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One young devotee, Johnny, who had played one of the bass drums enthusiastically on the Ratha parade received the name Ramai. A young girl received the name Gunavati. "This is a very nice name," said Srila Prabhupada. "It means one who possesses all good qualities."

Penny, who had been diligently distributing books now for many months, received the name Subhalaksmi. "As long as you are collecting laksmi [money], you are auspicious," said Srila Prabhupada with a broad smile.

The devotees laughed. "So collect money, more," he added.

Another young girl, Carol, also a book distributor, became Rajalaksmi. Prabhupada didn't plan to stay for the fire sacrifice. He indicated that Madhudvisa should perform it. "I can go now?" he asked innocently, and rose to leave.

Ugrasrava: As we accompanied Srila Prabhupada down the front path, I glanced at the space where Prabhupada's car should have been. Cittahari had borrowed it but had not yet returned. I panicked. I had to find a car -- quickly. The only one available was the old broken down blue Kombi van which had definitely seen better days. I had to lift Srila Prabhupada into the front seat. The car was in a bad condition, and I felt very embarrassed. Perhaps sensing my state of mind, Prabhupada turned to me and grinned.

"So, this is my new car?"

I put the key in the ignition. Each time I turned the steering wheel, the horn beeped; and every time I touched the brakes, the windscreen wipers did one full swing.

We drove all the way from St. Kilda to Brighton with wipers and horn going. I was in so much anxiety, but Prabhupada thought it was hilarious.

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Srila Prabhupada took a light Ekadasi breakfast of fruits and sweets. Dipak took this opportunity to offer him an interesting local fruit, monstera deliciosa, known also as "fruit-salad" fruit. Long like a cucumber and covered with symmetrical divisions rather like a corn-cob, the fruit had a soft juicy interior. The taste suggested a combination of fruits -- predominantly pineapple and banana -- and Prabhupada appeared to like it.


- From "The Great Transcendental Adventure" by HG Kurma Prabhu