By Atma Tattva Das
In the quaint villages and bustling towns of Norfolk, a retired couple, Shyamlal Prabhu and Danakeli Mataji, have embarked on a remarkable 175,000-mile book distribution journey in the last seven years, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of the local community. This initiative, driven by their deep devotion to Srila Prabhupada’s mission and guided by the instruction of their spiritual mentor, serves as a shining example of dedicated service within the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) community.
Their journey into Krishna consciousness was tailor-made, as Shyamlal initially resisted the movement, while Danakeli embraced it wholeheartedly. Shyamlal’s transformation is a testament to the power of spiritual influence, as he recalls the pivotal moment when, during a chance encounter in a lift, he found himself saying “Hare Krishna” to two devotees. Little did he know that this seemingly simple interaction would set the course for a life-changing spiritual journey.
Shyamlal candidly shares his initial resistance to Krishna consciousness, admitting that it took years for the teachings to resonate with him. However, a fortuitous encounter during the festival of Janmashtami, where he learned the essence of the Bhagavad Gita in a matter of minutes, became the turning point. His steadfast devotion grew, leading him to approach Kripamoya Das for initiation. That decision marked the beginning of their dedicated service.
The couple’s service took a quest-like form – book distribution through a humble table. Shyamlal recalled the inception of this innovative idea, “And, on the day of the initiation, following the ceremony, we joyously danced around the yajna, and devotees generously contributed lakshmi for guru dakshina. On that auspicious day, we managed to collect £169. Excitedly, we presented the offering to our guru, saying, ‘Here is what we collected, Maharaj.’ Graciously, he responded with gratitude and handed the lakshmi right back to us. With a warm smile, he stated, ‘This is the one service I require of you. Take this lakshmi, purchase books, and go distribute them in service to my beloved guru maharaj, Srila Prabhupada.’ And so, our journey into book distribution began.”
Read more: https://iskconnews.org/uk-couples-seven-year-175000-mile-book-distribution-adventure/
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