipped with a desk and bed, in the house adjoining the temple. Now he could more conveniently speak to the devotees and take a little rest if required during the day.
In the afternoon, Srila Prabhupada called Simon, now Syamananda dasa, into his room. Syamananda was finding the Sydney temple a vital, creative environment, and eagerly sat and listened as Prabhupada, seated behind his simple low desk, spoke to him enthusiastically of Vedic architecture, temple design, town planning and music. Seeing that Syamananda had brought his sketch book and was eager to reciprocate, Prabhupada indicated for him to come closer. Syamananda moved a few feet forward.
"No, come this side," Prabhupada said, and sat him down next to him. The senior men in the room were surprised at Prabhupada's intimate dealings with this young man. They rarely had such an opportunity for such a close rapport.
Prabhupada continued discussing with Syamananda for some time, giving more details of the Vrndavana land, the shape of the block, and the temple requirements. At one stage he handed Syamananda a photo of the Radha-Damodara temple and pointed out a few architectural features that he hoped to see incorporated in the new temple design. Srila Prabhupada's encouraging and considerate attention increased Syamananda's enthusiasm for the project. He marvelled at Prabhupada's expertise. Rather than limiting his creative potential, he felt Prabhupada was expertly drawing out his very best for Krsna's service.
- From "The Great Transcendental Adventure" by HG Kurma Prabhu
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