Beginning Kartik with a Realization

Jai Sri Sri Radha Damodar Jiu!

All glories to this most auspicious month of Kartik!

An unexplainable feeling entered into my heart as kartik came around once again. All the tensions and struggles that we live through in this material world during the rest of the year seemed to slip away as soon as I woke up on the morning of this extremely auspicious month. The emotions that overcame me as I woke up before sunrise was something that I hadn't felt in a very long time. After bathing Giri with milk and completing puja I sat in front of Him inhaling the beautiful scent of incense smoke and watching the ghee lamp flicker melodiously in front of His face while it lit up His smile and I wondered to myself, "why is it that only during this particular month do we feel so inclined to go the extra mile in our spiritual path?"Why is it that we are not able to do the special things we do this month all the time. We have the same schedule which revolves around work, school, housework, social events, etc etc. In a previous blog I quoted the first verse of the Damodarastakam where is states that Krsna finally allowed Himself to be caught and bound by Yasoda Mai. I therefore concluded that it is only during this month that Krsna is extremely happy and allows us to catch Him easily and Give to Him whatever love we posses.

However, a question that one may ask is, how do we even develop the desire to catch Krsna? When and how do we enter into that stage in which we feel we can be or do nothing without him? For a while I remember getting so distracted by the the people, places, and things that surrounded me. I felt that I was losing the taste and desire I had for serving the Lord. Worshiping and chanting was just a part of my morning routine. Where had my enthusiasm gone?

Just this morning I was reading the third verse in Srila Rupa Goswami's Upadesamrta (Nectar of Instruction) :

utsahan niscaya dhairyat

tat-tat-karma-pravartanat

sanga-tyagat sato vrtteh

sadbhir bhaktih prasidhyati

There are 6 principles favorable to the execution of the pure devototional service: 1) being enthusiastic, 2) endeavoring with confidence, 3) being patient, 4) acting according to regulative principles [sravanam kirtanam visnoh smaranam...] 5) abandoning the association of non devotees, and 6) following in the footsteps of the previous acaryas. These 6 principles undoubtedly assure the complete success of pure devotional service.

Further in the purport it explained that out of these 6 the most important is the first one: enthusiasm. We cannot succeed completely in devotional service without it and that seemed to be the very thing I felt I was lacking. So what then should I do? Lucky me, I was in Mayapur during this time, in a place where not only is there devotees everywhere but in the air and atmosphere itself. If one tried to forget Krsna still one could not. If one ran from Krsna still one would see him everywhere. I stood before the deities many a time and asked Krsna "What is happening to me? Why am I simply stumbling along the path towards you when previously I felt I was going at a steady trot? Krsna! Please return to me the taste of Krsna Prem and let it fill my heart."

It is now that I realize, not only does Krsna allow you to catch Him when you so desire to, but He will also bless you with that very same desire to catch Him. If you are ready and if you are not, He will provide the time, situation, and circumstance in which you will have no choice but to turn to him and place your entire existence at His wonderful lotus feet.

In the most wonderful way, my thoughts on this matter were confirmed. I happened to pop in to watch Mayapur's live telecast and caught the last tiny snippet of Bhaktividyapurna Maharaj's Bhagavatam class. He was saying that even though Druva Maharaj did not go into the forest to undergo penance for spirtual reasons, but to obtain a kingdom far greater than his father's, in the end He still got this wonderful taste of Krsna Prem.

Krsna created the situation for which Druva Maharaj would HAVE to go to Him and Druva Maharaj acquired the desire to serve the Lord even though initially he performed tapasya for material reasons , which is why most of us go to God in the first place. Krsna was so merciful that He appeared before Druva Maharaj and at once Druva Maharaj understood his constitutional position.

In my case, my situation is that I so strongly desire to return to the birthplace of my Lordship, my Giri. And for this I pray to Sri Damodar Jiu, allow me to return, allow me to serve you there. Although is is said that a true devotee will ask Krsna for nothing but to simply serve him wherever and in whichever way pleases Him, I am still quite fallen and pray only to return to the safety of the holy dham so that I will not stray from the path of Krsna Bhakti.

I pray to Him and I pray to his wonderful devotees [you] to please give me your blessings so that I may advance in the path of Krsna Consciousness.

Vancha Kalpatarubhyas ca

kripa sindhubhya eva ca

patitanam pavanebhyo

vaisnavaibhyo namoh namah

Exta

Time sweeps each of us off our feet in different directions; pushed into newer depths of self-realization. A few months ago we initiated this blog to keep track of our Kartik vratas. 'Kartik Diaries' seemed an appropriate title.

But as quickly as it dawned, the sacred month passed us. We came to realize that Kartik meant more to us than just a month of penetance and extra perseverance. Really, the entire year is in preparation of the next Kartik.

Why?

Because it makes us feel directly in line with the Lord. Every thought and seems magnified. Some feel as if they take leaps and bounds in that special month most dear to Srimati Radharani. The atmosphere feels surcharged with a beautiful hope, and potential energy; potential for spiritual advancement.
Our unified goal is to progress to newer levels with every passing day; to be pure in heart; and ultimately, to be able to please the Divine Couple more, and serve Them whenever and wherever we may be.

Now, in the Spring of 2010, I look back on last Autumn with fond memories. So much has changed. And yet, that same desire remains; a desire to shine and excel in my devotional service. In some ways, I have matured, and in some, I have slipped, but the experiences remain vivid in my heart. It's so easy to get absorbed in mundane work, and put aside the important tasks!

With a jolt, I realize that today* is is the most revered Purusottama Adhika Mas! (*check your local Vaisnava calendar for exact dates.) It is considered especially dear to the Lord, and even more potent that Kartik. It is an extra month of the lunar calendar.

For us, it means an extra opportunity for extra service, for extra spiritual progress!

With a most trying, rigorous schedule, I do not know what I can offer to the Lord in this most sacred month. Yet, I feel I cannot pass this an opportunity like this! At the same time, I realize the seriousness of a vrata. It must not be broken.

If there's one thing I've learnt from ISKCON, its that you shouldn't let important opportunities slip, because they often won't come back and you'll regret your choice forever!

I conclude, simply pledging my surrender unto the Mistress and Master of my heart. I am unfit to offer anything more. I simply beg to remain Their servant, forever more. I am most grateful for their truly unconditional mercy, though I feel most undeserving. Let me simply try my best to serve Them better, for my happiness is in Their pleasure.

Sri Sri Radha Madhava Ki Jay!


********************************************

devi duhkha-kula-sagarodare duyamanam ati-durgatam janam
tvam kripa-prabala-naukayadbhutam prapaya sva-pada-pankajalayam

O queen, please rescue this unfortunate person drowning in an ocean of pain. Place him on the strong boat of Your mercy and carry him to the wonderful realm of Your lotus feet.

tavaivasmi tavaivasmi na jivami tvaya vina
iti vijnaya devi tvam naya mama caranantikam

I am Yours! I am Yours! I cannot live without You! O Devi Radha, please understand this and bring me to Your lotus feet.

asha-bharair amrita-sindhu-mayaih kathancit kalo mayati-gamitah kila sampratam hi
tvam cet kripam mayi vidhasyasi naiva kim me pranair vrajena ca varoru bakarinapi

For me somehow the present moment is flooded by a nectar ocean of many hopes. If You do not give Your mercy, then of what use to me are this life, the land of Vraja, and Shri Krishna, the enemy of Baka?

--
(Srila Raghunatha Das Goswami)

The Power of Acceptance: Srila Prabhupada's Message

Love, what does that mean? We have so many conceptions but the truth is that it means acceptance...accepting others for who they are and respecting them. This is the bases of love. It is said that the pure vaishnava devotee of the Lord accepts everyone and sees everyone equally. Srila Prabhupada embodied this concept and taught it through his kind words and actions.

Recently I was reading a transcribed discourse between Srila Prabhupada and Allin Ginsberg in which they are discussing religion. It struck me how Srila Prabhupada stressed again and yet again that we (ISKCON) welcome ALL religions. We have no contradictions and are simply teaching love of God. One God who has many names. He encourages others to follow their individual faiths respectfully and chant the Lord's names. If they have no other name, then he gives them Krishna. What a wonderful gift! Srila Prabhupada taught the wonderful quality of acceptance. How can we, his grandchildren not embody that very concept in ourselves? We have a responsibility to not judge, but see the wonder, faith, and devotion offered by other faiths, while respecting and loving our own traditions of Krishna Consciousness.

I pray we may take this lesson into our hearts.

Here is a link to the recorded discourse: http://www.harekrsna.com/philosophy/gss/sadhu/religions/ginsberg.htm

Keeping the Inspiration Alive

Typical. The post-kartik blues...

It is my favorite time of the year - I feel closer to Krsna. Naturally, I miss it! Kartik is the best incentive, and knowing its wondrous glories, every devotional effort is easier. It is magical, undeniably. I dread going back the sometimes boring, sometimes rigorous, but always very ordinary daily grind, after an extra-ordinary month.

This year, I wish to make an effort to stay aloof from the gloom. The Lord within whispers, “Do not succumb”.

I am reminded of the annual Festival of Inspiration, which takes place in picturesque New Vrndavan. (It needs no introduction - the title says it all!)

I had been attending this festival every year since 2005 (up until this year). Like everyone else, I thoroughly enjoyed myself amidst ecstatic kirtans, soulful bhajans, seminars by many ISKCON sanyasis and devotees, good Vaisnava association, temple programs, seva, devotee entertainment, and more. This blissful festival lasts for a few days. Afterwards, I head back home, appreciating the welcome break from life’s duties, a little sad that it’s all over. Yet, life goes on. It is relentless. The inspiration may linger for a few days after (maybe even weeks, or months) but soon fades away. The high goals, ideals, and proposed ‘undertakings’ that emerged during the festival linger behind in quaint New Vrndavan.

One year, I was touched by one particular seminar; the last one of the festival. It was entitled, “Taking the Inspiration Home”, by HH Sacinandana Swami and other senior ISKCON sanyasis and devotees. Some complain about losing inspiration as quickly as it was gained. Maharaj told us that we should ‘take home the festival’ and its mood - stay inspired (atleast till the next festival of inspiration)!

I feel the same way about Kartik. It should be more than just one special month in the year that flits by quickly. My fond memories of this Kartik, and others, will stay with me forever. Yes, of course I do miss it, and feel a subtle difference afterwards. I too wish it would last forever; but this year I want to make it last, make the experience worthwhile and complete. I will live up to the magnificent Kartik I had this year, and do justice to its memory by continuing onwards. Good intentions, ideas, and even short experiences are often judged by their outcome. Has this Kartik really made a difference - even a small one? Or is it just another whimsical, ‘fun’, exhilarating blast I had?

Only time will tell.

So with your blessings, dear Vaisnavas, I humbly continue my effort, praying that someday I may truly know the meaning of ‘love of Godhead’.

In this mood, this blog too shall go on. Its posts will be divided into three main categories:
PRE-KARTIK: getting ready;
KARTIK: in action; and
POST-KARTIK: keeping it alive.

Just The Beginning

Nama om vishnu-padaya
krishna-preshthaya bhu-tale
shrimate bhaktivedanta-
svamin iti namine

namas te sarasvate deve
gaura-vani-pracharine
nirvishesha-shunyavadi-
pashcatya-desha-tarine

Translation

I offer my respectful obeisances unto His Divine Grace A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, who is very dear to Lord Krishna, having taken shelter at His lotus feet.

Our respectful obeisances are unto you, O spiritual master, servant of Sarasvati Gosvami. You are kindly preaching the message of Lord Chaitanyadeva and delivering the Western countries, which are filled with impersonalism and voidism.

Jaya shri-krishna-caitanya
prabhu nityananda
shri-advaita gadadhara
shrivasadi-gaura-bhakta-vrinda

Translation

I offer my obeisances unto the Supreme Lord, Shri Krishna Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, along with His associates, Lord Nityananda, Shri Advaita Acharya, Gadadhara, Shrivasa and all the devotees of the Lord.

Hare Krishna Hare Krishna
Krishna Krishna Hare Hare
Hare Rama Hare Rama
Rama Rama Hare Hare

Translation

"Oh Lord Krishna, Oh energy of the Lord, please engage me in Your devotional service."

Dear Vaishnavas,

I begin this post with tears in my eyes as I contemplate with sadness the end of my beloved month of Damodara. For many of you this month's end will mean returning from the Holy Dhams of India to your families around the world, for others like myself it will mean not a change of residence but simply the change in mood as we bid farewell to the beautiful Serene mellows of Kartik and the sweet smell of candles offered in love to the darling of Vraja. No matter where we are in this world we share in this special time and together we will eagerly await the appearance of Sri Damodaras sweet Kartik rasa again next year.

At the beginning of this most wonderful month many of us took upon ourselves to perform Kartik Vratas for the glories of Sri Krishna and to purify ourselves. It has been a wonderful journey which has tested our confidence in ourselves, our dedication to our spiritual advancement, and our love for Lord Krishna. No matter how successful you may be in your own eyes let it be known that your devotion has been a success. We have all learned more about ourselves and through this process we will continue to make advancement on the path of bhakti yoga.

I am so thankful for the people who have chosen to take make this journey with me and to all of you throughout the world who have encouraged me and inspired me to expect better of myself. I am inspired by your selfless devotion and kindness, I would not be the same without you. Thank you.

I began this month with a simple list of Vratas which I thought might teach me a thing or two about pure devotion. I chose to read the teachings of Srila Prabhupada through the Srimad Bhagavatam, the teachings of Srila Sanatana Gosvami through the Brihad Bhagavatamrta in accordance with my spiritual masters wishes, and finally I chose to work on perfecting my japa through rising early and devoting more time to japa meditation. I have done all of these things, although sometimes through great difficulty on my part. I am not perfect in any way but this months successes and yes, the failures as well, have taught me more then I could possibly have ever imagined. I cannot make the claim that I am a changed person, but I have learned the power of allowing change within myself. I am not a pure devotee, but I have learned the value of listening to those who have realized this stage of devotional service to the Lord.

I have learned the priceless value of association with vaishnava devotees of the Lord. This instruction with Srila Prabhupada has kindly given us has such meaning for our devotional progress. I have learned that association does not simple meaning hanging out to overcome the stresses of the day nor does it mean going to the movies to see the latest comedy flick. All those things are fun but pure vaishnava association means being around people who inspire you to look deep into your heart for that small spark of bhakti and fanning it into pure flame which burns brightly for the service of the Lord. I pray I may take this realization deep into my heart.

I have come out of this Kartik with renewed inspiration and sincere desire to fulfill my vows to my spiritual master, Indradyumna Swami. A kind soul, Saci, once told me that japa and vows to one's gurumaharaja should mean more to you then anything else in the world. I am honored to finally begin to take that instruction to heart.

Throughout this year I will continue to work on my devotional service and try to develop even a small taste for this wonderful culture and faith which Srila Prabhupada has gifted us with. I have so much to learn but every moment if used wisely can be a step in the right direction.

I pray for your blessings that I may never loose my desire to know Sri Krishna, to participate in His bhajan, and to glorify Him always with my heart and soul.

Your Servant in Devotion,

Abhaya Devi

Completion

Sri Nrsimhadeva, Sridham Mayapur,
Kartika Purnima November 2nd, 2009

On this holy day of Kartika Purnima, (and Rasa Purnima), I humbly offer all auspicious, positive, helpful fruits of my Kartika vrata and Bhisma Pancaka vrata 2009 to Srila Jayapataka Swami, in hope that he regain full physical good health, well-being, and longevity. Though his recent physical discomforts do not seem to hinder his preaching, and his contagious, vigorous mood, it certainly distresses his disciples and well-wishers. May these bodily afflictions flee.


His Holiness Jayapataka Swami

This Kartik month has been most glorious, personally. The blessings of the Vaisnavas has inspired me more than ever. I've reached newer heights, and extended my boundaries. Though I admit there were some days when I know I did not try my hardest, my personal best, overall this year's Kartik has been better than any other. Without the Vaisnavas, I am nothing.

On the first day of Kartik, the Lord blessed my effort with a wonderful beginning of spiritual experiences. I remember the feeling utterly elated "Why can't everyday be like this?!", I mused. Almost instantly, a "Why not?" appeared in my mind. Let me try my hardest everyday! Let me continue the delectable study of scripture I've come to love so much. Let me continue chanting more, more, MORE! Let my mind always strive to taste that wonderful spiritual nectar. Let me not give in to maya.
This battle shall continue.
It has been most enjoyable!


Sri Panca Tattva, Sridham Mayapur,
Kartika Purnima November 2nd, 2009

Let me never lose sight of the goal: the supreme goal. The japa must improve! After pure japa, all other spiritual desires will be fulfilled, I know. First, steady japa - sixteen rounds a day everyday, next harinam initiation, then gayatri initation. I want to be ready to vow that I will chant everyday for the rest of my life, sixteen rounds, no matter what.
And, initiation is only the beginning! Everyday a disciple relives the vows, and makes progress forward. Everyday the disciple promises to complete a minimum of sixteen rounds for the day.
I want to be ready for that. Soon!

With the blessings of the Vaisnavas, anything is possible!

"In the association of pure devotees, discussion of the pastimes and activities of the Supreme Personality of Godhead is very pleasing and satisfying to the ear and the heart. By cultivating such knowledge one gradually becomes advanced on the path of liberation, and thereafter he is freed, and his attraction becomes fixed. Then real devotion and devotional service begin."
Srimad Bhagavatam 3.25.25

"For those who have accepted the boat of the lotus feet of the Lord, who is the shelter of the cosmic manifestation and is famous as Murari, the enemy of the Mura demon, the ocean of the material world is like the water contained in a calf's hoof-print. Their goal is param padam, Vaikuntha, the place where there are no material miseries, not the place where there is danger at every step."
Srimad Bhagavatam 10.14.58



Thus ends the auspicious and glorious month beloved of Srimati Radharani, Kartikka, in the blessed year two thousand and nine.
OM TAT SAT.

Rasa Lila

Below is an excerpt from a lecture given by Srila Prabhupada on November 15th, 1968 in Los Angeles, CA.

(Photo courtesy of Krishna.com)




Prabhupda: So any question?

Madhudvisa: Prabhupada, could you tell us something about Krsna's rasa-lila?

Prabhupada: (pause) Krsna's rasa-lila should not be discussed in public meeting. It is most confidential. Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu never discussed. He discussed Krsna's pastimes, lila with gopis, with His confidential, very confidential circle. Or those who are... Lord Caitanya had many thousands of followers, and... He was not discussing even within these five persons, sri-Krsna-caitanya prabhu-nityananda sri-advaita gadadhara srivasadi, Nityananda, Advaita, Gadadhara, Srivasa, and Himself, these five persons. So when He was at Navadvipa, He was not discussing even with them, what to speak of others. He set up this example so that in future people may be very cautious. Because unless one understands what is Krsna, how he can understand Krsna's pastime? So this discussion of rasa-lila is the summit of Krsna consciousness. It is not ordinary thing. They're purely spiritual. There is nothing material. But because we are not completely free from material concept of life, we may think that Krsna's lila is something like this material. So that is offense. But that is the ultimate goal, to understand Krsna's rasa-lila. But you have to wait for relishing that Krsna's rasa-lila, to become more perfect in Krsna consciousness. Anarthapagamam. Anartha means when one is freed from all anarthas. But it is so nice, even those who are with anartha, misgivings, if they are devotee, if they have got full surrender unto Krsna, so they also will derive benefit. Krsna's rasa-lila means that Krsna was adopted or foster child. Is that foster child? Yes. So, of Nanda Maharaja. His father exchanged. His father Vasudeva wanted to save Krsna, and he brought from Mathura to Vrndavana, Gokula. And Nanda Maharaja had a daughter. So he placed Krsna on the lap of Yasoda and took away the daughter, and this daughter was given to Kamsa for killing. Just see, there is selfishness. He wanted to save his own son and wanted to kill Yasoda's daughter. (chuckling) You see? So this is not selfishness; therefore we shall misunderstand. That daughter was not ordinary child, she was the material energy herself, Durga. So when Kamsa took that child by the leg and wanted to, what is called? Slash? Smash, yes. Smash on the stone, the daughter slipped from his hand and appeared as Durga, that "You fool, you want to kill me. The boy, the child who will kill you, is already born. Don't try for killing me. He's already born."

So Krsna, up to sixteen years, He was in Vrndavana. Naturally, there were many children, boys and girls. They played together. So they were very... Krsna, everyone loved. Vrndavana means simply center figure is Krsna, and everyone loves. So some of the girls, they loved Krsna, and a girl's loving means she wants Krsna as husband. But according to Vedic concept, the girls are married at the age of twelve to sixteen years, and boys are married from twenty to twenty-five years. So all the girls were married mostly, but Krsna was not married. And some of the girls were not married, but all the girls, they were very fond of Krsna. So from the childhood they were friends. So Krsna used to play His flute, and all the girls would come. So this rasa-lila was performed on this day, the Krsna, in the full moon night, He played the flute, and the girls assembled and there was dance. There is similar dance, just like ball dance in your country. But the specific significance of this dance was that Krsna bifurcated Himself in so many boys as many girls there were, and they began to dance in pair. That is sum and substance of rasa-lila. So if you go to Vrndavana and if you like to dance with Krsna, the facility is for you. That is the ultimate goal of our life. If you want to love Krsna similarly as the gopis loved, you can have the chance. Or if you want to love Krsna as His cowherds boyfriend, that chance is also there. If you want to love Krsna as child, that chance is also there. Any capacity you try to love Krsna... Krsna is ye yatha mam prapadyante [Bg. 4.11]. "Anyone who worships Me or loves Me in any way, I am prepared to answer." He can answer... Just like Nrsimhadeva. Because Hiranyakasipu wanted to love Krsna by becoming enemy, so He also answered as enemy. So there are twelve kinds of reciprocal exchange—seven secondary and five primary. So all these rasas... Rasa means rasa. Rasa means humor. All these humors are present even in this material world in different way, as perverted reflection of the spiritual rasa. Nothing can be new here, but here it is a reflection only. Reality is there. So the five primary principles of loving affairs is there in the Vaikuntha world. And Krsna consciousness means to practice Krsna consciousness while we are in this material body, and after giving up this body, we enter into the spiritual realm for factually participating with Krsna. That is Krsna consciousness movement. So if you want to enter into the rasa-lila, if you desire like that, so you love Krsna in that way, as the gopis. Then you'll have the same perfection. There is no difficulty. It is not at all difficult. Simply you practice. But you have to forget the rasa-lila of this material world. (chuckling) Otherwise there world then you play havoc. That risk is there. Yes. "Krsna enjoyed with so many girls, so let me also become Krsna and enjoy." That is finished everything. (laughter) (pause) (baby laughs) Oh, she is appreciating. (chuckles) Yes. Thank you. Come on. Reach. So we'll have kirtana or this record or we'll close our meeting?

A last prayer.

As Kartik comes to an end,a feeling of fulfillment, yet unhappiness overcomes me. My heart is desolate, my soul is saddened, and my mind is in despair. All I can think about is when I can be this close to my beloved again. I don't know what is it that makes me feel that only during the perfectly auspicious and wonderful month I am directly in His line of vision, that I'm physically being crushed by His empowering embrace, and that He is glancing upon me with His loving lotus eyes. Tears come to my eyes as my brain is envisioning Him being sidetracked now by the rest of the world, sinless and sinners alike, obliged to go back to His work as the maintainer. Even though I know that it is not so, my heart is enflamed with the unrealistic feeling of seperation. Selfish as I am, the only cure that seemed to work for me was having my loving Gopal in my home and therefore always giving me His love.

My prayers have intensified for these last few days that I have to ability to command my Shyam's attention by giving Him all that I am. I pray and I pray that He may take me to His last remaining remnants in this world. I long to embrace the tree He jumped from into Yamuna to punish Kaaliya, I long to kiss the cows given the shelter of dust from His soft pink flower petal feet, I long to roll in the grass that has experienced His Ras Lila pastimes where he lovingly caressed Radhe's face, yet teased the gopis and disappeared, causing them pain and anxiety. I pray to travel the path which He used to lead His cows to the grazing grounds and I wish to give my pranams to His childhood home in Nanda Gao.

My last prayer is that I wish not to fall back down the the few inches that I have crawled closer to my Madan Mohan. I have come a few centimeters closer to binding him with my rope....I have come a few centimeters closer to to the tips of His feet which is eternally bathed with the tears of His Devotees. Although there is a much longer path to travel, I simply wish not to trip and fall backwards down this golden staircase, but pray to continue on in the journey into Govinda's warm loving heart. Within renewed Determination I remember my prayer on the first day of kartik : that I amy never take the holy dham for granted and that I may never commit any offense while I reside there.

Although it is immensely disturbing that Kartik is coming to an end, like I said, I also feel relieved and fulfilled. Relieved because I actually made it through when I thought i could not, and fulfilled beecause I have given an inkling of myself to my Lord, just as every other devotee following a vrata during Kartik has. I cannot even beging to describe the wonderful feeling of complete bliss that my month-long regimen has given me. I can't say that it was all easy though. There were days when I was so tired and had to push my self out of bed a 4am, or when i worked late and had to stay up even later to finish my rounds and my reading. Days when I when I was just too "busy". But i've realized that it is not an excuse. How can one be "too busy" for the one that loves us, for the one that maintains us, and for the one which we live our lives. Its like saying we're too busy for family, for our sons, daughters, moms, dads, sisters, brothers, friends, whoever. We would never say that to them, how can we think that we are to busy for Krsna Himself.

My dearest Shyam has given me this wonderful realization [ He is our most important family member..yes FAMLIY] and thus has lit a burning flame of love in my heart which I hope will never diminish. However none of this would have been attainable without the strong loving support of my dear friends and co-authors of this blog. Because of their friendship and association I have been able to come this far.

I hope that you all were succesful in your vrats, and that this kartik was as amazing and inspiring for you as it was for me. I pray for your blessings that Krsna may always be in my mind and heart and wish the love and blessings of the great Acaryas, Srimati Radharani, and Damodar upon you always!

Jay Sri Sri Radha Damodar!!!!!

Beauty Divine

Below are some quotes from the TLC, particularly pertaining to Sri Krsna's beauty with pictures from paintings of Krishna.com's galleries, as well as "Murals of the Krsna Balaram Temple", photos by Gitapriya Dasi, courtesy of Bhakti Collective.

Enjoy!



"Lord Caitanya further explained that not only Krsnaloka but even Vrndavana, Lord Krsna's abode on this planet, cannot be estimated as far as potency is concerned. From one point of view, Vrndavana is estimated to be thirty-two square miles in area, yet in one part of this Vrndavana all the Vaikunthas exist. The area of the present Vrndavana miles in area, and Vrndavana City is estimated to be about sixteen krosas, or thirty-two miles. How it is all the Vaikunthas exist there is beyond material calculation. Thus Caitanya Mahaprabhu proclaimed the potencies and opulences of Krsna to be unlimited. Whatever He told Sanatana Gosvami was only partial, but by such a partial presentation one can try to imagine the whole."

"Krsna is so wonderful and attractive that He Himself becomes attracted by His own beauty, and this is proof that He is full of all inconceivable potencies. As far as Krsna's ornaments are concerned, when they decorate His body it appears that they do not beautify Him, but the ornaments themselves become beautiful simply by being on His body. When He stands in a three-curved way, He attracts all living entities, including the demigods. Indeed, He even attracts the Narayana form which presides in each and every Vaikuntha planet."

"Krsna is known as Madana-mohana because He conquers the mind of Cupid. He is also known as Madana-mohana due to His accepting the devotional service of the damsels of Vraja and rendering favors unto them. After conquering Cupid's pride, the Lord engages in the rasa dance as the new Cupid. He is also known as Madana-mohana because of His ability to conquer the minds of women with His five arrows called form, taste, smell, sound and touch. The pearls of the necklace which hangs about the neck of Krsna are as white as ducks, and the peacock feather which decorates His head is colored like a rainbow. His yellow garment is like lightning in the sky, and Krsna Himself is like the newly arrived clouds. The gopis are like footbells on His feet, and when the cloud pours rain on the grains in the field, it appears that Krsna is nourishing the hearts of the gopis by calling down His pastime rain of mercy. Indeed, ducks fly in the sky during the rainy season, and rainbows can also be seen at that time. Krsna freely moves amongst His friends as a cowherd boy in Vrndavana, and when He plays His flute, all living creatures, mobile and immobile, become overwhelmed with ecstasy. They quiver, and tears flow from their eyes. Of Krsna's various opulences, His conjugal love is the summit. He is the master of all riches, all strength, all fame, all beauty, all knowledge and all renunciation, and out of these, His perfect beauty is His conjugal attraction. The form of Krsna, the conjugal beauty, is eternally existent in Krsna alone, whereas His other opulences are present in His Narayana form."

"The body of Krsna, the ocean of the eternal beauty of youth, can be seen to move in waves of beauty. There is a whirlwind at the sound of His flute, and those waves and that whirlwind make the hearts of the gopis flutter like dry leaves on trees, and when those leaves fall down at Krsna's lotus feet, they can never rise up again. There is no beauty to compare with Krsna's, for no one possesses beauty greater than or equal to His."

"The Vedic hymn known as kama-gayatri describes the face of Krsna as the king of all moons. In metaphorical language, there are many different moons, but they are all one in Krsna. There is the moon of His mouth, the moon of His cheeks, the moonspots of sandalwood pulp on His body, the moons of the fingertips of His hands and the moons of the tips of His toes. In this way there are twenty-four and a half moons, and Krsna is the central figure of all of them."

"The devotee increasingly feels the absence of Krsna, for without Him one cannot drink the nectar of His beauty. When the transcendental sound of Krsna's flute is heard, the devotee's anxiety to continue to hear that flute enables him to penetrate the covering of the material world and enter into the spiritual sky, where the transcendental sound of the flute enters into the ears of the followers of the gopis. The sound of Krsna's flute always resides within the ears of the gopis and increases their ecstasy. When it is heard, no other sound can enter into their ears, and amongst their family they are not able to reply to questions properly, for all these beautiful sounds are vibrating in their ears."

Confessions of a Weak Chanter

To me, chanting is like the churning of the milk ocean. It brings up so many things from within the heart: desires, hopes, impurities, and sometimes little realizations, like tiny diamonds glinting in the darkness, shooting out rays of a spectrum of multifarious colors.

Every time I sit down to chant, it’s a battle within: the heart that knows its the right thing to do, versus the overly-distracted mind.

* Dusta mana, tumi kisher Vaisnava? *

I admit I’ve got no taste for the Holy Name whatsoever.

“When your chanting is so bad, why chant at all? What’s the point of doing it simply to create aparadhas? If you chant, do it well. Or else, just STOP! There’s no point in it anymore...” my mind says.

What a feeble excuse!

Later, I realized, there's always a reason to chant. However concentrated (or not) our japa may be. Whatever level one are at, one must try!

Srila Prabhupada once said something along the lines of, “we all must try; and if we can’t try, then try to try. If we can’t try to try, then try to try to try...”
The quote goes on. Wherever we are, we must always strive to keep moving forward. Perseverance is the key. As long as we avoid stagnation, laziness, inattention, and hopelessness, we are guaranteed to get to the perfect level eventually. Slow and steady. Never stop chanting. It’s the worst thing that can happen. Once you stop, it’s difficult to get back on track again.

Chanting Japa is serious. Kirtan, on the other hand, is always blissful (and therefore safe from aparadhas) to one and all from the neophyte to the most advanced devotee. Japa is an individual attempt to connect with the Lord, whereas in Kirtan, energy, enthusiasm, and inspiration is shared. We depend on each other. One participant's enthusiasm can easily rub off on to many. Yet, Japa is essential. The better the japa, the better the Kirtan, right? Japa gives one spiritual strength.

Japa is direct, personal association with the Supreme Lord. Can I not spare a few hours of my day to sit in the association with my dear-most Friend?! And what a sweet Friend He is! I often neglect Him, but He never neglects me. I detest conversations where the listener doesn’t listen; simply nodding a head, or murmuring “hmm...” when it’s obvious the mind is elsewhere. Dreadful inattention gives one all the more reason to chant: to improve it! Inattention is the root cause of the other ten offenses to the Holy Name, says Thakur Bhaktivinod.

Some devotees say, “Just do it! It’s like brushing your teeth: you don’t think twice about it. Just do it. It becomes daily routine.”

This simplicity struck me!

I have never been able to discover that unlimited ocean of nectar from japa. Maya in my mind questions why I put my faith in something that has never been proven directly to me, and whether I will spend my entire life pursuing this seemingly elusive goal so far off.

YES. I will continue to strive, to reach for the stars.

** Tomara doyaya asambhava sambhava hoy re! **

Even in my own circle, I've seen devotees who relish this nectar with such zeal and gusto; its inspiring. I have not experienced it, nevertheless I do believe.

Simply put, I trust in our stalwart, prodigious Acaryas and Gaudiya Vaisnava saints.

If I cannot find it in me to chant out of pure love and ecstasy,
then let me at least chant out of righteousness.



"TUNDE TANDAVINI RATIM VITANUTE TUNDAVALI-LABDHAYE
KARNA-KRODA-KADAMBINI GHATAYATE KARNARBUDEBHYAH SPRHAM
CETAH-PRANGANA-SANGINI VIJAYATE SARVENDRIYANAM KRTIM
NO JANE JANITA KIYADBHIR AMRTAIH KRSNETI VARNA-DVAYI"

“I do not know how much nectar the two syllables ‘Krsna’ have produced. When the holy name of Krsna is chanted, it appears to dance within the mouth. We then desire many, many mouths. When that name enters the holes of the ears, we desire many millions of ears. And when the holy name dances in the courtyard of the heart, it conquers the activities of the mind, and therefore all the senses become inert.”

-Srila Rupa Goswami

---

* Dusta mana, tumi kisher Vaisnava?
"O wicked mind! What kind of Vaisnava do you think you are?"
Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati, the Simha Guru, and also the spiritual master of Srila Prabhupada wrote in all humility 'Vaisnava Ke' comprising of nineteen verses chastising and preaching to the mind. Read it here.


** Tomara doyaya asambhava sambhava hoy re!
"By your compassion the impossible becomes possible."
An excerpt taken from 'Srila Prabhupada Vandana', a prayerful song composed in Bengali by His Holiness Jayapataka Swami.

Bhisma Pancaka

Fasting
================
The fasting starts on Ekadasi Day will continue until Rasa purnima Day. The fasting is broken at sunset (or at moon rise) on Rasa Purnima day. Generally it is recommended to do full fast on Ekadasi and
then the following four days fruits and roots fasting. Or one can do five day fruits and roots fasting.

Levels of fasting:
-----------------

Devotees can choose whichever level of fasting as is convenient to them. It
should not disturb their normal devotional service(s) and daily sadhana.

Level 1:
One can consume products of the cow (pancha-gavya) each for each day:
First day: Cow dung (Gomaya)
Second day: Cow urine (Go-muutra)
Third day: Cow milk (Kshiira)
Fourth day: Cow yoghurt (Dadhi)
Fifth day: All products of the ccow mixed (Pancha-gavya)

Level 2
If one can't follow level 1, one can take fruits and roots
fruits with many seeds should be avoided like guava, pomegranate, papaya,
cucumber etc. Boiled potatoes, raw banana and sweet potato can be taken. We
can use sea salt for taste. Cashewnuts, raisins, dates can be taken. We
shouldn't take milk and milk products in this level of fasting.

Level 3:
If one can't follow level 2, one can take "Havishya."

References: Padma Puraana, Brahma-khanda, Chapter 23; Skanda Puraana, Vishnu
Khanda, Kaartika Maahaatmya section, Chapter 32; Garuda Puraana, Puurva
Khanda, Chapter 123.

Ingredients for Havishya as mentioned in Sri Hari-bhakti-vilasa (13.10-13)
-----------------

The following are ingredients that can be used in making Havishya, which is
like a khichari made with these items.

* Aatap rice
* Ghee from cow
* 'Saindhava' salt (from the mountains, like Himalayas. Salt from the ocean is contaminated)
* Milk from cow
* Milk with cream
* Ripe banana
* Kaala-shaaka
* Wheat
* Fruits (Skanda Puraana, Naagara Khanda says they must be with a small seed
or with few seeds only)
* Mango
* Jackfruit
* Labali fruit
* Roots except 'keaa' (a type of grass or root)
* Pippalii
* Haritakii
* Naagaranga
* Ikshu-dravya or sugarcane derivatives (other than gur or mollasses)
* No oil

The following ingredients are normally part of Havishya but have to be
avoided in the month of Kaartika:

* Mung dal
* Til oil
* Beta-shaaka
* Shashtikaa-shaaka
* Radish
* Jeeraa
* Tamarind

Prayers
================

One should take bath in Ganges or a holy river every day and should offer
tarpana 3 times for Bhismadeva by saying the following mantra:

Tarpana

om vaiyaghra padya gotraya
samkrti pravaraya ca
aputraya dadamyetat
salilam bhismavarmane

Arghya

vasunamavataraya
santanoratmajaya ca
arghyam dadami bhismaya
ajanma brahmacarine

Pranam

om bhismah santanavo birah
satyavadi jitendriyah
abhiradbhiravapnatu
putrapautrocitam kriyam


Offerings to the Lord:
================

Devotees may offer the following flowers to the Deity:

On the first day, one must offer padma (lotus) flowers to the feet of the
Lord
On the second day, one must offer bilva (wood-apple) leaves of the thigh of
the Lord
On the third day, one must offer gandha (scents) to the navel of the Lord
On the fourth day, one must offer java flower to the shoulders of the Lord
On the fifth day, one must offer malati flower to the head (siro-desa) of
the Lord

When there is a overlap of days then the flowers for both days can be
offered in the same day.

Reference: Garuda Puraana (op cit.)

The Glories of Srimati Radharani

Today as I was practicing my bhajan I began to think about the glories of Srimati Radharani, the Queen of Vraja. Sri Radha has unlimited transidental qualities and is praised in song and dance. She is so mericiful and is forever the beloved of Sri Gaura-Sundara for whom our hearts are constantly yearning.

As Sri Krishn's beloved, that most merciful lord has promised Srimati Radharani that her name shall always come before his own. To this divine and enchanting couple I bow down again and again.



Radharani ki jai, maharani ki jai
bolo barsane vari ki jai jai jai

Thakurani ki jai, hari priya ki jai
vrsabhanu-dulari ki jai jai jai

Gaurangi ki jai, hemangi ki jai
vrajaraja-kumari ki jai jai jai

Vraja-rani ki jai, vraja devi ki jai
gahvara vana vari ki jai jai jai

Translation:

1. All glories to Radharani! All glories to the greatest of all Queens. Sing the glories of Radharani, who lives in Barsana.

2. All glories to Radha Thakurani (Queen Radha), who is the beloved of Sri Hari. All glories to the beloved daughter of King Vrsabhanu.

3. All glories to Radharani who has a fair complexion and golden limbs.

4. All glories to the Queen of Vraja. All glories to the goddess of Vraja. All glories to Radha who wanders in the Gahvara forest.


rādhe jaya jaya mādhava-dayite
gokula-taruṇī-maṇḍala-mahite


(1)
dāmodara-rati-vardhana-veśe
hari-niṣkuṭa-vṛndā-vipineśe


(2)
vṛṣabhānūdadhi-nava-śaśi-lekhe
lalitā-sakhi guṇa-ramita-viśākhe


(3)
karuṇāḿ kuru mayi karuṇā-bharite
sanaka-sanātana-varṇita-carite


Translation:

(Refrain) O Radha! O beloved of Madhava! O You who are worshiped by all the young girls of Gokula! All glories unto You! All glories unto You!



(1-3) You who dress Yourself in such a way as to increase Lord Damodara's love and attachment for You! O queen of Vrndavana, which is the pleasure grove of Lord Hari! O new moon that has arisen from the ocean of King Vrsabhanu! O friend of Lalita! O You who make Visakha loyal to You due to Your wonderful qualities of friendliness, kindness, and faithfulness to Krsna! O You who are filled with compassion! O You whose divine characteristics are described by the great sages Sanaka and Sanatana! O Radha, please be merciful to me!

Tilak

My body and face is adorned with sacred Tilak, and auspicious kunkum. Around my neck hang three strands of Tulasi beads. Every morning as I rush to put on my tilak, my fingers automatically streak across my forehead, my lips automatically uttering sacred mantras, while my mind is busily buzzing in its own thoughts far away.

Let today be different.

I stop to think, “What is the significance of these?” “Why wear them? Do I really want to, or is nothing more than an automatic ‘ritual’ I’ve grown up with?” I start with basic definitions first. What is tilak? Yes, it is sacred clay, but what makes it sacred? Tilak is special because it is from the Holy Dham, where the Lord manifested His wonderful pastimes.

Sri Vrndavan Dham is blessed with the lotus feet of Sri Sri Radha Krsna and their Gopis from Vrndavan. The dust of this Dham is mixed with Their transcendental sweat from the divine Rasa dance, and their tears of separation. Reading through the many glories of Gopi Chandana, I found this, in the Garga Samhita:

“Twice as sacred as the mud of the Ganga is the dust of Chitrakuta. Ten times more sacred than that is the dust of Panchavati-tirtha. A hundred times more sacred is the dust of gopi-chandana. Please know that gopi-chandana is equal to the dust of Vrindavana.”

The Garga Samhita goes on to glorify Gopi Chandan, in an entire Gopi Chandana Mahatmya. (Read it here)

Sri Radha Kund is the most sacred place ever! It is a rare treasure, not even manifest in the spiritual Goloka! It is the epitome of auspiciousness manifested in the Holy Dham, most dear to Srimati Radhika Rani and the Vraja-Raja-Suta, Shyamasundara. Srila Rupa Goswami, our Gaudiya Vaisnava authority, says,

“The holy place known as Mathura is spiritually superior to Vaikuntha, the transcendental world, because the Lord appeared there. Superior to Mathura-Puri is the transcendental forest of Vrndavana because of Krsna's rasa-lila pastimes. And superior to the forest of Vrndavana is Govardhana Hill, for it was raised by the divine hand of Sri Krsna and was the site of His various loving pastimes. And, above all, the superexcellent Sri Radha-kunda stands supreme, for it is overflooded with the ambrosial nectarean prema of the Lord of Gokula, Sri Krsna. Where, then, is that intelligent Person who is unwilling to serve this divine Radha-kunda, which is situated at the foot of Govardhana Hill?” (Upadesamrta Verse 9)

Now that is special! An immense feeling appreciation along with wonder stirs within. I feel so fortunate to have such access to Tilak. I’ve been wearing it since as long as I can remember, and before. My face, head, neck, limbs, and torso are blessed by this tilak. Often I take too many things for granted. (Tilak is a good example!) W are simply blessed!

I put on tilak, appreciating it. I recite the respective mantras, meditating on each name, form and pastime of Krsna accordingly: Keshava, Narayana, Madhava, Govinda, and so on. What a wonderful start to the day!

Slow down! Why rush through life, without enjoying the sweet little treasures? Why not appreciate the gifts Krsna has given us (even the ones we use daily, like tilak)? Of course, we appreciate the festivals, because each one comes once a year. But the wealth of a Krsna consciousness lifestyle is truly unfathomable. Let’s cherish it. If everyday, each and every one of us thought about the significance of everything we did, the entire day, and it's relation to Krsna, we'd be much much better off. This is just one little blog post on Tilak. There's millions of other things we could appreciate as well! Srila Prabhupada has given us this wonderful opportunity to live in Krsna Consciousness. ('Consciousness' as a way of life; a state of mind. As a pose to a religion that we can take on when we're at our prayer centers, and discard any other time. This is a highly elevated consciousness we strive to be situated in twenty-four hours a day, everyday.)



Just seeing the brilliant face of a Vaisnava, adorned boldly with tilak makes puts me in high spirits. Such is the potency of sacred tilak.

Tilak is also an excellent preaching tool, especially in India, where people recognize it as a symbol of religiosity. They respect it. For those a little shy for preaching or book distribution, tilak is an advantage, because often others come to you asking questions, without you directly approaching them. All you have to do is wear your tilak; it’s is our uniform! Just as a lost person recognizes a police officer to ask for help, the public recognize us as representatives of Lord Caitanya’s Sankirtan movement, ready and willing to direct anyone and everyone back home, back to Godhead.

Often it starts just with a hint of curiosity. Some just stare at first, a little flame kindles up inside. Later they may muster up the courage to ask a few questions. The questions may be as simple as “Why do you wear it?”, “What religious organization do you belong to?” or “How many temples do the Hare Krishnas have? Where is the closest one?” Then the questions slowly get deeper, into philosophy. They ask about our beliefs. They may even question our beliefs, but always end defeated because our philosophy is supremely logical and scientific; not mere sentiment. It will impress them, and they may come to the temple. Then, they get attracted. Slowly, by the association and mercy of the Vaisnavas, they advance in their spiritual life.

And to think, its all because you wore tilak to your workplace, or school, or just anywhere in public!

Never underestimate the power of tilak.

Down Govardhan Parikram Lane :)

This morning, after bathing my sweethearts, I began rubbing my Mottu with ghee. His dust came off in my hands. As I put His sweet smelling dust to my head, a wave of emotion overcame me. Thinking back, I remembered my first and only time performing Govardhan parikrama. It was the middle of the night in during the hottest time of the year. And lucky me made it during Purusottam Mas, a very auspicious and favored time of our dear Krsna. Half way through parikram, my feet were blistered and bleeding as the torn dhoti shreds lent by my guide and friend of my prabhu were untying and falling of constantly. I continued on thinking of how lucky I was. Determined, yet slow, I completed parikram and stopped at Radha Kund. Taking a few drops in my mouth and filling a Bisleri bottle full of Radharani’s mercy, I was fully satisfied.
My bird’s loud squawk brought me back from my memory and while looking into Mottu’s face I cried and begged Him to take me back. I knew that He missed Braj as much as I did. I don’t understand why He was still here. Why He has not gone back already and taken me with Him. Every day I look at photos of Govindajiu, every day I think of Madan Mohan’s lotus feet, every day I miss the sweet smiling face of Radharamanjiu. I wonder when I will be able to go back to Damodar Mandir and do parikram. When will Gokulanand melt my heart with His sweetness? When will I see Shyam’s lotus eyes amidst His beautiful black face? I pray again and again that He may take me back to Braja Dham. I pray that by worshipping Giriraj I will always be able to find my way there again!

A mother’s love: the glories of the Sri Brihad Bhagavatamrta

Sri Brihad Bhagavatamrta by Srila Sanatana Gosvami

Text 15-17 Translation and Commentary:

Sri Jaimini Said: By hearing the instructions of Sukadeva Gosvami, Sriman Pariksit was relieved of all fear. All his ambitions satisfied, he was absorbed in pure love for Sri Krsna. Now, as the time came near for the king to ascend to the destination he desired, his mother, Virata's daughter, a surrendered devotee of Krsna, approached him in great distress while he was along. After Pariksit had consoled and pleased her by his greeting, she asked of him as follows, immersed in love for her son.

Commentary:
To satisfy King Janamejaya's sincere desire Jaimini recalls how Janamejaya's saintly father, Pariksit, some years before, had finished hearing Srimad-Bhagavatam from Sukadeva Gosvami and the hour had come for Pariksit to prepare for his fated death. Jaimini Rsi here divulges that Maharaja Pariksit's mother came to see her son just at that moment. Even though Pariksit was sitting several miles from his palace and very little time remained, his mother, Uttara, was impelled to see him just once more, knowing she would never see him again and eager not to lose the last opportunity to hear from him topics about Krsna.

After Sukadeva taught Srimad-Bhagavatam to Maharaja Pariksit, Pariksit no longer feared the monstrous snake-bird, nor vine consort Sri. He had effortlessly achieved the benefits of each of the essential human endeavors - religiosity, economic development, sense enjoyment and liberation. And beyond those benefits, he was immersed in a flood of prema-rasa at the lotus feet of Sri Krsna. His mother approached him while he was absorbed in that ecstasy.

A mother about to lose her son is naturally forlorn. But Uttara's sorrow was eclipsed by her eagerness to hear what her son had just heard from Sukadeva Gosvami about Lord Krsna's glories. Because she wanted to hear the confidential essence of Sukadeva's instructions, she approached her son as he sat alone. With a pacifying greeting and a brief philosophical reminder about the illusory nature of birth and death, maharaja Pariksit quickly dispelled whatever motherly anxiety she felt. Thus she was now joyful and fixed in affection for Sri Krsna and for her son. The great devotee of Krsna.

Text 18:

Blessed Uttara said: My dear son, please extract the essence of what Sukadeva has taught you and quickly reveal it to me, as if churning the nectar of immortality from the Ocean of Milk.



*Two key points drew my attention when I was reading over these verses, the first of which is the pure love and devotion of Mother Uttara. This pure and gentle woman had experienced great hardship in her short years. To bring a little bit of the history of the Mahabharata to mind You may recall that she is the daughter of King Virata and had the amazing good fortune of having Arjuna as her tutor while the Pandava brothers lived in hiding during their last year of exile. After the exile was over and Arjuna revealed himself to the King, Virata was overjoyed and offered his daughter's hand to him in marriage. Arjuna for his part gently refused for he said that he could not possibly marry the child who had been like a daughter to him for the previous year...For she had been like his daughter so she should be married to his son and become his child in truth, and so in due course young Uttara was married to Arjuna's son Abhimanyu.

During the great battle of Kurukshetra young Uttara who was newly married and pregnant with the Pandava heir, suffered the loss of almost all of her family. Her husband, father, and brothers all died in that great battle and now she is year’s later living through the loss of her only child. How can one person bare so much in their short years? So much sorrow. But Uttara although heart-broken is enlivened through her service to Krishna. She has lost everything but her devotion and love for her Lord and so she is eager to learn more about his glories. She is such a pure devotee...how can we even begin to share the affection she holds for Sri Krishna? To put aside the material loss of her son, she is eager to share in the transidental abode of prema-bhakti.

The second point which I find very interesting is introduced in the 18th verse were Mother Uttara is asking her son to please extract the essence of the Srimad Bhagavatam "as if churning the nectar of immortality from the Ocean of Milk". Her son is to die very soon and so she does not have the time to listen to complete instructions of Srila Sukadeva Gosvami and so in this way she begs to be given the cream of those teachings. That nectarian gift is the Brihad Bhagavatamrta, how fortunate we are that we have been given the chance to relish such teachings!

The Destruction of Evil Naraka!

The Summary of chapter 59, entitled the Killing of the Demon Naraka, in the Srimad Bhagavatam, states:

"This chapter tells how Lord Krsna killed Narakasura, the son of the earth-goddess, and married the thousands of maidens the demon had kidnapped. It also describes how the Lord stole the parijata tree from heaven and how He behaved like an ordinary householder in each of His palaces.
After Narakasura stole Lord Varuna's umbrella, mother Aditi's earrings, and the playground of the demigods known as Mani-parvata, Indra went to Dvaraka and described the demons transgressions to Lord Krsna. Together with Queen Satyabhama, the Lord mounted His carrier Garuda and traveled to the capital of Narakasura's kingdom. On a field outside the city He decapitated the demon Mura with His disc. Then He fought Mura's seven sons and sent them all to the abode of death, after which Narakasura himself entered the battlefield on the back of an elephant. Naraka threw his sakti lance at Sri Krsna, but the weapon proved ineffective, and the Lord cut the demon's entire army to pieces. Finally, with His sharp-edged disc Krsna cut off Narakasura's head.
The earth-goddess, Prthvi, then approached Lord Krsna and gave Him the various items Narakasura had stolen. She offered prayers to the Lord and presented Naraka's frightened son at Lord Krsna's lotus feet. After pacifying the demon's son, Krsna entered Narakasura's palace, where He found sixteen thousand one hundred young women. As soon as they caught sight of the Lord, they all decided to accept Him as their husband. The Lord sent them to Dvaraka along with a great quantity of treasure and then went with Queen Satyabhama to the abode of Indra. There He returned Aditi's earrings, and Indra and his wife, Saci-devi, worshiped Him. On Satyabhama's request, Lord Krsna uprooted the heavenly parijata tree and put it on the back of Garuòa. After defeating Indra and the other demigods who opposed His taking of the tree, Krsna returned with Queen Satyabhama to Dvaraka, where He planted it in a garden adjacent to Satyabhama's palace.
Indra had originally come to Lord Krsna offering obeisances and begging Him to kill Narakasura, but afterwards, when his business had been accomplished, he quarreled with the Lord. The demigods are prone to anger because they become intoxicated with pride in their opulences.
The infallible Supreme Lord manifested Himself in sixteen thousand one hundred separate forms and married each of the sixteen thousand one hundred brides in a different temple. He took up the required activities of household life just like an ordinary person, accepting various kinds of service from each of His many wives.



Srila Prabhupada's Nectar of Devotion based on Srila Rupa Gosvami's Bhakti Rasamrta Sindhu, says, in Chapter 46:

"An instance of astonishment in devotional service by indirect perception occurred when Maharaja Pariksit heard from Sukadeva Gosvami about Krsna's killing Narakasura, who had been fighting Krsna with eleven aksauhini divisions of soldiers. Each division of aksauhini soldiers contained several thousand elephants, several thousand horses and chariots and several hundreds of thousands of infantry soldiers. Narakasura possessed eleven such divisions, and all of them were throwing arrows toward Krsna, but Krsna killed them all, simply by throwing three arrows from His side. When Maharaja Pariksit heard of this wonderful victory, he immediately rubbed the tears from his eyes and became overwhelmed with joy. This instance is an example of astonishment in devotional service by indirect perception through aural reception."



But Krsna was so kind! His compassion knows no limit.

"Paundraka, Narakasura, Salva and Kamsa were all inimical toward the Supreme Personality of Godhead, but because all these kings constantly thought of Him, they achieved the same liberation—sarupya-mukti. The jnana-bhakta, the devotee who follows the path of jnana, also attains the same destination. If even the enemies of the Lord achieve salvation by constantly thinking about the Lord, what is to be said of pure devotees who always engage in the Lord's service and who think of nothing but the Lord in every activity?"
(S.B. 7.10.40, Purport)


Sri Sri Rukmini-Krsna-Sathyabhama, ISKCON Chennai

Busy

A lot of the time I find myself 'too busy' to do... well, a lot of things. I managed to find time to read this the other day, which was really all I needed.

"In 1986, I was very busy because I was in charge of the construction of Srila Prabhupada’s Samadhi in Mayapur. And there was no limit- no limit- in what had to be arranged for that building. One day I looked at that Samadhi and it looked just like a huge face with a big mouth and the mouth just said, ‘Aniyor! Aniyor! Aniyor! Bring me more! Bring me more!’ And I brought trucks of cement and steel and bricks and stone and marble, and I brought engineers and draughts men and drawings and technical experts and labors and I broke labor strikes to bring more work and I had to deal with endless things and I was chanting my rounds during mangal arati because I had to start working at six and in the evening I was so tired that I couldn’t chant anymore and I would just crash…and I was just so totally busy!!! And in the middle of that, one day Lokanatha Maharaja appears in 1986! At that time Lokanatha Maharaja had the padayatra. And the padayatra had a mad elephant! This elephant was heavy; it had picked up people and had thrown them about! And there was a camel that would bite people! And then there were many villagers from India, and all these villagers, (imitates) ‘ha ha ha’- many of them! And then they had so many dioramas and exhibitions and tractors and everything! And Lokanatha Maharaja came to me and said, “I want you to look after the padayatra when we come to Mayapur.” I said, “Maharaja, Maharaja, Maharaja, please Maharaja, have mercy! Maharaja, I am so busy, Maharaja, I am so busy that it’s…Maharaja, I, I have hardly time to chant my rounds! One more straw Maharaja, it will break the camel’s back…” I thought finished, you know- got rid of Lokanatha Maharaja! And then he starts and he said, “You know, in my village, they say that if you want to get something done, you go to a busy man.” He said, “Because a man, who is not busy, is a lazy man. So if you go to him he won’t do anything! But a busy man is by nature very active- he may be busy and he may not be able to do so much but at least he’ll do something! So if you want something done you go to a busy man!” What could I say after that! Defeated by village logic! It’s like totally practical!"

This clipping is from H.H KKSwami, 04 Oct '09, Phoenix, Durban, SA. I've actually seen it a few times, as I think it applies to many. Its wicked how the mind can turn such simple ideas into complex ones, geared toward sense gratification.

I defiantly appreciate this reality check. Words from H.H. Lokanath Swami, such a simple and clear explanation. Its refreshing for this covered soul.

A Glorious Ekadasi

Happy Ekadasi!

Today being the auspicious Rama Ekadasi, our Vaisnvava tradition tells us to fast from grains and beans, and increase our hearing and chanting.

Coincidentally, all of my programs for the day were almost magically rescheduled, postponed, or cancelled on their own. I took it as a sign from above and embarked on a long, relaxed journey to the temple. The long journey gave me ample time to finish my sixteen rounds (and even a few extra!)

Fond memories of a Kartik four years ago flooded my mind. My best friend an I decided to do a nirjal on this very same ekadasi. It was one super-surcharged day! We went to mangal arati, the morning program, spend the day chanting japa, in kirtan, and trying to remember Krsna as much as possible (in spite of school). We even went on harinam sankirtan and book distribution! Aahhh, youthful, happy days...

Today, I wasn't sure if I could do a nirjal fast successfully. The weather has been quite hot and I didn't want to promise something I couldn't do. So I decided to do a nirjal for half the day, till noon, and allow myself to take as little fruit and water as possible. The lesser the eating, the more the time of sravanam, kirtanam, and visnu-smaranam!

I even read the beautiful bhakti-rasa-filled poetry of Srila Vrndavana Das Thakur, Srila Narahari Cakravarti Thakur, Srila Govinda Das Thakur, and Srila Vasudeva Ghosh. These poetic songs filled with philosophy as well as extraordinary pastimes are powerful enough to melt even the most stone-like of hearts! My heart swells up in pride and admiration for our rich Gaudiya Vaisnava culture, and its radiant gem-like saints.

Read the glories of Karttika-krsna Ekadasi, or Ramaa Ekadasi, from the Brahma-Vaivarta Purana of Srila Krsna Dvaipayana Veda Vyasa here.

Read a Dandavats article: Hearing Gaura Katha on ekadasis in Kartika here.

A taste of pure nectar

The 24 hour kirtan...how can I even begin to describe such devotion? Such pure strength of the Holy Name? Surely there is nothing more wonderful in this world. Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu gave us more then we could ever hope to appreciate or disserve in this life time or many.

So many talented vaishnava(i)s brought their voices, their mrdungas, and their personalities to New Vrindavan. People like Bada Hari Prabhu, Sarvajaya from DC, Goshi with his spunky style who still manages to sing so sweetly it tugs at your heart, Bhakti with her pure and beautiful devotion, Jagi, Manu Prabhu….there are so many others, but these people were just a catalyst for awaking the tender flame of devotion which forever resides in all of our hearts.

Every one of us is an eternal servant of Sri Krishna. Each one of us has that small spark of devotion in our hearts just waiting for the chance to show itself. What I saw this last weekend is hundreds of devotees tasting pure love of God, perhaps for the first time. With so much nectar of the Holy Name, how then can we remain oblivious to the love which resides forever in our hearts? Give them a taste, Srila Prabhupada once said, and that is all it takes. Sravanam and Kirtanam - hearing and chanting the glories of Sri Krishna, there can be no better dharma in ones life.



It just so happened that the last chapter of the 24 hour kirtan fell on Sunday which was the most auspicious appearance day of Sri Radha Kunda and although I was without any internet for the duration of my trip I thought to share a small piece from my journal entry that day.

“October 11th 2009: It is the appearance day of Sri Radha Kunda and I am in New Vrindavan Dham listening to the sweet mellows of Varshana Swami Sing the Holy Name just a few doors down from where I now lay in the girls ashrama. This is the last flame of the 24 hr kirtan but I know that this transidental fire will leave sparks of love in our hearts which may rage once again and bring us all back together in the service of Sri Gopal and Srila Prabhupada.
“I pray that those tender sparks may never be extinguished. That I may always remain attracted to the chanting of the Mahamantra and the association of the sincere devotees of the Lord.
“We are heading back to Alachua in just a few hours. It feels like no time at all and I am sad to go but I know that I have responsibilities at home. For now I will hold these memories close to my heart and eagerly await the next chance to live in such Bhakti.”

I humbly pray that we all may have such a chance. There is talk now of the next 24 hour kirtan and I pray that I will see some familiar faces there next year and perhaps a few new ones as well. Krishna is so merciful, so wonderful, let us share him with the rest of the world.

Sri Krishna Sankirtana Ki!!!

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