Tattva-viveka
Winter retreat in Vrindavan!
Swami - July 28, 2006 7:33 pm
We will be holding our annual Winter Finnish Retreat in Vrindavana during the first two weeks of February 2007. All are invited. The retreat will be held at Vrinda Kunja, the beutiful temple and ashrama of Sripad Pramadvaiti Maharaja. Maharaja has arrnaged an newly constructed house with 23 beds directly behind the temple but within the walls of Vrinda Kunja for our residence. Details to follow, but start planning now!
Apurva/Kamalini?
Rafal Bulawicki - July 28, 2006 10:07 pm
Jay Govinda !!!
This is great news for us devotes from Poland.We will be prayer about going there.
I have never been in India ,this is really oportunity to go there during when Guru Maharaj will be there.
I always was afraid to go there alone 
but not just for me but for many devotes this is good time to see and understand holy places by heart Guru Maharaj.
Jay retreat in Vrindavan!!!
Jay Guru Maharaj !!!
Nanda-tanuja Dasa - July 28, 2006 10:56 pm
Vrinda Kunja
Bijaya Kumara Das - July 29, 2006 2:33 am
It is a very nice place and all will be fully satisfied who go.
Sripad Pramadvaiti Maharaja is a very generous host and the prashadam is from heaven and the kirtans are like being directly with Chaitanya Mahaprabhu's party.
Shyam Gopal Das - July 29, 2006 9:03 am
It is a nice place for sure!
If all goes well, I'll be there.
Jananivasdas - July 30, 2006 4:04 pm
is kamalaksha going to india??? oh my....
Bhrigu - July 30, 2006 5:52 pm
I'm going, Jananivasa. Are you coming? I'm sure that you would love Vrindakunja.
Jananivasdas - August 6, 2006 8:02 pm
i think i will go there when im old and dont get diarrea!!! 
Mathura-natha Das - August 7, 2006 9:37 am
So, how many of you are planning to go? Could you just post a note if you are planning to go or not. For myself, it seems that I will go! There´s a lot of movement going on in my life right now, so I just have to know certain things before I really know anything at all...
Guru-nistha Das - August 7, 2006 4:39 pm
I'm going! I'M GOING!!
Shyam Gopal Das - August 7, 2006 8:52 pm
I'm going and that's for sure! Even if I had to quit my job or eat kicari all winter.
Vrindaranya Dasi - August 7, 2006 10:58 pm
I'm going!
Kamalaksa Das - August 11, 2006 5:07 pm
We wish to formally announce our attendance at the aforementioned festivities held on the sacred ground of Bharat-varsa. We eagerly await this auspicious event and beg for the blessings of all assembled devotees that our trip will meet with success.
Krishangi dasi & Kamalaksa das
Babhru Das - August 11, 2006 7:53 pm
I'm working on it . . .
Eija - August 12, 2006 8:37 pm
i really don't know yet...:-(
Bijaya Kumara Das - August 13, 2006 5:00 pm
It sounds like the cows will be alone if every one is going so maybe the family and I can watch the cows and the temple.
We would love to go but four tickets might hurt the budget .
We have Guru Maharajas' association which is like you are there with him and with the internet we have a direct link at all times.
Mathura-natha Das - August 14, 2006 6:19 am
Ok, since this will be my first trip to India I have to admitt i´m really both excited and nervous. One thing I would like to know is if I could join somebody so that we land aproximately at the same time in India. Because I don´t want to start my stay all by myself, not knowing wether to turn left or right. It´s allways more fun to get lost when you are with somebody else! 
Bhrigu - August 14, 2006 6:48 am
if I could join somebody so that we land aproximately at the same time in India.
Perhaps we should post our arrival times as we learn them for this reason. I will arrive in Delhi at 7.40pm on the 3rd of February and plan to head straight for Vrindavan by taxi, probably getting there by midnight.
Shyam Gopal Das - August 14, 2006 4:06 pm
I'm in the process of booking, so I'll let you know. I'll probably land the 3th as well, but no definite time yet.
What I'm a bit surprised by is the lack of responses by devotees outside of Europe in this thread. I'd love to see all of you in Vrindavana.
Jason - August 14, 2006 4:35 pm
I have a couple questions? Are there guest rooms for couples or is that a no, no....and what if a person really wanted to go, but because of their school schedule, they may only be able to go for a week...10 days tops? Would that be feasible?
I have trouble getting to Audarya and have worn a dhoti once, but I'm entertaining the idea of India, how funny....
-Jason
Bhrigu - August 14, 2006 4:53 pm
I have a couple questions? Are there guest rooms for couples or is that a no, no....
I haven't seen this house (I guess nobody of us has since it is brand new), but I would be very surprised if that wasn't possible. In most places, they'll have rooms for two-three persons.
and what if a person really wanted to go, but because of their school schedule, they may only be able to go for a week...10 days tops? Would that be feasible?
Why not? I would personally think a week to be a rather short time if you're going to travel all around the world, but ten days already sounds much better. Vrindavana is a very special place, and even a short visit there can be extremely beneficial.
Kamalaksa Das - August 14, 2006 7:51 pm
We will arrive to Delhi at midnight in between the 2nd and 3rd and we will either stay there for the night, or alternatively take a cab to Vrindavan. For those interested, we will be flying directly from Helsinki to Delhi with Finnair. So at least Mathuranatha might want to look in to this possibility. It might be marginally more expensive, but then again the flight time is only around 6 hours all in all.
And our departing flight leaves from Delhi on Saturday 17th at two in the morning.
And while I'm more or less taken to India kicking and screaming, I am sure it will be an experience worth remembering for all future.
Awaiting all of your company!
Syamasundara - August 15, 2006 8:21 am
Anybody want to buy me a ticket?
Nanda-tanuja Dasa - August 15, 2006 9:31 pm
hehe, and one for me, please
Mathura-natha Das - August 23, 2006 6:01 am
So now I have done my booking! I will land at 23:30 the 2 of february so I think that I will kling myself onto Kamalaksa and Krishangi! My flight back goes on the 17th at 01:30.
Swami - August 23, 2006 10:53 pm
As for free tickets, we need to take up a collection for our cook, Apurva dasa. He will need a ticket in order to participate. For those of you who do not know who Apurva is, he is my dear Godbrother and an excellent cook with many years of experience. We served together for many years in Iskcon. Apurva is also Gaurangi-priya's father, and he ahs agreed to head up the cooking for the entire retreat.
We could try to build his ticket expense into the overall festival fee. Room an meals will be about $15/day, not including Apurva's ticket, which will be about $1350. So far we have about 17 devotees who say they plan to attend. Here is the present list of attendees.
1. Swami
2. Gurunistha
3. Vrindaranya
4. Apurva
5. Kamalini
6. Hari-bhakti
7. Dhira-lalita
8. Vamsidhari
9. Caitanya-daya
10. Gaura Krsna
11. Kamalaksa
12. Krsnagi
13 Syama Gopala
14. Mathuranatha
15. Tadiya
16. Rafal
17. Maciek
Anyone else?
Manohari Dasi - August 23, 2006 11:07 pm
I'm going. Gaura Sakti also is going. I have posted the question on Saragrahi. So far no answers yet.
Swami - August 23, 2006 11:19 pm
I'm going. Gaura Sakti also is going. I have posted the question on Saragrahi. So far no answers yet.
Very good! Note that the room and meals price should be less that $15/day, rooms especially. Perhaps more like $2.00/day (Rs 100) for rooms. We are looking into this and should have something definitive shortly.
Bhrigu - August 24, 2006 6:18 am
Anyone else?
I'm also going.
Maciek Zolkiewski - August 24, 2006 7:08 am
17. Maciek
I'm very sorry, unfortunatly, it's not sure that I'll go.
I've had an opportunity to earn money in england for that journey. Today, many polish people goes abroad looking after work, and a lot of this job offers are simply frauds. That job offer wasn't so clear, so I was just cautious. 
I was so happy for that journey to Vrindavan and just applied too early.
But, if I will be able to earn enough money to February, I surely join.
When is the last moment that we should apply?
Radhanama Dasa - August 24, 2006 6:52 pm
As for free tickets, we need to take up a collection for our cook, Apurva dasa.
Guru Maharaja, I sent in something to help with getting Apurva to India, not very much unfortunately but I hope it helps.
Nanda-tanuja Dasa - August 24, 2006 7:34 pm
I'm going!!!!!!!
Shyam Gopal Das - August 24, 2006 7:50 pm
Since Guru Maharaj is heavily engaged at Audarya, I've taken the task upon me to act as a contact person for questions related to coordination/travel/etc. So please get in touch with me if you need to know anything related to the practicalities. In this way, we don't need to burden Guru Maharaj with organizational details.
Also, I know some of you have been or are hardtimers in Vrindavana, if you have some tips, please post them here or get in touch with me. I'll try and see if I can compile a checklist smth before everybody flies out to the holy dham.
1. Swami
2. Gurunistha
3. Vrindaranya
4. Apurva
5. Kamalini
6. Hari-bhakti
7. Dhira-lalita
8. Vamsidhari
9. Caitanya-daya
10. Gaura Krsna
11. Kamalaksa
12. Krsnagi
13 Syama Gopala
14. Mathuranatha
15. Tadiya
16. Rafal
17. Bhrigu
18. Nanda Tanuja
19. Manohari
20. Gaura Sakti
Bhrigu - August 25, 2006 1:25 pm
I found some good info at ISKCON Vrindavan's home page, some of which I am posting here with comments.
Behaviour in the Dham
Dhama Aparadha
1. To have contempt or disrespect towards the guru who is the revealer of the holy dhama.
2. To think that the holy dhama is temporary.
3. To commit violence towards any of the residents of the holy dhama, or to any of the pilgrims who come there, or to think that they are ordinary mundane people.
4. To perform mundane activities while living in the holy dhama.
5. Earning money by and making a business of Diety worship and chanting the holy name.
6. To think that the holy dhama belongs to some mundane country or province such as U.P., or to think that the dhama of the Lord is equal to a holy place connected with some demigod, or to attempt to measure the area of the dhama.
7. To commit sinful acts while in the dhama.
8. To consider Vrindavan and Navadvip as different from each other.
9. To blaspheme the sastras which glorify the holy dhama.
10. To be faithless and to think that the glories of the dhama are imaginary.
In the sacred land of Vrindavan , the results of all devotional activities performed here are magnified one thousand times. Therefore, one can make rapid advancement if one lives offenselessly in the holy dhama. If however, one does commit offences, they are also magnified one thousand times; therefore, one is advised to carefully avoid committing any offenses in Vrindavan dhama.
Etiquette to be observed in Sri Vrindavan Dhama
Rickshaws
Always fix the fare in advance. Never fight with the rickshaw driver. In case of dispute get help from a local devotee. Never drive the rickshaw yourself. Devotees in saffron cloth must never ride with a lady. Ladies should never ride alone after dark.
Eating
Do not eat on the public street or sit at the tea stalls outside. It is not only dangerous to your health but also creates a bad public image. If you have to purchase anything to drink or eat from outside, bring them back to the Temple campus or to your room. Ladies, especially, should not under any condition sit at the tea stalls.
Temples
Photography is prohibited in many temples in Vraja. Always inquire first as indignant caretakers are known to break cameras. It is best not to wear shoes when visiting temples or doing parikramas.
Do not carry your shoes in a bag into any temple of the Lord. Many temples do not even permit wearing socks in the temple. Carry small coins to give as donations. Beware of touts, pickpockets, and so called “guides.” If you are harassed by aggressive “pandas” it is best to either ignore them or give a small donation and move on. Do not get into an argument with them.
I disagree with the "small coins" above. From an Indian perspective, we are all rich, and we should behave accordingly. Imagine Donald Trump visiting Audarya, being super enthusiastic, speaking about how he is a Gaudiya and has given his life to Mahaprabhu, and then leaving a couple of quarters as a donation. Temples in Vrindavana are dependent on the donations they get (very few have any other means of income). One should give at least 20 rs to every temple visited, according to Mahanidhi Swami, and one may well give more, at least the first time we visit them. Rich Indians may give up to 1000 rs to a favourite temple. Giving donations in temples is also a great way to earn goodwill, special mahaprasadam, etc. Coins should be given to beggars.
Dress codeLadies should wear sari and have their head and bodies, including bellies covered at all times. They should wear sufficient and thick clothing while bathing in the Yamuna or in any kunda. Men should wear neat and clean dhotis and kurtas.
"Thick clothing" means full clothing, i.e., no bathing suits.
Rooms
Use your own locks on your room door. Do not bring foodstuffs into your room as this may attract insects especially ants. Spare some time daily to clean your room. You will find it easier to keep healthy. Be mindful of where you keep your room key as the receptionist may not have a spare one.
Moral Code & Behaviour
To preserve and protect the reputation and image of the Temple, and of our Movement, we humbly request men and women not to loosely associate with each other. Illicit relations should be strictly avoided. It is very offensive in the Dham. We also particularly request ladies to not freely mix with local men. Remember, you are representing Srila Prabhupada.
Intoxicants
Beware of people (including so-called devotees) peddling and consuming intoxicants, especially drugs. Not only is it spiritually very damaging to deal with drugs in any way, it also has severe legal consequences, including imprisonment, fine and blacklisting from visiting India again.
Safety Tips
1. Do not allow strangers in your room.
2. Always keep your room locked and insist on using your own locks.
3. Keep your passport, money, flight tickets, jewelry and other valuables in a safe place. Lockers are provided inside the temple in the Donation Room.
4. Be careful of pickpockets when you are in a crowded place.
5. Do not leave your camera or belongings unattended, as they can easily be stolen.
6. Do not use any kind of fire in your room.
7. Always drink bottled or reliably filtered water.
8. Keep glasses in your pocket while downtown–even on a rickshaw. Monkeys may steal them.
9. If you have any indications of sickness please contact a doctor immediately.
10. Do not go alone to take a bath in the Yamuna. Go in a group. Do not go out too deep into the water even if you are a good swimmer.
Currency Exchange
Krishna Balaram Mandir is offering for the first time, an in-house authorized money exchange facility for the service of the devotees. Rates provided will be excellent as per the day-to-day rates offered in New Delhi by multi-national banks. You can exchange your currency at the Donation Room located in the Temple Hall.
Timings: 7:30am to1:00pm and 4:30pm to 8:30pm.
In India it is against the law to change foreign currency at any place other than an authorized Foreign Exchange Centre. Visa / Master Card holders can visit the ATM machine located next to Guruluka entrance and Canara Bank at Vidyapeeth Crossing, before Loi Bazaar.
Some shops in Loi Bazaar, the main market area, are also authorised to exchange money. Others may give you better, unofficial rates, but the difference is nowadays marginal.
Telephone and Internet
Many public call booths are available opposite Krishna Balaram Mandir. There are also a number of Internet Cafes in the vicinity of the temple. The information centre can give you further details.
Internet: Rs.15/hour
There are several internet cafes available. Calling abroad from India is rather expensive, and must be done from special phone booths. Mobiles work in Vrindavana, but may not do so at other locations further out in the countryside.
Post Office
Letters can be mailed from the Government Post Office located on the ground floor of the Gurukula building.
Timings: 10am to 5pm (closed on Sundays).
Sending more than letters and cards is a great hassle in India, but some stores in Loi Bazaar (e.g. Rasbihari Lal) will do it for you (for an extra fee, of course). You will save yourself much trouble by paying a bit extra here.
Health Care
Please be careful about your health during your visit. Many health problems arise from drinking non bottled water. Don't have ice in a drink unless you know where the water came from. You should only drink bottled water or water from reliable filter units like the temple water shop, or the Gurukula water shop. Check the seal on the bottle before you pay for it, if it is broken or tampered with ask for another bottle. Also be wary of the heat and the sun - this will depend on the time of year of your visit to some extent, but the sun is still strong late in the year. If you need medical help below is a list of doctors and hospitals.
Never accept water from an unknown source -- with one exception. In most temples, you will be offered Caranamrita. You will never know what water was used for it, but to refuse it would be greatly offensive. I have never gotten sick from caranamrita, but if you are afraid you will, just sip it a little and wipe the rest of it over your head. At least pretend to sip it!
Nanda-tanuja Dasa - August 25, 2006 2:34 pm
Very nice, Bhriguji, good info. Now, can you tell us what (and how much) to take to this trip? Clothes, medications, personal hygiene items, gadgets? Please list what you usually have in your backpack.
Shyam Gopal Das - August 25, 2006 8:31 pm
on the purebhakti.com website used to be a great list of what to bring. but I couldn't locate it anymore last time I checked. Maybe somebody can find it?
Thanks Bhrigu, I see some practical issues from your points, like bringing your own locks. I'm pretty sure we need to bring our own to Vrinda Kunja. I'll come back to this and more.
Rafal Bulawicki - August 25, 2006 9:51 pm
I can say that I m going .I v haven't money yet for that but I m going. I have huuuge desire to be all of you in Vrindavan.In london I can book one week before and It will be ok without big differences the price in booking in advance.We have so many indians and many promotion from travel agency.
I heard that Gaura-sakti probably going there and Manohari.I believe that will be more devotes from Poland.
I hope so.This is great oportiunity to meet all of you there and all together sink maha-mantra Hare Krsna.
Gauravani Dasa - August 25, 2006 11:49 pm
Jayadvaita Swami has written a nice article about staying healthly in India: http://www.jswami.info/India_Health
Here are some links from Purebhakti.com:
http://www.purebhakti.com/parikramas/vraja..._to_bring.shtml
http://www.purebhakti.com/parikramas/vraja/The_Journey.shtml
http://www.purebhakti.com/parikramas/vraja...el_health.shtml
While I was in India with a mild case of dysentry, an Ayurvedic doctor advised me to take bael powder along with yogurt every morning. Bael is a fruit common in India. The mixture was tasty and worked very well.
Syamasundara - August 26, 2006 6:05 am
Myself I'd take my antibiotic gel that has saved me in many occasions, cuts, scractches, etc. Then I'd take grapefruit seed extract for the water if I'm not sure of its source and as an antibiotic/antiseptic in general; in Peru they use it instead of chlorine in pools.
Then I'd take bentonite or any kind of clay with me, loose powder or at least tablets; it will make all sorts of poisons cling to it like charcoal tablets in case of poisoning, it will clean your bowels and alkalize your blood: festival periods mean lots of fried and acidic foodstuffs, and in that climate you want to keep well hydrated, i.e. not only water, but also replenished with minerals like potassium, an alkalizing agent that, in case of too acidic blood pH due to diet, will be the first to lack.
A tastier source of Potassium is bananas, maybe mashed with lime juice for vitamin C. They have many varieties and they are so good. Just perk your ears for a guy who shouts KELOOOOOOOOOOO at the top of his lungs: it's the banana guy. Oranges in Vrndavana are the nastiest, they are pale, tasteless and fall apart, I'd stick to lime and lemons for vitamin C.
If you want to go boring just buy electrolytes in a pharmacy.
As a poultice, clay will absorb many inflammations and provide many trace minerals through the skin.
Of course, popping pills is much faster than all this, but pills and similar are sold in India by the unit, not by the box, and my experience is that most of them are expired.
Those who are not comfortable with eating every single meal with their fingers should bring their own spoon. Spoons are not very easily found in India, and when found, they don't look like they were designed for a human mouth, not a human I'd like to meet anyway.
For the precious I once had my mother make me a cotton, flat moneybelt for passport, cash, travellers' checques and plane ticket that I'd carry always on me inside my dhoti. Maybe now they sell them ready made.
If you have an iron heath (like Indian bacteria cared) make anyway sure to WIPE YOUR FEET DRY after a bath. If you let them air dry they will crack deeper and deeper every time and bleed.
It's also wise to take a little laundry soap from the West, unless you want to try their Ariel laundry powder for hand washing with blue soap chips that tinge everything blue.
Oh, and a flashlight would be handy for the frequent blackouts.
First timers should also be advised to take very cheap slippers with them, and even then, when they go to a temple they should leave one in one corner and one farther away, or they are sure to find none when they come out of the temple. In any case they will most likely steal them, so be ready.
Rafal Bulawicki - August 26, 2006 6:41 am
Those who are not comfortable with eating every single meal with their fingers should bring their own spoon. Spoons are not very easily found in India, and when found, they don't look like they were designed for a
Thanks for good advices
Shyam Gopal Das - August 26, 2006 7:22 am
They have lots of spoons at Vrinda Kunja, at least last time I visited.
Bhrigu - August 26, 2006 7:28 am
Generally speaking, most things you can get in Vrindavan for a fraction of their cost in the West, so there is no need to carry them all the way around the world. This applies to flashlights, laundry powder (you still get that blue soap over there, but other, better, types as well), most hygiene items (unless you have some favourite brands you're afraid you won't find over there) and slippers. Thanks for bringing them up, Syamu! Please park your Western shoes/ sandals in your room and get some really cheap slippers in Vrindavana, since fancy shoes will very often be stolen when left outside some temple. Walking barefoot would of course be the easiest and most meritorious, but February may be too cold for that. Indian locks are very poor, though.
Some basic medicines are good to bring. You can get everything in Vrindavana, but you always tend to need them when the pharmacies are closed... I always bring some malaria medicine (called Heliopar over here) and anti-dysentery pills. I don't know whether it is malaria season in February, though.
Spoons... Sure, bring that if you need, but also practice eating with the fingers of (only!) your right hand, since we will most probably be eating with Indians as well, and not being able to eat properly (according to Indian standards, that is) is often frowned upon. Eating sweetrice off a plate with your fingers takes some practice!
As for clothes, bring just two or three sets of devotional clothing. All clothes in India get dusty and dirty, so no need to bring very fancy clothes. You can buý more there, though getting the starch off the clothes is a bit tricky. Some stores sell starch-free clothes, and a professional laundryman can do the work easily for you for 15rs or so a piece. Since I guess February mornings and evenings can still be pretty cold, bring some good stockings and a sweater or something similar. Otherwise you won't need any secular clothes at all. You can then get a nice wollen chadar over there, as well as a "muffler" (wollen scarf) and a cap if need be.
Gadgets: electrical sockets in India are the same as in continental Europe, so Americans will need to bring some kind of adapter if they bring electrical stuff, such as rechargers for a mobile phone. If you bring your laptop, you will need to get a device that reduces power peaks, since the erratic Indian electrical current may otherwise fry out your generator! But you can get those in India as well.
Indian toilets have no toilet paper, but please don't bring your own! The sewers in Vrindavana are generally not made to handle paper, and believe me, getting your toilet clogged up there is not nice.
Who will be the first at Vrindakunja? It would be good if that person could then check what is needed, e.g., mosquito nets, buckets, lotas, water heaters, and buy stuff like that for the whole group.
Shyam Gopal Das - August 26, 2006 8:24 am
I'm in touch with Vrinda Kunja, so I could ask them what we need to bring ourselves. so if you have some specific questions, let me know.
I'm pretty sure we need to bring our own mosquito nets.
Bhrigu - August 26, 2006 9:41 am
Ask them what the rooms are like, that is for how many people, and whether they have attached bathrooms or not, and if the bathrooms have buckets and lotas. Also, ask what the beds are like, and if they have mosquito nets. Many guesthouses in Vrindavana include mosquito nets in the price, but otherwise, we can buy them in Vrindavana (no need to bring from the West). Also, ask them whether they have metal plates for us, or if we need to buy that over there as well. Personally, I prefer metal plates to those made of dry leaves.
Vrindaranya Dasi - August 26, 2006 5:05 pm
If you wear glasses and have an extra set, it would be wise to bring them because it is not unusual to have glasses snatched by monkeys (although the monkeys may give them back in exchange for some fruit). I find it easier to wear glasses than contacts in India (because I find it hard to keep the contacts clean and free of irritating particles), but I would be interested to hear if other people have this experience in India.
Bhrigu - August 26, 2006 5:53 pm
I just looked over Jayadvaita Maharaja's health tips and those at Pure Bhakti, and found the second source to be better. In my experience, bad water (=anything but bottled water, no matter what locals tell you) and offences are the two main reasons for people getting sick in India. Jayadvaita Maharaja wrote that one should eat only when hungry, but I disagree with that. The heat and culture shock can take away your diet for some time, and if you don't eat regularly, you'll soon lose your strenght as well. That's happened to me a couple of times, once when I was alone in Puri, and I lost many kgs (today that wouldn't be too bad, though!). Basic fresh matha food, i.e., kichari, rice, dal and simple boiled subjis are all safe being cooked, while fruits and salads may be more risky. Too much rich foods can slow down a weakened digestion, but not in small quantities. Food from market stalls is always the most risky. Some warn a lot against sweets, but I've never had any problems with them (if eaten with moderation).
Shyam Gopal Das - August 27, 2006 7:59 am
thanks a lot for all your advice, Bhrigu, keep it coming 
regarding your questions, I'll ask them when I hear back from them!
Bhrigu - August 27, 2006 7:01 pm
keep it coming
Two more things: don't plan too many things for your stay in India. Everything works really slowly over there, and trying to rush things usually leads only to extra headache. Try to make a mental adjustment when you come to India that you are coming to a wonderful place, where nothing works as it does at home, and try to take all the strange and unexpected things that happen with humour. And don't be too "mental" about getting sick -- there is a good chance that you do so despite all precautions, or that you don't even though you break all the rules. And if you do get sick, it will probably not make you miss the classes, which are anyway the most important part of the yatra. Most of us will not be able to see more than the gross covering of the dhama, but we may be able to see something of the real dhama through our ears, by hearing Guru Maharaja describe it.
Gaurangi-priya Devi - August 28, 2006 1:22 am
Most of us will not be able to see more than the gross covering of the dhama, but we may be able to see something of the real dhama through our ears, by hearing Guru Maharaja describe it.
Very beautifully put, and oh so true. All you who are having the fortune of going are going with such a competent guide. I envy you! But, having said that all glories to Audarya Audio for I will be able to hear Guru Maharaj describe the dhama in my living room and hopefully be transported there.
Vrindaranya Dasi - August 28, 2006 5:41 pm
The tickets for Guru Maharaja, Gurunistha, Vamsi-dhari, and myself have been booked. Anyone who wants to fly with us, please note the requested seat numbers. We booked with www.travelocity.com.
San Francisco, CA (SFO) to New Delhi, India (DEL)
Total Travel Time: 21hrs 32min
Please check-in at the United ticket counter.
Thu, Feb 1
2:13PM to
10:15AM
Arrive next day
San Francisco, CA (SFO) to
Frankfurt, Germany (FRA)
11hrs 2mins - nonstop
United Flight 900
Boeing 747 Jet - Economy
Extras
Requested Seats: 51F, 51G, 51D, 51E
Stop - change planes in Frankfurt, Germany (FRA)
Connection Time: 3hrs 20mins
Fri, Feb 2
1:35PM to
1:15AM
Arrive onSat, Feb 3
Frankfurt, Germany (FRA) to
New Delhi, India (DEL)
7hrs 10mins - nonstop
United Flight 8906
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Nanda-tanuja Dasa - August 29, 2006 5:39 am
I've booked my ticket (same flight as Guru Maharaja), this is the info with my requested seat --
Thu, Feb 1:
United Flight 900
Requested Seat: 52D
United Flight 8906
Requested Seat: 52D
Sat, Feb 17:
Lufthansa Flight 763
Requested Seat: 36D
United Flight 8883
Requested Seat: 38C
Caitanya-daya Dd - August 29, 2006 3:45 pm
I just booked my ticket!
Nanda-tanuja Dasa - August 29, 2006 4:26 pm
I just booked my ticket!
I hope we sit next to each other! What is your sit number?
Caitanya-daya Dd - August 29, 2006 5:14 pm
Nanda-tanuja-ji, i already booked my seats--i'll email you the info.
Re what to bring, etc., i know for my first trip to india i was paranoid and wondered what to bring, how much to bring, etc. (i was recently there dec 2005 to feb 2006). Bhrgu prabhu is correct: you can buy almost anything western in vrndavan these days. They even sell soy milk at loi bazaar. The things I was definitely grateful to bring with me were baby wipes, hand sanitizer, powdered electrolytes (the indian kind is salty and gross--you can buy some tasty orange-flavoured gatorade types at your local outdoor/backpacking store). I didn't need a mosquito net in februrary (which you can buy in india for crazy cheap anyhow), but i did need socks, a good sweatshirt, and easy-to-remove shoes.
I don't necessarily think dhotis/kurtas and saris are a "must"--those punjabi suits for women are fine, as are loongis. Covering oneself and being modest is the most important.
I travelled for two months in india with only a backpack. Your main concern should be how much you're going to be bringing back with you on the plane! hehe
My two cents on giving donations (after the fact): Obviously giving paises is ridiculous. I will admit i had major issues with the locals, priests, and pandas harassing me for money. And they really like to harass you, believe me. I am a strong believer of giving out of the heart, but I am also a strong believer of principles. Fine, i was in the dhama, but there was straight-up cheating going on that i did not appreciate. Just because Donald Trump has money doesn't mean we should cheat him either.
I can hardly wait to go back to Govardhana!! I got a lot of mercy there--which included falling into kusamsarovara! hehe
Oh, one thing i definitely wished i brought and need to remember this time again are Q-Tips!!! The indian brands are cheap, useless, and horrible. Vrndavana is dusty and you will be grateful to have westernised Q-Tips.
Nanda-tanuja Dasa - August 29, 2006 6:17 pm
Indian toilets have no toilet paper, but please don't bring your own! The sewers in Vrindavana are generally not made to handle paper, and believe me, getting your toilet clogged up there is not nice.
What are you saying? Doing sauca with mud?
Bhrigu - August 29, 2006 7:15 pm
What are you saying?
Some devotees actually do that, but I've never even tried. I just do sauca with water, then clean the hand nicely with soap and then (after defecation, that is) taking full bath. It's kind of tricky to pour from the lota with your right hand while squatting on the toilet and cleaning with your left, but you get the hang of it quickly. Kind of hard to describe theoretically, and I think practical demonstrations may be out of order...
And they really like to harass you, believe me.
I also have experience of this, but I find that it can mostly be handled. Some places are worse than others (e.g. Radhakunda, Nandagrama, Gokula). My experience is that you get away the easiest by just picking one panda (brahmin guide). Then the others will leave you alone. Just go along with the (at least in my experience) half-baked and half-hearted guidance of that person and give him something at the end (the least you can without insult, perhaps a hundred rupees). After that, you can return to your favorite places without anyone harrassing you, and if they try, you just mention the name of "your" panda and they will immediately leave. You also won't have to pay him again before the next trip, even if you visit the place again.
At least this has worked for me.
Caitanya-daya Dd - August 29, 2006 9:49 pm
Note: I used toilet paper the entire time i was in india--even in vrndavana. I talked to westerners who have lived there for years and they said i could flush it down.
I am v much a westerner! I like my toilet paper, thank you
Madhavendra Puri Dasa - August 30, 2006 10:25 am
I will try my best to get there, together with my wife, Tulasi priya dd. What happens if the number of devotees will be greater then number of rooms in the place you got? (because it is only 26, isn't? )
Bhrigu - August 30, 2006 11:02 am
Caitanya-dayaji, how cold is Vrindavan in early February? Will one need a sleeping bag, for example, or will a blanket do?
I don't necessarily think dhotis/kurtas and saris are a "must"--those punjabi suits for women are fine, as are loongis.
I don't agree fully. It's not only a question of modesty, it's also about public image. Imagine a Kenyan being a real anglofile, knowing everything about England and wanting to be accepted as an Englishman, wearing German lederhosen since they also are European. Many disciples of Narayana Maharaja use punjabi suits, and I understand why; Narayan Maharaja is a Hindustani, those dresses are probably quite comfortable and look nice, but they really aren't Gaudiya Vaishnava. But to me lungis are a no-no -- they are so expressly Muslim that a Gaudiya Vaishnava wearing one will really give a strange impression.
Shyam Gopal Das - August 30, 2006 2:56 pm
I'm wearing a dhoti and kurta.
Lila-sakti Dasi - August 30, 2006 10:48 pm
I'm going.
Nanda-tanuja Dasa - August 31, 2006 1:57 am
But to me lungis are a no-no -- they are so expressly Muslim that a Gaudiya Vaishnava wearing one will really give a strange impression.
Can you please explain the differense between lungi and dhoti besides the way you wear it?
Bhrigu - August 31, 2006 7:46 am
A lungi is much shorter than a dhoti, since you just wrap it around the waist without the kaccha going up between your legs and tucked in at the back. Lungis can be white (that's what the Babajis wear), saffron (as for sannyasis, brahmacaris in the Gaudiya Mission & Audarya's Vanavasis) or multicolored, often with squares, stripes or some other pattern. The last one is what common people wear. I was mistaken in saying previously that it is only used by Muslims. Nowadays, especially in Bengal, also Hindu men (especially labourers) also wear such lungis as informal wear, although that is frowned upon by some (such as my GM sources). Their popularity of course stems from their being practical and much more comfortable than pants in a tropical climate.
Caitanya-daya Dd - September 1, 2006 6:01 am
Bhrgu Prabhu, i travelled throughout india without a sleeping bag. When i got to vrndavan, i wore a sweatshirt, sweat pants, and socks to bed and had two blankets at night. February is when spring begins--it's cold in the morning and night, and beautiful during the day. Bring a woolen hat if you think you may need it. Even gloves, why not?
I find your loongie comment to be interesting, if i may say so. I noticed that they were worn everywhere by everyone (male), and def not just the muslims. I saw fancy loongies with fancy trim and i saw faded walla loongies with plaid or striped patterns. I wore them too, i admit. They are very practical indeed. And comfortable, as well as simple, and low maintenance. Perhaps they are the "jeans" of india? I don't know. I saw jeans being worn too (talk about a throwback to acid wash 1980s, as well as other long forgotten trends of yore--the indians are not the most fashion-savvy), khakis ... you name it.
I personally think this is nothing but an issue of splitting hairs, as well as an issue that is a little unnecessary? I don't know of any catholics who go on pilgrimages to cathedrals dressed in habits. I'm not quite sure where the lederhosen fits into the equation, unless the kenyan were trying to create a re-enactment. I would imagine most of the devotees who are going on this trip will use their common sense and not wear anything that draws unnecessary attention or bring scandal upon the group.
If anyone is truly bent out of shape about the dhoti/loongie/pants issue, then perhaps someone else (such as Guru Maharaja) should set the rules for this. I'm a little surprised that this issue needs to be brought up at all.
Nanda-tanuja Dasa - September 1, 2006 8:13 pm
Maybe it’s my soviet upbringing speaking, but I always liked uniforms (but hate war) not just military, but any. And it so happened that I wore uniform on and off for the better part of my life. I think of devotional clothing as a uniform, now don’t get me wrong, I’m not talking about some jihad bis saif we are fighting against infidels or maya, but a uniform of the sampradaya, parivar, which we should wear proudly. I think it’s beneficial to wear devotional dress and probably everyone who has heard Guru Maharaja speaking on this subject would agree. Now the question is how far should we take it? Most of devotees I knew back in the day had been wearing dhotis and curtas during sankirtan on Moscow streets during winter. Now, that’s a little crazy, but I know of no one who end up in the hospital because of it, a little tapasya doesn’t hurt and is actually beneficial. So I think everyone should exercise common sense, but overall it’s a personal decision. I know that I will not wear jeans and t-shirt, that’s for sure
Rafal Bulawicki - September 2, 2006 11:15 am
I'm going.
Lila-sakti nice to see you here.Your first post and with so great news.I m very happy to hear from you in Tattva-viveka.I hope so that your visit here will be quite often.As regards India retreat ,I knew about your going there.I will try get many determination to go there with devotes from Poland,USA and Finland and other countries in the world.It will be huge events in our short life:)
Nanda-tanuja Dasa - September 3, 2006 5:29 pm
I'm going.
Dear Lila-sakti, welcome to Tattva-viveka! Please fill personal profile with biographical data and maybe a picture. Tell us about yourself!
Hari-priya Dasi - September 18, 2006 4:15 pm
I am joining the group as well. It's my first time in India, so I am quite excited about this possibility. 
Shyam Gopal Das - September 18, 2006 6:51 pm
Alright, I just got the info about the rooms we have at Vrinda Kunja.
the division is as follows:
6 rooms with 2 beds (2 rooms are little smaller, but 2 beds fit in)
2 roooms with 3 beds
1 big room with 5 beds
Could people email me with their preferances? Taking into consideration, men/women/ married couple/ brahmacari/ Guru Maharaj etc.
In this way we can divide the rooms in advance so we won't have to take this trouble while arriving at Vrinda Kunja.
Vamsidhari Dasa - September 19, 2006 5:48 am
for organisation
I prefer to be with people i know and feel comfortable since we will be spending two weeks there. I suppose my preference would be with less beds and no snoring.
Mathura-natha Das - September 20, 2006 6:54 pm
My only preference is NO SNORING.
Shyam Gopal Das - September 21, 2006 6:24 pm
The preferances i have received so far will probably all be no problem.
i'll provide a definite sheet asap
so please reply here or send me an email so I can work it out.
Bhrigu - September 21, 2006 7:08 pm
Shyama Gopala, did they give answers to the other questions (do the rooms have attached baths, equipment etc)?
Nanda-tanuja Dasa - September 21, 2006 7:15 pm
maybe hot water too? 
Bhrigu - September 21, 2006 7:24 pm
maybe hot water too? Whistle.gif
That would be great -- but perhaps not so likely. Luckily, immersion water heaters are inexpensive and work well. But I just read this verse in the commentary to Brihad-bhagavatamrita 1.1.24-25:
vrata-daana-tapobhish ca na tathaa priiyate hari.h
maaghe majjana-maatre.na yathaa prii.nati maadhava.h
"Madhava is not as pleased by vows, charity or penance as by one's simply bathing in the month of Magha (Jan-Feb)."
So early morning baths in the Yamuna will give lots of sukriti!
Shyam Gopal Das - September 22, 2006 4:39 pm
"The rooms are all new, but not all have attached bathroom, but
enough bathrooms are in the same building. The building is monkey-proof and with a very
nice garden."
nothing about hot water though, the rooms I slept in at Vrinda Kunja didn't have hot water, but it wasn't very cold either. But I'll ask!
Vamsidhari Dasa - September 23, 2006 1:11 am
vrata-daana-tapobhish ca na tathaa priiyate hari.h
maaghe majjana-maatre.na yathaa prii.nati maadhava.h
"Madhava is not as pleased by vows, charity or penance as by one's simply bathing in the month of Magha (Jan-Feb)."
So early morning baths in the Yamuna will give lots of sukriti!
Wait
How did you read that we are supposed to be bathing in the river as opposed to just bathing?
I wote for hot water! 
Nanda-tanuja Dasa - September 23, 2006 2:40 am
I wote for sukriti!
Babhru Das - September 23, 2006 5:44 am
Heck--I'd just wote for going!
Bhrigu - September 23, 2006 6:24 am
How did you read that we are supposed to be bathing in the river as opposed to just bathing? Confused.gif
Because majjana means "immersion". And the point of the whole greatness of Magha-snana is of course that it is the coldest month of the year, making bathing outside an austerity. Otherwise, everyone would get full sukriti-points every year, something that would make Yamaraja most disturbed.
I'm planning on bathing in the Yamuna and other holy places, but not every day... I'm going to do my daily bathing Gaudiya Matha-style: after sunrise, and with warm water.
Shyam Gopal Das - September 23, 2006 11:04 am
I will try my best to get there, together with my wife, Tulasi priya dd. What happens if the number of devotees will be greater then number of rooms in the place you got? (because it is only 26, isn't? )
I just saw this question, but just to make sure rooms will be no problem! at best inform me in advance and i can take care of it.
Madangopal - September 23, 2006 12:56 pm
How did you read that we are supposed to be bathing in the river as opposed to just bathing?
I wote for hot water!
Don't be such a vimp Wamsi! Vhat is this woting nonsense?!
I just read this account of Srila Prabhupada's life in Vraja before coming to the west. It is from Nirmal Chandra Goswami. Pay attention, Prabhupada has a secret for you:
Before he came, I had not known the secret of taking bath in Yamuna in the cold season: when one goes in to where the water is two or three feet deep, it is very warm for bathing. It was he who taught me that; I never knew it before. I went with him many times for Yamuna-snana early in the morning, even in the winter.
You've got to do it at least once! Meditate on going down to Yamuna with Prabhupada, or if you get the chance to go with Guru Maharaj I'm sure you will all feel very warm inside.
Vamsidhari Dasa - September 25, 2006 5:35 am
ohhhhhhhhhhhhh
that vas totally a typo
but i see that subliminally it communicated some unintended meaning that many reacted to. i was joking. 
Bhrigu - September 27, 2006 1:40 pm
Guru Maharaja has asked me to lead the parikramas during the first part of the stay in Vrindavana, before he starts giving his regular classes. The idea is that these tours will take you to the main locations of Vraja, which you can then later on get back to alone or in smaller groups if you want. A very preliminary plan is as follows:
4.2 Vrindavana: the main temples and samadhis: Radha-Govinda, Radha-Gopinatha, Radha-Ramana, Radha-Damodara + samadhis, Radha-Syamasundara, Radha-Madana-Mohana + samadhis
5.2 Mathura: Vasudeva Krishna's birthplace, Visrama ghat etc
6.2 Gokula: Vrajendranandana Krishna's birthplace, the place of Damodara lila, Brahmanda ghat, etc
7.2 Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati's Appearance Day. Vrindavana parikrama in the morning.
8.2 Radha-kunda and Govardhana village. We stay overnight at Narayana Maharaja's Math at Govardhana.
9.2 Govardhana Parikrama. Same place overnight.
10.2 Varsana + Nandagrama, back to Vrindavana and Vrinda Kuñja.
How does this sound? Is this too much, or is there something essential that I have overlooked that you wish to see?
Govardhana parikrama is by far the longest one, about 20km. Most pilgrims will walk barefoot, but it is much better to use shoes than not to do the parikrama at all. One can also do parikrama by riksha if one doesn't have the stamina to walk. We will set out early in the morning to avoid the afternoon sun. The Vrindavana parikrama is perhaps 10 km, and if one cannot finish that one on foot, one can again take a riksa, or then call it a day and continue another time. Nobody need feel any pressure in this regard. -- None of the other days will include much walking, but if you feel weak or are sick, rikshas can be arranged.
Nanda-tanuja Dasa - September 27, 2006 2:08 pm
Outstanding list! Can't wait!
Tadiya Dasi - September 27, 2006 3:12 pm
I just booked my flight to India!
I'll be joining Krsangi & Kamalaksa (and probably Haripriya too) in the flight they are taking and come along with them.
Bhrigu your plan seems very nice & interesting to me. It's great to have you as our leader 
.
Shyam Gopal Das - September 27, 2006 5:06 pm
Thanks Bhrigu for taking up that service. I like the plan very much, it might be a bit packed
but I'm all for it!
btw. I'll be flying about the same times as the Finnish pack and Mathuranatha. So you'll know.
Caitanya-daya Dd - September 28, 2006 1:30 pm
One can also do parikrama by riksha if one doesn't have the stamina to walk. We will set out early in the morning to avoid the afternoon sun. The Vrindavana parikrama is perhaps 10 km, and if one cannot finish that one on foot, one can again take a riksa, or then call it a day and continue another time. Nobody need feel any pressure in this regard. -- None of the other days will include much walking, but if you feel weak or are sick, rikshas can be arranged.
There are parts of the parikrama path that are not accessible by rickshaw, just to let everyone know. Not that that should deter anyone from taking the sojourn anyhow. The rickshaw still goes around govardhana. But i tell you, there is nothing like experiencing the dust of govardhana. It is truly different--almost like fine talcum powder.
Also, depending on how fast you walk, the entire parikrama takes several hours ... maybe eight if you are slow. On Dhanurdhara M's parikrama this past february, he split it up into two days, which gave us the opportunity to stop at several places and sit for a while, absorbing the potency of govardhana raja and listening to katha. Then about a week later gaura krsna and i did it on our own--i believe it took us around six hours. And anyone who knows me knows i'm a "speed walker." This did, of course, including our stopping at the different places around govardhana. I don't know if time would permit the group to break it up into two days, though.
GK & i also did it barefooted, and i can tell you that toward the end, my feet really hurt. A suggestion would be to practice walking barefooted outside (weather permitted) a little every day to toughen your feet which in my opinion would be good for the entire trip anyhow.
Bhrigu - September 28, 2006 6:00 pm
I thought about splitting the Govardhana-parikrama into two days, Caitanya-daya, but I don't know if we'll have the time for it. It would probably entail another day at Govardhana, and I'm already worried that I have taken up too many days. What do you think, Guru Maharaja?
And the suggestion about "toughening" the feet is great! If you can walk barefoot, you won't have to step with your shoes on Sri Vrindavana Dhama -- and nobody will steal them either!
Shyam Gopal Das - September 29, 2006 7:39 am
1. Swami
2. Gurunistha
3. Vrindaranya
4. Apurva
5. Kamalini
6. Hari-bhakti
7. Dhira-lalita
8. Vamsidhari
9. Caitanya-daya
10. Gaura Krsna
11. Kamalaksa
12. Krsangi
13 Syama Gopala
14. Mathuranatha
15. Tadiya
16. Rafal ?
17. Bhrigu
18. Nanda Tanuja
19. Manohari
20. Gaura Sakti
21. Madhavendra Puri dasa ?
22. Tulasi priya dd ?
23. Lila-sakti dasi
24. Hari-priya dasi
This is the list of devotees who are going or who said will try to come. From a number of devotees I haven't heard their room preferance:
6. Hari-bhakti
7. Dhira-lalita
9. Caitanya-daya
15. Tadiya
24. Hari-priya dasi
I can put the last three of you in one room, so there'll be a mataji room.
Please let me know if you will be going or not. If you don't know by now, let me know a bit in advance so I can make sure you've got a place to stay in the surroundings of Vrinda Kunja:
16. Rafal ?
21. Madhavendra Puri dasa ?
22. Tulasi priya dd ?
Rafal Bulawicki - September 29, 2006 7:53 am
1. Swami
2. Gurunistha
3. Vrindaranya
4. Apurva
5. Kamalini
6. Hari-bhakti
7. Dhira-lalita
8. Vamsidhari
9. Caitanya-daya
10. Gaura Krsna
11. Kamalaksa
12. Krsangi
13 Syama Gopala
14. Mathuranatha
15. Tadiya
16. Rafal ?
17. Bhrigu
18. Nanda Tanuja
19. Manohari
20. Gaura Sakti
21. Madhavendra Puri dasa ?
22. Tulasi priya dd ?
23. Lila-sakti dasi
24. Hari-priya dasi
This is the list of devotees who are going or who said will try to come. From a number of devotees I haven't heard their room preferance:
6. Hari-bhakti
7. Dhira-lalita
9. Caitanya-daya
15. Tadiya
24. Hari-priya dasi
I can put the last three of you in one room, so there'll be a mataji room.
Please let me know if you will be going or not. If you don't know by now, let me know a bit in advance so I can make sure you've got a place to stay in the surroundings of Vrinda Kunja:
16. Rafal ?
21. Madhavendra Puri dasa ?
22. Tulasi priya dd ?
I m going .I really want go there and I will be there:)
Madhavendra Puri Dasa - September 29, 2006 8:54 am
21. Madhavendra Puri dasa ?
22. Tulasi priya dd ?
Change of plans We will be not able to go that time. Too litlle time to collect money. I'll never get there... :Big Grin:
Tadiya Dasi - September 30, 2006 2:23 pm
Shyam-gopala,
Regarding the room preferences --I really have none. I'm willing to share a room with anyone, and that "mataji room" for us 3 sounded good for me. :Big Grin:
Caitanya-daya Dd - September 30, 2006 2:29 pm
The three-women room sounds good to me, thank you.
Hari Bhakti - November 8, 2006 5:47 pm
I finally booked my flight! I am wondering what the plan for the night of Feb. 16th is? Will most devotees be spending the night in Delhi? I was unable to get on the 9am flight out of Delhi and only had the option of leaving at 3:50am on the 17th.
Vrindaranya Dasi - November 11, 2006 5:44 pm
Guru Maharaja's party leaves at 9:55 am on the 17th, so we'll most likely be leaving Vrindavana early that morning.
Bhrigu - November 12, 2006 1:18 pm
I'm leaving in the early morning hours of the 17th, so I will go to Delhi on the 16th and spend the day there shopping (for books). I'll go to the airport in the evening and spend the night there, waiting for my flight.
Shyam Gopal Das - November 16, 2006 6:22 pm
Alright everyone, the time is moving ahead slowly but surely before our retreat will be a fact. As we all know the mode of goodness involves penances at first but bliss in the end, which makes this the time to start paying.
Guru Maharaj has paid for Apurva's flight ticket which was about USD 1150,-- (please let me know Guru Maharaj if it was more). Of course the monastics are relieved from payment and so are Apurva himself and his wife Kamalini dd.
I calculated there about 18 people who can afford to do some payment to reimburse Guru Maharaj and not have this impact Audarya's cashflow any longer. So this makes about USD 65,-- that everybody should sent to audarya@swami.org by paypal or otherwise.
If people can afford to pay more, please do so. As I know not everybody will be able to pay the whole amount. If you can only pay part of it, please do so as well.
With regards, to the others costs or festival fee, I'll keep everybody updated as soon as possible!
The rooms are pretty much figured out as well, and I'll put it up asap too.
Prema-bhakti Marga - November 18, 2006 5:11 pm
Shyam Gopala,
I'm a bit late on this and not on the TV list. I have purchased a ticket. So that's one more person to contribute to Apurva's ticket and I will be rooming with Vrndaranya.
Shyam Gopal Das - November 18, 2006 6:39 pm
Please let me know if you are on the following list, but WONT come to Vrindavana after all:
1. Swami
2. Gurunistha
3. Vrindaranya
4. Apurva
5. Kamalini
6. Hari-bhakti
7. Dhira-lalita
8. Vamsidhari
9. Caitanya-daya
10. Gaura Krsna
11. Kamalaksa
12. Krsangi
13 Syama Gopala
14. Mathuranatha
15. Tadiya
16. Bhrigu
17. Nanda Tanuja
18. Manohari
19. Gaura Sakti
20. Lila-sakti dasi
21. Hari-priya dasi
22. Prema-bhakti marga
23. Rafal ?
24. Dominik?
Okay, this is the preliminary room divide. If you would like to change rooms, no problem as long as everybody's need of privacy etc is respected. I haven't heard from Vrinda Kunja in a while, so I don't have much more details than that these are our rooms.
6 rooms with 2 beds (2 rooms are little smaller, but 2 beds fit in)
2 rooms with 3 beds
1 big room with 5 beds
1 Guru Maharaj with attached bathroom
2 Nanda-Tanuja Bhrigu
3 Vrindaranya dd Prema-Bhakti Marg dd
4 Apurva Kamalini
5 Kamalaksa Krsangi dd
6 Manohari dd Lila sakti dd
7 Gaura Sakti Mayapurcandra Dominik
8 Tadiya dd Chaitanya-daya dd Hari-priya dd
9 Gurunistha Syama Gopala Mathuranatha Vamsidhari dasa Hari Bhakti
Extra rooms old part Vrinda Kunja
1 Dhira Lalita
2 Rafal Gaura Krishna
There is one other room with attached bath, but I don't know which one.
With regards to total cost of the stay, Bhrigu and me are trying to calculate this, but we are waiting for the final "price" of the rooms.
Swami - November 18, 2006 9:40 pm
9 Gurunistha Syama Gopala Mathuranatha Vamsidhari dasa Hari Bhakti
Hari-bhakti is a devi.
Shyam Gopal Das - November 19, 2006 8:17 am
Hari-bhakti is a devi.
Oops! How did i overlook that! 
This means the following change:
9 Gurunistha Syama Gopala Mathuranatha Vamsidhari dasa
Extra rooms old part Vrinda Kunja
1 Dhira Lalita Hari Bhakti
2 Rafal Gaura Krishna
Gaura Krsna Dasa - November 25, 2006 9:55 pm
Haribolo!
I am now going as well. Other than this meager note, is there anyone I need to contact to confirm this, make furthur arrangements, etc.?
Shyam Gopal Das - November 26, 2006 9:21 am
Gaura Krishna, I just noticed you are on the list but that I didn't put you on the room arrangements list. My apologies.
Depending on future changes, it is easiest to assign you the following room:
9 Gurunistha Syama Gopala Mathuranatha Vamsidhari dasa
Gaura Krsna Dasa - November 27, 2006 6:34 am
My first choice! Thanks much Prabhu!
Shyam Gopal Das - November 27, 2006 9:02 pm
The latest from Vrinda Kunja:
+ We need to bring our own locks for the rooms
+ There is no hot water "but we have outside of the rooms one gas water heater, also
february should not be that cold."
+ Do we need to bring mosquito nets?
"actually devotees nowadays use Allout liquid, it can be connected to
a power outlet and keeps the mosquitos away from you, i think it is easier."
I'll bring my mosquito net for sure though!
+ the bathrooms have buckets and lotas
If anyone has further questions, let me know!
Nanda-tanuja Dasa - November 28, 2006 2:09 am
february should not be that cold
Vamsidhari Dasa - November 28, 2006 4:06 am
no hot water? february not cold? 
what do we do with hot water heater outside of the room?
i guess its time for austerity 
i am cold already
Bhrigu - November 28, 2006 6:36 am
It will be cold in the mornings, so I think we should get at least one immersion heater per room. They cost a couple of hundred rupees and are quite effective. The first devotees to arrive over there could perhaps take care of this.
Jason - November 28, 2006 6:36 am
Good luck with buckets and lotas???? yikes!
Nanda-tanuja Dasa - November 28, 2006 8:09 am
I think it will be a nice meditation on how people lived during times of Sri Krsna and Sri Caitanya lilas and still live in rural India today (minus immersion heaters of cource).
Monisha - December 1, 2006 10:01 pm
Kompi and I would also very much like to go. I hope it's not too late to make arrangements. We are planning to book our flights this week.
Please please can you add us to the list and some accomodation would be most appreciated.
Hari Hari
Caitanya-daya Dd - December 2, 2006 12:56 am
It is actually not so horrible in february. This is india, remember, a tropical climate. Of course, vrndavan is in the north, so it will naturally be colder than, say, the south, but it's really not that bad. It's not like we'll be in hrishikesh! But it is actually colder in the morning, as bhrigu stated, but it warms up during the day.
YAY! I'm so glad you're coming, gaura-krsna!!! :-D
Shyam Gopal Das - December 3, 2006 12:00 pm
Kompi and I would also very much like to go. I hope it's not too late to make arrangements. We are planning to book our flights this week.
Please please can you add us to the list and some accomodation would be most appreciated.
Hari Hari
You're on the list. I'll email Vrinda Kunja about accommodation!
Monisha - December 4, 2006 10:08 am
Haribol Shyam Gopal Das,
Thank you very very much for adding me to the list.
I don't know if I mentioned about Kompi ( full name is Tomek Koziel). He is an old friend of Gaura-Sakti and other disciples of Tripurari Swami, but not on tattva-viveka yet. He also has a big desire to go. We dont mind sharing accomodation with other couples or being segragated into males and females. We would prefer to stay together.
Thank you once again,
Monisha Kumar
Bhrigu - December 14, 2006 8:12 am
Dear devotees, there has been a change of plans re. the tours during the Winter retreat. Guru Maharaja feels that the tour I proposed is too ambitious, considering that most of the participants have never been to India before, and since some are also not initiated. He thinks it is better that we remain within Vrindavana, where there is anyway quite enough to see for two weeks. If some healthy, adventureous souls then want to take a day to go to Radhakunda and Govardhana, that can be arranged, but that is purely voluntary and he himself will most likely not go himself. He is of course right about this -- I may have let my "Indiana Bhrigu"-side take control over practical considerations.
Guru Maharaja also mentioned that in Vrindavana, he will for different reasons speak on Shiva-tattva, and read from the CC about Sri Caitanya's visit to Vrindavana. So there is much nectar to look forward to!
Gauravani Dasa - December 14, 2006 11:52 am
A small note of advice for first-timers in India:
I was told by one devotee that he brings a bottle of Pepto Bismol and take a dose if he ever has a funny feeling in his stomach. He claimed that this eliminated any digestive problems he might have. I have never tried it myself, but it sounds like its worth a try.
Shyam Gopal Das - December 14, 2006 8:46 pm
VERY IMPORTANT!
I got notice that many of us haven't paid for Apurva's ticket yet. Apart from the ticket, there are also accommodation and bhoga costs. All these fees need to be paid upfront.
FESTIVAL FEE is 150 dollars per person
(including rooms as designated, meals and a portion of Apurva's ticket)
THIS FEE NEEDS TO BE PAID BEFORE THE 10TH OF JANUARY!!!! Payable to Audarya through Paypal.
I apologize for being strict here, but if you cannot pay this fee, you'll have to find a sponsor, because we can't subsidize and let you stay for free.
Also the 150 is a minimum fee. Depending on the definite number of attendees the fee may be slightly higher. Extra donations are thus appreciated.
Vrindaranya Dasi - December 14, 2006 11:10 pm
I'm not sure if it has already been mentioned, but Apurva prabhu is a expert cook and he will be cooking for the festival.
Dhiralalita - December 15, 2006 1:45 am
Guru Maharaja also mentioned that in Vrindavana, he will for different reasons speak on Shiva-tattva, and read from the CC about Sri Caitanya's visit to Vrindavana. So there is much nectar to look forward to!
YES! I can't wait!
THIS FEE NEEDS TO BE PAID BEFORE THE 10TH OF JANUARY!!!! Payable to Audarya through Paypal.
Checks Okt too?
Shyam Gopal Das - December 16, 2006 11:25 am
I know the easiest way for the Audaryavasis is to pay them through paypal, so that's preferable. Otherwise, I think checks won't be too big of a problem.
Caitanya-daya Dd - December 19, 2006 6:40 am
re the pepto bismol, there are two better things to take with:
1) grapefruit seed extract. Any comings on of nausea of the belly will be mitigated by this. So many devotees swear by this.
2) imodium AD, for those of you who are not into alternative health or cannot find grapefruit seed extract. This is highly recommended by western (and western-residing indian) doctors.
Did i fail to mention: bring your own q-tips?
Bhrigu - December 26, 2006 3:28 pm
Since the Winter Retreat is quickly drawing closer, it think that those of us who haven't started preparing spiritually should do so. To me, one important aspect of this is to start meditating on the holy Dham by reading about it. If we know the story of Krishna's punishing Kaliya, for example, visiting that place in Vrindavana will give us a completely different experience than if we don't, or if we just barely remember something about an evil guy who got kicked by Krishna. Most of us know these stories, but repetition is always good. Vrindavana Dham is covered by a cloud of yogamaya, so that it looks like a dry, poor place, but the vision of shastra may help us get a peek beyond it.
What then to read? This seems to be the most essential to me:
Krishna book (or tenth canto), chapters 1-40
Caitanya Caritamrita 2.17.152-2.18.157
Guru Maharaja will speak on this portion of the CC, making it even more important to familiarise oneself with it in advance. Also, if one happens to have other books on Vrindavana (such as Mahanidhi Maharaja's book on Samadhis), those would be good as well.
Shyam Gopal Das - December 26, 2006 5:20 pm
Thank you for the suggestions, Bhrigu. I equally think it is important to mentally prepare or else all I'll see will be yogamaya. (and trust me I'm very good at that)
At the same time, I would like to remind everyone that they have until January 10th to pay for the Vrindavan festival fee.
Guru-nistha Das - December 26, 2006 11:21 pm
Yes, thanks for posting that Bhrigu!
And start paying for the festival, people, or otherwise you'll be served only bittermelon the whole two weeks. :Big Grin:
Caitanya-daya Dd - December 29, 2006 3:51 pm
that sounds pretty hellish, guru-nistha, ha!
i'm coming up for new year's and will have the money then.
Monisha - January 7, 2007 6:58 pm
does anyone know approximately how long the journey will take from Delhi to Vrindavan by taxi and the cost?
Shyam Gopal Das - January 7, 2007 9:00 pm
"for a small car appr. 1400-1500 rs, 4 persons can fit. for a big car appr. 1900-2000 rs
up to 8 or 9 persons can fit, but luggage has to go on top of car. these are airport
pickup charges. parking/tax charges are separate, around 50-100 rs for parking per
car, and 50 rs tax per car. "
This is what Vrinda Kunja emailed me. I'm working out on getting taxis to pick everyone up, but am waiting for a reply from Vrinda Kunja. It is a 2 to 3 hour ride from Delhi to Vrindavan if I remember correctly.
Shyam Gopal Das - January 21, 2007 3:46 pm
The retreat is coming up!
Just in case, here's the address of Vrinda Kunja:
Vrinda Kunja Math
Address: Bhut Galli 169, near Gopeshwara Mahadeva.
Vrindavan, District Mathura UP - PIN 281121
Also, don't forget to bring a small lock for your room! If I'll find the time I'll regroup all the info that was submitted in this thread.
I'm still waiting for a reply from Vrinda Kunja with regards to the taxis. I have almost everybody's arrival times, most of us come in big groups so I try to make sure there are taxis waiting for us.
Shyam Gopal Das - January 28, 2007 7:17 pm
It's also preferable to bring your own sleeping bags. Vrinda Kunja has a few blankets, but these are limited.
Babhru Das - January 28, 2007 11:00 pm
I'm getting excited for all of you, even as I lament that I can't go this time.
As far as health tips, here's what I'd do about the grapefruit seed extract and Immodium AD: I'd bring both, take 15 drops of GSE every day (maybe twice--mmm, yum!), and have the Immodium ready as a backup.
Prema-bhakti Marga - January 29, 2007 2:19 am
I'd bring both, take 15 drops of GSE every day (maybe twice--mmm, yum!), and have the Immodium ready as a backup.
Luckily I found GSE in veggie tabs.
Babhru Das - January 29, 2007 2:49 am
Wow! Who makes those? NutriBiotics, or someone else? (The liquid is indeed a heck of a thing to do to a perfectly good glass of water.)
Prema-bhakti Marga - January 29, 2007 10:02 pm
Wow! Who makes those? NutriBiotics, or someone else? (The liquid is indeed a heck of a thing to do to a perfectly good glass of water.)
NutriBiotics and one tab is equal to 12-15 drops.
Shyam Gopal Das - January 30, 2007 7:13 pm
Haribol!
While everyone is preparing for the retreat, a few notes:
- please bring your own sleeping bag/ blankets, there are some at
Vrinda Kunja, but I can't guarantee there will be enough.
- please stay in the rooms as designated so people won't be disturbed
or confused when arriving in the middle of night (for a copy see
below)
- please bring a small lock to lock your doors with (only 1 per room
is needed of course)
- in case of emergency I can be reached at +31 645604727, (a text
message is preferable if less important).
- Please review the 10 offenses against the holy dham. But don't get
scared, sincerity is invincible.
Till very soon,
Syama Gopala das
10 offenses against the holy dham
1. To have contempt or disrespect towards the Guru, who is the
revealer of the Holy Dham.
2. To think that the Holy Dham is temporary.
3. To commit violence towards any of the residents of the Holy
Dham, or to any of the pilgrims who come to the Holy Dham, or to think
that they are ordinary or mundane.
4. To perform mundane activities while living in the Holy Dham.
5. To earn money by, or to make a business of Deity worship and the
chanting of the Holy Name of Sri Krishna.
6. To think that the Holy Dham belongs to some mundane country or
province [such as Bengal], or to think that the Dham of the Supreme
Lord is equal to a holy place connected to some demigod, or to attempt
to measure the area of the Dham.
7. To commit sinful acts while in the Dham.
8. To consider Sri Vrindavan and Sri Nabadwip differently.
9. To blaspheme the Shastras which glorify the Holy Dham.
10. To be faithless and to think that the glories of the Holy Dham
are imaginary.
Rooms at Vrinda Kunja
1 Guru Maharaj with attached bathroom
2 Nanda-Tanuja Bhrigu
3 Vrindaranya dd Prema-Bhakti Marg dd
4 Apurva Kamalini
5 Kamalaksa Krsangi dd
6 Hari Bhakti Dhira Lalita
7 Rafal Mayapurcandra Patryk
8 Lila sakti dd Chaitanya-daya dd Hari-priya dd
9 Gurunistha Syama Gopala Mathuranatha Vamsidhari dasa Gaura Krishna
Extra rooms old part Vrinda Kunja
1 Mohini
2 Monisha Kompi
Eija - January 30, 2007 11:34 pm
i wish a safe journey for everyone!