tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17863491338204800172024-03-05T15:14:56.350-08:00Jai Nitai dasaSharing my experiences and travels.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger24125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1786349133820480017.post-41716558828351111342007-06-22T01:24:00.000-07:002007-06-22T01:29:58.320-07:00The End of an EraLast week Maharaja met with the doctor and after a check-up the doctor has said that one more week of treatments and then Maharaja can return to the lotus feet of Giriraja Govardhan.<br /><br />Well that week finishes today and tomorrow morning we will set sails for teh Holy Land of Govardhan. Giriraja Maharaja KI JAYA!!<br /><br />Maharaja will have to continue with a HEP (home exercise program) to keep things in order and to prevent a relapse. Maharaja will have to return in about 3-4 weeks time for a review and possibly more treatment if necessary. Otherwise, Maharaja is in very good spirits and excited about returning back home back to Govardhan.<br /><br />Maharaja invited Dr. Nijhara and his whole staff to Govardhan for a Japa Retreat. The doctor agreed and promised they would all come out for a session. This exchange between doctor and patient went far beyond the bodily platform. Maharaja has mesmerized and captivated the whole crew here with his out-going, up-beat, positive and personal interactions. Proving once again that the key to success lies in loving relationship.<br /><br />This means I will now head back to London on 26th June after a one night stop in Mumbai with teh Radha Gopinath devotees and then proceed to USA to visit with my dear Mother.<br /><br />This has been an intense and enlightening turn of events for me. There is MUCH to be digested and assimilated from such close association with such a wonderful and dedicated servant of the Lord. I will share some of my realisations later.<br /><br />Maharaja was reading out-loud Caitanya Caritamrta this morning. the section about Sakshi Gopal. Specifically he read the following verse and purport just as part of daily reading. I found it significant and felt very blessed and fortunate.<br /><br />CC Mad. 5.23<br />PURPORT<br /><br />Both brahmanas were pure Vaisnavas. The younger man took special care of the older one simply to please Krsna. In Srimad-Bhägavatam (11.19.21) Krsna says, mad-bhakta-püjäbhyadhikä: “It is better to render service to My devotee.” Thus, according to the Gaudiya-Vaisnava philosophy of Caitanya Mahäprabhu, it is better to be a servant of the servant of God [Cc. Madhya 13.80]. One should not try to serve Krsna directly. A pure Vaisnava serves a servant of Krsna and identifies himself as a servant of a servant of Krsna. This is pleasing to Lord Krsna. Srila Narottama däsa Thäkura confirms this philosophy: chäòiyä vaiñëava-sevä nistära peyeche kebä. Unless one serves a liberated Vaisnava, he cannot attain liberation by directly serving Krsna. He must serve the servant of Krsna.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1786349133820480017.post-74646250888468779092007-06-13T04:12:00.000-07:002007-06-13T04:18:02.559-07:00Maharaja's First SB Class<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv74puIC7Nam0bZlZcbH0k_7wusSTtNmrAQS-Iwoe41IyAysGFDSXQ44ueBEByu7pSrx9S5mDyruyTj20n9LgzPwWRDd0tC-pvB8YE7kHY0RQ-oB6VzG1GQVI-MqTU1vp7k0T4BLdWJM4/s1600-h/DSCN2811.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 274px; height: 205px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv74puIC7Nam0bZlZcbH0k_7wusSTtNmrAQS-Iwoe41IyAysGFDSXQ44ueBEByu7pSrx9S5mDyruyTj20n9LgzPwWRDd0tC-pvB8YE7kHY0RQ-oB6VzG1GQVI-MqTU1vp7k0T4BLdWJM4/s320/DSCN2811.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5075506339368422946" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtgaBhEUXpjIhIzY4vDXzO9G7XQNhj4xBsYqYyna2Bil8O_K6CiVDpWj2T3x6detfaXnE7kBlJGV5k8jkuVSsE2IuN9_-JRNONJbEmFQoqv9mlxdHEiewuxWAMLSpYEL505hSIOeEwiCk/s1600-h/DSCN2803.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 274px; height: 205px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtgaBhEUXpjIhIzY4vDXzO9G7XQNhj4xBsYqYyna2Bil8O_K6CiVDpWj2T3x6detfaXnE7kBlJGV5k8jkuVSsE2IuN9_-JRNONJbEmFQoqv9mlxdHEiewuxWAMLSpYEL505hSIOeEwiCk/s320/DSCN2803.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5075505922756595218" border="0" /></a><br /><br />On Sunday 10th June HH Kesava Bharati dasa Goswami Maharaja gave Srimad Bhagavatam class in the Temple Room. This was a very big step for him. There were probably over 200 devotees present.<br /><br />Maharaja entered during the guru puja kirtana, he offered flowers to Prabhupada and then immediately went to the kirtana party and started to crank up the enthusiasm. The mood was electric as so many devotees who knew Maharaja and what he has been going through looked on with huge smiles.<br /><br />Maharaja took darshan, did short parikrama and then headed back into the kirtana party. After a few minutes the kirtana finished and they handed the mic to Maharaja. He started to say the Prema-Dhvani prayers and everyone was saying "No, no, no - more kirtana!" Maharaja at first said "NO WAY!" Then he grabbed the mic and started singing HARE KRISHNA! It was AMAZING!<br /><br />Maharaja led kirtana for about 10-15 minutes. The devotees were holding hands, dancing in circles around Maharaja and I was about to have an emotional breakdown as a floodgate of mercy burst open and I felt myself overwhelmed by an intense feeling of love and pride. It is hard to explain - but I was so proud to see Maharaja back on his feet and in the place where he belongs. These ten weeks have not been easy and this was like a climax of the whole event. I will not try to explain the gratitude and exuberance I felt seeing Maharaja in the Temple Room in front of those beautiful Lordships and devotees who had taken so much wonderful care of him through-out this epic saga.<br /><br />The class was also amazing. The verse was SB 3.7.36 - O best among the brahmanas, those who are spiritual masters are very kind to the needy. They are always kind to their followers, disciples and sons, and without being asked by them, the spiritual master describes all that is knowledge.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1786349133820480017.post-38756975095202504642007-06-02T00:30:00.000-07:002007-06-02T00:34:18.735-07:00My ApologiesI apologise for the delay in updating the blog.<br /><br />I greatly appreciate all of the encouragement and feedback. Thank you.<br /><br />I have recieved a few emails form different devotees who especially appreciate the information about Kesava Bharati Maharaja - so this recent update focuses on him.<br /><br />The next Good Dog Bad Dog session is - "just now coming". I been fighting with my bad dog and my good dog seems to have abandoned ship! :)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1786349133820480017.post-31683966008620122272007-06-02T00:21:00.000-07:002007-06-02T00:29:47.788-07:00Belated Maharaja Health Update - 1 June 2007<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLfyV6NGpdMLKL2uvzm4TBrAIIJQCEZV01Umeqf0FPSXX_PSfBDDMYIvJmnyez4f4Dm5t8oM5HLneCLbPeFBBgrvEPNTEJBAlseWral5NYYgt_F0OOaKCYh0J_PHmGPa-SAJyfEDW19G4/s1600-h/best+kb+maharaja.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLfyV6NGpdMLKL2uvzm4TBrAIIJQCEZV01Umeqf0FPSXX_PSfBDDMYIvJmnyez4f4Dm5t8oM5HLneCLbPeFBBgrvEPNTEJBAlseWral5NYYgt_F0OOaKCYh0J_PHmGPa-SAJyfEDW19G4/s320/best+kb+maharaja.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5071365260591866402" border="0" /></a>On Monday Maharaja went back to Dr. Sanjaya Nijhara after a two week break that was considered part of his treatment. This two week break came after six full-on weeks of treatments at least three times a week.<br /><br />These treatments were in the category of pain management. It involved inserting several 3-4 inch needles into the muscles that surround the area of pain. The needles cause the muscles to relax, which in turn reduces the tension in that area and ultimately reduces the pain. It is nothing short of miraculous the way this doctor is serving Maharaja and dealing with the pain. This method is much more natural than injections, heavy drugs or surgery.<br /><br />Anyhow on Monday Maharaja moved to the second phase of his treatments which is "Increasing Mobility" and which involves daily physio-therapy and home exercises. The exercises are simple but increasing Maharaja's mobility already. He is definitely on the mend.<br /><br />There is a meeting on Saturday morning with the doctor to decide how long this phase will last before Maharaja is discharged back to Govardhan with his own set of home exercises.<br /><br />Please keep the prayers coming. Although this is taking time - this is a natural healing process and much better long term than the quick fixes on the modern day.<br /><br />The picture above is not Dr. Nijhara, but one of the physio therapists Dr. Neeraj Gogio. This doctor has come to visit us at the Temple and is asking many questions of Maharaja. You can see in this picture Maharaja is preaching up a storm! :)<br /><br />More later...Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1786349133820480017.post-17305506469469351752007-06-02T00:13:00.000-07:002007-06-02T00:21:12.663-07:00Kesava Bharati Maharaja IYF Talk - Sunday 27 May 2007<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjitBwdRfgeMZlBij8u25MCBw-hmJoXmO1DuQCzWIkuy31kKdpfjCMfUrqQc763r4pnu7aIVExCKh1MssVMTEQxuMHRIGzslWi7zjYslin7s1lamXFVJvOBcp37hWuyB9bPtRUZUxTOapI/s1600-h/IYf+27+may+-+kbdg.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjitBwdRfgeMZlBij8u25MCBw-hmJoXmO1DuQCzWIkuy31kKdpfjCMfUrqQc763r4pnu7aIVExCKh1MssVMTEQxuMHRIGzslWi7zjYslin7s1lamXFVJvOBcp37hWuyB9bPtRUZUxTOapI/s320/IYf+27+may+-+kbdg.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5071362984259199490" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Here are a few points from the talk Maharaja gave:<br /><br />Krishna Consciousness is a positive affair - NOT negative<br /><br />Difficulties in spiritual life are caused by a friction in the mind and heart when we resist the process.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">This is my favorite from this lecture!</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Trains of thought analogy:</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The mind is like a train station with many platforms and<br />so many trains of thought.</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">We have to make sure we get on the right train.</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">We have to practice taking the train to Goloka.</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">If we get on the wrong train then our mind becomes disturbed -<br />this is how we know we are on the wrong train.</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">So we have to get off at the immediate next stop and<br />get on the right train of thought.</span><br /><br />Another nice one.<br />We must take the order of Guru into our heart and then call upon it in desperation at the time of need.<br /><br />This was a nice talk - although short because Maharaja was feeling some serious discomfort in his back.<br /><br />The evening before this talk he gave a Sanga talk with about five devotees. Maharaja sat up and read form Brhad Bhagavatamrta for almost ninety minutes. He was so enlivened.<br /><br />Here is how I described the mood on the evening in a poetic prose.<br /><br />The devotees sit and listen with ears attentive to the message of Godhead - eager to understand a deeper instruction for practical application in their lives. This is listening with wrapped attention.<br /><br />Some highlights of that talk were:<br /><br />Maharaja read from Chapter Three of Part Two, Volume Two starting with verse 123<br /><br />The devotional mentality is this:<br />We know we are Krishna's servant and he is supporting us, so no need to worry - BUT still we work.<br /><br />In all scriptures Krishna tells us what he wants from us:<br />LOVE which means devotional service, the active principle of love, the expression of that love.<br /><br />Maharaja is getting fired up now!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1786349133820480017.post-7445170580436124102007-05-27T03:53:00.000-07:002007-05-27T04:01:39.203-07:00Good Dog vs Bad Dog - Session Four<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtOvg6fr-cQGhzu_ty6jvW9dAhJ54_2vAWy35cBwd1fc4b7M_b5ZIMFaqytlputiPYCBMqJcq9-az7gaAYyoHML8G1ZiJ6nFBYzHv0C1b4U_S2E19yCBYw9lrK8-j1bkh5N2LQSIJR0QY/s1600-h/devine+demon.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtOvg6fr-cQGhzu_ty6jvW9dAhJ54_2vAWy35cBwd1fc4b7M_b5ZIMFaqytlputiPYCBMqJcq9-az7gaAYyoHML8G1ZiJ6nFBYzHv0C1b4U_S2E19yCBYw9lrK8-j1bkh5N2LQSIJR0QY/s320/devine+demon.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5069193536148447730" border="0" /></a><br />It is explained that at one point in time the divine and demoniac lived in seperate universes. Later they lived on seperate planets in the same universe. Then eventually on the same planet, in the same town, in the same household and NOW - within the same body.<br /><br />The Sixteenth Chapter of Bhagavad-git explains these tendencies very clearly. It is not a great mystery. We all experience these battles - do we not? Please don't tell me I am the only one.<br /><br />I suggest you read the first few entries in this chapter and then explore within which train of thought you want to follow.<br /><br />A nice analogy about trains of thought coming soon from a lecture given this morning by HH Kesava Bharati Maharaja.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1786349133820480017.post-12203073768266385542007-05-22T03:33:00.000-07:002007-05-22T03:41:00.766-07:00Kesava Bharati Maharaja's First Public Talk<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh54lcYhnbET7Ji7NI4OHt0D6dlf-KL3YFLrFJ6Wf3VSKbjHqQZZm28BVhexJ6wlksutJucGjv6Lqj45CUC-im0PEorfP_4sZstEy6WXlWW26_YqT4CmNsCX2t_6cEUJpVNidw0vbIjpus/s1600-h/DSCN1931.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 280px; height: 210px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh54lcYhnbET7Ji7NI4OHt0D6dlf-KL3YFLrFJ6Wf3VSKbjHqQZZm28BVhexJ6wlksutJucGjv6Lqj45CUC-im0PEorfP_4sZstEy6WXlWW26_YqT4CmNsCX2t_6cEUJpVNidw0vbIjpus/s320/DSCN1931.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5067332110207263154" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-KFCtIH5gAYfMtoi-zOmKgjzdD49hq7GQOKOxwXxGcikkz_KpHbgSqkuKHen-KTZopYQZNwfI4fmoJgyMi2w5KvB6rKyE4m-gAUNPx6bxfuBg32wlO1WmsBIJ-_arex-3kc8I-aikqY8/s1600-h/DSCN1932.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 280px; height: 210px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-KFCtIH5gAYfMtoi-zOmKgjzdD49hq7GQOKOxwXxGcikkz_KpHbgSqkuKHen-KTZopYQZNwfI4fmoJgyMi2w5KvB6rKyE4m-gAUNPx6bxfuBg32wlO1WmsBIJ-_arex-3kc8I-aikqY8/s320/DSCN1932.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5067332642783207874" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Maharaja gave his first talk on Sunday 20 May to the ISKCON Youth Forum (IYF) group. This is the same group I spoke to the previous week.<br /><br />This was a VERY big step for Maharaja who has been basically cooped up in a asmall room for over seven weeks - and bedridden since a few weeks before that.<br /><br />The talk went well.<br /><br />It was basically a questions and answers session - that became a a real "doozy" of a talk with Maharaja providing the questions and answers. (These boys are not so interactive?)<br /><br />He made it for about 75 minutes before he had to leave due to pain starting to come up in his back.<br /><br />Some highlights:<br /><br />He quoted Bhakti Vinoda Thakur - If you are fortunate enough to beg for the Holy Name then your life becomes perfect.<br /><br />We will know we are doing the right things when our love for Krishna grows and our FASCINATION with matter becomes less.<br /><br />He cited SB 4.6.21 puport - When we are able to see punishment as a reward dealt by the Master, then He gives the intelligence by which we will no longer make those mistakes.<br /><br />He mentioned a statement from the Seventh Canto of Bhagavatam - Only thing that pleases Krishna completely is "Unflinching Faith". So how will he know if we have unflinching faith if we are not tested by things that can make us flinch? WOW! THIS IS NICE!<br /><br />Bhagavad-gita is a manual for facing challenging circumstances<br /><br />In closing he made the following statement which I found greatly inspiring - Once you "GET IT", that everything is Krishna's and YOU are just a caretaker, then you will take better care of everything.<br /><br />All in all it was a winner an dall teh devotees stood up at the end as Maharaja was leaving and many followed him all the way back to his room - where he immediately took rest to recover.<br /><br />Please everyone continue to pray.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1786349133820480017.post-17390894028653102532007-05-16T04:33:00.000-07:002007-05-27T03:53:41.419-07:00Good Dog vs Bad Dog - Session Three<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjElDYdVMxNNE0jhOn0PQuh333OmwgOFlP7qvK6HUUJ-KwukvK3qQ31b2DgrbMZEVASF5aaMH1KIyOYDRxLHo6QXHKTv0gM4rI1McBvY9VyKNfF2s673UR3sWQMuwDvs0ok-3Irvry-jg/s1600-h/cont+obj.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjElDYdVMxNNE0jhOn0PQuh333OmwgOFlP7qvK6HUUJ-KwukvK3qQ31b2DgrbMZEVASF5aaMH1KIyOYDRxLHo6QXHKTv0gM4rI1McBvY9VyKNfF2s673UR3sWQMuwDvs0ok-3Irvry-jg/s400/cont+obj.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5065120996618772850" border="0" /></a>Bhagavad-gita chapter two verse 62-63 (BG 2.62-63) clearly explains what happens from the crucial beginning of contemplation, especially contemplating objects of the senses for personal enjoyment.<br /><br />Krishna explains from such contemplation one develops attachment. From this attachment a strong desire to possess, control and exploit arises - in other words LUST develops. From this lust comes anger.<br /><br />Why anger? Because we cannot control and exploit anything fully or permanently to the extent we would like. It is just NOT possible - so then we get angry!!!<br /><br />From this anger we fall into illusion. We think that we can and will dominate and enjoy this object the way we want; when and how we want. Thus we forget our identity and purpose.<br /><br />We forget the purpose of our exploit, lose our intelligence and eventually fall into a material consciousness that is degraded and devoid of spiritual enlightenment.<br /><br />The result: We see it all around us in this modern society - depression, aggression, aggravation, abuse, hypocrisy and a mad struggle for existence which is going no where quick.<br /><br />We must learn to control the senses from the point of contemplation.<br /><br />Remember THINKING - FEELING and WILLING - then we act. Later we often find that we also REGRET!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1786349133820480017.post-52924932805902013802007-05-16T04:28:00.000-07:002007-05-17T06:58:55.118-07:00Good Dog vs Bad Dog - Session Two<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7xCZR83cjmlp9vpHEf2bnCNO5lBt7-NHxlRZZfAvQ3eDWD2w1HiKb3qNfuF66pwUwE6hr3iec2HZxuq1l5WpW6DM0kQymhrfJ062JHXuylcKwulJtXNhPhqS7RqPquv8VK3u8EHUsmFM/s1600-h/think+feel+will.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7xCZR83cjmlp9vpHEf2bnCNO5lBt7-NHxlRZZfAvQ3eDWD2w1HiKb3qNfuF66pwUwE6hr3iec2HZxuq1l5WpW6DM0kQymhrfJ062JHXuylcKwulJtXNhPhqS7RqPquv8VK3u8EHUsmFM/s320/think+feel+will.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5065119510560088402" border="0" /></a>Every thing starts with a thought. In one sense one might say that it is all JUST A THOUGHT.<br />Our spiritual teacher Srila Prabhupada explains that there is a process of "Thinking, Feeling and then Willing".<br /><br />First our thoughts cultivate strong ideas and emotions that eventually develop into strong feelings that impel us to see those thoughts thru - thus willing them into being. Finally we act upon them and this becomes the strongest nourishment for either the Good dog or the Bad dog.<br /><br />Our future is determined by our thoughts and words that transform those thoughts into deeds. This is WHO we are and WHERE we are going. This gives us an identity in the world - a false ego.<br /><br />We all know the old adage from the bible "as you sow, so shall you reap."<br /><br />Modern day success gurus explain that if you sow a thought you will reap an action; if you sow that action you will reap a habit; sow that habit and reap a character; sow that character and reap your destiny! Whether you like it or NOT!<br /><br /><br />So be careful what you think and wish for. It just might come true!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1786349133820480017.post-27051607302902743032007-05-16T04:21:00.000-07:002007-05-16T04:27:40.250-07:00Good Dog vs Bad Dog - Session One<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIvZKkUaffc5DOUVqlgwYAuWkfyrxk0OqVP1dBv5jjTT-uefULRCA-0bLMSj0dqCaQg54X3SvRPYBe_15K5E04dyGrc9Wu66R-3NRZVT2oqBVDwrLQTw426BSBPacOMdehoTzKJoyK0dc/s1600-h/Good+dog+bad+dog.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 267px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIvZKkUaffc5DOUVqlgwYAuWkfyrxk0OqVP1dBv5jjTT-uefULRCA-0bLMSj0dqCaQg54X3SvRPYBe_15K5E04dyGrc9Wu66R-3NRZVT2oqBVDwrLQTw426BSBPacOMdehoTzKJoyK0dc/s400/Good+dog+bad+dog.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5065117414616047938" border="0" /></a>This presentation is based on an American Indian analogy explaining that within every human being there is a "Good Dog and a Bad Dog". These two dogs are constantly battling it out. The example of the proverbial devil on one shoulder and angel on the other may clarify this example a little bit.<br /><br />We all experience inner turmoil and confusion. Sometimes feeling strongly to engage in activities that we know may not be the best thing for us long term, while trying to avoid that little voice saying "I don't think you should do this!"<br /><br />Which dog wins??<br /><br />The one you feed the most.<br /><br />What is the nourishment? How do we actually feed these dogs?<br /><br />This will be discussed next time - so stay tuned in.<br /><br />Please comment if you feel inclined.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1786349133820480017.post-74556423917576981752007-05-14T23:44:00.000-07:002007-05-14T23:54:20.542-07:00Back on the Blog<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-RtEk7lpg__eJ4jdRr70qk_DdSfxbc9x1AtiQcOqrCPxdJF0XRFv_nTxEUVN3G3TQKbzNKikMh6iARbMxL6fJt0479_YveIP1GO9UlNxR5ktuBJrafWVBaRPAuEsvggYhnp2oYUNDOvI/s1600-h/DSCN1454.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-RtEk7lpg__eJ4jdRr70qk_DdSfxbc9x1AtiQcOqrCPxdJF0XRFv_nTxEUVN3G3TQKbzNKikMh6iARbMxL6fJt0479_YveIP1GO9UlNxR5ktuBJrafWVBaRPAuEsvggYhnp2oYUNDOvI/s320/DSCN1454.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5064677087950162546" border="0" /></a><br />Hello Everyone<br /><br />Sorry for the long delay. I have now decided to continue the Blogspot again.<br /><br />I am currently in Delhi with HH Kesava Bharati Maharaj who is suffering from a massive herneated disc in his lower back. I am trying to assist him as this has been very debilitating for him and makes it quite difficult to do even the most basic things.<br /><br />I realised from a recent conversation with my dear Mother that she is also suffering with this type of difficulty and can only imagine how much pain she must be in. I request everyone please pray for both of them. :)<br /><br />These bodies can be like a torture chamber sometimes - in fact most of the time. Best thing is that we finish up with this body and change it in for a spiritual body in the spiritual world - where there is no disease - DIS EASE!<br /><br />Here is a picture of HH Kesava Bharati Maharaja on one of his first walks.<br /><br />I gave a talk to the IYF - ISKCON Youth Forum on Sunday. There were about seventy plus boys in attendance. The talk was called GOOD DOG vs BAD DOG and went very well.<br /><br />I have decided to do little snipits of the talk on this sight so stay posted.<br /><br />Hare Krishna.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1786349133820480017.post-4906541097502168162007-03-07T04:43:00.000-08:002007-03-07T04:55:00.777-08:00Some new photos<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4NQFYxgB5g751J-Tr5yR8CY2ku3I0odn7m7EYQnk0Hc-V0SES51W4HuqDpuFY1Wj8DqbXXKZGGBh1Lh3QjNy4O34Yz-Mxyqu9wqMfZafKf7c2jNfs9rxD57iHEQBTyV6uzoGyxF94eCA/s1600-h/IMG_0011.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4NQFYxgB5g751J-Tr5yR8CY2ku3I0odn7m7EYQnk0Hc-V0SES51W4HuqDpuFY1Wj8DqbXXKZGGBh1Lh3QjNy4O34Yz-Mxyqu9wqMfZafKf7c2jNfs9rxD57iHEQBTyV6uzoGyxF94eCA/s200/IMG_0011.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5039164888737401106" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMh3ra2eFO7K0daZ398OkI3jh0Wp2k1fkQrFInJgqkhcUqmkz7rVQYGEPqOceFeYkqXu8FAu78Qh-8MxSPVUV7gtW5GkxVpz6g8yAEu6dXmFBI96uE6yPqkrq5GetmMlNpUOtTrisADXs/s1600-h/IMG_0005.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMh3ra2eFO7K0daZ398OkI3jh0Wp2k1fkQrFInJgqkhcUqmkz7rVQYGEPqOceFeYkqXu8FAu78Qh-8MxSPVUV7gtW5GkxVpz6g8yAEu6dXmFBI96uE6yPqkrq5GetmMlNpUOtTrisADXs/s200/IMG_0005.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5039164893032368418" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ-0lQ1s3wtNPddzFy_FHQmK_6ainQvQkiq9tKC2FRmDTTCuZ27iNqmmy_-eDkBV0MxzSRKy-OvwjCUFLgJjhpmet75KzYBTehBz0YrSQRiiqf0NqZFGTImxbeMyNYfHdqCFtQdyHMlqk/s1600-h/DSC_0003.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ-0lQ1s3wtNPddzFy_FHQmK_6ainQvQkiq9tKC2FRmDTTCuZ27iNqmmy_-eDkBV0MxzSRKy-OvwjCUFLgJjhpmet75KzYBTehBz0YrSQRiiqf0NqZFGTImxbeMyNYfHdqCFtQdyHMlqk/s200/DSC_0003.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5039163999679170770" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmCg6VqChqTE2tZIO65Btiz1ar3kIzdvyhAS_lRQf9_gDC9TjKJmI7D-JOiqUBy1H88x9avttHbn4qviAZO_990RzRJdLKa9E0ztu0OVVc0Qa-iNXdg9StmiCYDqnHhhWEgw7K_xx6kww/s1600-h/DSC_0013.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmCg6VqChqTE2tZIO65Btiz1ar3kIzdvyhAS_lRQf9_gDC9TjKJmI7D-JOiqUBy1H88x9avttHbn4qviAZO_990RzRJdLKa9E0ztu0OVVc0Qa-iNXdg9StmiCYDqnHhhWEgw7K_xx6kww/s200/DSC_0013.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5039163991089236162" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBxD6Z7aRpl21mihqN3Kk2PzVeskK6soDhGGhy0EHeb5Bc81TzAqBq-OZ8rn-8BoxNix8e-Tgpx65YLzQULeTly8soKFB4jCQp6-sOQ88DA_m0EIBqjBFJBncZZYN-tDZYDDj131q_qM8/s1600-h/DSC_0038.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBxD6Z7aRpl21mihqN3Kk2PzVeskK6soDhGGhy0EHeb5Bc81TzAqBq-OZ8rn-8BoxNix8e-Tgpx65YLzQULeTly8soKFB4jCQp6-sOQ88DA_m0EIBqjBFJBncZZYN-tDZYDDj131q_qM8/s200/DSC_0038.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5039164003974138082" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitELS3B3NZowjUdFm1KE3sVnJR01pXyGOTXFc1DJOd9fqtYYASP2RCTCPguRFPI6oi10O5B6gHcO7BTnVZK7FGjJsGcydxY3nzLa7YDUFFPP_OIOnHi3e5loI6tU4DqM8bia4zp6cxEeE/s1600-h/DSC_0089.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitELS3B3NZowjUdFm1KE3sVnJR01pXyGOTXFc1DJOd9fqtYYASP2RCTCPguRFPI6oi10O5B6gHcO7BTnVZK7FGjJsGcydxY3nzLa7YDUFFPP_OIOnHi3e5loI6tU4DqM8bia4zp6cxEeE/s200/DSC_0089.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5039164003974138098" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLZqaMgwk98HAXggp-k5ghFaU0Gr8Wxk3KACN6aUNEULj9hjnehqLT-G5trCynDo0Jmgg7iAbrpZ70My5Tk1LUK2lHA-CaKNODaiJcONv38E-bzlFKoAic2lC-_GZMpapg3ZDE7DdtF0Q/s1600-h/DSC_0129.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLZqaMgwk98HAXggp-k5ghFaU0Gr8Wxk3KACN6aUNEULj9hjnehqLT-G5trCynDo0Jmgg7iAbrpZ70My5Tk1LUK2lHA-CaKNODaiJcONv38E-bzlFKoAic2lC-_GZMpapg3ZDE7DdtF0Q/s200/DSC_0129.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5039164008269105410" border="0" /></a><br />It takes so long to do this uploading business at such a slow rate.<br /><br />I hope you all like the photos.<br /><br />Things are going well. I am relishing the nectar.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1786349133820480017.post-43098816449439298652007-02-18T03:35:00.000-08:002007-02-18T03:42:04.881-08:00Disappearance Day of HH Tamal Krsna Goswami<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfi2ErU5-pWgoJKbW3pMof0L8Ro7HJrwifwxQDgFXmmzf4WL_boCeM1YBmVg6zHMJIWUcgdyaGjaYz2B7rjdoANBsfUCwJF7u4yc-nK2tNl5MqUbZvUcFOJ-rDd4YPtPL2JBNUtYWjxz0/s1600-h/IMG_0046.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 265px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfi2ErU5-pWgoJKbW3pMof0L8Ro7HJrwifwxQDgFXmmzf4WL_boCeM1YBmVg6zHMJIWUcgdyaGjaYz2B7rjdoANBsfUCwJF7u4yc-nK2tNl5MqUbZvUcFOJ-rDd4YPtPL2JBNUtYWjxz0/s200/IMG_0046.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5032837377144913906" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3np62YO0xIPh65KpYMjsA6jS9NC4oaLuXG1uZ1XpMlQIfleGLbLmxd9VV2QT7UD5xaaSOz570aj8l1aEKxLRA-slecSxIMfp-NTjXfqP8XNlKvsIpx9Ied7ok8YiIDcxBYIrvDFtHYjo/s1600-h/IMG_0049.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3np62YO0xIPh65KpYMjsA6jS9NC4oaLuXG1uZ1XpMlQIfleGLbLmxd9VV2QT7UD5xaaSOz570aj8l1aEKxLRA-slecSxIMfp-NTjXfqP8XNlKvsIpx9Ied7ok8YiIDcxBYIrvDFtHYjo/s200/IMG_0049.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5032836986302889954" border="0" /></a><br />Today was the fifth anniversary of the Disappearance of HH Tamala Krsna Goswami. I was so fortunate to be here in Govardhan, where his Puspa Samadhi is and also a few of his senior disciples.<br /><br />We held an event for about seventy-five to one hundred devotees. It was so nice to hear how Maharaja had established this ashrama in order to facilitate devotees who needed to have a break from the wild west.<br /><br />Afterwards we served ALOT of prasadam to all of the guests. I also ate alot and had to walk to this internet place to keep from falling asleep.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1786349133820480017.post-61642369088562441292007-02-13T23:58:00.000-08:002007-02-14T00:02:02.938-08:00Ekadasi<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggQAVM6W-IYpsGQ1vX1v_0-x9zODJhaXC2GN7k9KGVm3I24TngnPI8kc5bkMgMvVRb2Ru7IZzL-beVh0KTI4YdCmR8tsJbQWKP64KNdIn4IFEaa52vj1hTILLAsdOOZO_FafPvOL8Vzuo/s1600-h/IMG_0002.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggQAVM6W-IYpsGQ1vX1v_0-x9zODJhaXC2GN7k9KGVm3I24TngnPI8kc5bkMgMvVRb2Ru7IZzL-beVh0KTI4YdCmR8tsJbQWKP64KNdIn4IFEaa52vj1hTILLAsdOOZO_FafPvOL8Vzuo/s200/IMG_0002.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5031296536152637378" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUGn4iKwvHJjY9FDUfC8mx_KnN4yUR1x7th_FnQ1t9gfvAnDEKmCcexXuMJYZ8n5bK9EO7r_B7cWSLwd8K4xQ6OP0lIC2Htnwf-IjQtRJ6H3CmT_ipdCWagfdM6I4BmffeTINn2zURFKk/s1600-h/IMG_0004.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUGn4iKwvHJjY9FDUfC8mx_KnN4yUR1x7th_FnQ1t9gfvAnDEKmCcexXuMJYZ8n5bK9EO7r_B7cWSLwd8K4xQ6OP0lIC2Htnwf-IjQtRJ6H3CmT_ipdCWagfdM6I4BmffeTINn2zURFKk/s200/IMG_0004.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5031296789555707858" border="0" /></a><br />Today is Ekadasi (day of fasting from grains) and I am chanting some extra rounds of the Hare Krishna Maha Mantra.<br /><br />The day started with a class at the Srimad-Bhagavata Vidyapitham (pictured above) by HH Dhanudhara Swami. I truly relish Maharaja's classes. He has such taste for Krishna consciousness and it is contagious.<br />Here are a few highlights:<br />Looking at my notes there are so many to choose from!<br /><br />Maharaja remarked that:<br /><br />Faith = Animation<br />- Nothing moves without faith. Every decision we make is based on some sort of faith in something and only with this faith does our life become animated.<br /><br />while Doubt = Suspension<br />- We become paralysed or frozen by fear and indecision.<br /><br />Maharaja expressed with enthusiasm - How wonderful it is to move forward in life while having firm faith in the Absolute Truth.<br />Bhakti is the ultimate in faith - faith in pleasing Krishna the Supreme Lord through selfless service - as we are animated by this faith our faith increases with each experience.<br /><br />After class I spent time with Bhakta Erik a brahmacari from ISKCON-London. he is now studying sanskrit and bhagavatam. He is absorbed and completely in his element. We were the last ones taking breakfast as he could not stop speaking elevated subject matter. I was amazed and inspired. I was asked to give class there tomorrow. (for my purification)<br /><br />Then I proceeded to walk to Kusum Sarovar, which means "temple on a lake of flowers." A very beautiful spot, where I chanted and reflected on the simplicity of life here in the Holy Dham. Certainly life is hard compared to western standards - but very simple. (Picture above)<br /><br />Always remember Krishna and never forget Him! (Our Golden Rule)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1786349133820480017.post-21374051763271983442007-02-12T02:53:00.000-08:002007-02-12T02:52:33.091-08:00HH Tamal Krsna Goswami's Pushpa Samadhi<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOL71BNUCm3wVueawFh5JDb1pT3d9PNWu1ZEeAPEgy0lsYSEWqN0hfBbRKpayKGYOcA2nmfsJkfdW3FWy-s52RoYREFMFj7IibN4ysjg2_qEw9BwS75pzTKPXsQ-XOq6B1WKtr1V_WSjA/s1600-h/IMG_0002.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOL71BNUCm3wVueawFh5JDb1pT3d9PNWu1ZEeAPEgy0lsYSEWqN0hfBbRKpayKGYOcA2nmfsJkfdW3FWy-s52RoYREFMFj7IibN4ysjg2_qEw9BwS75pzTKPXsQ-XOq6B1WKtr1V_WSjA/s200/IMG_0002.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5030601820897542066" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirF6se-QryTlZ93Rv9oPnP8UFBlB96T-uCuMw7AXeZCspNb4QeBc0IDTM2gF3gUGjY2PuMIE1UAmS25L21b_Nl7GULgu45-4idkoAkrtGRN8E4N7RJ7u0PWkvQIC3T_BHo0fEgIPtJPbo/s1600-h/IMG_0009.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirF6se-QryTlZ93Rv9oPnP8UFBlB96T-uCuMw7AXeZCspNb4QeBc0IDTM2gF3gUGjY2PuMIE1UAmS25L21b_Nl7GULgu45-4idkoAkrtGRN8E4N7RJ7u0PWkvQIC3T_BHo0fEgIPtJPbo/s200/IMG_0009.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5030601133702774674" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilwSjZ8iO2S9sVVhNOQRn_RMr_Bo8DXUym0lsqVDEHrMQZ4tTbyGiwJaFCUQwu2KVoGIt68ZCkEBKDXyUBI5Pvm8deznjmRfoIXtGNSgaiI73AjqQyMqoqFmlUFGiEPUCG-EVRIkLTEZc/s1600-h/IMG_0008.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilwSjZ8iO2S9sVVhNOQRn_RMr_Bo8DXUym0lsqVDEHrMQZ4tTbyGiwJaFCUQwu2KVoGIt68ZCkEBKDXyUBI5Pvm8deznjmRfoIXtGNSgaiI73AjqQyMqoqFmlUFGiEPUCG-EVRIkLTEZc/s200/IMG_0008.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5030601361336041378" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwyFbWJIqYSdox6cYeV0sgiHPvXQfEfVu-KaTOIbxu9yElX6e8rm30HSrmEMttkNGLIGoVQYX7PAdt1KdMvgB5Q4mbBLBPYTKTgTpblARNNHbvtIC8z9MA8v210Ol1ymF7CAK5FPgjDNs/s1600-h/IMG_0003.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwyFbWJIqYSdox6cYeV0sgiHPvXQfEfVu-KaTOIbxu9yElX6e8rm30HSrmEMttkNGLIGoVQYX7PAdt1KdMvgB5Q4mbBLBPYTKTgTpblARNNHbvtIC8z9MA8v210Ol1ymF7CAK5FPgjDNs/s200/IMG_0003.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5030600614011731826" border="0" /></a><br /><br />These are photos of HH Tamal Krishna Maharaja's Samadhi which is located in the front garden of the Bhaktivedanta Asrama where I am staying.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1786349133820480017.post-61111650246549845932007-02-12T02:35:00.000-08:002007-02-12T02:35:23.358-08:00PIctures = 1,000 words<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQcM5atIUHJWsAc967cynZA4PkzMVRxbzwySkmPhp_9hEHmEMaf8T_tcSSqeJPk8CFCt67tAg2Sp7cD22Oza3R0UgO5KlD9N-FrUScBuGUi1icL20G0oLv41qzZy5e6OsGAnTWR6MwZoI/s1600-h/IMG_0013.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQcM5atIUHJWsAc967cynZA4PkzMVRxbzwySkmPhp_9hEHmEMaf8T_tcSSqeJPk8CFCt67tAg2Sp7cD22Oza3R0UgO5KlD9N-FrUScBuGUi1icL20G0oLv41qzZy5e6OsGAnTWR6MwZoI/s320/IMG_0013.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5030597122203320130" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEY3dfV9RUKC-We2aM5Eym6fDJ4x65QiOu7SN2sRKag3yeWIl6dlC1EMfUPbsNVK78MhqZVrp2br0Zy0h0rg-pJM8QOGmxKiZYN2If849zBfV2qM4A1uT4KP0FQozTTQ-lA4z6Cl4S2hM/s1600-h/IMG_0011.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEY3dfV9RUKC-We2aM5Eym6fDJ4x65QiOu7SN2sRKag3yeWIl6dlC1EMfUPbsNVK78MhqZVrp2br0Zy0h0rg-pJM8QOGmxKiZYN2If849zBfV2qM4A1uT4KP0FQozTTQ-lA4z6Cl4S2hM/s320/IMG_0011.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5030596452188421938" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVgL9FYLTSAHGddvp81-iLLnHFrLK6d5JYkYyUTwLPW3UgdjPCq6TMqwm_6b5kM7G7QGhtL9wc-TL9i0vANmy3vhSw8FD8E15dQ-m-ttY3WDrwk0qK4mrkdpIlx_W3DJgPKGYEYlBFMds/s1600-h/IMG_0005.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVgL9FYLTSAHGddvp81-iLLnHFrLK6d5JYkYyUTwLPW3UgdjPCq6TMqwm_6b5kM7G7QGhtL9wc-TL9i0vANmy3vhSw8FD8E15dQ-m-ttY3WDrwk0qK4mrkdpIlx_W3DJgPKGYEYlBFMds/s320/IMG_0005.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5030596181605482274" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCW-LiVkO_rXVUTXrtYEVrdc7Xh1AUTVQd9sFsKJ96JC8bHXA-KITEm9L56_6_8IbISAwcljnMnWJbWD1RQv5Z9JpCLWMaxzcnahMq8YgODUl4QKlqw1cY57hveusVaUBq3DuQw9fbAcU/s1600-h/IMG_0001.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCW-LiVkO_rXVUTXrtYEVrdc7Xh1AUTVQd9sFsKJ96JC8bHXA-KITEm9L56_6_8IbISAwcljnMnWJbWD1RQv5Z9JpCLWMaxzcnahMq8YgODUl4QKlqw1cY57hveusVaUBq3DuQw9fbAcU/s320/IMG_0001.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5030595971152084754" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Here are a few picture I have taken since my arrival - by the mercy of Bhaktin Jo who donated her cool camera for my trip.<br /><br />Top-left: Giri-Govardhan in the centre of the altar here<br />Top-right: HH Kesava Bharati Goswami's Govardhana Sila<br />Bottom-left: Govardhan Palace Altar<br />Bottom-right: Sri Sri Gaura Nitai - personally worshipped by HH Tamal Krishna Goswami<br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1786349133820480017.post-13023131424303689612007-02-12T02:19:00.000-08:002007-02-12T02:26:34.497-08:00Arrived Safely in the Holy Dham - Govardhana Hill<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3TVSlLoctEq-yTPMWkGmtjUuGsH4m3901jJK88WU9-4EmNe90E-4cj2p-hg4r2Tz8fJMx1QJoGjCeCtTfj372fRkdpzJSESbOpIOzb-8j28eKhkDAkmHlwWBWGCuv4ShoE3-Nzb45wGg/s1600-h/IMG_0013.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3TVSlLoctEq-yTPMWkGmtjUuGsH4m3901jJK88WU9-4EmNe90E-4cj2p-hg4r2Tz8fJMx1QJoGjCeCtTfj372fRkdpzJSESbOpIOzb-8j28eKhkDAkmHlwWBWGCuv4ShoE3-Nzb45wGg/s320/IMG_0013.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5030591564515639010" border="0" /></a>After a fifteen hour overnight train journey from Mumbai to Mathura, I finally reached safely to Govardhan's Bhaktivedanta Ashrama. I stayed here a coupl eof years ago for about ten days. Some of you may remember my intense experiences. Well I am back and looking for more. :)<br /><br />So far so good with everything. I think my strict diet of only cooked prasadam, no raw fruits or veg and no dairy products is helping. Plus I am sure that teh prayers of so many people for the bugs to leave me alone is the best medicine.<br /><br />You might be thinking it is a sweltering paradise here, but actually it has been freezing. I am glad I brought extra clothes and a sleeping bag. It was raining almost non-stop the first two days. Some of that was mixed with hail. I have never seen anything like it. Evidentally it is exceptionally unusual here. They do call this teh dew season as it is normally chilly and very damp.<br /><br />Now the sun is out and they say that within a week or so it will be pretty warm - so let's see.<br /><br />I have been doing alot of extra chanting, studying, attending many classes - most of which are in Hindi and in general just trying to get absorbed in the spiritual environment.<br /><br />On my arrival I was fortunate to get the association of three wonderful devotees from New Zealand. They are Disciples of HH Devamrita Maharaja and recently spent a year studying under HG Radha Raman Prabhu from London (now in Wales). They were great association. Now they have left for Mayapura and then back to New Zealand.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1786349133820480017.post-15932784209007465402007-02-08T21:51:00.000-08:002007-02-08T08:55:22.563-08:00What does it mean to be GREAT?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbHbBPliCk0h_u_J31gkhikY2ZDC7gd0_0JMMdMsitXfHDNa14uG4EhUF-__Q6Na_Sx10pN_Ksmz1N6uCptJiQd_h0zWcc4nXfdEA7MJx1bI0ZQP-eSCFHh9LgGzpXWK3VPULuzOdYbOM/s1600-h/JAS2.jpeg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbHbBPliCk0h_u_J31gkhikY2ZDC7gd0_0JMMdMsitXfHDNa14uG4EhUF-__Q6Na_Sx10pN_Ksmz1N6uCptJiQd_h0zWcc4nXfdEA7MJx1bI0ZQP-eSCFHh9LgGzpXWK3VPULuzOdYbOM/s200/JAS2.jpeg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5029408601673301698" border="0" /></a>This morning HH Jayadvaita Swami gave class. Maharaja is the senior-most editor of Srila Prabhupada's books and also one of the longest standing sannyasis (member of the renounced order). His questions and asnwers sessions are second to none.<br /><br />One powerful point he made was:<br />The quality of a GREAT soul is that he sees and magnifies the good side of anything or anyone and he minimises the bad side. He then quoted Chanikya Pandit who said: "See a pitcher of poison with a drop of nectar - take the nectar and leave the poison."<br /><br />By this I am reminded how drawn I am to always see the imperfections in anything and everyone around me. This is a sure-fired sign of false pride, envy and lack of humility. We want to find the dirt and maximise it. This will minimise the other person or situation and exaggerate our greatness. Thus we live in a dog-eat-dog society where we fight to move ahead, instead of a culture that assists one another and pushes others forward before ourselves.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1786349133820480017.post-46289827772309112982007-02-08T02:39:00.000-08:002007-02-08T02:55:51.584-08:00Temple Construction<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikLiPYFUj3DdEzynRCRWTdoVm8469oqBm9O9L-AY3sNcCJl0Ux9OYoixaGT9ixxj0oZ7qtLYiPe-Y45zZERpWQk1k_h0o_S3jP6Awjo5QJ_pDWf9zZkThMjCUxQW5jSvlnPqKHOyE17rM/s1600-h/IMG_0001.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikLiPYFUj3DdEzynRCRWTdoVm8469oqBm9O9L-AY3sNcCJl0Ux9OYoixaGT9ixxj0oZ7qtLYiPe-Y45zZERpWQk1k_h0o_S3jP6Awjo5QJ_pDWf9zZkThMjCUxQW5jSvlnPqKHOyE17rM/s200/IMG_0001.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5029113760758365874" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX66-pr6S1l7oMgOVz3yhQqfg0VUcUSsfBJKMioP6qJ8kzkFzrNv9oVh8d9gs2FU9upu0TictQxcnOy96b7HJGh6Jf3BeKMkB4ipdIHY7YLuA_r5hdv31KIOw7U1D24q6oUU7XqvPQ8_0/s1600-h/IMG_0005.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX66-pr6S1l7oMgOVz3yhQqfg0VUcUSsfBJKMioP6qJ8kzkFzrNv9oVh8d9gs2FU9upu0TictQxcnOy96b7HJGh6Jf3BeKMkB4ipdIHY7YLuA_r5hdv31KIOw7U1D24q6oUU7XqvPQ8_0/s200/IMG_0005.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5029112416433602210" border="0" /></a><br /><br />This is a view of the main altar area of the Temple Room which is under construction. Therefore there is very limited time with the beautiful deities Sri Sri Radha-Gopinatha. Once the floor is finished it will be extremely beautiful and a great offering of love to the devotees who come and worship.<br />Over 1200 devotees fill this hall on a Sunday. Since the construction there are no programmes. Devotees are in great seperation.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1786349133820480017.post-90299515384552566062007-02-07T08:06:00.000-08:002007-02-07T08:24:26.698-08:00A Visit to Talavan BACE<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnkO3U1CABPAcq_8uMWyn3krbnBzbPOXMxSt_45rEmRiH3dKF3T5ZSNwuhF3HXl8L-KoCGkBSQ2Cf46Pukujvk20zOySYouybLrg17XsHf3aSa28TxmD6arP7eIo-aXMLvP5NIHtEIGso/s1600-h/IMG_0021.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnkO3U1CABPAcq_8uMWyn3krbnBzbPOXMxSt_45rEmRiH3dKF3T5ZSNwuhF3HXl8L-KoCGkBSQ2Cf46Pukujvk20zOySYouybLrg17XsHf3aSa28TxmD6arP7eIo-aXMLvP5NIHtEIGso/s320/IMG_0021.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5028825983089826738" border="0" /></a>Last night I gave a talk on Lord Nityananda for a be-lated celebration of His Appearance Day at the Talavan BACE in New Mumbai (Nerul).<br /><br /><br /><br /><br />First you may ask: What is a BACE (Bhaktivedanta Academy for Culture and Education)?<br />Well in this case it is a couple of flats (apartments) that have been rented by the Temple in order to house devotee students and professionals who either study or work in the local area. They pay rent in order to cover costs while at the same time receive training and education in Krishna consciousness - similar to that which I get by living in the Temple as a monk (brahmacari).<br /><br />The BACE enables the devotees to practice a high level of spiritual life while working or studying all the while being maintained with prasadam (food offered to Krishna) (there is a live in devotee cook), morning programme, regular classes, spiritual counseling, altar with Temple environment and lots of association. There are about seventeen, young, men residing here. (pictured just a few) Some hold very prominent jobs while others work towards masters, bachelors or PHD degrees.<br /><br />Needless to say I feel completely unqualified as I barely made it out of BOONEsboro High School. :)<br /><br />Anyhow the talk went on for well over an hour and then we had an ecstatic kirtana (dancing and chanting with instruments) and nice prasadam. There were a total of seventy boys in attendance. The next morning we celebrated the Appearance of Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati - the spiritual master of Srila Prabhupada. I was also asked to speak on this topic.<br /><br />The boys were encouraging and made me feel like part of the family. Thank you Talavan BACE! I wish you all GREAT spiritual success!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1786349133820480017.post-38643579055645796602007-02-05T01:04:00.000-08:002007-02-05T01:27:34.347-08:00Bhakti Visrambha Madhava Maharaja<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-jr6JujlqTPTKgVuGndjwcTbBFge3WZ7uqel6_BCPxTbG0SmWSYFMNhTkCSJyhO_y2ceh8d7uNZQbt5Ym4PQ4gaD-yx0UvbKm77Kdtm1nWEdE7LLZ3b3idEWUPg57y6LsjP3HAGQ6V_g/s1600-h/BVMM.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 262px; height: 194px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-jr6JujlqTPTKgVuGndjwcTbBFge3WZ7uqel6_BCPxTbG0SmWSYFMNhTkCSJyhO_y2ceh8d7uNZQbt5Ym4PQ4gaD-yx0UvbKm77Kdtm1nWEdE7LLZ3b3idEWUPg57y6LsjP3HAGQ6V_g/s200/BVMM.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5027978805085658018" border="0" /></a><br />This morning HH Bhakti Visrambha Madhava Maharaja gave a wonderful class. He was sharing such deep topics that it is hard to get into. The essence was how the cultivation of spiritual life is so very important. Though we may think ourselves eternal - at some point we all gotta go and spiritual life is the preperation for that journey. No one goes on holiday without preparing for it. So we should also be prepared for this most important trip. He explained how he has witnessed many of his godbrothers and sisters departing this world with big smiles on their faces and sincere expression of Krishna presence.<br /><br />The thing is that this type of shelter will not be easy without practice and this is what spiritual life is all about. Preparing for the big test. Of course the mercy of the Lord is there, but it is explained that the Lord helps those who help themselves.<br /><br />After the class all of the devotees gathered around Maharaja to get more personal association. I was very fortunate that he recognised me from London and pulled me in close to him and gave me a big hug. He will be in London in a few weeks - I will miss that association.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1786349133820480017.post-9622830964637988852007-02-03T00:50:00.000-08:002007-02-03T01:04:38.522-08:00Prahladananda Swami Class<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.prahladanandaswami.net/gallery2/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=80&g2_serialNumber=2&g2_GALLERYSID=3f53613916ce5046d733039feeaa1e2e"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px;" src="http://www.prahladanandaswami.net/gallery2/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=80&g2_serialNumber=2&g2_GALLERYSID=3f53613916ce5046d733039feeaa1e2e" alt="" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:100%;">This Morning HH Prahladananda Swami gave Bhagavatam Class. The verse was Sb 6.9.11<br />This is from the sixth canto about Vitrasura. This is specifically </span>the verse that was <span style="font-size:100%;">mis-chanted and caused the doom of Lord Indra.<br />Maharaja spoke about the importance in by gone ages of proper chanting. How in order to show a persons qualification for chanting mantras he must be able to start a fire by only chanting mantra. He also explained that if you didn't chant the mantra correctly you may be set on fire! YIKES!<br /><br />Then Maharaja explained that in this age things are different otherwise when we chant the Hare Krishna Maha Mantra we would be in big trouble. he said that in the morning when all of the devotees are chanting together - you would see lots of little piles of ashes due to so many devotees falling asleep while chanting! :)<br /><br />In this age the process is simple because we are not so spiritually advanced.<br /><br />Just chant:<br />Hare Krishna Hare Krishna Krishna Krishna Hare Hare<br />Hare Rama Hare Rama Rama Rama Hare Hare<br /><br />and .................... Be Happy.</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1786349133820480017.post-23745969092552915932007-02-02T08:43:00.000-08:002007-02-07T23:08:39.895-08:00Welcome to the Site<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT4u90Vs2rXc8YrdgBRitU7xeH6EvmwHOdJMh-MKz-pJ1XpfKMYZez5AHyCCSyxpMUgeBEH8vk9lO5cHmA3msICAABmC_slN6V3EDTzGXvsla8yjvk-YIhikZ8y1P-mx-Y8HOginykJ5Q/s1600-h/Photo+10.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT4u90Vs2rXc8YrdgBRitU7xeH6EvmwHOdJMh-MKz-pJ1XpfKMYZez5AHyCCSyxpMUgeBEH8vk9lO5cHmA3msICAABmC_slN6V3EDTzGXvsla8yjvk-YIhikZ8y1P-mx-Y8HOginykJ5Q/s320/Photo+10.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5029110565302697602" border="0" /></a><br />Dear family, friends and well wishers<br /><br />Welcome to the site.<br /><br />The idea was given to me by my Godbrother Gauranga Kishore Prabhu. (<span style="font-size:78%;"><a href="http://gaurangakishore.blogspot.com/">http//gaurangakishore.blogspot.com</a></span>)<br />He uses this method when he travels and is able to share all of his adventures.<br /><br />I hope by doing this I do not appear arrogant or conceited. This is not my intention.<br /><br />Rather my hope is that I can easily share with others my personal self-discoveries and realisations.<br /><br />Anyway please keep checking in as I intend to update this site regularly.<br /><br />I hope you are all well and spiritually thriving.<br /><br />Keep smiling! :)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1786349133820480017.post-1591945898393041062007-02-02T08:09:00.000-08:002007-02-02T10:00:23.420-08:00Arrived Safely<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiybPgSZv5tmO8G23O4aJcDprYiGqfe6CZq_7cdmbR2mq9Jk1rjsEMVibqSLy357RdOR_1hFmOksKgar0GV6gRBn8pqoWSKrYUk61et0Jnh3Y-YwgzMkLJPu3ew1i7x85VtVtjG5MJxV2I/s1600-h/DSC00227.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 288px; height: 216px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiybPgSZv5tmO8G23O4aJcDprYiGqfe6CZq_7cdmbR2mq9Jk1rjsEMVibqSLy357RdOR_1hFmOksKgar0GV6gRBn8pqoWSKrYUk61et0Jnh3Y-YwgzMkLJPu3ew1i7x85VtVtjG5MJxV2I/s200/DSC00227.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5026997916159630194" border="0" /></a>So I have now arrived safely in Mumbai and am staying at Radha-Gopinath Mandir. Many of the brahmacaris are away in Tirupati for the grand opening of the BIG NEW ISKCON Temple.<br /><br />The Temple here is closed for refurbishment - which means that there is deep seperation for all of the devotees from Sri Sri Radha-Gopinath.<br /><span style="font-size:78%;"><a href="http://virtualtempletour.com/index.asp">http://virtualtempletour.com/index.asp</a></span><br /><br />Guru Maharaja is NOT here at the moment. He will be making his way to Mayapur directly from Tirupati for the GBC meetings.<br /><br />As usual the devotees have made me feel super welcome and are taking very nice care of me.<br /><br />Please everyone pray that I may stay healthy during this trip. Quite a few devotees have contracted malaria - uh-ohh!<br />That means I may be in for a new experience! :)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2