Connecting disciples of His Holiness Jayapataka Swami
HH Jayapataka Swami Gurumaharaj's Diary
Day one and two. Vrindavan - kuruksetra safari
By the mercy of Guru Maharaj this year once again a group of about 180 devotees from around 30 countries joined the Annual Safari which would be visiting and preaching in many places of vaisnava importance in India.
We started our pilgrimage on 23rd March 2011 from Sridham Mayapur
at noon and boarded a train to Gaya. The journey from Mayapur to
Burdwan station was very austere. Because
of Gurumaharaj's mercy , the most humble
devotees of Iskcon Habibpur temple brought prasadam to serve
the safari devotees.When Marici Prabhu offered some donation for
the prasadam they said all they wanted was the blessings of
the safari devotees.
All were so happy to be going on safari together meeting old
friends and making new aquaintances.
After spending the night on the train we arrived at the holy
town of Gaya at 5am.
We were most honored to have the association of HH Bhakti
Dhira Damodara Maharaj and HG Jagjivan Prabhu.HH Bhakti Dhira
Damodar Swami Maharaj and HG Jagjivan prabhu gave a morning class
on the importance of Gaya as a place of pilgrimage. While we were
soaking up the nectar of Gaya we were utterly surprised and
ecstatic on hearing Gurumaharaj on the phone. The call was
connected live by Marici Prabhu for us all to hear him.
After breakfast we went to visit the famous Vishnu Pada Temple in Gaya. This is the sacred place where the footprints of Lord Vishnu is embedded in a stone slab. The deities of Lord visnu and laksmi devi are worshipped in the temple. it is in this holy city of Gaya that Lord Caitanya was initiated by Ishwara Puri and when He saw the footprints of Vishnu he got so ecstatic that he started chanting and dancing and thus he started the sankirtan movement.
Vishnu Gaya is also very important for pinda dana to Lord vishnu in memory of all the ancestors who have passed away. Here we took part in an elaborate yagna ceremony where we did pinda dana to the ancestors of each one of our family and friends. The Queen of Malaysia also requested Marici Prabhu that we do a pinda for her parents. Gurumaharaj called us and requested that we all do pinda dana for his parents as well as Devaki Mayi mataji. We aLso went down and paid obeisance to holy Falgu river which Is usually a bed of sand at this time of the year. Here a very emotional ceremony was performed and the ashes of Devaki mataji was offered here at Falgu river by Ekanath prabhu. Ecstatic kirtan circumbulated the ceremony.
After lunch we went to visit the famous Mahabodhi Mahavihara . This
Is the buddhist monastery where the young prince
Siddharta who wanted to find out the real meaning
existance in this world, sat down in meditation under a great
peepul tree(bodhi tree /banyan tree) , and attained Enlightenment
and hence came to be known as Gautama Buddha - the Enlightened One.
The monastery has a beautiful deity of Lord Buddha in golden hues
in a well decorated temple. It has also beautiful landscaped
gardens around the main temple where followers can sit and spend
hours of meditation in peace.
Then we came back to our guest house and after some rest and dinner
we boarded the buses and went off to the station to board a train
at 1am to our next destination - the battlefield of
kurukshetra.
We are now on our 26 hour ecstatic train journey. On the
train we did japa walk ,ecstatic kirtan, continous sankirtan and
bhagavad gita class. The devotees of iskcon lucknow provided us
with very special prasadam. One of our godsisters , Divya mataji
from Italy had to end her safari abruptly at Lucknow due to the
demise of her mother.
Marici Prabhu received a message from Guru maharaj saying he really missed the safarii and he had a special surprise for us tomorrow.
Yours in His Service of HH Jayapataka Swami Maharaj
The Safari Express News Reporters
1st Jan 2011
GM has been admitted to a hospital in Sydney
A blood test was done in Singapore and showed that GM has been infected with a bacteria that affects His skin, so now He is in the hospital to get more tratment since the antibiotis have not cured it.
MRSA is the abbreviation for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Staphylococcus is a group of bacteria, familiarly known as Staph (pronounced "staff"), that can cause a multitude of diseases as a result of infection of various tissues of the body. In 1959, methicillin, an antibiotic closely related to penicillin, was introduced to treat Staphylococcus and other bacterial infections. Within one to two years, Staphylococcus aureus bacteria (S. aureus) started to be isolated that were resistant to methicillin. These S. aureus bacteria were then termed methicillin-resistant. MRSA usually show resistance to many antibiotics.
Because MRSA is so antibiotic resistant, it is termed a "superbug" by some investigators. This superbug is a variation of an already recognized human pathogen, S. aureus, gram-positive bacteria that occur in grape-like clusters. Distribution of S. aureus is worldwide: As many as 11%-40% of the population is estimated to be colonized. The bacteria are usually found in the human armpit, groin, nose, and throat. In the majority of cases, the bacteria do not cause disease. However, damage to the skin or other injury may allow the bacteria to overcome the natural protective mechanisms of the body leading to infection.
Even without antibiotic resistance, S. aureus has effective means to cause infections. Bacterial strains of S. aureus can produce proteolytic enzymes (enzymes that break down proteins resulting in pus production), enterotoxins (proteins that cause vomiting, diarrhea and in some cases, shock), exfoliative toxin (a protein causing skin disruption, blisters), and exotoxin TSST-1 (a protein that can cause toxic shock syndrome). Adding antibiotic resistance to this long list of pathogenic mechanisms (ways to cause infection) makes MRSA a formidable superbug.
Gm is in north Sydney hospitalized for leg pain and wounds
GM contracted some sort of skin disease during his visit to Puri. He had fever after returned to Mayapur and got treated in Mayapur itself. He recovered well from the fever except the skin was still left with some red marks. On the 18th December He travelled from Mayapur to Perth via Singapore. GM developed high fever again while he was transiting Singapore. As soon as they reached Perth on the 22nd Dec, GM was taken to a local general practitioner P and he recommended GM to go for a swab test and blood culture test.
They got the result on the 28th Dec and it turned out that GM has contracted the infection due to a bacteria called MRSA. Kindly type MRSA in google search engine and you will find out detail information about this bacteria.
Since his condition was getting worst, on Dec 31st 2010 at around 11pm he was admitted in a Hospital in Sydney.
That's the information so far,
Ys
sarva sakti dd
11th October 2010, Monday
Gurumaharaj did not go for the therapies today as Gurumaharaj’s
flight is at 6pm. Gurumaharaj took His break fast at home while the
devotees did kirtan. After prasadam Gurumaharaj spoke to H G
Tribhuvana nath prabhu. Gurumaharaj mentioned that He visited that
prabhu’s house twice. And he and his family was surprised to hear
that as Gurumaharaj went to their house almost 20years back and
still Gurumaharaj remembers it. Then there was another devotee who
came to meet Gurumaharaj. That devotee had many problems and did
not know how to go about in life. Gurumaharaj very carefully
listened to the devotee and asked whether that devotee wants
Gurumaharaj to pray and guide in spiritual life. Gurumaharaj said
“if u think all your problems have brought you closer to Krishna
then u don’t need to lament. This material world is full of
miseries. That’s why we encourage people to go back home back to
godhead” then Gurumaharaj gave blessings and later asked another
devotee to talk to this devotee. It was very touching to see how
Gurumaharaj is concerned about each and every soul. Gurumaharaj
went for swimming for almost 2 hours then came back for lunch to
the house. It was H G Marichi prabhu’s birthday. So he arranged
nice prasadam for the devotees there. Marci prabhu had brought
Venezuelan ambassador to meet Gurumaharaj. Gurumaharaj knew him
before and as soon as He saw him they hugged and asked the well
beings of each other. Gurumaharaj said” my progress is slow”
Gurumaharaj cut the cake for Marici prabhu and gave him a big piece
while everybody sang “Hare Krishna to you…..” H G Amogha Prabhu and
family was also present. HG Baladev prabhu from Philippines lead a
melodious kirtan while Gurumaharaj had His prasadam. Soon after
that it was time for Gurumaharaj to leave to airport. Many
disciples were there at the airport to say “see You soon,
Gurumaharaj”. The servants did the check in as Gurumaharaj spent
time with all of us. Gurumaharaj said ”thank you for your TLC
(tender loving care). Gurumaharaj again asked about the devotee
whom He met in the morning (who approached Gurumaharaj for guidance
as that devotee was facing many problems in the life) Gurumaharaj
made sure that somebody will take care of that devotee here. As
Gurumaharaj went downstairs for immigration everybody watched
Gurumaharaj with a heavy heart. After Gurumaharaj cleared the
immigration, when Gurumaharaj was about to go from far we all
loudly chanted Gauranga lead by H G Simheswar prabhu. It echoed the
whole airport! (The place where we all were standing was actually
quite far.) We watched till the saffron robe disappeared from our
eyes.
We returned remembering the wonderful time we had with our dear
spiritual father……and praying to continue the Vani seva.
All glories to our dear Gurumaharaj who is an ocean of mercy….
“Make the teachings from the lotus mouth of the spiritual master
one with your heart, and do not desire anything else. Attachment to
the lotus feet of the spiritual master is the best means of
spiritual advancement. By His mercy all desires for spiritual
perfection are fulfilled.” (Sri Guru vandana)
Your humble servants,
JSSS KL
10th October, Sunday
Initiation
Today was the day which many were waiting for….. devotees came from
all over Malaysia for the initiation ceremony. Temple was fully
packed. H G Shanti vardhana prabhu gave a class in the morning and
Gurumaharaj gave the initiation address. Gurumaharaj explained the
importance of accepting a Guru and also the vows that one takes
during the initiation. Gurumaharaj addressed the Brahmin candidates
separately. “Gurumaharaj said after Brahmin initiation its going to
be extra chanting of mantras, that is 210 times everyday apart from
the Hare Krishna mahamantra. If anybody thinks it is too much then
they can withdraw themselves now. It is offensive if you don’t
chant your Gayatri mantra everyday.” Gurumaharaj personally handed
out the beads to each candidate. Gurumaharaj also did the launch of
Srila Prabhupada book marathon. Gurumaharaj mentioned that He would
like to get the scores for book distribution and also for the
damodar program regularly. Gurumaharaj had His lunch in the temple
and after that Gurumaharaj gave darshan to all the devotees who had
come to meet Him. Gurumaharaj was fully covered by devotees and the
servants had a tough time to get Gurumaharaj to the car. Even after
sitting in the car Gurumaharaj continued giving blessings to
everyone. And then it was a major task for H G Mahesh advaita
prabhu to drive Gurumaharaj away from the devotees!!
In the evening many disciples came to have Gurumaharaj’s darshan as
Gurumaharaj was leaving the next day. Gurumaharaj especially
thanked H G Lokaswami prabhu who gave his house for Gurumaharaj to
stay. The shoes that Gurumaharaj used to walk inside the house was
gifted to Lokaswami prabhu and he was extremely happy receiving the
dust from Gurumaharaj's Lotus Feet.
Devotees already started feeling separation thinking that
Gurumaharaj was leaving to Colombo next day. HH Bhakti
Vrajendranandana maharaj mentioned that in tamil we don’t say iam
going, rather we say “poyituu varen” which means “I will go and
come back” and Gurumaharaj very nicely repeated that.
All glories to our glorious spiritual master and His excellent
servants...
Your servants,
JSSS KL
8th October 2010, Friday
Gurumaharaj’s schedule was delayed since morning as Gurumaharaj
went to bed very late last night. Though there was no scheduled
program, Gurumaharaj gave a class to Singapore devotees on skype
and then Gurumaharaj did 1 hour of cycling. However late it may be
Gurumaharaj doesn’t go to bed without doing His exercises for the
day!!
Gurumaharaj left for therapy only at 10am. The servants were busy
getting the names from Gurumaharaj for the initiation candidates.
This continues when Gurumaharaj walks, sits, stands, travels
etc…sometimes while having prasadam also. As Gurumaharaj went late
to the gym He got late to be back also. It was almost 3pm by the
time Gurumaharaj came for lunch. Gurumaharaj already started eating
in the car and continued after reaching the house. In the evening a
program was arranged at Sri Gaurnaga prema tirtha, (30 km away from
the temple)Klang. Gurumaharaj was received very nicely by the
devotees there. The class was very dramatic. Gurumaharaj described
about the kirtan at Srivasangan and the pastime when Mahaprabhu was
not feeling ecstasy because Srivas’s mother in law was hiding and
watching. Gurumaharaj was leading kirtan and He would stop and say
“Mahaprabhu said, I am not feeling any ecstasy. Somebody is
secretly watching.” Then Gurumaharaj was calling out devotees’
names and asking “r u responsible” this continued for quite some
time. Everybody enjoyed Gurumaharaj’s vey nice narration of
Mahaprabhu’s pastime. Gurumaharaj said” so many problems are
there in kaliyuga, but chanting Hare Krishna is the success. I hope
all of you will tell your friends that this is the easiest
process.”
The devotees over there collectively gave a donation to Gurumaharaj
and also gave a memento to Gurumaharaj. When the devotees honored H
H Bhakti Vrajendranandana Maharaj, Gurumaharaj started singing “jai
Bhakti Vrajendranandana swami…jaya Bhakti vrajendranandana …..” and
Maharaj did not know how to respond. Gurumaharaj thanked the yatra
leader H G Sarvatirtha Prabhu for his active preaching. Gurumaharaj
said ”thank you for pleasing Srila Prabhupada”
Another day of bliss came to an end ….
All glories to our beloved Gurumaharaj.
Your servants,
JSSS, KL
6th October 2010 Wednesday
As usual Gurumaharaj went for His therapies in the morning. Came
back to the house at around 2pm for lunch. There were some devotees
from Singapore who had come to see Gurumaharaj. While Gurumaharaj
was having His lunch H G Mahavaraha Prabhu came back from North (he
had gone on Sunday night) As soon as Gurumaharaj saw Mahavaraha
prabhu Gurumaharaj said” welcome back” and then Gurumaharaj
continued His lunch. Devotes did nice melodious kirtan while
Gurumaharaj honored prasadam. After lunch Gurumaharaj distributed
prasadam to all the devotees who where present. Then Gurumaharaj
was walking towards His room. Then Mahavaraha prabhu came out of
his room…..and then Gurumaharaj started singing
“suswagatam….suswagatam…suswagatam….” loudly. It was so nice to see
the loving exchanges between the spiritual master and His dedicated
son.
Evening there was class scheduled at SJM, KL. Gurumaharaj was very
nicely welcomed by kirtan lead by HG Mahasimha Mukunda prabhu. It
was already 8.30pm. Gurumaharaj took darshan of Srila Prabhupada
and Their Lordships Sri Sri Jagannath, Baladev Subhadra Sudarshan
and Sri Sri Nitai Sundar Gaurahari. Gurumaharaj was praying to the
deities for more than 10 minutes while kirtan continued in the
temple hall. Mahavaraha prabhu shared with us few days back that
Gurumaharaj prays for all His disciples everyday and also whenever
Gurumaharaj goes in front of the deities. Those of us who have
filled Gurumaharaj’s contact book know that there is a question at
the end “do you want H H Jayapataka Swami to pray for you?”
Mahavaraha prabhu mentioned that Gurumaharaj prays to krsna for all
those who have asked Gurumaharaj to pray for them !
After that Gurumaharaj came and sat on the vyasasan. As soon as
Gurumaharaj sat there was a couple who went to meet Gurumaharaj and
talk to them. It went on for another 10minutes. We all were
wondering who are these people….. when Gurumaharaj started the
class He mentioned that they were the major donors for Ipoh centre
and they had to leave early. 40 devotees from Tilak intan, a place
which is 3hrs drive from KL (actually the place is Teluk Intan, but
Gurumaharaj renamed it as Tilak Intan ) came to meet Gurumaharaj
and Gurumaharaj was very happy to meet the devotees. During the
class, Gurumaharaj took all of us to King Suvarna sen’s house which
is in Godrumdwip. Gurumaharaj mentioned about Navadwip mandal
parikrama as this is one of the places covered in parikrama. This
is the place where Naradamuni gave the Gauranga mantra to King
Suvarnasen and he was meditating on Gauranga. The class was filled
with Gurumaharaj’s netcarian chanting of
Gauranga…Gauranaga…Gauranga..Gauraaaaaaaaaaaaangaaaaaaa….
Gurumaharajtook all of us to navadwip today. This was the first
time Gurumaharaj called out Gauranga during this visit. And all the
devotees were hankering to hear that.
During the question answer session there was a question regarding
how to improve and encourage devotees in book distribution.
Gurumaharaj said “ I personally saw tears of happiness in Srila
Prabhupada’s eyes when the new books were published. Lord chaitanya
gives mercy through sankirtan. Srila Prabhupada instructed me to
distribute 10,000 big books and 100,000 small books every month.
And to do it alone is difficult. So I need your help. Carry books
with you. Whenever somebody asks you a question give a book, and
collect a donation, because we dont have hours to spend. And also
we can collect sastra daan and distribute books in hospitals,
orphanages, hotels etc.Bhagavat Gita is not a religious book.
Because it talks about changes in body..and any people in any
religion goes through the same changes(from boyhood to youth to
old). Hindus, cristians, muslims, Buddhists everybody goes through
the same process. So we cannot say that it is only for a particular
religion. It is for everybody. It is a spiritual book, not
religious. We have a check list for initiation. Everybody have to
read BG and SB 1st canto. Srila Prabhipada put everything in 1st
canto of SB because He was not sure how many cantos He can
complete. So everything is there in 1st canto. I read BG 10times
when I joined the movement. I don’t know how devotees can survive
if they don’t read Srila Prabhupada’s books. Please read Srila
Prabhupada’s books., He spent many many hours to write those books.
“ There was another question “ is it true that if a person takes re
initiation from another Guru when his own Guru is in good standing,
then that person doesn’t get a guru for another 10 life times?”
Gurumaharaj answered that caitanya caritamrta mentions , if a
person does so then he will not get a Guru for another one crore
(10 million) births. When Nitai Das took reinitiation from somebody
else in Vrnadavan srila Prabhupada said he will not get a guru for
another 200,000 births.Gurumaharaj said its very dangerous to do
such things.
The time was already 9.40pm. The servants indicated that its time
to stop the class as Gurumaharaj has to leave early in the morning
for therapies. Gurumaharaj met each of the Tilak Intan devotees and
gave blessings and spoke few words to them. After that Gurumaharaj
left to His residence as the devotees chanted Narsimha Pranam.
Gauraaaaaangaaaaaaaa …..
Your humble servants,
JSSS, KL
4th October 2010,Monday,Malaysia
Ekadashi.
Gurumaharaj left at 8.30am for therapy. Gurumaharaj had breakfast
in the car as He was getting late for the therapy. Gurumaharaj went
for loco mat, balancing and coordinating therapies.
Gurumaharaj came back to the house after therapy at around 2pm.
Gurumaharaj was answering to His mails in the car even after the
car stopped. When He came back the servants gave Him a medicine to
drink. Immediately Gurumaharaj asked “is it braking Ekadashi…?” He
asked to check whether there is any grain or cereal in the
medicine. Servants brought the medicine bottle but unfortunately
the contents were not written. It was a Homeopathic medicine. After
a while Gurumaharaj asked “Is there any Homeopathy pharmacy here?”
Fortunately H G Mahesh Advaita Prabhu (he is a doctor by
profession, very humble and dedicated to Gurumaharaj ,he is
personally driving Gurumaharaj to all the places here everyday) was
there to help. Gurumaharaj asked him to find out from the pharmacy
here what is the content of that particular medicine so that
Gurumaharaj can be sure that it doesn’t break Ekadashi. (anyway
Gurumaharaj refused to take that medicine since He wasn’t sure).
After that Gurumaharaj sat down for lunch prasadam. Before even
Gurumaharaj washed His hands he had H G Gokul Prabhu reading out
all the preparations and the ingredients in detail just to make
sure that everything is Ekadashi prasadam !!! when Gurumaharaj was
given the medicine Gurumaharaj mentioned a particular tablet which
Gurumaharaj cannot take on Ekadashi (anyway, H G Madhav Kanta
prabhu knew very well which all tablets Gurumaharaj cannot take on
Ekadashi, still Gurumaharaj was counter checking!!!)
Gurumaharaj gave a class at SJM KL in the evening. Gurumaharaj
spoke from BG 11.2 for a short while followed by question and
answer session. We were fortunate to have H H Bhakti
Vrajendranandan Maharaj also in the temple. Gurumaharaj honored
Maharaj and glorified Him.
Gurumaharaj said “once I asked Srila Prabhupada, Do You want to
live long? Then srila Prabhupad replied….”old age….its very
difficult” then Gurumaharaj said only now I am realizing what Srila
Prabhupada meant that time. Gurumaharaj continued… “we don’t know
what our past karmas are. But if we take up KC we can be purified.
That is the wonder of Bhakti yoga. We have two options in our life:
either suffer our karma or chant Hare Krishna and purify
ourselves.” Then Gurumaharaj asked how many of you want to
suffer…pls put up your hand. Then Gurumaharaj asked how many of you
want to chant and purify yourselves…. There was a loud Haribol for
that. “satisfy the senses of Hrishikesh…that’s Bhaktiyoga all
about. Practice Bhaktiyoga everyday and make your life
successful.”
The first question was about Gurumaharaj’s first visit to Malaysia
and His experience here. Gurumaharaj recalled His experiences and
mentioned the devotees who were here that time and how Gurumaharaj
was introduced to eating Duriyan etc etc…(its Malaysia’s famous
fruit ….something similar to jack fruit…. Gurumaharaj few days back
commented that it tastes like heaven and smells like hell!!)
Next question was “what should we do for Your speedy recovery?”
Gurumaharaj’s immediate response was this is supposed to be
philosophical question, not personal. But then after few minutes
Gurumaharaj answered “ when I was in Hinduja hospital all doctors
there gave up hope but because of everybody’s prayers I recovered.
People all over the world were praying for me. and then when I
recovered they said that I am the only person who has recovered
from such kind of stroke.and they said they don’t how my condition
will be… I am doing exercises and other therapies to gain back my
health.” Finally Gurumaharaj said “you can pray and also help me to
do my therapies” Another question was how to take absolute shelter
of the spiritual master even in separation. Gurumaharaj said by
following Guru’s instructions we can always take shelter of Guru.
Gurumaharaj asked H H Bhakti Vrajendranandan Maharaj to add on to
it… Maharaj said” chant 16 rounds regularly, attend mangalarti and
follow the instructions of the Spiritual master. Then Gurumaharaj
said “when I was in mayapur, Srila Prabhupada used to come 3 months
a year and that time everyday I used to get instructions from Srila
prabhuapad….everyday. One of the instructions He gave me was expand
Krishna Consciousness unlimitedly….how to fulfill that desire….I
need all your help to fulfill that desire”
It was already 9.30pm and as Gurumaharaj had not taken His dinner
yet the remaining questions were kept for the next session on
Wednesday. Since there was one question online Gurumaharaj
considered that also. The question was “what advice to give to a
god brother who is reading H H Narayan Maharaj’s books?”
Gurumaharaj answered with due respects to HH Narayan maharaj.
Gurumaharaj said we have many books by Srila Prabhupada. One must
read srila Prabhupada’s books again and again. Respect Him from a
distance but we don’t want to associate with Him.
That was the end of the nectar for the time being…… Gurumaharaj
ended by saying Jai to H H Bhakti Vrajendranandan Maharaj. After
that Gurumaharaj took prasadm in the temple and some devotees had
darshan of Gurumaharaj. H G Rasanath Prabhu showed the recent
installation pictures of Their Lordships Sri Sri Nitai Sundar
Gaurahari. Gurumaharaj was very happy seeing that and Gurumaharaj
asked for a copy of the album for Himself. Then at around 10.30
Gurumaharaj left to the house.
Another day of transcendental bliss !!!
All glories to our glorious spiritual master…
Your servants,
JSSS, KL
3rd Oct 2010 Sunday at Kuala Lumpur ,malaysia
After breakfast at 9.30 am., GuruMaharaja went to Sri Jagannath
Temple,ISKCON Kuala Lumpur, and gave Srimad Bhagavatam class, also
in temple they orgnised Vyasa puja Mahotsava of H H Prabhavishnu
Swami Maharaha, Guru Maharaj gave class on glorification of HH
Prabhavishnu Maharaja for half an hour.Also H H Bhakti Vrajendra
Nandan Maharaja spoke on gloification.
Later Guru Maharaja initiated two matajis and one prabhu.After
initiation at 11.20 a.m. Gurumaharaj shifted to meeting room next
to temple hall, and gave bhagavam class for 45 minutes to
3000(three thousands) devotees at a russian devotee sanga,organised
by HG Vijaya Venugopal pr and Prema Padmini mataji. class was given
using skype video call conference. All 3000 russian devotees were
blessed by Guru Maharaj.
At 1p.m, Guru Maharaj took lunch at temple and then at 2.30
gurumaharja back to house for taking rest, then at 5pm till 6pm did
walking therapy with Dr.Acyutananda pr, later at 7p.m, took dinner
and then met some devotees, and did some cycling therapy, and night
10.15p.m spoke to H H Radhanatha Swami Maharaj on phone for 20 min.
(H H radhanatha swami maharja is in houston, USA). so at 11.15p.m
gurumaharja went to bed to take rest.
your servant,
Madhava Kanta Das
Sunday, 3 October
Today was packed day for GM. He had a Vyasa Puja to attend, a
Sunday feast lecture to give, a 3000 strong gathering of devotees
in Russia were awaiting GM”s lecture. There were no therapies lined
up for GM today. At about 10.30 GM left to Sri Jagannatha Mandir.
HH Prabha Vishnu Swami’s vyasa puja was celebrated on Friday, 1st
of October. But because GM was here, maharaj’s disciple, HG Krishna
Candra das prabhu decided to celebrate the VYasa PUja grandly in
the presence of GM and Bhakti Vrajendranandana Swami and all the
devotees.
GM was received very nicely and HG Krsna Candra das prabhu
glorified GM by saying that even though there are only 3 disciples
of Prabha Vishnu Swami in the temple still all this elaborate
arrangement are made to celebrate the Vyasa Puja. Krishna Candra
prabhu thanks GM’s disciples for cooperating so nicely. GM was
happy to hear that his disciples were cooperating very nicely.
There was also an initiation ceremony scheduled today. By right the
ceremony was postponed to next Sunday but unfortunately one devotee
has to travel elsewhere for work and 2 other matajis had already
booked their tickets earlier. They were from Kuching. So GM
instructed to arrange for an initiation ceremony just for them. GM
is so merciful.
Soon after the initiation, GM went into the temple’s conference
room to do a live broadcast with the Russian devotees. They were
having a festival and more than 3000 devotees turned up. GM had
lunch after that. GM only left the temple at about 3pm.
In the evening, there were no classes scheduled for GM. GM took
dinner and soon after that GM sat on his gym bicycle to do some
exercise. The bicycle brand was victory so a devotee commented that
a victory bicycle for a victorious person will certainly bring all
victory. It was the birthday one disciple of GM, HG Mohana
Muralidhara das. His wife Amrta Sakhi mataji had bought a cake and
GM touched the cake to bless it. The cake was so tasty that the
devotees had a feast of the cake. The cake was baked by HG Amrta
Gaurangi mataji. GM was on the bicycle for a long time. GM went to
take rest at around 11pm.
your servants,
JSSS KL
Saturday , 2 October
GM left to the gym in the morning. GM had his breakfast before
leaving and devotees were singing kirtan for GM. At the gym GM was
using all the equipments very nicely. The gym GM visit is actually
a well known franchise. It’s call True Fitness. GM then took lunch
at his residence. There was a roaring kirtan while GM ate lunch.
Many devotees came to visit GM as it was a weekend. GM always looks
happy to meet devotees. After lunch GM gave out some Prasad and
then went to take rest.
At 6pm, GM did his walking therapy with Dr.Acyutananda. GM did very
well. This therapy actually has GM walking on his own with very
minimal help from Dr. Acyutananda.
Today there is Prerana programme by the youth boys and GM was
looking forward to attend it. The festival was to be held at Sri
Jagannath Mandir. HG Baladev prabhu from Chowpatty was the guest
speaker. The topic was from hurricane to Harinam. About 30 boys
turned up for this event. They preformed a drama of Jaghai and
Madhai and it was wonderful. GM then addressed the boy. It was
around 11pm when GM arrived at his residence and then GM took
rest.
your servant,
Madhava kanta das
1st Oct 2010
Guru Maharaj left for the Lokomat therapy in the morning today. GM
is scheduled to give class in a center in Klang. Klang is about 30
minutes drive from GM’s residence. Bhakti Vrajendranandana Swami
was also scheduled to be at Klang. The devotees were very elated to
be receiving two great personalities at their center.
Bhakti Vrajendranandana Swami was already in Klang when GM arrived.
The welcoming for GM was grandly organised by the devotees in
Klang. Bhakti Vrajendranandana Swami first addressed the devotees.
Maharaj also glorified GM by saying that GM has been preaching all
over the world for the past 40 years with full dedication. GM then
addressed the devotees by first blessing all the devotees with
strong Krishna Consciousness. GM’s lecture was translated by HG
Shanthi Vardhana prabhu into Tamil. GM mentioned that he is very
happy that Bhakti Vrajendranandana Swami is together with Him and
GM stressed that we are fortunate to have him with us. At this
point Bhakti Vrajendranandana Swami also said that we should be
more fortunate that GM is with us. Shanthi Vardana prabhu
translated this also and GM told him not to translate what Bhakti
Vrajendranandana Swami said. This is another display of humility by
GM. GM did not want everyone to hear his glorifications.
GM went on to speak on Caitanya Lila. It was a very very nectarean
class. GM spoke about Advaita Acarya and about Shantipur festival.
GM also described the birth place of Advaita Acarya which is now in
Bangladesh. GM went there by helicopter during his last visit to
Bangladesh. As they were all in the helicopter, slowly the pilot
landed the helicopter. The pilot then got down and asked someone
nearby where is Advaita Acarya’s Birthplace. He then took off
again. Then he stopped over at another place and asked for
direction again. Finally they arrived at Advaita Acarya’s
Birthplace. The devotees laughed when they heard these wonderful
pastimes. GM had a lot of praises for Bangladesh devotees.GM also
mentioned about how he likes to hear sankirtan stories. He
mentioned that one devotee in LA, Vrindavan Lila mataji used to
read Him sankirtan stories every night. GM also said that
Caitanya lila is still going on today and we can all be part of
it. He requested the devotees present to also share their
stories. One such story resulted to the introduction of an Iranian
couple to GM. A Mataji had preached to this Iranian couple and they
attended GM’s class. The couple was very happy to see GM. GM
honoured them very nicely by giving away his maha garland.
It was already 10.30 by the time class ended. GM was then escorted
by the devotees back to the car. Everyone, everyone was plastered
with a smile on their face...a genuine smile. The session with GM
was so out of this world. GM brought us to yesteryears with his
evergreen Caitanya Lila.
by,
JSSS Kuala Lumpur
30th sept 2010
Left from apartment 9a.m, took breakfast in the car while driving
to gym for therapy and returned to house by 1.30p.m had lunch and
rested till 5.pm then walking therapy with Dr Achyutanada pr at the
apartment, then took dinner at 7p.m ,then 8-10p.m meeting with
ISKCON Malaysia managers all manager in the managers meetings
presented their reports and then Gurumaharaj delivered small class
to them.Also H H Bhakti Vrajendranandan Maharaj arrived in the same
apartment in afternoon,staying here with Gurumaharaj next to
Gurumaharaj's next to Gurumaharaj's room,Manager also attended the
manager also attended the manager meetings..
your servant,
Madhavakanta das
29th sept 2010
Guru Maharaj in morning took his breakfast in the car at 9.30 and
reached to hospital for locomat and armeo and also started new
therapy- balance and coordination therapy for walking and reached
to apartment by 3p.m. Gurumaharaj had lunch together with HH
Jananda Goswami Maharaja, took rest at 4.30pm , wokeup 6.30 pm took
dinner and then went to Jagannath temple to give Bhagavad Gita
class, reached apartment at around 10.30pm and then took rest by
11.30p.m
your servant,
Madhavakanta das
by Mathura Lilesvari Mataji
Yesterday was a hectic day for Guru Maharaja. Guru Maharaja left
his residence at about nine in the morning. A lokomat therapy was
arranged for GM. Lokomat is a robot-assisted walking therapy. It is
a form of physical therapy using a robotic device to help in
learning to walk again for a person whose ability to walk has been
impaired as a result of stroke. Guru Maharaja used the lokomat
machine for more than one hour. Guru Maharaja chanted Hare Krishna
with every step he took during this lokomat exercise.
Guru Maharaja came back to the residence at almost three in the
afternoon for lunch. Guru Maharaja’s prasadam in Malaysia is being
prepared by HG Sasi Mukhi mataji. Sasi Mukhi mataji is an
experienced cook for Guru Maharaja and she is doing a wonderful
seva. Guru Maharaja was accompanied for lunch by his dear
godbrother, HH Janananda Goswami. Guru Maharaja was very happy to
have Maharaj to join Guru Maharaja for lunch. As Guru Maharaja was
feeling very tired, Guru Maharaja decided to take rest after lunch.
It was already 5.00 by then. A class was also scheduled at Sri
Jaganath Mandir in the evening.
After a good rest Guru Maharaja got ready for the class. Guru
Maharaja had dinner before he went for the class. Guru Maharaja had
some puffed rice (bhel puri). Guru Maharaja was trying to speed up
dinner as he was getting late for the class.
As always, Guru Maharaja arrival is welcomed with nice kirtan right
from the doorstep of the temple. All the devotees stand and welcome
Guru Maharaja and they only sit once Guru Maharaja is settled at
the vyasasana after taking darshan. Guru Maharaja started the class
by apologizing for being late. GM spoke briefly on the glories of
Radharani and how Navadwip is so great because it was created by
Radharani herself. Guru Maharaja also said that there was a grand
celebration on Radhastami at Mayapur, this year and every year. He
also mentioned the Jhulan Yatra festival that was organized by the
youths in Mayapur and encouraged the Malaysian Youths to also take
charge of organizing certain festivals.
Guru Maharaja said youths should not think that they are too young
to do any service with big responsibility. Guru Maharaja narrated
that Srila Prabhupada requested Guru Maharaja to be the temple
president of the Montreal temple only 2 weeks after his initiation.
Guru Maharaja was feeling very unqualified to do the service as he
was very young and inexperienced. Guru Maharaja wrote to Srila
Prabhupada and revealed his heart and said he is only 19 and
totally inexperienced to do the seva. Srila Prabhupada replied and
said, “Don’t be body conscious”. GM then opened the Q&A
session. Answering some the questions, Guru Maharaja said the
following:-
1. Follow authority and do the seva given to you even if you don’t
like it.
2. Japa is the most important activity in a devotees life.
3. Grihastas can keep simple deity worships standards at home but
should be consistent.
Soon after the class, Guru Maharaja was driven by HG Mahesh Advaita
prabhu back to the residence to rest.
your servant,
mathura lilesvari devi dasi
28th sept 2010
After morning breakfast,Gurumaharaj went to do therapy at gym and
then went to one devotee's house for lunch.Gurumaharaj took rest
there and later in evening Gurumaharaj went to see dentist and at
7.30 pm came back to apartment,(today wholeday out in city)!! At
8p.m Gurumaharaj had dinner and then cycling therapy and then
meeting with jpsseva committee,malaysia. Today,Gurumaharaj went to
bed around 10.30p.m.
your servant,
Madhavakanta das
27th sept 2010
Morning 10 am,Gurumaharaj went to hospital to continue therapy like
" armeo and lokomat" and then back to apartment, after lunch took
rest , then wokeup and did therapy at home.
Then we had a small party in the apartment "birthday of
Gurumaharaj's travelling secratery H.G. Maha Varaha prabhu". After
dinner,we drove to the Jagannath Mandir, Kuala Lampur at 8.30 p.m.
Gurumaharaj gave evening bhagavad gita lecture.We came late to
apartment and Gurumaharaj went to rest very late.
your servant,
Madhavakanta das
*****************
Diary submitted by HG Mathura lilesvari dd
Monday, 27 September
The way to the house GM is staying was indeed scenic. The weather
was perfect and the trees in the surrounding area created a
peaceful atmosphere. This was a beautiful place for GM to stay. GM
was very happy that on his first day of arrival into Malaysia, he
could attend a ratha yatra festival. GM spent about 2 hours at the
festival and came back for a good rest at his residence, the
bungalow of HG Loka Swami das, a senior disciples of GM. Right
after breakfast GM left for therapy.
Around 6pm, the atmosphere at the residence of GM was in total
party mode. All the brahmacari servants and some other devotees
prepared an array of prasadam.The dishes were a feast to eyes
alone. You may wonder, but why such a festivity?This feast was
indeed apt and needed. Today is the birthday of HG Maha Varaha
prabhu, Gurumaharaj’s wonderful servant.
A class was scheduled at Sri Jaganatha Mandir Kuala Lumpur [SJMKL].
GM met the devotees and took darshan of the presiding deities for
the first time since his arrival yesterday. Around 150 devotees
were present and GM addressed everyone by first updating on his
health progress and travel plans. Guru Maharaj also spoke a little
on Navadwip Dham and explained how everything is in Navadwip Dham
and there is no need to go anywhere else.
One devotee asked a question to GM, on how to stay enthusiastic in
devotional service. GM quoted the third verse of siksastaka and
explained that by being humble and tolerant and offering respects
to all other without expecting any respect for oneself, enthusiasm
can be maintained and devotional service can be constant. GM added
that while executing our devotional service we should never think
ourselves to be great and should not expect appreciation. But it is
also the duty of a vaisnava to appreciate devotees.
While saying this, GM then announced that today is the appearance
day of HG Maha Varaha prabhu. GM also thanked Mahavaraha prabhu for
his service and truly appreciated Maha Varaha prabhu. At this point
Maha Varaha prabhu was nowhere to be found. Simheswara prabhu had
to go around the temple looking for Maha Varaha prabhu. After
sometime and some persuasion prabhu agreed to come to the front.GM
asked everyone to loudly chant three haribols for Maha Varaha
prabhu. HG Tyaga Caitanya prabhu then announced that on behalf of
the management of SJMKL there is cake for Maha Varaha prabhu. Tyaga
Caitanya prabhu added that Malaysia is very fortunate to have a
representative such as Maha Varaha prabhu. GM was very happy that
the honour was given to Maha Varaha Prabhu. More cakes were
distributed by GM to all the devotees. GM then Prasad and retired
for the night. It was a blissful day. A day to honour our dearest
GM and our dearest god brother. Guru Maharaj ki Jai!
your servant,
Mathura lilesvari devi dasi
26th sept 2010
Today morning at 9.30 AM , Gurumaharaj arrived in Kuala Lampur ,
Malaysia from Mayapur through Singapore.Gurumaharaj went to the
apartment directly from the airport,had lunch and then took
rest.
In the evening at 9 PM , Gurumaharaj went to attend the Taman Medan
Rathayatra and gave class after the Rathayatra.Gurumaharaj came
back to the apartment and took rest very late
your servant,
Madhavakanta das
********************************
Diary submitted by HG Mathura Lilesvari mataji
Sunday, 26 September
Gurumaharaj arrived at KLIA at around 10.30am. There were many
disciples eagerly waiting to receive Gurumaharaj. Gurumaharaj said
that He slept only for 3 hrs previous nighti.then showed that He
was very tired. From the airport GM went straight to the house
(newly built house of H G Lokaswami pr, given for Gm and His
servants to stay). Even though GM was tired GM spent time with the
disciples who were there at the airport asking about their well
beings!!! And Everybody received Gm’s blessings !! when one devotee
said that GM looked better and there is so much improvement GM
responded “your blessings” !!!
In the evening GM came for taman medan rathyatra .That was the
first time the congregation devotees having Gm’s darshan. There was
a really warm welcome arranged for GM. Devotees did arti (to remove
dristi) for GM and girls with lamps and flowers ushered Gm to the
stage. GM gave a short talk. He said “ I joind ISKCON in 1968
during RY. That day I decided to shave up and jojn as brahmacari. I
thought let me try this for few months. If I don’t like I will
leave. But ladies n gentle men I really liked this movement and I
will never leave this”
GM spoke about how merciful Lord Jagannath is and RY is a nice
opportunity for everybody to do service. GM made all of us chant
Hai.RiiHaiRii.HariiHariiHarii GM said when u chant the names of
Hari all the miseries go away, it removes all the garbage from our
heart.
GM said “if you don’t try chanting the Lord’s name how will you
know whether you like it or not..”
After that at around 10.30pm GM left to the house to take rest.
your servant,
Mathura lilesvari dd
*****************
9th Sept – 13th September 2010
Shyamadesh – Damodardesh – Avataridesh
It was 5th Sunday morning we got a call from Mayapur, if we can
arrange visa for Guru Maharaj to visit our yatras in this part of
the world on 8th September, Wednesday. Naturally, we all were
overjoyed. But we were not sure if it will suit Guru Maharaj ’s
health condition to travel at this juncture. We checked out with
Avataridesh and they came up that the chances are remote on 6th
Monday. Damodaradesh took up the challenge and tried it out – but
up until 7th morning we were not sure as for Eid all government
offices were closing 2 hours less than their normal working hours.
Until 7th Tuesday evening also no clarity on visa receipt. While
our anxiety is up on the heel, it was equally from Mayapur. Guru
Maharaj ’s was anxious about visa receipt. Simultaneous plans for
Guru Maharaj ’s visit also was underway in all the three yatra’s.
Finally only late in the night we were relieved to know that visa
had arrived.
Next anxiety started, why in this condition for such a short span
GM should travel ? As he has to return to Mayapur for Radhashtami.
Thoughts flew in if it will be better Guru Maharaj travels after
Radhashtami and stay for longer time with all of us. 8th Wednesday
morning this critical decision-making was pondered and discussed
and ultimately landed to Guru Maharaj . But Guru Maharaj did not
give a quick answer, and said ‘Let me think’. All fingers were kept
crossed for Guru Maharaj's decision. And finally Guru Maharaj
decided to visit. All the yatras were informed that Guru Maharaj is
visiting on 9th afternoon at last.
9th Thursday afternoon airport was swarmed by dear disciples to
receive Guru Maharaj and in great joy he was bought to Sudevi
Mataji’s house. Upon entry Guru Maharaj saw the JBS deities and was
so happy to exclaim ‘Jai Jagannath’. Radhabhav pr shared itinerary
to Guru Maharaj and requested special blessings for Shyamadesh
congregation from Guru Maharaj . After change and freshening up
prasadam was served. Prasadam was cooked by Sudevi mataji helped by
Bhavatarini Mataji. While Guru Maharaj relished the prasadam he
called on Akshaya - a 12 year old devotee to recite BG Sloka and
after that Chaturatma pr led melodious kirtan with classical
mrdangam accompaniment by Krishanrajan pr. In the end he mentioned
to Sudevi mataji that his health permits only ¼ the salt one
normally requires and in disguise of affirming that salt was very
less he shared his maha directly from his spoon to few devotees.
After prasad Guru Maharaj took rest
Around 6 pm, candidates for initiation and shelter filled the hall.
Guru Maharaj entioned that as he cannot talk loudly, if sound
system is available it would be better. As system was available,
but mic was not available, Bh.Lucky pr was sent to the market to
get one while Guru Maharaj started conducting his final interviews
with candidates in batches, conversing in Bengali with Bengali
speaking devotees and then in English to next batch. He ensured
every one agreed to follow the principles, if they are already
regularly chanting 16 rounds since a year and committed to help
Guru Maharaj in spreading SP mission in the future. While
Swaminathan pr met for shelter interview, Guru Maharaj enquired
from his wife Bhavatarini, what she cooked. This is Guru Maharaj ’s
special caring touch, which attracts us to serve to the best.
Since it was already 9 pm, but many devotees were waiting outside,
Mahavaraha prabhu agreed that Guru Maharaj can just walk to the
hall and be back. Amidst loving devotees Guru Maharaj walked
through. Krishnarajan pr & Sudevi mataji were waiting to do
pada puja and GM kindly obliged, while Radhabhav prabhu did arathi.
GM lovingly spoke to the assembled devotees “In India – people do
business with the Lord, demanding health, marriage, education.,
(temples are crowded with youth during exams). These material
facilities gives only temporary relief, but Krishna can give
eternal satisfaction when we take up KC. I am very happy and
thankful that here in Middle East that all of you along with
acquiring material benefits are taking up KC seriously” With deep
meditation GM shared the urgency of taking up KC seriously.
Mahavaraha prabhu signalled from the back of the hall that its time
up. GM humorously concluded mentioning that he “will end his
lecture in just one second – Bangladesh time – which means some
more unlimited time” bringing laughter to the entire crowd and
wished everybody with “Eid Mubarak”. When GM returned to his room
Mahavaraha prabhu asked GM, that he was supposed to be back after a
short walk to the hall.. GM mentioned that as mic was arranged all
the way from market so he has to speak….., with a seeming excuse of
mic, GM took the opportunity to preach. Bh. Lucky and his wife got
special blessings to locate a mic in the market within the target
time.
GM had light dinner while Sahishnu pr led a melodious kirtan.
Krishnachyuta (KAD) pr for years together had been taking up
Chaturmasya and do not shave following ancient ascetics. GM saw him
and waved around his chin questioning his beard. Krsna Achyutadas
prabhu was delighted to share that he is following Chaturmasya., GM
mentioned “When I did not shave during chaturmasya my guru maharaja
mentioned that its important to keep focus on preaching than
growing beard” and went to rest. Ramakrishna pr, Athichandra pr
& Venkatakrishna pr took up helping in the nightshift of GM. GM
touched the hearts of these devotees personally ensuring that they
move out the next day only after sufficient rest for
themselves.
10th Friday morning, we found clean-shaven KAD pr beaming with the
joy of following the sampradaya. GM’s original plan was to go to
Damodardesh only during the middle of Rathyatra. But GM mentioned
to Sudevi mataji, that he wants to be for inauguration. While
Sudevi mataji insisted GM to not exert, GM mentioned that “Its
because of Jagannath Ratha Yatra I came to Krishna Consciousness,
so I need to be there for inaugurating the event”, how could one
object this appeal? It was a whole day program from morning till
evening organised by Damodaradesh at one of the well known school
hall. GM reached there around 12 noon. As soon as he reached, he
did his therapy, walking in the pool for about 45 mins along with
HH Maha Vishnu Maharaj. After therapy as we were entering the hall
we saw devotees lined up on both side of the pathway for about 100
metres, received GM with full of joy. Most of them were seeing him
after a year or so. After that he delivered a 30 mins lecture to a
crowd of 1000 devotees. The owner of the school hosted GM and HH
MVS for the lunch. Then GM took 30 mins nap before going back to
the hall to inaugurate the ratha yatra around 5pm. This time much
bigger crowd was awaiting with loud kirtan. The main altar of the
chariot had big set of JBS deities and many sets of small JBS
deities were arranged on the other 3 sides of the chariot so
devotees could take darshan of their lordship from any angle. After
inaugurating the Rath yatra, GM left for
Syamadesh..………………………………..
While GM was to be back to Shyamadesh by 6.30pm, he arrived only
around 7.30pm. GM mentioned with a lot of concern towards the 400
devotees waiting, about the devotee who bought him lost his way and
said circling his hand “He went round and round and round and
round……….”. As 1st initiation candidates and shelter candidates
were waiting for so long. GM asked HG Jagatsakshi pr to instruct on
10 offenses and lead the candidates to take oath in the mic about
initiation vows. Srivasangan and Avataridesh and gave a touching
message to take up KC…………….. . With lots of care and completely
ignoring all his bodily inconveniences, GM handed over the beads to
every candidate and called upon shelter candidates to offer
pushpanjali. Before GM left for his room, he ensured there is one
devotee representing him to do avahana on his behalf in the yajna.
GM changed his clothes and before he left the villa, he gave
darshan to about 50 devotees from all the yatra’s.
11th Saturday morning GM was to leave for Avataridesh. Meanwhile
Mahavaraha pr checked out in the nearby Crown Plaza Hotel about the
Gym facility and approved that it was ok for GM to do his
exercises. GM walked about 250 steps with gentle support around his
shoulders from Dr.Acyutananda pr. GM asked about the dab (coconut
water) which was bought for him last evening, when we informed that
we did not bring it back along with us from initiation venue, he
jokingly mentioned ‘it is very wrong’. Arjun Jivan pr immediately
rushed and bought 2 dabs for GM. Then Madhavakantha pr guided
devotees to apply seasoned ghee on GM right side of the body to
improve the blood circulation. He left to Gym with fruit breakfast
fed by Madavakanta pr. GM was able to comfortably take upto 80 lbs
on thighs and 50 lbs on his biceps, this is not easy at all in
general. After GM came back, Radhabhav pr requested GM on behalf of
Arjun Jivan pr that he wished to worship Narayan shila from
Badrikasrama. GM wanted AJ pr to write down and read out the type
of worship he will be ready to take up. Then Bhaktavatsala pr
wanted to have his new born son to be named by GM. So GM selected
Bhadra Gaura out of 10 different names. After that Susantha
prabhu’s son sung melodious kirtan when GM was having his lunch.
After lunch GM rested, and then bid farewell to Shyamadesh devotees
and took off to Avataridesh.
11th Saturday evening GM was received by hundreds of devotees in
Avataridesh in Bahurupa pr’s house. GM was welcomed to the hall
with guru puja. He granted shelter to 15 devotees and performed 3
vidyarambha ceremony. GM gave a phenomenal class narrating the
conversation between Gauranga Mahaprabhu and the parrot. This
parrot was addicted to Gauranga Mahaprabhu and always flapping its
wings in the air and chanting ‘Gaura – Gaura’, ‘Gaura – Gaura’.
Mahaprabhu exclaimed, what is this you have to chant ‘Krishna –
Krishna’., parrot emphasised, if you want you can chant so, but for
me I just to love to call out ‘Gaura – Gaura’, ‘Gaura – Gaura’.
This way GM made the entire crowd addicted to Gaura Prema. That
night service was taken up very nicely by Ramakrishna pr and
Avataridesh devotees.
12th Sunday morning GM gave darshan and personally enquired the
well being of assembled avataridesh devotees after which he
travelled back to Damodardesh to Srivallab pr’s house. Damodardesh
had organised program in a nearby Hotel – A 5 star hotel for the
first time. The hall was decorated very nicely with flowers and
melodious kirtan filled the atmosphere. 6 families from Mathuradesh
came by road and were eagerly looking forward to see GM. When GM
entered the hall devotees became ecstatic and welcomed GM.
Srivallabh pr gave welcome address and mentioned that GM will talk
for 25 minutes followed by handing initiation beads, giving shelter
and then darshan time for Maturadesh devotees. GM mentioned in his
speech “take the opportunity of human life and take up KC with
care. Request your friends somehow to start chanting the holy name
and assure of becoming happy. In India, popular serial is ‘Koan
banega Crore pathi’ Chanting 16 rounds per day allows you to gain
permanent asset of chanting 1 million holy names in a year and 8
rounds a year half a million, 4 rounds quarter million and so
forth.” Then Srivallab prabhu had an interactive discussion
regarding devotees who leave the yatra for some reason or other, GM
gave a specific instruction to this regard “1. You could shift the
place only if there is opportunity to increase your devotional
service., 2. You should have ensured that an appropriate hand over
of services have taken place towards the services you do currently
in whichever location”. He also specified “There should be adequate
arrangements made for ‘Devotee Care’ especially towards aged
devotees”, When Srivallab pr started another subject for
discussion, GM saw his watch to remind Srivallabh pr’s welcome
address to bring laughter among the audience. Subsequently beads
were given by GM to 10 initiated devotees. GM gave shelter to 35
new devotees and got the aspirant forms filled in.
13th morning Guru Maharaj left Damodardesh to fly back to Sri dham
Mayapur to attend Sri Radhashtami.
Your Servant,
Vignanasana Govinda Das
Visit to Bangladesh
Here is a brief report about Bangladesh - the land of natural
opulence and flourishing sankirtan movement of Lord Caitanya!
Almost half of Sri Gaura Mandala Bhumi is situated here, such as
the Sripats of Sri Rupa Sanatana, Saci Mata, Pundarikh Vidyanidhi
Dhams, Narottam Das Thakur's Kheturi! ISKCON has built temples in
many of these places and we can see that ISKCON has made a great
impact by its preaching activities and festivals. According to HG
Jagat Guru Gauranga Prabhu, one of the local leaders, ISKCON has a
total of 30 temples, 250 Namahattas and 80 Bhakti Vrikshas all
around this country. They perform some 22 ecstatic Ratha yatras,
all on the same day all over the country! I still remember
attending one of the Dacca Ratha yatras, where not less than 50,000
people had filled up practically every inch of the road.
Prior to the stroke, Guru Maharaj has been visiting Bangladesh
twice or thrice a year for over 30 years. The recent visit was the
first visit to Bangladesh almost after two years. He was scheduled
to visit around the 3rd week of July 2010 but it was postponed
because of the sudden urinary tract infection, due to which he
needed to be hospitalized. So the Bangladesh program was
rescheduled on the 23rd till the 28th August.
The place Guru Maharaj visited is called Rupa Sanantan Smirti
Tirtha (RSST), which is about 10kms away from the birthplace of Sri
Rupa & Sri Sanantana. It is also known as Prema Bag. Some say
this is only the bhajana Sthali and the birthplace is somewhere
else. Anyway RSST is located about 2 hours drive from the border of
an Indian Town called Haridaspur. Rich with lush greenery and
naturally decorated by various and numerous fruit trees such as
banana and papaya growing in abundance along the both sides of the
road, this part of the land appeared like a picturesque from the
ancient times to most of us, who are habituated with busy daily
city lives! This experience was a practical example of what Srila
Prabhupada always emphasized in his books about simple living and
high thinking. Acres of paddy field and vegetation covered most of
the land. People had food growing right outside their houses.
Modern days big advertisement of "eco-friendly" and "organic food"
is their natural lifestyle! Varieties of sak and spices decorated
their courtyard of cozy thatched houses. Our ISKCON temple was
practically the only double storied concrete building in the remote
surrounding! Some surrounding villages were even without
electricity.
I have been to Bangladesh many times with Guru Maharaja but this
time I noticed a drastic change in many aspects compared to all my
previous visits. Our car drove past these lovely villages, rubbing
against the haystacks alongside the road, and reached around 8 pm.
Generally whenever Guru maharaj visited Bangladesh, a huge number
of devotees would receive him about a km before the temple with
resounding kirtan. They would swarm up to his car like honey-bees
and sometimes it used to go beyond control. But this time I was
surprised to see how about 3,000 devotees were standing
systematically in the dark on both sides of the main road till the
temple as Guru maharaj's car was nearing the temple. Uludhwani and
kirtan rocked the entire atmosphere with most of the devotees'
cheek wet with tears. When Guru maharaj came out of the car,
devotees were crying as most of them were seeing him after his
stroke for the first time. Special devotee volunteers security
team, mostly from youth forums, clad in special devotional uniform
was arranged to control the crowd. Guru maharaj took darshan of the
presiding Deities Sr Sri Radha- Madan Mohan, Jagannath Balaram
Subhadra and Sri Sri Gaur Nitai. He addressed the crowd of 3000
devotees then went to his room for Prasadam.
Next day morning Guru maharaj woke up around 6am and after
breakfast he went to the newly built pool to do his regular
therapy. After an hour of therapy he had darshan of Sri Sri Radha
Madan Mohan, Jagannath Balaram Subhadra devi, Gaur Nitai, and Srila
Prabhupada. After darshan of Deities he went for the initiation
ceremony, which was going to be held at the main pandal. By now the
crowd had swelled to 5,000 devotees. The initiation ceremony was
extremely well organized, something that I have never seen before
in any part of the ISKCON world. HH Gauranga Prema Swami and HG
Sarvadaya Prabhu from the Mayapur Nama Hatta department went one
month ahead of time, travelled all over Bangladesh centers to do
all the preliminary work. They interviewed every single candidate,
marked their papers, etc. They, with the help of some local youths
created a special software to manage the whole ceremony.
There were some 1727 candidates for 1st initiation and 389 for 2nd
initiation. The managers of the festival had divided the entire
country into three groups, namely Jagannath, Baladeva and Subhadra.
On the first day Guru maharaj awarded 1st initiation to 607
devotees and 136 devotees with 2nd initiation. Second day was
Subhadra group with 614 for 1st and 128 for 2nd initiation. And on
the last day, the Jagananth group 506 devotees receiving 1st and
125 devotees 2nd initiation. To facilitate and organize better,
each group was told beforehand to visit RSST only on the schedule
day of their initiation. They would arrive a night before and leave
RSST before the next group comes in.
The initiation arena was well organized. The entire area was fenced
intelligently and only those with special passes were allowed to go
into the arena. Rest of the devotees witnessed the ceremony from
outside the arena. All the initiation candidates had their special
registration number and coupon. In fact each of them was designated
a sitting place with the same number and sitting arrangements were
done as per their serial numbers. Candidates started gathering and
taking their position on their respective seat at around 7am.
Ceremony started with SB class and very elaborate explanation of
the ceremony, 10 aparadhas, taking of vows by each and every
candidate. After a short lecture by Guru maharaj, HH Bhakti
Purushottam Swami and HH Gauranga Prema Swami, the name giving and
handing of the beads begun. Beads were handed out by Guru maharaj
with HH BPS reading out the candidates legal name serially. Every
one received the beads personally from Guru maharaj's hands while
their respective initiated name was being announced. There were
many volunteers with special devotional uniform constantly checking
at every 2 meters making sure that the candidates are standing up
on time, queuing serially, receiving beads, receiving names
according to serial numbers. The candidates were even pre trained
as to how to receive beads from Guru maharaj. At the final point HH
GPS handed out a small slip with candidates legal name, serial
number and area they were from and initiated name printed on it. At
the same time there were few other devotee volunteers counter
checking whether HH BPS, HH GPS and the team were doing the job
properly. Every single male candidate was fully shaven and clad
with dhoti and chadar. After receiving the beads and names
candidates sat back at their respective seats. The whole thing was
going on like a gentle flow of river.
Every day it took an average of 46 minutes to complete the 1st
initiation. We had an average of 12 candidates receiving the beads
at every one minute. In short, every single candidate took their
vows from their respective seat, stood up in line, came forward
received their beads personally from Guru maharaj's hands while HH
BPS was announcing their initiated name. After the handing out of
the beads all the 2nd initiation candidates came forward to
reconfirm their vows and paid their obeisance and sat at their
respective seats and finally the fire yajna begun. Naru Gopal
prabhu and others who accompanied Guru maharaj for the first time
were shocked and surprised to see how everything was so
disciplined!
In average Guru maharaj spent about 2 and half hour everyday for
the whole initiation ceremony. Everyday there were anna prassana
ceremony too. After the initiations Guru maharaj would go to his
room for lunch prasad. During lunch, HG Krsna Kirtan Prabhu, (one
of the senior most disciples of Guru maharaj from Bangladesh) and
his kirtaniyas did special bhajans for Guru maharaj. HG krsna
Kirtan Prabhu is one of the world famous and rare padyavali kirtan
singer. His kirtans are heart melting. During 1980's he has
travelled around the world and perfomed his kirtan in most of the
countries. Most of the devotees in his group know how to play
atleast 12 musical instruments like mrdangas, kartalas, veena,
harmonium etc. I was told that while HG Vyasaki Prabhu (Iskcon
famous kirtan singer) was staying in Bangladesh for almost 10
years, he would travel with HG Krsna Kirtan prabhu all around
Bangladesh and thus received some help in learning the traditional
gaudiya bhajan and kirtans.
Everyday after lunch Guru maharaj took one and half hour rest.
After rest and shower Guru maharaj gave out the gayatri mantra in
the closed prasadam hall. Then he would go to the main stage and
give the evening class for about 5000 devotees. There were other
speakers too like HH BPS, HH GPS, HG Bhadra Caru and Naru Gopal
prabhus. Dramas and bhajans by Krsna Kirtan Prabhu were special
attraction. The first evening KK pr sang a padavali narrating the
jhulana yatra pastimes with full details through his kirtans. It
was mesmerizing.
I also noticed that no matter who spoke or performed the kirtan,
all the devotees (children, youths and adults) would be in rapt
attention during the programs. I noticed whenever Guru maharaj
cried out Hari Bol! or Gauranga! all 5000 devotees hands were up in
the air repeating after him all together Hari bol! and Gauranga!
followed by matajis doing a loud ululation. This was a spectacular
sight to be watched from the main stage.
These simple hearted and sincere vaisnavas are always so eager to
see Guru maharaj.Whenever Guru maharaj appeared and disappeared
from the crowd there was a loud Ululation and chanting of Guru
Maharaj Ki Jai!!!! Srila Prabhupada Ki Jai!!! Without knowing where
Guru maharaj was, only from hearing the uludwani, we could easily
guess where Guru maharaj was - whether he was in the room or with
the devotees. The team of devotee security was working so hard
controlling the crowd each time Guru maharaj came out of his room.
It was a wonderful teamwork.
On the last day we kept the entire day free for Guru maharaj so the
local devotees could meet him. After Guru maharaj's regular pool
therapy, HH BPS, HG Caru Candra Prabhu (regional secretary) and
Temple Presidents from almost all over Bangladesh had a special
meeting with Guru maharaj. Each TP gave their report and shared
many things with Guru maharaj. This meeting went on for almost 90
minutes. Many leaders were recalling how the 2008 safari which was
led by Guru maharaj made a very big impact all over Bangladesh and
still remains the talk of the town. They requested the safari group
to come again. HH BPS commented how all the TPs of Bangladesh
always work with a cooperative mood. Every temple helps other
temples financially and physically whenever there is a crisis or
festivals. After the meeting, we had HG Krsna Kirtan Prabhu
approcahing Guru maharaj for blessing for the opening of a
Vaishnava Music Academy in Bangladesh. Throughout the whole day so
many devotees came to meet Guru maharaj and had his darshan.
Bangldeshi devotees are rich with culture, simplicity, hospitality
and their generous hearts. They are expert in the art of taking
care of their guests. Everyday we all were served very simple but
delicious prasadam on lotus and banana leaves. Though most of the
devotees are from poor financial background they have very rich
hearts. Almost every single devotee offered their donations to Guru
maharaj, from 1 takka and above. Of course this is not something
new. On the last day, as usual Guru maharaj returned most of his
donations to the development of the local yatras.
This other half of Gaura Mandala is a land where every vaishnava
must visit. There are so many vaishnava aspects that remain to be
explored. So many other beautiful places like RSST for visiting.
Though every visit I had with Guru maharaj before was memorable,
this recent visit was an extraordinary. Naru Gopal Prabhu and
Bhadra Caru Prabhu who visited Bangladesh for the first time
commented that it was an eye opener for them and they have many
thing to learn from them.
All glories to every single devotee who hosted this festival and
this historic visit of Guru maharaj to RSST. All glories to all the
leaders of Bangladesh Yatra who have invested their energy in
helping GM and Srila Prabhupada to build this wonderful spiritual
nation! Hare Krishna.
Your Servant,
Maha Varaha D
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