Tattva-viveka

India retreat

Gaurangi-priya Devi - February 4, 2007 5:01 pm

Hari bol,

I just got a letter from my mother, and thought I'd post some of it here. For me it's nice to hear any news from the India retreat.

"Swami spoke this morning for the first time (at 9:30). Very nice. Not Siva Tattva, more about bhakti, anyabilasita-sunyam.

Guess what, in an hour we are going to the Krsna-Balaram Temple. Swami is going to speak in Prabhupada's quarters. He sent Brghu to ask permikssion. I suggested we visit Care for Cows and he thought that was a good idea and said we will.

This morning Swami met with Hope (and me) because last night she told him she would like to talk with him. He was very nice to her and encouraging.

The cooking is going very well. Kamalaksa did maha cleaning of the kitchen along with me and a couple of other devotees. It was very dirty. One problem. Rats. I saw a big one. So we had to buy metal trunks and keep bhoga in bed rooms."

She said that Vrinda-kunj is very beautiful, but full of aggressive monkeys. Hundreds of them.

I'm sure someone from there will post something, but hope you enjoy the tidbits.

Gauravani Dasa - February 5, 2007 11:59 am

Thanks for the update Gaurangi. Please keep up posted.

Babhru Das - February 6, 2007 3:03 am

Yes--thanks, Gaurangi. Please do let us know when you hear anything.

Gaurangi-priya Devi - February 7, 2007 4:54 pm

I talked to my mother today, so......

They had a very nice celebration for Srila Bhaktisiddhanta's App. today. Gurumaharaj led the whole program, pushpanjali, Guruvastakam, and then a talk. There is an old, blind, brahmacari that leads mangala-aratik everyday, so she said it was nice that GM lead the kirtan. There was an awesome feast as well, that my father cooked. She said that they really like Kamalaksa, as he is organizing kitchen help for them everyday and he is just a really great, enthusiastic devotee.

Yesterday they went to Sanatana Goswami's samadhi. GM was saying that when he was a brahmacari and he heard about Sanatana Goswami, he was in awe and thought of him as his hero. He said that as far as renunciation, we can't just drop everything. We must be diligent about our duties. But when the oppurtunity comes, we better seize it. She said it was a nice visit, as GM loves Sanatana Goswami so much.

She said that Brighu Prabhu had to leave today, as his wife had a fall on ice and broke her wrist and he had to get back to her. She was so sad to see him go, as she said he is such a sweet, knowledgable devotee.

The monkeys are aggressive. One stole a samosa right from my father's hand. They have the talks outside, but in an enclosed caged area to keep the monkeys away.

Well, that's about it for now.

Bhrigu - February 10, 2007 2:48 pm

Since I am now back in Finland, I wish to add a few words myself to Gaurangi-priya's mother's report. I was sad to leave, of course, but I am happy for the days I got to spend with Guru Maharaja and the devotees in Vrindavana. Guru Maharaja was clearly glad to be back there after a pause of five years, and he mentioned maybe making this an annual thing.

The program was that Guru Maharaja would speak at 9.30 at Vrinda-kunja, and then at four in the afternoon give a class somewhere else. My extremely pleasant service was to go to these places in advance and check out the situation -- something I only got to do twice, though. The plan was to go to the Govinda temple the day after Bhaktisiddhanta's appearance day, then Gopinatha, but I do not know whether they have gone through with that. Changes would come up now and then, such as when Guru Maharaja suddenly ran into Sripad Nrisimha Maharaja and then had lunch with him the next day. On the 12th, Guru Maharaja and the whole group will join Sripad Dhanurdhara Maharaja for a trip to Prema Sarovara and Ter Kadamba (Rupa Goswami's Bhajan Kutir). By chance, I ran into him twice during my days in Vrindavana, and was impressed by his saintly demeanor.

The head cook is of course Apurva, assisted by a Bengali lady whose name I forgot, a disciple of Srila Sridhar Maharaja. I helped her make rotis one day, and since I spoke a few words of Bengali to her, she seemed to like me. She was such a typical Indian lady. One day, Apurva told her that she had to make fewer rotis in the evening (since the previous day there had been so many left over), and when some devotees were then left without, she almost cried, and was ecstatic when she was told that she could make more the next day! -- Apurva is a great cook. He made the greatest almond salad dressing one day, and I really liked his saffron-pistacio milk one evening. I wish I had gotten the chance to taste his feast on Bhaktisiddhanta's appearance day. His style of kitchen behaviour is a bit more "old school" than our Finnish style, but once you got used to it, it was quite nice.

Kamalaksa is the "ashram commander", responsible for arranging assistance for Apurva for cooking and cleaning up, something he did efficiently, as always. Everyone had to chip in approximately once a day. I got to do kitchen duty only twice, but I liked it. I love cooking, but I have never done any cooking whatsoever in India, and learnt many new things.

Vrinda-kunja is a beautiful place, and the new part that we lived in especially so. The monkeys are a big problem, though. I got my glasses stolen once. Fortunately, one Maharaja got them back for me. They had been badly bent, but not broken, and an optician twisted them back for me for ten rupees, so that wasn't so bad. Krishangi had hers stolen twice (once on parikrama), Syamagopala once, and probably many others as well. Monkeys had tried to grab Haripriya's twice, but she won both times! Nandatanuja had the dubious honour of getting into a fight with a monkey over a potato (long story...) and losing (he got bit in the thigh)! I guess after my leaving there have been many more monkey-adventures.

When I left, Syamagopala had fallen ill, and perhaps someone else as well, but several felt a bit strange. I hope the situation has not become worse since then. I felt great during the whole time (four days!). They have a new water filter at Vrinda-kunja, and I drank that water as well as water filtered with a small portable filter that Nandatanuja had with him. It tasted bad, but I had no problems with my stomach. Imagine not having to buy a single litre of bottled water in India! I even drank filtered water at Bon Maharaja's Bhajan Kutir, where I managed to sneak in a most pleasant visit before leaving.

Also some other progress in Vrindavana: the whole area between Kesi Ghat and someway down the Yamuna after Madana Mohana is being renovated by ISKCON, Narayana Maharaja and others. The Dvadasaditya-hill of Madana Mohana has never looked so nice -- green grass, all cleaned up. Much left to do, of course, but it was nice to see such progress. I was told that Nrisimha Maharaja had done a lot of work at Radha-Damodara temple, but did not get a chance to see that myself. Apparently, Rupa Goswami's samadhi has been completely disassembled pending renovation! If the Goswamis over there win their court case with ISKCON, they will put him in charge of Prabhupada's rooms.

It is a fairly long distance to any internet cafés from Vrinda-kunja, but I hope that we will hear more reports of what has happened since I left. I feel great separation from Vrindavana, Guru Maharaja and all the great devotees in our sanga. I wish I had been able to utilise my time there better in their service.

Gauravani Dasa - February 10, 2007 10:48 pm

Thank you for posting such a detailed description of your stay in Vrndavana with Guru Maharaja! I keep hearing about the environmental clean-up efforts in Vraja and am glad to hear that there are good results. I also appreciate hearing about your service of going to "check-out" certain spots before GM goes there.

No one from the west can comprehend the monkey situation until they actually go to India. I hope everyone stays safe!

Gaurangi-priya Devi - February 12, 2007 3:03 am

Yes, Brighu, it's wonderful to hear of your trip. I got an e-mail from my mother so I'm posting some of it here. Pita is my father, Apurva.

"I wish I could tell you all about the talks. I take notes and you will hear the cds. A monkey ripped up my note book today. We have a caged in area, but now they are figuring out how to get in and causing mischief.

Today Dhanurdhara S. came. On Mon we are going together with him and his group and Swami and our group to Nandagrama or something like that.

Today Swami asked Vrndaranya to give Pita a break, so she and Gurunistha cooked lunch. It was so good. She made a sabji of cauliflower with fried potato and fried curd in yogurt. She also made steamies with a yogurt/lemon sauce as well as eggplant pakoras and dal. Janaki, the regular Indian cook made rice. Her friend made tomato chuntney.

Pita made (and organized) an awesome feast for Bhaktisiddhanta. Palak paneer, curd sabji, puspana rice, plain rice, puris, samosas, tamarind chutney, urad dal, gulabjamins, sweet rice and saffron halavah. It was great. He started the evening before. Somehow it ran rather smoothly, because Pita loves festivals and cooking for the Lord and acaryas.

Kamalaksa organizes a schedule so for every meal he has at least 2 or 3 helpers and a cleaner--besides Janaki.

Today a monkey grabbed Swami's glasses and scratched his face. Vrindaranya and Gurunistha took him to get a tetnus shot.

Today Swami asked me now everything was going. I said, "OK". He said, "Just OK"? I said yes, I am not absorbed enough. Last night I spent 2 hours in the travel agency."

I know some of this is repeated, but........

Gauravani Dasa - February 12, 2007 11:35 am

Oh my goodness! I can't believe the monkeys are THAT aggressive. Sounds like they need a guard who shoot pellets at them when they get too close, or at least someone with a bick stick. How bad was GM's scratch?

Bhrigu - February 12, 2007 2:46 pm

Kamalaksa had teased Krisangi about taking his airgun with him, but perhaps that wouldn't have been such a bad idea after all... They really are aggressive, and they only fear sticks if you show threaten them with it. Just carrying one doesn't seem to have that much of an effect... :Ying Yang:

Bhrigu - February 13, 2007 3:36 pm

I had my camera with me, but I only got as far as taking three pictures in India. This one is the best, two brothers at old Radha-Gopinatha temple. Doesn't Kamalaksa look great in a dhoti! :Ying Yang:

Bijaya Kumara Das - February 14, 2007 7:23 am

Thanks for the notes. I get filled up just reading all the great dishes mentioned.

Gaurangi-priya Devi - February 15, 2007 3:49 pm

Hari bol!

I talked to my father yesterday. He said that they had just returned from an amazing talk at where Rupa Goswami wrote BRSS, I guess at his samadhi area. Anyway, my father said it was a very moving talk. GM talked about how when BSST was leaving he requested the "sri rupa manjari pada" song to be sung. The devotees asked a very good kirtan leader to sing, but BSST requested B.R. Sridhara-deva Goswami to sing it. The devotees said that this showed that BSST was giving him access into the innermost pastimes. Sridhara Maharaj said that he thought he was just the protector, bhakti-raksask, not to have the fortune of entering. At the end GM invited everyone to leave their material desires there and with renewed inspiration go and preach the message that Rupa Goswami gave. My father said it was one of the best talks yet. He also said that Rafal was going to get initiated today.

Here is some more news from my mother.

"We hust parted from the Radha Damodara Temple. We also went to Imli tal and Lord Nityananda's Temple with his tal. Swami is nectarean association.

Guess what? He is purchasing land here. Right near Radha Damodara Temple. From the roof you see the Yamuna on one side and Rupa G's samadhi on the other. He was offered the land and one of his Brijvasis arranged. It is owned originally by Jiva Gosvami. It is on a little street that has no shops or anything. Quiet.

The cooking has been going well. Today Pita made veggie burgers (on chapatis). Swami ate two. I made my soup. It was wonderful, but the devotees did not seem to like it too much, especially the Indians. The Indian devotees took their veggie burgers apart and ate it like sabji or kofta with chapati. The rest of us dug in holding our sandwich with two hands.

For almost a week it has been raining and cold. We have hardly seen the sun. Our clothes won't dry for days, literally. I don't mind, but I think of how it makes the austerity greater for the newcomers. I have fun watching the monkeys play in our yard. They really are cute. Today one jumped on my back to steal the banana off my plate. I screamed. But that was my supidity. We never go out with prasadam in our hand. Also today when Guru Nista brought Swami his lunch, one jumped on him and took a veggie burger. GN threw the plate at it. He then brought two escorts with sticks when he made up another plate."

Bijaya Kumara Das - February 16, 2007 8:14 am

Guess what? He is purchasing land here. Right near Radha Damodara Temple. From the roof you see the Yamuna on one side and Rupa G's samadhi on the other. He was offered the land and one of his Brijvasis arranged. It is owned originally by Jiva Gosvami. It is on a little street that has no shops or anything. Quiet.

By He do you mean Guru Maharaja Swami Tripurari ? It is sure great news that we will have a home in Vrndavan if that is the case.

Bhrigu - February 16, 2007 12:38 pm

I'm also very curious to know more about this! I had no ideas that Guru Maharaja was even contemplating such a thing.

Madangopal - February 16, 2007 5:51 pm

Guru Maharaj has said to me on a few occasions over the past couple years that he had thought about having a place in Vrndavana that his disciples could stay at when they visit, it could be the site of yearly retreats, or possibly someone could maintain year-round.

It sounds as though Krsna thought this was a great idea and made it happen without GM's endeavor. What I heard is that GM is long time friends with a sadhu who lives in Vraja (disciple of BSST or BRSM, I can't remember) who said to him the other day "you must have a place in Vraja." I guess this person went out and found this place and arranged a deal or something. I'm not sure how it is being paid for. Now it is just land, but I heard that GM is thinking up plans for a temple/ashram. I'm sure this is all very much in the idea stage, but just look how things manifest out of GM's will! Exciting.

Babhru Das - February 17, 2007 6:42 am

This is so exciting that I'm rather beside myself. There's so much going on in my heart as I hear this news that I'm not sure I can process it all.

Swami - February 18, 2007 8:15 am

From Frankfurt airport:

All of the devotees attending the retreat pleased me very much by their enthusiasm. Very nice retreat.

Giri Maharaja is an akincana Vaisnava bhajananandi who ha been living in Vrindavan from many years. He is a disciple of Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati Thakura's Audalomi Maharaja. It all started with a letter Vrindaranya sent to Giri Maharaja letting him know we would be arrivng. When it arrived, he was not present and it was placed at the lotus feet of Radha Damodara for thier inspection. Later it was passed with their approval to Giri Maharaja. He strongly desired that I have an ashrama in Vrindavana especially after I have been absent from the Dhama for the last five years and thus he prayed to Radharani and she reciprocated, offering us a parcel 30 seconds walk from Radha Damodara, where Prabhupada lives eternally, as does Rupa Goswami, Jiva Goswami, etc. The propery is also 30 seconds walk from Sringara Vat, where the cowherds used to decorate Krsna and Balarama in the afternoon. It is at this place that Nityananda Prabhu stayed beneath a tree (vat) during his visit to Vrindavana. Thus it is also called Nityananda Vat. From Nityananda vat to the Yamuna is a 10 second walk, and the area there along the Yamuna is being developed nicely--cleaned up and greened, very beautiful.

So we will establish a temple and guest room there, at the place Srila Prabhupada called the "center of the spiritual world." Thus far we have rasied half the money for the land purchace and the Radha Damodara Goswamis have agreed to allow us to pay the balance off gradually. Miraculous. I literally did nothing to acquire this property but respond to it as a seva opportunity that came from Radha and Nityananda Prabhu. We still need more funding to build and pay the balance on the property, so here is a very auspicious seva opportunity for everyone. But we have entered Vrindavan by the will of a nirupadi Vaisnava and the subsequent mercy of Sri Radha and Nitaicand. This is the only way to actually gain residence in the Dhama.

Syamasundara - February 18, 2007 11:12 pm

Wow so many mind-blowing news in a few lines, it took me forever to read them. It was like swimming through gelatine. I'm so happy and flabbergasted. I'll probably read it twenty more times to be sure.

I just didn't understand the approval of Radha Damodara thing.

If Maharaja had been there they would have given the letter to him, but since he wasn't they showed it to the deities for approval?

Bijaya Kumara Das - February 19, 2007 8:02 am

Thus far we have rasied half the money for the land purchace and the Radha Damodara Goswamis have agreed to allow us to pay the balance off gradually

What is the balance and the monthly installment ? I may be willing to step up for the payments or the balance.

Swami - February 19, 2007 2:17 pm

What is the balance and the monthly installment ? I may be willing to step up for the payments or the balance.

The cost of the land is $58,000. The terms are $20,000 down, balance to be paid in five years at 9% interest (about $788 per month for 60 months). We have raised $7000 (Guara krsna dasa) and have been pledged another $23,000 (Pralambaha dasa) contingent on the sale of Pralambaha's property in Vindavana. We need to make the down paymnet by mid April. 9% is the going rate in India. It would be better, however, if we could pay for the land up front and get our own loan, if nedded, here in the US.

Swami - February 21, 2007 2:24 am

We have now raised the following for the land purchace:

Gaura krsna $7,000

Prema Bhakti $10,000

Pralambaha (contingent on sale of his property) $23,000

Bijaya Kumara has also pledged an unspecified amount to help with ay monthly payments should there be any.

So we are only $18,000 short of paying for the land in full, which would be best when buying land in Vrindavana, and only $3000 short of meeting our minimum committment of $20,000 down payment due in mid April.

Robertnewman - February 21, 2007 4:43 pm

I will donate $3000.

Madangopal - February 21, 2007 6:31 pm

I just wanted to welcome everyone, particularly Guru Maharaj, back to your homes away from home (vraja). For those of us who were unable to attend what sounds like a wonderful retreat, we are glad to have you back online and also in somewhat closer physical proximity.

Guru Maharaj, how big is the parcel? Kamalini said something about seeing Rupa Goswami's samadhi from the roof - are there buildings there currently?

I am dying to offer some service, but at this point can only scrounge up $108. Should I send through paypal on swami.org?

Swami - February 22, 2007 10:58 am

I just wanted to welcome everyone, particularly Guru Maharaj, back to your homes away from home (vraja). For those of us who were unable to attend what sounds like a wonderful retreat, we are glad to have you back online and also in somewhat closer physical proximity.

Guru Maharaj, how big is the parcel? Kamalini said something about seeing Rupa Goswami's samadhi from the roof - are there buildings there currently?

I am dying to offer some service, but at this point can only scrounge up $108. Should I send through paypal on swami.org?

Thank you Madan Gopal and thank you Robert. We have also received another $1000 from a donor who chooses to remain anonymous.

The land is vacant. From the roof of a two story building you can see the Yamuna on one side andI believe Rupa Goswami's bhjana kutir in the courtyard of Radha Damodara on the other. From what we could tell we will not be able to see his samadhi, just the courtyard and bhajana kutir.

We can build a 5,000-7,000 sq. ft. facility on the parcel. So the plot itself is not that big, but it is the only thing left at Seva kunja on Radha Damodara's block--the center of the spiritual world. Anything larger than this we would not be able to afford. Land prices all over India have skyrocketed.

At any rate this size property will suit us fine. It will have avery nice temple, courtyard/garden residents and guest rooms. For retreats with very large groups overflow guest quarters will be availble at Radha Damodara and perhaps Nityananda Vat.

Here is a link to the Radha Damodara site talking about the renovations there that are being headed up by Narasingha Maharaja. He is raising $250,000 for the work. Samadhi Renovation

Syamasundara - February 22, 2007 3:31 pm

I couldn't open the link. Could anyone?

Swami - February 22, 2007 5:12 pm

I couldn't open the link. Could anyone?

Here it is again, but you will have to cut and paste it in your browser.

http://www.radhadamodarmandir.com/six-gosw...estoration.html

Karnamrita Das - February 22, 2007 5:33 pm

Here it is again, but you will have to cut and paste it in your browser.

http://www.radhadamodarmandir.com/six-gosw...estoration.html

Actually the link works to just click on it.

Syamasundara - February 22, 2007 11:38 pm

Yes, it works now.

How come none of the other participants are giving their report?

Gaurangi-priya Devi - February 23, 2007 1:58 am

Yes, it works now.

How come none of the other participants are giving their report?

Yes, I was waiting for the jetlag to wear off before my pestering. PLEASE all of you who were fortunate to go on the retreat, share some of your experiences, share the nectar. We are anxious to hear! Any photos, anyone?

Vamsidhari Dasa - February 23, 2007 2:44 am

:Shocked: The jetlagg is still srtong iwithn me

I have to admitt that it was ery hard to leave Vrindavan and say good bye to everyone. It is even harder to put the whole experience in words. It was such a special trip with so many special events, people, and places. The most amazing thing was being there with Guru Maharaja. The difficulty in writing about it for me is that I will miss the Dham more. The only consolation is that Guru Maharaja truly embodies the feeling of Vrindavan and to serve him sooths the pain of seperation. I hope that other devotees will be able to talk about their experiences soon and convry the taste to all of you who had to stay behind. I do not think I can write about it now but this might change as soon as I digest the experience a bit more.

Caitanya-daya Dd - February 23, 2007 2:58 am

i think most of the devotees on the retreat had to delve almost immediately back into their lives here in the west--which entails family, work, etc. Including jet lag, the shock of being back.

Re pictures, iit takes a bit to go through pictures and edit and resize, etc. Patience is a virtue! :-)

Mayapurcandra Das - February 23, 2007 10:33 am

I have to admitt that it was ery hard to leave Vrindavan and say good bye to everyone. It is even harder to put the whole experience in words. It was such a special trip with so many special events, people, and places. The most amazing thing was being there with Guru Maharaja. The difficulty in writing about it for me is that I will miss the Dham more. The only consolation is that Guru Maharaja truly embodies the feeling of Vrindavan and to serve him sooths the pain of seperation. I hope that other devotees will be able to talk about their experiences soon and convry the taste to all of you who had to stay behind. I do not think I can write about it now but this might change as soon as I digest the experience a bit more.

Yes Vamsi...it is was very very hard to leave Holy Dham...but the most painful was leaving the devotees, to see how yours cars were going out...Seperation from the devotees, from Sri Guru is so heart-breaking. :Shocked:

Is some beautiful verse from CC, Madha 8.248.

'duhkha-madhye kona duhkha haya gurutara?' 'krsna-bhakta-viraha vina duhkha nahi dekhi para'

Even I didn't know, that coming back to so-called "real world" it will be so hard...

It was my first time in India, in Vraja. And in the begining it was really diffcult to see this Holy Dham in proper way, even in 1%. But we were so lucky, becouse we've been there with Guru Maharaja, and be His mercy we could see something more than small Indian village, with crazy monkeys, pigs and dogs...And if someone, once saw this completly different Vraja, seeing through GM eyes, it will be very hard for him...come back to the "normal" life :Shocked:

I hope, that my poor English is understandable :Shocked:

some photos

Prema-bhakti Marga - February 23, 2007 2:48 pm

The wealth of Vrindavana is the Brijbasis and their mamata. Krsna is one of them and one with them in the dynamic sense of relationship. GM traveled to Vrndavana dhama just like one of us, a humble pilgrim, yet he was supporting all of us with his vision and insights into the dhama. He was relaxed, affectionate, and available. Sweet, charming and caring. He mixed with us freely and spoke with relish and realization.

Waking up everyday and knowing he would be right downstairs was so comforting to me. The hardest thing to come to grips with when faced with leaving the dhama was that this living situation would come to an end. Many devotees had to bid a tearful goodbye to GM as we got into the cars to go to Delhi yet I could stay in denial a little longer. We wound up spending two days in Delhi due to a delayed flight and the full face of separation didn’t register until I had to walk away from him finally at SFO, confirming for me that Vrndavana is consciousness and it lives in the heart of the sadhu and that is where we will truly find it.

I wish to offer my heartfelt appreciation and affection to all the devotees who attended the retreat and who were the real opulence of my experience in the dhama. I am grateful to all of you for your service and sanga. :Praying:

To all the devotees on TV who were unable to attend this retreat, I hope my humble glimpses into the dhama experience will serve to satisfy a bit of your eagerness to hear about the trip. You have all the classes GM gave in the dhama to look forward to and in essence that was my only real entrance into Sri Vrndavana dhama. :Praying:

I wanted to mine the archive of my heart a bit and share some of my personal impressions from Sri Vrndavana dhama. Some heart portraits.

Living day to day for GM’s classes and parikrama. They were our foundation and sustenance and carried us through the best days and the days of rain and challenge. The only way to truly see the dhama.

GM spontaneously running in the field at Ter Kadamba where Krsna and Balarama would and run and play.

Dhanurdhara Swami spontaneously breaking out in song as we drove passed Nanda Bhavan, “Jaya Kanaiyalal ki, Jaya Kanaiyala ki” and GM and the other devotees joining in.

GM patiently answering the same questions about the “fall” of the jiva over and over expertly from so many angles.

GM taking darsana of Krsna Balarama at the KB Mandir.

GM speaking about our gratitude to SP with such heartfelt emotion in SP’s rooms at KB Mandir.

GM speaking on Nityananda Mahima at Srngar Vat (Nityananda’s sitting place)

GM watching some Brijbasi boys playing marbles and telling us how he also played marbles as a kid and describing some of the different kinds he had.

Our group packed up tight in GM’s room sharing pizza and lasagna and pie and small talk on our last night.

GM explaining Madhukari’s name at her intiation. Krsna's madhukari is going from flower to flower (the gopis' faces) making honey with them.

Sripad Giri Maharaja (a disciple of BSST’s Audalomi Maharaja) and his simple room at Radha Damodara imbued with his suddha bhakti. His strong desire for GM to have a place in Vrndavan and watching that desire manifest before our eyes in such a wonderful way. His affection for Vrndaranaya. His happiness in hearing my name “Prema bhakti” and saying it was a very good name. His outward humility and simplicity masking the depth of his bhajan made for such a relishable experience. Honoring the prasada he served us with his own hands. Now worshipping the photo of Radha Damodara he gave in my room in Stockton, CA, which he asked to respect and offer incense to every day.

Madhu Mangala bramacari (a very old and blind bramacari who led kirtanas at Srila Sridhara Maharaja’s matha) leading the kirtana and bhajanas at Vrnda Kunja mangala arati. His voice so sweet. Madhu mangala sitting with GM (GM’s posture very humble) in the courtyard and GM holding his hand for minute as MM got up to leave. Hari bhakti and I would pass by him everyday and say, “Jaya Maharaja” and he would smile and say, “Jaya” and ask us how we were doing. Watching the devotees taking care of this vaisnava jewel. Having the chance to help Madha Managala put on his shoes.

Vrndaranya and Guru Nistha’s dedication to GM, which is always consistent and without reservation.

Talking Vrindaranya's ear off and her reassuring me that, “Sincerity is invincible”.

The colliding of so many worlds and languages at Vrinda Kunja. Hindi, Bengali, Spanish. Apurva calling out, “Ek Minuto.” (One minute in a hindi/Spanish hybrid) trying to communicate. My gradual appreciation that seva is our universal language.

Serving the devotees’ prasada twice a day with Hari Bhakti and getting to know how much and what each devotee liked to honor. Serving hot pizza after the Ter Kadamba parikrama and watching the devotees honor prasada blissfully.

Having no electricity and water at 4 AM and just laughing about it.

Vamsi Brijabasi with his big smile and cane shopping for outfits for Gaura Nitai.

Gaura Krsna leading a bhajan on a boat ride on the Yamuna on Ekadasi in a soft sweet voice.

Getting lost on the Vrndavana parikrama marga on a warm Ekadasi afternoon with Vamsi and Hari Bhakti and for a while not caring if we found our way back.

Meeting an old woman tulsi wala on the parikrama marga and her showing us how she carves the maha mantra in the beads she makes. Her grabbing my face and blowing a kiss on it.

Hari bhakti and I lying on damp mattresses in a damp room chanting japa and contemplating the lives of the Brijabasis.

Falling in the mud on the way to Gopinatha Mandir. Grateful to have only mud on my left arm and chaddar. Gaura Krsna pumping the water from the well so I can clean up.

Walking with Guru Nistha and him saying, “Prem, so Vrndavana is just like a big slum or something.” And him loving it anyway.

Hari Bhakti and I becoming inseparable good friends in the dhama.

And let’s not forget those monkeys!!!! Arghhh.

Madangopal - February 23, 2007 3:14 pm

Sweet... thank you. I'm very touched by your memories.

"Ek minuto!" - that's our Pa; cracks me up! :Praying:

Bhrigu - February 23, 2007 4:49 pm

Thank you Prema for those sweet memories! There really is no place like Brajadhama in the three worlds, and no people like Krishna's devotees.

Karnamrita Das - February 23, 2007 6:18 pm

Even I didn't know, that coming back to so-called "real world" it will be so hard...

It was my first time in India, in Vraja. And in the begining it was really diffcult to see this Holy Dham in proper way, even in 1%. But we were so lucky, becouse we've been there with Guru Maharaja, and be His mercy we could see something more than small Indian village, with crazy monkeys, pigs and dogs...And if someone, once saw this completly different Vraja, seeing through GM eyes, it will be very hard for him...come back to the "normal" life

My first trip to India was in many ways my most memorable. It was like another planet, yet it didn't seem foreign...strange and different definetly. The hardest thing was coming back to the West. I was in Heathrow airport in London afterwards, thinking, "You mean, this is still going on?" Somehow I expected the whole world to have changed, but it was not to be. I had to keep the change within---lasting and not fleeting. So the real culture shock was the return after a month in India....and I was, very, very thin, so much so that devotees didn't recogize me!!! India can be a great way to lose weight, phyiscal and with the ego.

Great pics Mayapura, and sharing PBM!!! We can't wait, though we will have to wait for more. This is a good kind of wait.

Karnamrita

Babhru Das - February 23, 2007 7:30 pm

My first trip to India was in many ways my most memorable. It was like another planet, yet it didn't seem foreign...strange and different definetly. The hardest thing was coming back to the West. I was in Heathrow airport in London afterwards, thinking, "You mean, this is still going on?" Somehow I expected the whole world to have changed, but it was not to be. I had to keep the change within---lasting and not fleeting. So the real culture shock was the return after a month in India....and I was, very, very thin, so much so that devotees didn't recogize me!!! India can be a great way to lose weight, phyiscal and with the ego.

Great pics Mayapura, and sharing PBM!!! We can't wait, though we will have to wait for more. This is a good kind of wait.

Karnam's thought in Heathrow reminds me of something I remember from my last visit to Vrindavan (1982!). I was in Vrindavan for Karttika, with an annual gurukula headmasters' conference as the excuse. It was a wonderful month, and I sometimes thought of my family and looked forward to seeing them again, but I was so immersed in Krishna-katha and kirtan that I felt in no hurry to return to Honolulu. One afternoon, as a group of us walked to the Yamuna for a swim, a devotee who had just been in Delhi said, "Say--did you know that Breznev died?" I stopped and said out loud, "Oh, that's all still going on out there, isn't it?"

I only visited India twice, but when I returned to Honolulu, it was to full-time service managing the gurukula there, and the transition was hard enough (the first time, I was not yet recovered from malaria, and I landed in Honolulu in the middle of a nasty flu epidemic). I can't imagine what it would have been like if I had to come back to working for The Man, commuting to some office, or even to teaching at a university or something. That would have been a big shock indeed.

And yes--thank you so much, Vamsidhari and Prema, for the impressions, and Mayapurchandra for the wonderful pix. Like Karnam, I'm waiting patiently, hot cocoa in hand, for more mercy from the pilgrims.

Gaurangi-priya Devi - February 24, 2007 1:28 am

Thank you all. Vamsi, your "not being able to put into words" words were perfect. Mayapurcandra thanks so much for the photos and realizations. And Prema, thank you for the portraits to your heart. They are invaluable to my heart, and have brought me to tears. My hankering to visit Vrindavana with Gurumaharaj, has intensified a hundred fold. Keep sharing the bliss. It's such a joy to hear.

I know I'm impatient Caitanya-daya, sorry! I just want to make sure you all don't forget about us who didn't get to go. I know life is so busy, so I'm very grateful for the time spent sharing memories.

Syamasundara - February 24, 2007 3:22 am

Aniyor! Aniyor! That'd better be but the beginning, but thanks for what has come so far, so priceless.

What I am waiting for is Kamalaksa's impressions on India... :Praying:

Also, can those who post pics say who is who?

Prema-bhakti Marga - February 24, 2007 3:32 pm

Hey everyone, I just wanted to apologize for the typos on my post. I am blaming it on the jet lag. :Praying: I think I corrected them all now.

The biggest one however was a misquote of Vrindaranya saying, "Sincerity is invisible" :Praying: which was actually "Sincerity is invincible.". Makes more sense now. Sorry about that.

Vamsidhari Dasa - February 24, 2007 5:14 pm

I actually quite liked "sincerity is invisible" and thought it so profound, but of course thats only me....... :Praying: It went together with "too much devotion is a sign of a thief." In a sense you dont have to try to much to be sincere and I saw all these people in Vrindavan who appeared as devotees externally, recite all kinds of prayers, and drop all kinds of names, but its like a show. Othe the other hand, sincerity just is one cannot fake it or make it but only be it. There are so many devotees like that and so many examples in Vrindavan and at Audarya (Im not going to nme any names) that are inspiring.

And now some photoes and yes I will try to label them appropriatelly........

In Prabhupad's rooms

GM Distributing Sweet Rice (potato)at Taraka Dhabmba

Taraka Dhamba Babaji Maharaja telling us that the Gopi's are serving lunch to the Gopa's at this time

GM Preforming Abiseka to SP during the reopening of Sri Radha-Damodara's rooms

Scenes from Vrindavan parikrama

Prema's long lost friend

Vrinda Kunja view from the top monkey's still sleeping :Praying:

Surar Face

Our New Neighbors by Who's Mercy we were able to enter the Dham

Prema-bhakti Marga - February 24, 2007 10:00 pm

Sweet photos and captions Vamsi. I was so happy to see Tulsi wala Ma. :Praying:

Gauravani Dasa - February 25, 2007 12:52 pm

Vamsi, that last picture--where are those Deities of Gaura Nitai from?

Dhiralalita - February 25, 2007 6:42 pm

For the first time in my life, I had the most wonderful feeling in Vrindavana. Upon my return, I did not dive right back into my old life but kept my feelings of "home comfort" as Srila Sridhar Maharaja would say, within my heart and my practice seems improved. This is the first time since I return that I open Tattvaviveka's forum.

This trip was especially good due to the 4 hours plus of hearing Sripad Tripurari Swami talks daily. He has so much to share, it is amazing to me.

He spoke a lot on Chaitanya Mahaprabhu and his associates. This went on for morning classes. But then for the last few days he opened the floor to questions. The wonderful talks for each place visited gave us an opening into what was really the essence of that particular place.

My preferred place is Tera Kadamba. This place has been maintained for some time by a disciple of Bhakti Saranga Swami, a disciple of Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakur. The place situated in the Nandagram area is said to have been a place where Srila Rupa goswami wrote his books.

At the present moment it is kept with gardens and planted trees including the famous Kadamba tree, and a beautiful pond surrounded by trees full of gorgeous birds, parrots with long tails, doves, peacocks etc... And it is free of monkeys!

I was feeling so good there, I wanted to stay forever. But as Swami has described in one of his talks, one of the forces who moves you is your own karma and by my own past karma I had to move on....

I was very lucky for this particular trip because, thanks to my tolerant husband I went to spend 4 weeks previous to going to Vrindavan at Govindaji Gardens at Sripad Narasingha Swami's ashrama. I was able to detox there from the West and purify myself a bit for 4 full weeks. By the time I came to the retreat I was in the perfect mood.

We also had the great fortune to have an old disciple of srila Sridhar Maharaja called Haricaran, unfortunately blind, but leading every mangala aratica. Actually he lead all the temple kirtans. He is said to be a somewhat renown bhajaneer in Bengal, who writes his own songs. Swami treated him with the greatest respect. His kirtans were the sweetest things I ever heard, very melodious, simple as he seemed to be, unpretentious, and coming from a long life of practice. Gaura Gopala my son, has spoken with him a bit previous to his leaving Govinda Maharaja's math in Mayapura. He told him he was very sad, but he did not feel at home anymore there. He used to be Srila Sridhar Maharaja's right hand man. Now he stays at Vrinda Kunja in Vrindavan.

As everybody already heard the monkeys were unbearable at Vrinda Kunja. When I left this place, some 10 years ago, it was full of Tulsis and no monkeys. Now the monkeys rule the place and are tearing everything apart and only a few Tulsis are left. Those monkeys are particularly fond of glasses on the noses of Swamis (it seems). They attacked Swami to steal his glasses and scratch him badly, and they stole Narasingha Swami's glasses at Radha Dhamodar and took a good bite at them, and bite Giri Maharaja( a disciple of Narasingha Swami) too on the arm.

My last look of Vrindavan was at Radha Damodar after the ceremony to place Srila Prabhupada's deity back in place in his rooms. It was with very deep emotion that I saw the deity of my guru Maharaja being transported by my two shiksha gurus, Sripad Tripurari swami and Sripad B.G. Narasingha Swami.

When I left, my last impression was of Swami standing outside of Radha Damodar temple gazing at the deities seemingly stunned.

During my stay, I learned a lot about myself: I was too frantically obsessed with "making it" out there as an artist and I was a somewhat materialistic person thinking myself to be "spiritual". But as I prayed at the right places in Vrindavan, by the mercy of the vaishnavas, maybe my material life is finally coming to an end soon....

Vamsidhari Dasa - February 25, 2007 6:56 pm

Thank you for your heartfelt post Dhoralalita Prabhu.

Gauravani these are the Deities from Sri Nityananda Vat. At Their Feet are Sri Sri Jagganath, Baladeva, and Subarda the likes I've never seen before.

Mayapurcandra Das - February 26, 2007 1:31 pm

and now, some more pics from India Retreat (I have to say that previous pictures has made a bh. Kompi, not me :Praying:

Rama-Govinda Dasa - February 26, 2007 6:55 pm

Welcome everyone.This is my firs post as Rama-Govinda.I got initiation from Guru Maharaj.I m so happy that I can be part of family.I was expecting for that quite long time and now Krsna gives so many opportiunities to serve for Guru Maharaj.It is hard to realize where I was. :Praying:

I'd like to thanks for all devotes during retreat in Vrindavan.Everything was so orginized.

You are great devotes.

Jay Gouranga!!!!

Babhru Das - February 26, 2007 8:47 pm

Thanks, Rama-Govinda, for sharing that with us. I was waiting to hear your new name. Congratulations on your good fortune. I've long been impressed by the Polish devotees; I think I mentioned to Maharaja that it seemed that Gaura-Shakti is very aptly named.

Jason - February 26, 2007 9:58 pm

Rama-Govinda---Congratulations on your initiation! I heard about it from Prema Bhakti the other day. You are most fortunate...the best things come to those who wait!

Syamasundara - February 27, 2007 12:52 am

I think I read all the posts about this retreat, and I know there have been initiations, but who did Rama Govinda use to be before?

Babhru Das - February 27, 2007 1:57 am

Rafal.

Mayapurcandra Das - February 27, 2007 8:35 am

Our new born- Rama-Govinda dasa after as he took initiation

Nitay Gaura Premanande!!

Nanda-tanuja Dasa - February 27, 2007 10:29 pm

bhrAtur antakasya pattane ’bhipatti-hAriNI

prekSayAti-pApino ’pi pApa-sindhu-tAriNI

nIra-mAdhurIbhir apy azeSa-citta-bandhinI

mAM punAtu sarvadAravinda-bandhu-nandinI ||1||

May Sri Yamuna, the daughter of Suryadeva, who saves one from having to enter the city of her brother Yamaraja, the sight of whom enables the most sinful persons to cross the ocean of sin, and the sweetness of whose water charms the hearts of everyone, always purify me.

Sri Yamunastakam by Srila Rupa Gosvami.

Nanda-tanuja Dasa - February 27, 2007 10:55 pm

Vrinda Kunja Math

Prema-bhakti Marga - February 27, 2007 11:07 pm

Great photos Nanda-tanuga!! Thank you.

Nanda-tanuja Dasa - February 27, 2007 11:09 pm

Sri Krishna Balaram Mandir

Nanda-tanuja Dasa - February 27, 2007 11:46 pm

Govardhan Parikrama / Radha Kund

Nanda-tanuja Dasa - February 27, 2007 11:57 pm

Prema Sarovara / Ter Kadamba

Jason - February 28, 2007 4:43 am

Nanda-Tanuja, I have no words....thank you.

Bhrigu - February 28, 2007 5:43 am

Thank you for the wonderful pictures, Nandatanujaji! Did you get to take a dip in the Yamuna?

Tadiya Dasi - February 28, 2007 7:41 am

Yes, beautiful pictures! Thank you.

Syamasundara - February 28, 2007 11:57 am

Vrinda Kunja Math

Wow each picture is like a little emotional tsunami.

In the prasada scene, who is everybody on Kamalaksa's right, and between Krsangi and Gaura Krsna?

Vamsidhari Dasa - February 28, 2007 3:38 pm

These are so great thank you very much for bringing these moments up again. :Cry:

Swami - February 28, 2007 4:18 pm

Radhanama dasa has donated $1000 plus for the dhama seva that has descended. $22,000 with $23,000 pending thus far. Initial goal $58,000. Jaya Damodara! Jaya Gaura! Jaya Radhe!

Nanda-tanuja Dasa - February 28, 2007 6:08 pm

Going to the temple

Govardhan-sila of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu at Radha-raman mandir

Lecture at the temple

Talk with Akinchan Giri Maharaja about land in Vrindavan

Sringar-vat (Nityananda-vat)

Siva Ratri at Gopisvar Mahadev Mandir

Nanda-tanuja Dasa - February 28, 2007 6:17 pm

Srila Prabhupada's Bhajan Kutir at Radha-Damodar

Nanda-tanuja Dasa - February 28, 2007 6:25 pm

Narasimhadeva from Lord Ranganath's Temple

Caitanya-daya Dd - February 28, 2007 7:09 pm

Thank you for the wonderful pictures, Nandatanujaji! Did you get to take a dip in the Yamuna?

Every morning before mangala-arati, Bhrgu! :-P j/k

Nanda-tanuja Dasa - February 28, 2007 7:27 pm

(Bhrigu @ Feb 28 2007, 05:43 AM) Thank you for the wonderful pictures, Nandatanujaji! Did you get to take a dip in the Yamuna?

Well Bhriguji... No, I didn't. I would have, if we would go 3-4 km upstream, if you know what I mean. I did regular “sprinkling” though.

Nanda-tanuja Dasa - February 28, 2007 7:53 pm

People, animals and streets of Vrindavan (a little turisty)

Babhru Das - March 1, 2007 6:16 am

Oh, this is just overwhelming. What a turbulent mixture of emotions they bring up! And how happy our Swami looks sitting next to Sri Krishna and Balaram!

Bhrigu - March 1, 2007 8:27 am

Wonderful pictures again, Nandatanuja! You've managed to capture so much of the beauty and mystique of Vrindavana. Thank you!

Jananivasdas - March 1, 2007 1:55 pm

vrndavana-viharadyau

saccidananda-vigrahau

mani-mandapa-madhyasthau

radha-krsnau namany aham

Unto the Pair engaged in sportive dalliance in Vrndavana the Pair whose forms abound with eternity, knowledge & bliss the Pair who are seated in the center of a jeweled pavilion, I bow to Radha and Krsna

really nice pictures!!! :Applause:

Nanda-tanuja Dasa - March 1, 2007 5:33 pm

Some people have requested some pictures in high resolution to be emailed to them, which I happily did already. I also would like to mention that I can send DVD with all pictures (412) in high resolution to anyone interested. Pictures are unedited and unmodified. Thanks!

Nanda-tanuja Dasa - March 1, 2007 7:15 pm

In the prasada scene, who is everybody on Kamalaksa's right, and between Krsangi and Gaura Krsna?

Krsangi, Mayapurcandra (Poland), Madhukari (England), Mathura-natha (Sweden), Gaura Krsna

Rama-Govinda Dasa - March 1, 2007 8:04 pm

Hari Boll bh.Kompi made amazing movie from Vraja .I already miss to this place.

Nanda-tanuja Dasa - March 1, 2007 8:42 pm

What a beautiful movie... It brought tears to my eyes, my stone heart melted... How can I stay there forever?

Mayapurcandra Das - March 2, 2007 1:44 am

What a beautiful movie... It brought tears to my eyes, my stone heart melted... How can I stay there forever?

yes, movie is really beautiful...not only your heart melted my dear brother :Applause: I miss so much Braja, Guru Maharaja, and our sweet Sanga! It was compleatly amazing time!! let we stay there forever

Nitay-Gaura Haribol!

____o_

Vrindaranya Dasi - March 2, 2007 2:50 am

Fabulous movie. I loved the pictures too.

My deepest thanks to all of you who have taken the time to post these gems.

Radhanama Dasa - March 2, 2007 3:13 am

WOW. Thanks to all for the descriptions, pics and the video. SO SO sweet. :Applause:

Nanda-tanuja, I would love one of the DVDs if possible. Do you still have my address?

Hari Bhakti - March 2, 2007 6:03 pm

Kompi - What a beautiful video! Thank you so much for sharing with all of us.

Out of curiosity does anyone know who is singing He Govinda in the video?

Madangopal - March 2, 2007 6:18 pm

I'm pretty sure that is Jagjit Singh singing.

Syamasundara - March 2, 2007 6:23 pm

Yup it's him. What a gorgeous video.

Gaurangi-priya Devi - March 3, 2007 3:46 pm

Thank you everyone for posting photos, video, and realizations. Simply beautiful. It helps soothe the ache in my heart for wishing I was there with all of you. For Vyasa-puja yesterday we had a little celebration at our home, and we got to talk to Gurumaharaj. He said how it's important for all of us to get together as a group and get to know each other. It's very powerful. I just live for those oppurtunities. So bring on the Caitanya Sangha Retreats!!! (And I'll start saving $) :Applause:

Caitanya-daya Dd - March 3, 2007 5:51 pm

yes, thanx for the pics everyone and for the sweet youtube movie.

I just got a disk of pictures and will probably have some sort of a link for them eventually. In the meanwhile, here are some "teasers":

Going to Madan-Mohan temple:

View from top of Madan-Mohan, looking toward the Yamuna

Sales pitch during Bhaktisiddhanta's Appearance

"Can we take our picture with you?" The Finnish celebrities

Dhanurdara Swami drops by

Syamasundara - March 4, 2007 12:38 am

Wow you didn't seem to get one sunny day, I thought the clouds were all during the monsoon.

Sorry to repeat myself, but it's really a joy to see the devotees assembled.

Why are Finns saying nothing?

Caitanya-daya Dd - March 4, 2007 6:21 pm

syamasundara: au contraire, mon frere :-D:

Krsangi Dasi - March 6, 2007 9:16 am

Thank you all for posting all the wonderful photos and memories! I think our flight back to Finland was the shortest of us all, about seven hours, but the mental distance was longer than ayone else's. I'm running for parliament here and the election's just two weeks away, so I had to start working full time on my campaign pretty much on the day we got back. So Krsangi the humble devotee was put away in the closet with my brand new saris and Kaisa the ambitious politician is out on the streets handing out flyers. :blush:

But my sketchbook's filled with memories and notes from Guru Maharaja's classes, and I'm sure something will emerge from them when the election madness is over. Maybe it'll even be a whole comic book!

BTW, does anyone have a photo of Rupa Goswami's samadhi at the Radha Damodara temple? Or should I say, the remains of the samadhi?

Nanda-tanuja Dasa - March 6, 2007 6:48 pm

BTW, does anyone have a photo of Rupa Goswami's samadhi at the Radha Damodara temple? Or should I say, the remains of the samadhi?

I didn't take a picture of it for ethical reasons. Not sure if Rupa Goswami would have appreciated his resting place to be photographed in such condition. I could have been completely wrong though.

Good luck with your campaign!

Mayapurcandra Das - March 6, 2007 9:13 pm

Thanks for more photos, it is really nice to see our India Retreat in pics from different cameras, now we can see a little more from different points of view :blush:

Today, we added on the youtube.com one more film with GM It is short relation from kirtan (leading by Guru Maharaja) during the re-instalation of Srila Prabhupada Murti in Radha-Damodara Temple! It was recorded by Rama-Govinda dasa.

Vamsidhari Dasa - March 7, 2007 1:07 am

WOW!

Thank you for posting this. What an amazing event that was and to have a record of it is priceless.

Caitanya-daya Dd - March 8, 2007 4:13 pm

Okay, this is the last from me: http://web.mac.com/ca1tanya/iWeb/Site%202/...2007-Intro.html

Thanx again to everyone who posted such beautiful photos and video clips. All glories to Sri Vrindavan Dhama. All glories to Giri-Govardhana. All glories to Sri Sri Nitai-Gauranga. All glories to Guru Maharaja. All glories to Vaisnava Thakura. :-)

Prema-bhakti Marga - March 8, 2007 5:06 pm

Thanks CD. Great photos, quotes, and captions!

Jason - March 8, 2007 7:47 pm

Caitanya daya, that was great! thanks!

Philip Breakenridge - March 8, 2007 9:54 pm

Yes, those photos were so inspiring! A disciple of Narayana Maharaja had said to me, jokingly, that GM had the most attractive disciples, but he's right. You all are so glowing and effulgent. I'm so lucky to have your association. :blush:

Swami - March 9, 2007 1:00 pm

Radhanama dasa has donated $1000 plus for the dhama seva that has descended. $22,000 with $23,000 pending thus far. Initial goal $58,000. Jaya Damodara! Jaya Gaura! Jaya Radhe!

$500 from Jason; $1000 from Vamsidhari; $100 from Bhrigu! So that's $23,708 in the bank.

Vamsidhari Dasa - March 9, 2007 3:08 pm

So we have the down payment! Hopefully we will be able to gather the rest very soon. Jaya Sri Vrindavan Dham!

Syamasundara - March 9, 2007 6:57 pm

Yes, those photos were so inspiring! A disciple of Narayana Maharaja had said to me, jokingly, that GM had the most attractive disciples, but he's right. You all are so glowing and effulgent. I'm so lucky to have your association. :Big Grin:

I know!!! :Hug: :Peace:

Bhrigu - March 10, 2007 8:22 am

The 100 $ from me is actually not from me but from Tadiya. I'll try to send some money myself when my present financial predicament clears up.

Mayapurcandra Das - March 17, 2007 9:46 pm

two more short films from Retreat

Initiation&walking with Guru Maharaja in Braj

Syamasundara - March 18, 2007 1:41 am

So much emotion packed in 5 minutes... one more person has been accepted into Mahaprabhu's fold, and the import of that is unfathomable, it means a lot for the jiva, but also for Krsna, and Sri Guru is the one who made it possible.

Too bad the audio was hard to grasp, I missed most of the jokes, but I heard when GM said that the name means of course (Bala)Rama and Govinda.

When I received my name GM said Balarama llikes this name (or form?) very much, and I took note of that while bowing down; then again, it was Baladeva Purnima, but that's probably not a coincidence either...

Swami - April 2, 2007 12:18 am

For those who were with us at Ter Kadamaba you may remember the verses inscribed on the wall that I said were composed by Pujyapada Sridhara Maharaja when he stayed there years ago. Here they are transliterated (sans diacritics) and translated.

nandagramata srava yavat-pathe madhya-sthale sundare

terityaravya-kadambake-bhajana-pitho 'taiva rupa-prabhoh

purvvairatra ca nirmminam bahu-krtat kaksatrayam bhiksubhi-

rasmabhir hy adhunaiva marmmara-siladayair-bhusitam samskrtam

Midway between Sri Nandagram and Sri Yavat in Sri Vraja-mandala is a

beautiful place and there beneath a kadamba tree Srimad Rupa Prabhu resides

in his bhajan. At night-time he stayed here and wrote many compositions, and

certainly now we can feel his renunciation and the merciful character of his

heart that decorated him so perfectly.

kvaham manda-matis tv ativa-patitah kva tvam jagat-pavanah

bho svamin krpayaparadha-nicayo nunam tvaya ksamyatam

yace 'ham karuna-nidhe! varam imam padabja-mule bhavat-

sarvasvavadhi-radhika-dayita-dasanam gane ganyatam

Where am I, so lowly and fallen, and where are you, the great soul who

delivers the universe! Oh Lord, by your grace, you are sure to forgive my

offenses. Oh ocean of mercy, in the dust of your lotus feet I pray for just

this benediction: kindly make my life successful by recommending me for

admission into the group of Sri Varsabhanavi Dayita Dasa (Srila Saraswati

Thakura), who is the dearmost one in your heart.

lila-samgopa-kale nirupadhi-karuna-karina svaminaham

yat padabje 'rpito yat pada-bhajanamayam gayayitva tu gitam

yogyayogyatva-bhavam mama khalu sakalam dusta-buddher agrhnan

sa sri-rupah kada mam nija-pada-rajasa bhusitam samvidhatte

Just prior to the withdrawal of his manifest lila, my causelessly merciful

Divine Master, Srila Saraswati Thakura, handed me over to the holy feet of

that Divine Personality (Sri Rupa Goswami) by having me sing the glorious

prayer unto his lotus feet (Sri Rupa-manjari-pada, composed by Srila

Narottama Das Thakur). Despite my lowliness, when will - disregarding all my

various qualifications and disqualifications - Srimad Rupa Prabhu grace me

with the dust of his holy lotus feet?

Prema-bhakti Marga - April 3, 2007 3:58 pm

I was just reading this whole thread again and it was churning up so many memories. Ter Kadamba is so wonderful and being there with GM was so sweet. Now reading the translation of Srila Sridhara Maharaja's verses adds to the sweetest.

Dhiralalita - April 5, 2007 2:16 pm

Thank you so much for this translation.

This place, Ter Kadamba, will remain in my heart forever and this poem will help me deepen my understanding of its meaning.

Caitanya-daya Dd - April 6, 2007 2:51 pm

yes, thank you for the translation! Ter kadamba is so special. Who can forget Hrishikesh Baba and his slew of props? The snake skin?? haha And that green head scarf ... And the first time i've had sweet "rice" with potatoes in it

Dhiralalita - April 7, 2007 4:05 pm

yes, thank you for the translation! Ter kadamba is so special. Who can forget Hrishikesh Baba and his slew of props? The snake skin?? haha And that green head scarf ... And the first time i've had sweet "rice" with potatoes in it

:Thinking:

I cannot stop thinking of what you said. It is so true and that is the type of remarks Sripad Narasingha Swami would make (and this is a compliment). You have a sharp plume!

But this remark nonetheless disturb me because this excentric vaishnava who was looking after Ter Kadamba was doing a really good job. This was one of the most cultivated places we visited. I also feel that even so I was mystified by his questionable behavior, his antics did not deter from the mystical atmosphere of the place.

I needed to say something about that.

In your funny and super sharp analysis of the world would you please be careful of what and whom you joke about. This man is trying to serve Srila Rupa Goswami and what is our position?

I hope you understand what I am trying to say and this post does not take away the friendship and appreciation I feel for you.

Caitanya-daya Dd - April 7, 2007 5:28 pm

i think you misunderstood my "haha." I wasn't joking or poking fun of. I think Hrishikesh Baba is wonderful and v special. That was not the first time i had been to ter kadamba. I offer my obeisances and respect to him over and over again. He is so dedicated. And he is always good-natured and v happy. He always brings a smile to my face. That was the meaning behind my "haha."

Swami - April 26, 2007 3:43 pm

We have now registered Sri Caitanya Sanga as a Religious trust in India. The next step we need to take before buying the land is to get the Indian government to grant the Trust permission to accept foreign funds. This is in process. Haripradasa dasa is arranging the legal work for us. I have also spoken with Krsna Balarama Goswami (from Radha Damodara) and he is comfortable with the way in which everything is proceeding.

We also received $1200 from Hari-bhakti devi. So we have enough for the down payment, legal fees, and the cost of registering the property in the name of the Trust (just shy of $25,000). We now need to secure comitments for the monthly payments. If we put $20,000 down as planned, the payments at 9% amortized over 5 years will be $788.82 a month. Please let me know if you would like to make a monthly donation towards this. Hopefully we will be able to pay the balance off sooner.

Vivek - April 26, 2007 6:10 pm

Maharaja, although my income is almost non-existent I will make the commitment of $50 in a month, hopefully i can increase the amount once i graduate. I have to make a commitment which pinches for now.

Mayapurcandra Das - August 8, 2007 9:52 am

one more short video from Vrindavan- GM offering pranam mantras

Nanda-tanuja Dasa - September 7, 2007 9:57 pm

All of my pictures from retreat on Flickr now (in insane resolution):

http://www.flickr.com/photos/12462081@N06/...57601784727260/

Perfect for printing and million other things.

I think swami.org should have more pictures, a gallery would be great.

A picture is worth a thousand words!

Vivek - September 7, 2007 11:27 pm

thanks

Gaurangi-priya Devi - September 8, 2007 1:13 am

I think swami.org should have more pictures, a gallery would be great.
A picture is worth a thousand words!

I agree. I find it disappointing that there are no photos of the Deities in Audarya under the Deity section.

Syamasundara - September 8, 2007 5:16 am

I agree. I find it disappointing that there are no photos of the Deities in Audarya under the Deity section.

Yes!! I wanted to say that from day 1, but I figured it was a deliberate choice of style. Maybe it would freak somebody out?

Syamasundara - September 8, 2007 6:36 am

I just finished to watch them all. Quite a few. It was so nice to recognize almost all the alleys and places, I've only been there 4 times. Too bad there are no captions. For example, who is garlanding everybody at the airtport? And I remember that stiff deity of Mahaprabhu with his arms along his body was really special, at least to me, but I can't remember one thing about it. Anyone?

I liked the picture with a sea of cows, of all 4 colors (why are the grey ones not considered?), and the ones with Giri Maharaja. I was surprised not to see Radha Gokulananda and Gopisvara Mahadeva.

Next time in Vrndavana I am so going along.

Nanda-tanuja Dasa - September 8, 2007 4:50 pm

Hehe, Gopisvara Mahadeva is actually there buried under the pile of empty glass water bottles during Maha Shivratri festival.

Vrindaranya Dasi - September 8, 2007 8:15 pm

Yes!! I wanted to say that from day 1, but I figured it was a deliberate choice of style. Maybe it would freak somebody out?

Yes, it was Guru Maharaja's decision...it is always a balancing act between what is enlivening to the devotees and to a larger audience. Not to mention the variance of personal opinion.

Guru Maharaja wanted a certain look for the site and although it is a little subdued for my taste, it is true to what he asked for.

Vamsidhari Dasa - September 9, 2007 12:48 am

When I saw all these new post in Vrindavan Retreat section, my heart jumped :blink: for I thought maybe another retreat planning is in the way. But, alas, :Sick: it is not time yet and who knows how soon we will be able to return :Party: . I don't look at the pictures any more, because they make me sad :rolleyes: , but in one way or another I think of Vrindavan every day. Sometimes i even confuse Audarya with Vrindavan and use the names interchangeably :blush: , but then maybe there is no difference at all. :Party:

:Sick: :Sick: :P ;)

Kamalaksa Das - September 19, 2007 9:17 am

The days are growing shorter and rain replaces the sunny days of summer. With this change comes a sudden feeling of uneasiness. That feeling might have been there all the time, but only now that the pace of life is slowing down I take notice of it. Something seems to be missing.

The stage is standing but the actors are nowhere to be seen. Where are my friends I've come to know during so many retreats? What are they doing and are they happy? And when will I meet them again?

Some possible encounter in a still distant future gives little solace when faced with a long cold winter of separation from the group united by common experience. In times like these I resort to the memories collected though the lens of my camera. Small glimpses into moments that meant much to me. A peak into how we shared something special during our two weeks in Vrindavana.

For I vividly remember the voice of Mayapurchandra when he announced that the toilet was once again working. "One has to be very determined" in an unmistakable Polish accent. Or how Chaitanya daya lead the parikrama around Vrindavana in her distinct style. Slightly impatient by nature, but sounding a disarming laughter the next moment. And the early morning hours in the kitchen with Apurva with a form of discipline I only learned to know during my days in the army. Or the cold showers in the early morning hours followed by cold rain. Dressed up in everything one could find plus the chaddar wrapping up the package. Mittens and woollen socks came useful.

Not to forget all the places Guru Maharaja took us to. Short talks in the courtyards of various temples. Hearing his stories about the early days in while sitting in front of Prabhupada's murti in the Krishna Balarama temple. Not to mention the return of Srila Prabhupada to his quarters in Radha Damodara.

Or my personal favorite being the tomb of books so high in their contents that it had to buried in concrete to be resurrected some day. But I won't babble on, rather I let the images speak. I hope their enlivening effect on you is the same as on me.

Kamalaksa Das - September 19, 2007 9:18 am

Our multicultural group

Vrindakunja becme the shelter for all of us. We had traveled far, some even further than others. And we came from all over the globe. The States, Poland, Sweden, Holland, England, Finland and India. Might have been other places too, but I lost count. The important thing anyway is not where we came from, but where we came to.

We did not come as empty slates, without personality. We all had our own style, our own ways and quirks. Yet we soon found a common tune to dance to. (Granted, in the beginning this might have taken some diplomacy and putting aside one's own preconceived notions of how things should work...)

What I found wonderful about our stay, is how so different persons, learned to work together, respect each other, and find new friends among each other. Everyone has their own stumbling blocks and idiosyncrasies, but I feel that we are a group strong enough to be able to give place for individuality. Ours is a nice group, and I pray we can keep up the spirit.

Kamalaksa Das - September 19, 2007 9:20 am

The scribes

Most songs in the mangala-arati were familiar to us. Yet there was one song by Bhaktivinode, Kali kukkura kadan, which we didn't have the texts for. In order to be able to follow the ceremony all the way we decided to have the lyric sheet xeroxed from one of the temple's songbooks.

Yet when our messenger reached the copy shop no xeroxes were to be delivered. So we sent another messenger. And another. And another. Yet the answer from the shopkeeper was blunt: no copies would be made in his shop.

The reason remained unclear, yet it was suspected that the man had felt offended by Gurunishta, who had left him a tip some days earlier on. Go figure.

So during a power-out we gathered a group to copy the lyrics by hand. Gurunistha, Krishangi, Patryk and Rama-Govinda, our scribes who meticulously copy the sacred texts in the meager light supplied from the flash lights. (Granted, candles would have been even more romantic, but then again it is the 21st century.)

Kamalaksa Das - September 19, 2007 9:21 am

The vault

There was something distinctively Indiana Jonesish about it. The narrow crooked staircase, which ended in a small room with a low ceiling. A space meant for one or two persons suddenly packed with around twenty eager pilgrims.

I was fighting back the ever so slight claustrophobic panic, while my mind bombarded me with images from submarine movies of people trapped in cramped spaces deep beneath the seas.

But the story told soon put the mind at ease. The cow that every day bathed the hill with milk. And how Rupa Goswami taking this as a sign discovered the place we now crowded. The wonder of worship taking place in such an odd place.

A small adventure - and what a passionate relief to breathe the cool fresh air when rising to the ground.

Kamalaksa Das - September 19, 2007 9:22 am

The headless Swami

What made quite an impact on at least me, was seeing all the places where the lilas took place. From being more or less either theoretical, or even to some extent mythical, they suddenly came to life. To be able to see the places in proper light will take lifetimes for me, but I am on the road.

Guru Maharaja offering his respects to the remains of the tree at Nityananda Vat.

Kamalaksa Das - September 19, 2007 9:24 am

Grantha samadhi

The group listening with rapt attention with the sun slowly setting in the background. This was for me one of the more fascinating places. The story of books, filled with topics so high that the world wasn't ready for them, buried in a tomb, awaiting possible future resurection. Or just sitting there, as emergency back-up copies. The imagination running wild.

Let others scorn us for living in worlds of myths and stories. For in the end they have no one to blame save for themselves for their dry meaningless lives. We will rather embrace the vision of the Goswamis.

How magical is not reality for a vaisnava?

Kamalaksa Das - September 19, 2007 9:25 am

Transcendental lotus toes

Taken from our doorway. Guru Maharaja immersed in the Bhagavatam while wiggling his toes.

A intimate snapshot. Reason enough in itself for the long journey we made.

Kamalaksa Das - September 19, 2007 9:27 am

Kamalaksa and Krishangi in India. After so many years. Irrefutable proof. (With the picture is sligtly out of focus, as Caitanya-daya insisted on that she very well knew how the camera functioned. A lovely but very stubborn girl I learned to love. For how can you not love someone who after learning of my passion for design held a twenty-minute impassioned speech on the many reasons why she hates graphic design.)

Kamalaksa Das - September 19, 2007 9:28 am

Drop-outs?

Patience is a virtue. And comes in handy at many times, when dealing with begginners such as us. Here Guru Maharaja in the midst of once again delivering the siddhanta of the jiva's supposed fall. Which was to be a reoccuring topic.

But the logic was irrefutable. The nitya-siddha, the sadhana-siddha, the kripa-sidha - which one of them falls? And are we willing to accept that those who have reached perfection before us might fall back? And what about the statements of the Bhagavad-Gita? And the fact that only one Gaudiya Vaisnava group teaches that the siddha could become badha?

And even if not everyone in the audience was convinced, I know the great majority found full satisfaction with the perfect answers.

Kamalaksa Das - September 19, 2007 9:29 am

Like a small boy

At the gates of the upcoming temple. The enthusiasm of one person clearly visible. No, I think a better way to describe it was that enthusiasm was radiating. And I fear that everyone of us who came within any close proximity to Guru Maharaja were infected. Geiger meters going off-scale.

The thought of buying land in India came for many of us as a surprise. But the real surprise was the pace events took. Suddenly papers were being signed, loans applied for, plans drawn, sages consulted. When a pure devotee wants to get something done all mountainlike obstacles are reduced to nothing but fine sand. With a little help from Radharani.

The temple project was like a wave of inspiration that washed over all uf us; from being something no one even thought of, it suddenly was top priority for everyone. A temple for our group in Vrindavana? Of course! It seemed so self-evident that one wonders why no one came up with the idea earlier.

It took Alexander the Great.

Kamalaksa Das - September 19, 2007 9:34 am

Awaiting lunch

Small moments together as by accident. A group uf us gathered by the entrance to the temple room, not yet allowed in for one reason or another. Learning to know new friends. Lots of joking and laughing. Stories shared, like the one Nandatanuja told about his escape from military service back in Mother Russia. It cost his family a fortune, but then again their son still lives. Or how Madhukari told us how she tricked her family about a trip to Wales. Yet curiously ending up in Vrindavana. And so many more. Not exactly Krishna katha, but a welcome diversion for us who still very much are at the beginning of our path.

So many different backgrounds, and even more personalities. Uniting under one flag. Wasn't it Prabhupada who said vaisnavism was spiritual communism?

Kamalaksa Das - September 19, 2007 9:36 am

Animal kingdom

Moving through the streets of Vrindavana, sharing the narrow road with dogs and hogs, cows and monkeys. Going from one temple to another, and then yet another. The ever present shouts "Radhe! Radhe!" when rikshas speed past you, many times too close for comfort. Yet somehow miraculously avoiding collsions.

It is interesting to notice how it felt natural to be a devotee in this village. I mean to say as a contrast to the constant feeling of beeing in the opposition in the West, be it America or Europe. One is able to drop the defenssive shields, and breathe freely, without the fear of being marginalised for the sake of ones customs or thoughts.

Kamalaksa Das - September 19, 2007 9:37 am

The Carriers

The monistics claim that the absolute is static, devoid of attributes. But we as vaisnavas disagree, stating that ultimate reality is ever in motion.

Kamalaksa Das - September 19, 2007 10:42 am

The Holy Cow

What many westerners state to be a fault of the hindu worldview, worshipping the cow while people go without food, has to be one of the most preposterous tools of propaganda.

The cow gives everything and ask little in return, and that very creature should then be slaughtered. Western civilization, indeed.

While I readily confess of having some difficulty coping with many Indian idiosyncrasies, the kindness towards other living entities is sometheing I admire.

Kamalaksa Das - September 19, 2007 10:44 am

Dhanudhara Swami speaks at Ter Kadamba

I remember attending a Dhanudhara Swami's talk in downtown Philaelphia in the early 90's. I have long forgotten the exact topic of the talk, but I recall the athmosphere, and how Dhanudhara was quite inspiring. He lacked the aura of being too big to approach that I had come to associate with sannyasis. And he led an incredible kirtan, of which I still have some old pictures tucked away somewhere.

Seeing him again in Vrindavana was for me a somewhat ambivalent experience. I, like so many others, had heard only the one and official side of his story. Which as we know, really wasn't that flattering to him.

And while the topic had been discussed on Tattva-viveka, I must confess I was a bit vary when I heard he would be joining us. I accept this as a fault from my side, but the western sceptic in me is not giving up without a fight. "How do you know what really happened?" my mind demanded. And continuing "it is always best to suspect the worst!"

But seeing your example I strived to silence my mind, seeking to accept him as a advanced vaisnava. Knowing well, that that is not an estimation I myself am capable of doing.

Is there anything that I can say I learned from this? At least it once again confirmed that my only hope is, and will be the guidance of those advanced on the path of bhakti, for my mind and senses will lead me the wrong way. Stubbornly insisting on seeing gold as something unworthy, and rubbish as something of value.

Kamalaksa Das - September 19, 2007 10:49 am

Descending the stairs

In my eyes there is something distinctly 1970's-ish about this picture. A kind of resemblance to old pictures when Prabhupada went on walks with his disciples. The innocent smiles, the warmth one can sense. A group of friends touring the holy places under your shelter. Such a priviledge to be a part of it.

Kamalaksa Das - September 19, 2007 10:51 am

Arati

What really made a huge impact on me was the wide range of visual stimuli India presented a newcomer with. Everything from the loud graphics on the trucks speeding on the highways, asking for horn, to the more subtle compositions found in many temples.

The green on the wall, the old wooden door. The checkered floor. The light from the ghee lamp. The deities' dress with its intricate embroidery. And this was only what was catered for the eyes. Then add the sounds, the smell...

Accustomed to a more subdued surroundings, India hit me like a sensual tsunami. The strong colors, the way the different elements were juxtaposed, many times, it seemed, quite indiscriminately. And always with Krishna in the middle.

Kamalaksa Das - September 19, 2007 10:53 am

Patience

Stopping at yet another temple, Guru Maharaja, surrounded by disciples and friends, once again explains the tattva and the rasa of Gaudiya Vaisnavism. Patiently answering questions that he probably has answered many times before, making sure that the audience is clear on where we stand. Sambandha-jnana is the foundation, and most of us are still only beginning construction.

Without a trace of forced humility, I can honestly say, that deprived of Guru Maharaja's guidance the whole of Vrindavana would have presented quite another face. While many others in the group were something of India lovers, I never quite fit into that category. For me, Vrindavana would certainly have seemed like a chaotic and dirty place, which was poorly managed. I would of course have gone through the motions, even without Guru Maharaja present. Going to the different temples, bowing down at the right places. The body would have been present, but the mind elsewhere.

But to really experience Vrindava beyond the surface it takes the guidance of a great soul. Only a saddhu can really show you the dhama. Of this there is no question!

Kamalaksa Das - September 19, 2007 10:55 am

The astute student

It is still a bit chilly in the morning, and the woolen chadars came in handy. Swept in her own Krishangi listening intently to the talk narrating Mahaprabhu's journey to Vrindavana. Her diary filling with notes from these talks. Will a book emerge from this? Time will tell.

Kamalaksa Das - September 19, 2007 10:56 am

The blueprint

At times life moves like someone had pressed the fast forward button. This was at least my impression when the decision to buy a piece of land in Vrindavana. Suddenly negotiations ended, down payments where planned, blueprints handed over, and deals sealed. All while most of us just stood by amazed at what just happened.

Gaurashakti and Krishangi studying the proposed blueprints for a temple, Guru Maharaja explaining how the deities would live on the top floor. Something unique even in Vrindavana.

Kamalaksa Das - September 19, 2007 11:01 am

Less cars – more carts

Coming from a society where cars dominate the landscape there is a certain romanticism involved when being passed by a cart pulled by a mule. Another thing that didn't cease to amuse me was how much goods and people one can pack on any given vehiecle in India. A motorcycle for instance is a perfectly suitable mode of transport for whole families.

Kamalaksa Das - September 19, 2007 11:02 am

Two saddhus

I recall having heard that Prabhupada once complained that his only problem was not having anyone to talk with. Wheather this story is true or not, it brings me great happiness to know that you have at least someone to talk to about issues that go far beyond the grasp of us neophytes.

Being asked to join you in the room was a real priviledge for all uf us there. And while I cannot say I understood everything, I could sense that there was a genuine friendship and mutual respect in between the two of you.

Kamalaksa Das - September 19, 2007 11:06 am

Lazy days

A slow-paced day, even the riksha driver were taking it easy. The clear-cut distinction between private and public we are accustomed to had not yet reached India. A bed by the side of a trafficed road? Why not!

Kamalaksa Das - September 19, 2007 11:10 am

At home

Prabhupada is back in his room, carried there by two of his disciples who went their own way. Refusing to follow mere form, seeking the spritual current where it was alive. Even when this meant breaking group conformity, leaving for an unknown future. A honest life is most certainly not always an easy one, but in the end the most rewarding.

And the fact that these two were the disciples who were elected to take Prabhupada back to his room is no coincidence.

Kamalaksa Das - September 19, 2007 11:15 am

Kirtan for Bhaktisiddhanta

The feeling of being connected to a long line of illustrious teachers is a comforting one. But also one not to be made use of improperly. When standing on the shoulders of giants, one easily construes oneself to be bigger than one is. When the real power comes from sources well beyond those of our own. Confusing the power of the parampara with one's own is a dangerous mistake.

Being connected to the parampara is a valuable gift, but simultaneously it comes with a great responsibility. A responsibility not to be taken lightly.

We have a valuable heritage, not merely to keep for ourselves, but to pass on to upcoming generations of devotees. Thus when we act, we not only represent ourselves, but the whole parampara.

Claris obligamur exemplis!

Kamalaksa Das - September 19, 2007 11:16 am

The landmark

If there was one thing that for me came to symbolize Vrindavana in terms of architecture, it would have to be the Madan Mohan temple. Its distinct feature dominates the Vrindavana skyline, offering a view over the dhama.

In the shadows, the ever vigilant monkees scout for any poor soul who might forget his or her sandals. Better keep some fruits for ransom.

Kamalaksa Das - September 19, 2007 11:21 am

Beautiful locals

While walking the streets we are passed by strikingly elegant ladies, carrying their at times heavy loads with grace. A natural sense of colors and composition seems to be inherent for the women. Something not always as evident among the local men...

Kamalaksa Das - September 19, 2007 11:24 am

Bhrigu in the picture

One of the few pictoral evidences of Bhrigu's presence in the dhama, before unfortunate events sent him back to Finland. Many a cold morning we remembered him, not always so warmly, when being swept in piles of blankets while chanting. This, because it was originally Bhrigu who had the dates for the retreat.

Still, having Bhrigu leave was truly unfortunate. He was a superb guide, able to show us the places and illuminate them with his narrations. But, if fate will have it, we will be back another day, this time with Bhrigu along us for the whole duration.

Kamalaksa Das - September 19, 2007 11:25 am

On Krishna-lila

Ter Kadambha Baba showed us what true vaisnava hospitality means. Sharing prasadam with the devotees and showing us the beutiful surroundings, stopping to narrate the lilas that took place at his residence.

Here dressed in his quite eccentric gopi-shawl.

Kamalaksa Das - September 19, 2007 11:27 am

In saffron

Gurunishta and Dhanudhara Swami side by side, listening to the talk, front row seats.

Kamalaksa Das - September 19, 2007 11:28 am

"A strong man like you"

If the opportunity of being part of Prabhupada's return to his room in Radha Damodara in itself wouldn't have been enough more was in store. For a day or two prior to the event Guru Maharaja asked me off the cuff if I would like to help him carry Prabhupadas murti.

"I would need a strong man like you to help me" were the exact words if I remember correctly. (Has to be the first time ever someone has called me strong.) I was both flabbergasted by the proposal, as well as feeling proud of having been chosen to assist Guru Maharaja. Especially since I always held Prabhupada's accievements in highest regard in my own life, holding him as my guiding star when making my own humble attempts at spreading the teachings of Mahaprabhu.

And even if Nrishingha Maharaja in the end took my place, it was a great honor to having been nominated for a task of this magnitude. (And I readily admit that Maharaja was a way better choice than I would ever have been. Plus it freed me to run around with my camera.)

Kamalaksa Das - September 19, 2007 11:30 am

Sadhu in sneakers.

A darshan at Prema Sarovara. Could easily be any elderly Indian lady, stick in hand and all, paying her respects to the pond of tears. But the sneakers betray her. A Finn far away from home, yet in reality closer than ever before.

Kamalaksa Das - September 19, 2007 11:32 am

Walking home from Radha Damodara

A bitter sweet picture. On one hand the joy of being in the company of our own Guru Maharaja. But simultaneously painfully aware of the fact that today is the day of goodbyes.

Madhukari and Mayapurchandra reset their pace to keep up with Gurmaharaja and Gurunistha.

Kamalaksa Das - September 19, 2007 11:33 am

Leaving the dhama

Saturday morning. We had just returned from Radha-Damodara. Many had already packed their bags. Others were still stuffing their backpacks and suitcases with new saris and dhoties. Last addresses were exchanged, as were hugs. A bittersweet moment. How long would it take before we would meet again? And where would that be?

Guru Maharaja calmly standing in the doorway, while others rushed around the place with their last minute duties.

Gaurangi-priya Devi - September 19, 2007 4:06 pm

This was so incredibly beautiful and touching. I think that this should be your next book. :ninja: The photos are amazing, as well as the memories and realizations.

Kamalaksa Das - September 19, 2007 5:13 pm

The little book of bhakti-yoga

As an added bonus from the vaults of Kamalaksa: tha small book that probably made me the most shunned person on the templegrounds. It had to be filled daily with the names of those destined for kitchen service. A task not always sought after by everyone, as it many times meant missing out on classes and/or trips to different exciting places. But on the other hand, no one relished the prospect of going without food.

Towards the end I got the feeling that people were afraid to meet my greetings out of fear of having their name written in the pages of the book. To keep things in balance I myself tried to report for kitchen duty as often as the others. No having the officers dodging active duty here it seems....

But I hope the book didn't cause any permanent damage, and if it did, my apologies. Maybe looking at it now with enough time in between the events can cause a slight warm feeling inside those mentioned in the pages.

Syamasundara - September 19, 2007 6:10 pm

For months I'd been waiting for the impressions of Kamalaksa, the one who is not into India.

I still have a hard time recognizing everybody, but the first, group picture was great. Krsna willing, I'll be one of you in the next retreat.

What you say is true, so many different backgrounds and styles, yet everything gets harmonized. I've witnessed that at Audarya, too. It's not that people think consciously: "We are so different, but we have to work together and in harmony because we are all glued by the cement of guruseva." No, it just happens naturally. I've seen less spacing out and less idiosyncrasies in our group than in other places, then again, it's easier for us, we are all following the same acarya.

By the way...

"So many different backgrounds, and even more personalities. Uniting under one flag. Wasn't it Prabhupada who said vaisnavism was spiritual communism?"

A FLAG! I think it's a great idea. In one way a flag is a very material thing, that fosters a certain deletery mentality, and we may not be as lucky as Jaya and Vijaya. At the same time, we LIVE in the world of distinctions, separation, etc. A flag can also be an uddipana vibhava, like the cakra on Jagannatha's temple, it can mean: "Here there is no politics" or "Here they don't obsess so much on each and everyone's gender and/or sexual orientation" "Here Sridhara Maharaja is highly regarded" "Here the prasada is great" You get the point.

After all, we already have the white bead bags, the audarya style danda, the brahmacarini attire, a flag would be in order in my opinion.

Kamalaksa Das - September 19, 2007 7:23 pm

The march

Thank you for your kind comments. Still a few pictures worth sharing. (I took around three hundred, so I'm letting you of the hook quite easily...)

The first from the fields around Ter Kadamba. The green scenery was a welcome change from the otherwise somewhat dusty environment. Led by Dhira Lalita we walked on a narrow path in between the crops. The day had begun early, and some of us were both tired and hungry at this point.

But this need was catered too in the best possible manner, as we were served an ekadasi version of sweet rice (sweet potatoes that is) prepared by the Baba himself, as well as Laksmi's superb samosas. Of which I think I had five or so. You can never go wrong with deep-frying regardless of what Jananivas will have you believe.

In the picture the sky is still overcast, but once we reached Ter Kadamba the sun began revealing itself, showing the place in the best possible light. Another thing that made Ter Kadamba special for Krishangi and me was that we had an easier time relating to the atmosphere there.

What I mean to say by this is that it seemed that much of what was considered holy in India directly correlated to the amount of decibels it produced. Thus we soon came to know the early morning tape recordings that sounded across town. This was in stark contrast to how we have been brought up to understand the holy in our Scandinavian culture.

For us holy is a peaceful place, be it a church or the woods, where your mind is at ease. Thus the collision between two worlds felt harsh to say the least. And even when acknowledging that it is just our culture influencing us it was at times hard for me to relate to all the (in my perception) noise.

Ter Kadamba provided a much needed diversion from this. It was a calm place, with no excessive sounds, save for those generated by nature itself.

Syamasundara - September 19, 2007 7:44 pm

What's the problem with sharing 300 pics? :ninja:

Kamalaksa Das - September 22, 2007 6:47 pm

Er... its slightly more than the threehundred I mentioned earlier. This dawned on me when I opened the folder and took a look at the number of files in it. The exact count is sevenhundredseventyseven. And yes, there is a problem with sharing this amount of pictures. But the large part of those are just either variations of a theme or just plain bad pictures with very limited appeal to anyone. Still, there are a few more that I can see some value in sharing with you, beginning with these two:

Gurunistha presumably receiving dietary instructions for the upcoming kartika consisting mainly of bitter melon and ladyfingers in water. Most likely recomended by Bhrigu based on some lesser known sastra.

The joy of saranagati clearly visible in the body language of our favorite monk.

Kamalaksa Das - September 22, 2007 6:49 pm

The honeybee

And then serious for a while again. The devotee formerly known as Monisha receives her new name Madhukari during her vacation in Wales. During the ceremony also Rafal shed his former name, adopting the new one, Rama Govinda. Both new recruits sat seriously and listened to the talk prior to their initiation, but we got to see some genuine smiles too.

But back to Madhukari: please let us know whether or not your parents found out that your school trip to Wales took an unexpected turn. Or what euphemism would you yourself find appropriate for a 4500 mile detour? (Or are you presently being grounded for life?)

Vrindaranya Dasi - September 23, 2007 4:03 pm

This was fabulous, Kamalaksa. Thanks so much for taking the time to do it!