Some pictures of the "havan" (fire sacrifice") held on Dassera day, the day that Govinda's Restaurant was opened here at ISKCON Baroda. Also some pictures of the inside of Govinda's kitchen and pictures of devotees and guests taking prasad at Govinda's. |
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Govinda's pics
"Dandavats" - 10 new articles
How qualified must one be to get Srila Prabhupada's mercyParasuram and Mahamantra: Twas an evening in November, As I very well remember, I was strolling down the street in drunken pride, But my knees were all aflutter, So I landed in the gutter, And a pig came up and lay down by my side. Remembering Jayo Prabhu - The Jayo Slide & Jayo SantaBy Palaka das As a young man, Jayo Prabhu was a dedicated Sankirtan devotee, full of life and extraordinary amounts of enthusiastic energy for serving Srila Prabhupada's mission. Remembering Jayo Prabhu - The Jayo Slide & Jayo SantaRemembering Jayo Prabhu - The Jayo Slide & Jayo Santa By Palaka das As a young man, Jayo Prabhu was a dedicated Sankirtan devotee, full of life and extraordinary amounts of enthusiastic energy for serving Srila Prabhupada’s mission. For those of you who may never have personally met or seen Jayo Prabhu, he resided in a rather large body. Jayo loved kirtans, but perhaps even more, Jayo loved dancing in kirtans. Often times while watching Jayo dance, he invoked images of a powerful devotee elephant raised up on its two hind legs as he skillfully danced to the Holy Names with great pleasure. At times, Srila Prabhupada referred to his western disciples as the dancing white elephants. Certainly Jayo knew how to dance, and he kept everyone amused and entertained with this endearing talent! We all watched in amazement as he jumped, swirled, twirled and moved with ease, especially for someone housed in such a large body. Jayo was remarkably light on his feet, which inevitably earned him the nickname, ‘Twinkle Toes’. To this day, the mere thought of Jayo’s name brings a smile to my face as I remember his various antics while dancing in kirtans. There was, however, one particular dance move that was so uniquely Jayo’s that it deserves mentioning: the JAYO SLIDE. In 1976, Jayo was residing at the Washington DC Temple, where every day the kirtans were wonderful and were attended by so many devotees, you couldn’t help but become enlivened. Of course, Jayo Prabhu would always be one of the very first to start dancing and when he got going, he always was the most enthusiastic dancer of us all. But when he really really got going, Jayo would do his Jayo Slide. The Jayo Slide went something like this: Sanding before Sri Sri Radha Madan Mohan, Jayo would turn around and then, as fast as he could, run to the back of the temple where Srila Prabhupada’s vyasasana was located. Just before reaching it however he would drop completely to his knees and fall on the hard temple room floor thus continuing the remaining distance sliding his way in, with arms completely outstretched. He always had this great big huge gigantic smile on his, by now, bright red face as he slid in to take shelter of Srila Prabhupada’s lotus feet. Remarkably, he insistently hopped right back up on his feet, turned completely around, and now head for Their Lordships, running back to the main alter as fast as he could. Once again, Jayo would drop to his knees, hit the floor, outstretch his arms and slide perfectly in. Always stopping just in the nick of time and right in front of Radha and Krsna, like an old pro. Sometimes laughter was my reaction but I also remember smiling and having to appreciate his sincere efforts to please his Lord and Master. The Jayo Slide really was much more than some flashy 70’s dance move. It was an act of love and devotion. Jayo was a surrendered soul, stealing all the mercy he could as he dropped to his knees, outstretched his arms and begged to be accepted and engaged in devotional service. Jayo found a unique way to make Srila Prabhupada and Krsna smile, and perhaps even laugh. Srila Prabhupada advises us not to want to see Krsna, but rather to act in such a way that Krsna wants to see us. We all smiled as Jayo entertained, but I am sure Krsna and Srila Prabhupada had the biggest smiles, for Jayo’s slide was for their pleasure, not ours. Without a doubt, Jayo was being noticed and with every slide, Jayo too was getting much closer to his eternal home. By the mercy of Srila Prabhupada and Lord Caitanya, Jayo found a very easy way to perfection through this chanting and undoubtedly in Jayo’s case, dancing process. So easy is this process that even a dog can participate. So what to speak of a rare surrendered soul like Jayo Prabhu, who practically slid his way back home. His real home, his eternal home, back to Godhead. Volumes can be written about Jayo’s kirtan escapades and antics but one thing is for certain, he was tasting that transcendental nectar for which we are all hankering. Jayo was especially blissful during kirtan and it was contagious for anyone who may have had the good fortune to be part of it. Jayo was not a miser either, and he loved to share the good fortune and blessings he was receiving with others. So naturally he wanted to distribute those good fortunes in the form of transcendental books for the greater benefit of all mankind. Like everyone, Jayo looked forward to the Christmas marathons, as they afforded special opportunities for performing Sankirtana during this seasonal time of giving. Jayo however, had an edge over everyone else during Christmas time, because he actually looked like Santa Claus. Hare Krsna Santa’s were one such way to easily approach and engage just about everyone you met in Krsna’s service. “Ho Ho Ho Hare Krsna” and a prasadam candy cane placed in the hand generally stopped them, but watching them unwrap and then proceed to eat the prasadam as they were taking a book and giving a donation was even more the sweeter for those truly rare souls who had the good fortune to help distributed this causeless mercy. Jayo was the ideal Santa in every aspect of this Santa conception. From both the Eastern and Western perspectives, Jayo was indeed a real Santa. With his large form, Jayo more than adequately filled his costume to full Santa Claus perfection. He had the Santa look down pat. From the jolly smiling face with cheeks rosy and red, the twinkle in his eyes, to even the big round belly that jiggled when he laughed. Practically everyone Jayo encountered as Santa felt very comfortable and happy to be in his presence, because he was so convincing as Santa. So naturally they appreciated his efforts and thus reciprocated accordingly, making Jayo perhaps the very best Hare Krsna Santa ever! As Santa, Jayo stood in front of Macy’s on Fifth Ave and distributed more Krsna trilogy’s in a single day than anyone ever had in the past, thus setting a new book distribution record. As a matter of fact, his Santa Claus persona even received national status as the JAYO SANTA from the famed Paul Harvey radio show. Jayo Santa was how he introduced himself to everyone during the Christmas marathons and they loved not only him, but his jolly enthusiastic approach to Santa fundraising as well! Jayo was so expert and skilled as Jayo Santa that I am convinced if he could have pulled it off, he would have performed Jayo Santa sankirtana all year round. Most everyone in ISKCON knows of the Jolly Swami, but have you ever heard of the Jolly Jayo Santa? “Who is that Jayo Santa?” was a question asked on air by one of America’s largest syndicated radio broadcasters of the day, Paul Harvey. Harvey’s career in radio spanned more than 70 years, and his shows “News & Comment” and “Rest of the Story” made him a familiar voice in Americans’ homes across the country. Paul Harvey was considered to be the “most listened to man” in broadcasting during the Jayo Santa days. Harvey was also well known for his coverage and commentary on the not so typical and a bit more unusual stories as well. Certainly a story about Jayo Santa fit his quirky criteria in broadcasting. So the Paul Harvey Jayo Santa saga goes something like this: An elderly lady wrote in to the Paul Harvey Show inquiring as to what if anything he could please tell her about one Jayo Santa who goes from door to door collecting funds. Perhaps others too had come under the spell of this Jayo Santa character. She was looking to find out more information or perhaps other news accounts so she, too, could find out the “Rest of the Story” on this most unusual Jayo Santa. Paul Harvey must have found her Jayo Santa story interesting and just unique enough to merit an on-air segment. Apparently one Christmas marathon, Jayo came knocking at this elderly woman’s door and introduced himself as Jayo Santa. He gave her a prasadam candy cane, which she accepted. As always, and in true Jayo Santa form, he charmed her with his perfectly mastered Jayo Santa routine. She was very impressed and convinced by everything this Jayo Santa had to say. She too made a donation to his cause, all of which she did with no regrets, except perhaps for one. She wished she had found out more about that very special Jayo Santa who came to visit her at her home that Christmassy day. So who was he and where was he from? All she could remember was that he told her he was Jayo Santa. As an avid listener and in true Paul Harvey form, she wanted to know the “Rest of the Story”. Of course, for Paul Harvey and his listening audience on that now forgotten day sometime way way back in the late 70’s, the question still remains: “Who is that Jayo Santa?” You see, not even Paul Harvey could figure out who Jayo Santa was. And as the story goes, Paul Harvey too was forced to end this segment of his radio show with the now famous: “Who is that Jayo Santa”. All the while never truly giving the “Rest of the Story”, but now you know the “rest of the story”, for Jayo Santa was no other than Jayo das, a true Vedic Santa. So who is that Jayo anyway? All I know and can say is that he is one very fortunate great individual spirit soul who perfected the human form of life. A soul surrendered to the desire and wishes of his guru. Someone who selflessly become an instrument and allowed himself to help as an assistant to his beloved Spiritual Master, His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, who kindly fulfilled the desire of Lord Caitanya and our entire Sampradaya by spreading this most precious gift of Krsna Consciousness all over this world. Who is that Jayo? Someone who at the most critical time of his life, death and passing from this body, was remembered by Srila Prabhupada and Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu. Who is that Jayo? Someone I remember and can look up to as my older brother. Hare Krsna, Jayo Prabhu, and thank you for making everyone smile. Your enthusiasm, love and dedication to Srila Prabhupada’s mission have not gone unnoticed nor will they ever be forgotten. Falling at your feet, begging forgiveness for all my offenses, Palaka dasHawaii RathaytraVishaka Corbett: Once again it's time our annual rathayatra and on behalf of the New Navadvipa community I would like to extend a welcome to everyone to come and join us on this most auspicious and fun festival when Sri Jaganatha along with Sri Baladeva and Subhadra Devi shower Their mercy to people from all over the world on the streets of Waikiki. Hawaii RathaytraHawaii Rathaytra
Vishaka Corbett: Once again it’s time our annual rathayatra and on behalf of the New Navadvipa community I would like to extend a welcome to everyone to come and join us on this most auspicious and fun festival when Sri Jaganatha along with Sri Baladeva and Subhadra Devi shower Their mercy to people from all over the world on the streets of Waikiki. As always, we are part of the Martin Luther King Day parade. The parade starts at 9am from Magic Island and proceeds towards Kapiolani where we will have kirtans,booths and Prasadam! Please come join us to make this festival even more joyous! We do have accommodations and prasadam available for a very nominal fee at the temple. Also there are hotels walking distance to the rathayatra site at a great rate. For more info on accommodations and transportation please give a call at 808-295-3106 or email at vishaka_devi108@hotmail.com
“INWheeling Magazine” features New Vrindaban on its coverRita Gupta: "INWheeling Magazine" features New Vrindaban on its cover Petition: Stop Construction of Bridge in VrindavanThe central government of India is building a big bridge around Keshi Ghat. It is against the will of all the local residents in Vrindavan. The new bridge threatens Vrindavan’s heritage ghat. The governor of the state of Uttar Pradesh is doing this without consulting anyone and not revealing the plans to anyone. This project is an ecological disaster, unethical and anti-aesthetic.
The bridge brings a freeway in front of the sanctuary. Hundreds of activists are against this and we will have a civic uprising with the presence of respectful leaders, citizens and schools students. Several Vaisnava Missions and representants of the World Vaisnava Association will march to the Yamuna and make a public protest. This ceremony is called bridge breaking ceremony. It is about breaking symbolically a part of the bridge. Also the press was invited so the protest can be seen in the national press . More than 500 kids of the Sandipani Muni School of Vrindavan are joining the pacific march with dancing art. We only see economic interests of some politicians behind this bridge. Please join the protest with your signature. At the outset, it is necessary to mention that our campaign is in accordance with our fundamental duty as citizens by virtue of Article 51 A (g) of the Constitution of India, which enjoins " …every citizen of India to protect and improve the natural environment including forests, lakes, rivers and wild life and to have compassion for living creatures". Please, foreign and Indian devotees, join the signature campaign to stop the construction of an unnecessary bridge. Please Click here to sign the petition A unique opportunity to live and work in the Holy Dhama of Sri MayapurDeva Gaura Hari das: The Sri Mayapur International School requires a primary school teacher to join our enthusiastic and energetic staff. A unique opportunity to live and work in the Holy Dhama of Sri MayapurA unique opportunity to live and work in the Holy Dhama of Sri Mayapur Deva Gaura Hari das: The Sri Mayapur International School requires a primary school teacher to join our enthusiastic and energetic staff. The successful applicant will have: * Allegiance to ISKCON and faithfulness to Srila Prabhupada
Strong sadhana and spiritual program
An attitude of humble respect for all Vaisnavas and heartfelt care to young Vaisnavas
A recognized tertiary teaching qualification. e.g. Diploma of Teaching, Bachelor of Education
Experience teaching at primary school level in devotional and/or state schools
A strong desire to live and serve in the Holy Dhama of Sri Mayapur
A high level of professionalism and ability to work as a team player, ready and willing to take guidance from our trained Heads of School as to curriculum development and delivery About the school The Sri Mayapur International School is a Krishna Conscious school for children, from Nursery (pre-school) through to year 12, situated directly adjacent to the ISKCON Grihasta housing area in Sridham Mayapur. The school focuses on two main curriculum strands: devotional and occupational. Devotional subjects include Vaisnava music, philosophy and culture, with the environment of ISKCON Mayapur giving an unrivaled opportunity for young Vaisnavas to express their devotion, and gain senior positive association to give form and substance to the teachings. The devotional strand is founded on the development of proper devotional attitude and character in the student. Humility being the first item of knowledge, students are trained to have a respectful and humble attitude towards authorities such as parents, teachers and spiritual masters. Without this character development there can be no success in any sphere, therefore proper Vaisnava character and qualities development is a cornerstone of all education at the Sri Mayapur International School. Through the devotional subjects, students learn the philosophical and practical reasons why such qualities must be developed for ultimate success in life, and come to value the development of these qualities as an essential part of their education. Occupational subjects include academic subjects such as maths, science, literature, physics, chemistry etc, as well as vocational training subjects such as agriculture, business accounting, marketing, tourism, spiritual leadership etc, aimed at preparing the young Vaisnava/Vaisnavi for gainful employment or valued service within the ISKCON community. Academic subjects offered are from the Cambridge University International Examinations program. This allows students aiming at tertiary education to gain a globally recognized qualification for university entrance. Applications should be addressed by email with supporting documents addressing the above selection criteria to: The Principal Sri Mayapur International School BBTonly.comSuresvara Dasa: In March of 1974, Srila Prabhupada sent a letter to all ISKCON centers, instructing his disciples where he wanted them to buy his books and explaining why Little Krishna bags best animation award at SingaporeSaffron Tiger: Animated series 'Little Krishna' has won the best animation award at the recently concluded Asian Television Awards (ATF) in Singapore Some Krishna CarolsJagabandhu das: Ever since i heard about Srila Jiva Goswami's educational innovations with the Holy Name in Srila A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada's Supremely Gorgeous Sri Chaitanya-caritamrta thirty years ago, i always wanted to do Krishna carol Harinam! Some Krishna CarolsSome Krishna CarolsJagabandhu das: Ever since i heard about Srila Jiva Goswami’s educational innovations with the Holy Name in Srila A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada’s Supremely Gorgeous Sri Chaitanya-caritamrta thirty years ago, i always wanted to do Krishna carol Harinam! “We Three Kings” goes perfectly with the Maha-mantra (as the lyrics). Also, “We Wish You a Merry Christmas” can be changed to singing “We wish you were Hare Krishnas… and Hare Ramas.” Dress up in regular western seasonal apparel with scarves, mufflers, tasseled-stocking caps, mittens and sing a cappella just like regular Xmas caroling. The Krishna Carolers. It would make people smile and many would only notice the melody (or think it was the same lyrics in a different language). i really liked it when i heard that Srila Bhaktivinode had often co-opted popular contemporary folk melodies from his time to use as melodies for some of his bhajans. Ever since hearing that, i’ve always thought the possibilities limitless to be innovative. In much the same way as it is with transcendental language and music (the real Mother tongue of everyone). i really like a cappella Kirtan! Because the sound of the Holy Name mainly prevails(may the force of sincerity also kindly prevail nonetheless!). Wouldn’t it be wonderful if not unlike the well-known Mormon Tabernacle Choir, there could similarly be the Krishna Temple Singers? Well-renowned the entire world round for singing. Especially Chintamani (or the Maha-mantra) in a celestial chorale three part harmony. Tis the season to be giving. This year give Love. The gift that keeps on giving. Loneliness over lost loved ones unfortunately often predominates this time of year ( and individual economic inability to give “gifts”), thereby causing many to feel even more sad than usual. As they fill the streets and stores. By singing some Krishna carols in a soft, gentle voice it makes Sri Hari Nam more possible than usual on an individual level even in grocery stores, highways etc. Another way to spread the Holy Name all around everywhere to everyone. Ho, ho, ho… Hare Krishnas!:-)! And all the very best to everyone!
Passing Away of Kuvera PrabhuNisha dd: Expert from HH Radhanatha Swami's lecture on 15 Nov 2009 at Mumbai. I want to tell you about a very special and dear personality, that most of you do not know. One of the most, grateful, gracious and blissful devotees I've ever seen. His name is Kuvera. Bhagavad-gita eCourseKrishna.com: Krishna.com has developed programs to supplement these interests with Shastra eCourses beginning with Bhagavad-gita, and we'd like to invite you to Krishnaize your internet experience More Recent Articles |
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