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'The Farm Acarya' -- Australia, 1976-1977

This is the next aspect of Krishna consciousness which I wish to push forward. If I am able to travel again, then I shall visit the farms and make them perfect. On these farms we can demonstrate the full varnasrama system. If these farms become successful, then the whole world will be enveloped by Krishna consciousness.

Srila Prabhupada, from a letter to Hari-sauri.

Madhudvisa Swami appeared well-situated in his new service in New York. It seemed reasonable to assume that he would not be returning to the Australian zone. This was confirmed when news filtered back from the recent GBC meetings in Mayapur -- Guru Krpa Swami was the new GBC for Australia and New Zealand. The Australian devotees knew that Madhudvisa had needed a change. Although they missed him, they were happy that he had taken well to his new responsibilities in America. It came, therefore, as a considerable shock when the devotees heard that Madhudvisa Swami had fallen down from the sannyasa asrama and left the temple. Many could hardly believe it. Others took it more philosophically, but all were deeply affected.

Srila Prabhupada heard the news in Honolulu, only days after departing New Zealand in the first week of May 1976. While in Australia, Prabhupada had been aware of initial suspicions that Madhudvisa was having difficulties, but he had hoped to keep the matter quiet until he could personally speak to Madhudvisa about it in New York. Unfortunately, the information was leaked prematurely, a fact that very much displeased him. He was angry at both Pusta Krsna Swami and Guru Krpa Swami for irresponsibly spreading the news.

Prabhupada explained that the event should have been a personal matter between the spiritual master and the disciple; perhaps a few others concerned could have been informed. If it had been treated in this way, he said, then there would have been a better chance for Madhudvisa's rectification and re-acceptance. But by widely broadcasting his behaviour, his embarrassment would not enable him to easily return. Prabhupada told the men frankly that now it would be impossible for Madhudvisa to come back and face the devotees again.

In ISKCON's early years, Prabhupada and his followers had reacted with great shock whenever a devotee had gone away. But with time, as such an unfortunate event continued to occur, sometimes striking down leading, trusted disciples, Prabhupada had grown to live with it. But he never stopped feeling bereaved over a lost son or daughter, especially if that disciple had rendered him significant service. Madhudvisa had been one of his leading sannyasis. Prabhupada had personally trained him; in turn Madhudvisa had offered wonderful service, expertly leading the Australasian yatra for over four years. And now he was gone.


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