Ekadasi Book Distribution and Harinama in Vraja

This is the view from Gopinath Bhavan - the parikrama path, then Yamuna River and out to Baelvan, where Laksmi-devi is still performing austerities to enter the rasa dance.

Yesterday was Ekadasi. Maha-mantra prabhu from Canada put a table in front of the Bhavan and a couple of us helped. So many people are doing parikrama and go by. Many stop and look at the books and several buy them as well. And, we meet so many interesting people who we invite in to the temple. Yesterday Maha-mantra prabhu met Deborah from Italy who is just traveling in India and met a man on the bus to Agra who told her she should come to Vrndavana. What a fortunate soul.

There's always someone to connect with - someone whose path will cross these transcendental books. All we have to do is get out there - no matter where we are, even in the holy dhama.


In the afternoon we went on harinama through the alleys of Vraja. Gaura-Nitai led the way and rained Their mercy on all the living entities. We chanted and freed our minds of all the junk (well at least I have so much junk) that resides there and sang the Divine Names of the Lord.


We distributed books on the harinama as well. Many people from out-of-town come for parikrama. And everyone loved seeing our harinama party - about 12 of us went.


Harinama-sankirtana ki jaya!
Transcendental book distribution ki jaya!

BOOK DISTRIBUTION IN PURI DHAMA

Book Distribution in Puri Dhama
Report written by: Sulata dasi

On the morning of the Ratha Yatra, we all set out in the blistering heat towards the main road that joins the Jagannatha Mandira to the Gundica Mandira. Today, that same road, which is usually filled with locals going about their daily duties, would be host to millions of pilgrims from all over India and a handful from other areas of the world, all eagerly awaiting darsana of Jagannatha, Baladeva and Subhadra on their journey back to Vrndavana, Gundica.

In his morning class, Premananda Prabhu emphasized the importance of having the right mood throughout this special day. He said that we should fully give up all mundane talk and only do sankirtana, just like Mahaprabhu and His parikaras. He explained that by this sankirtana, we can attract Lord Jagannatha and that in our present condition we have no qualification to pull Him back to Vrndavana. Pulling the ropes of the cart will not purify our hearts, but sankirtana will.That day was particularly humid and the ocean breeze that Puri is famous for was notably absent, but the excitement and anticipation of receiving the sweet and merciful darsana of Patita Pavana Sri Jagannathdeva, helped us to forget the austere weather conditions.

We decided that the devotees who had not previously attended the Ratha Yatra should watch Jagannatha ascend the cart and that the others should pay their pranamas, have darsana, and make their way to the book stall.

AA few days before we arrived, Vamsi Vadana Prabhu, temple president of Srila Gurudeva’s Puri Matha, and Janardan Prabhu, a local devotee, had worked hard to arrange two stalls, one next to the Gundica Mandira and the other strategically placed on the main road. In the morning, Vamsi Vadana Prabhu and other brahmacaris, took hundreds of books to each location ready for distribution, and Premamanda Prabhu arranged for kitchari prasada for the thousands of pilgrims. .

By the time we arrived at the stall, the main road was already full of pilgrims. We grabbed an armful of books, put on our hats to protect us from the sun’s powerful rays, and plunged into the sea of pilgrims. We were immediately mobbed by eager devotees. It was really quite remarkable, as Orrisa is a very poor state and has one of the highest rates of illiteracy in India. The books seemed to fly out of our hands, sending us running back to the stall, for more books full of transcendental knowledge. The crowd was so dense and the weather was so extremely hot and humid that we had to retreat to the side of the road every half hour for some air and a drink of water.

All the pilgrims were very pleasant, and even though they only spoke scant English and Hindi, somehow we managed to communicate with them. It was an incredible feeling to be part of Mahaprabhu’s movement, under the guidance of Srila Gurudeva, carrying His message in our arms to thousands of devotees on the day that Krsna makes His way back home to His beloved Vrajavasis.At about 2 p.m. Baladeva Prabhu’s cart rapidly approached our stall and we had to quickly pack everything away. In a matter of minutes, the space we had occupied would be filled with thousands of devotes pulling the ropes of Jagannatha’s cart.After packing our books away, we joined Srila Gurudeva’s kirtana party, who were singing and dancing for the pleasure of Baladeva Prabhu. For the next few hours we were all absorbed in singing the holy names. No picture or video can capture the wonder of this festival and no words can describe how it felt to perform sankirtana on such an occasion.

At one point, Srila Gurudeva’s kirtana party were sandwiched between ISKCON and Caitanya Sarasvata Matha. Held high in the air above the heads of the dancing devotees were pictures of Srila Svami Maharaja, Srila Gurudeva, and Srila Sridhara Maharaja, all eternal devotees of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu who were carrying Krsna back home to Vrndavana, on the chariot of their hearts. For me, this was the highlight of the whole festival. I felt proud and fortunate to be sheltered by such a matchless Guru-parampara and happy to witness that by the arrangement of Mahaprabhu, all the kirtana parties came together as one family.When Jagannatha finally arrived, the skies opened up and rain began to fall. Jaya Jagannatha!The next day we all went back to area of the Gundica Mandira and spent the whole afternoon, evening, and night (until 12 a.m.) distributing books from the stall and within the crowd. Even the Mathura-vasi girls, who had never previously distributed books, fearlessly penetrated the crowd carrying the message of eternal happiness under their arm. On that day, even rickshaw, and pan wallas bought books from us. One rickshaw walla was so happy with the book that he said to me, “If you serve Jagannatha like this, you will always be happy.” Then he kissed the book and touched it to his forehead.

Late that night Baladeva Prabhu, and Subhadra devi entered the Gundica Mandira. Then, at about 1.15 a.m. Jagannatha also disappeared into Gundica Mandira, leaving behind the smell of His flower crown and the trail of His lotus feet in the dust. I felt sad knowing that it would be another year before I would have His darsana again, but I was happy and grateful He had allowed me to speak and distribute His glories on that day.Jaya Jagannatha, Baladeva and Subhadra!Jaya Srila Gurudeva, the greatest philanthropist, who is giving freely in charity, the gift of krsna-prema to those who are willing to accept it.

Jaya transcendental book distribution.

Jaya Jagannatha!

Last Sunday was Ratha-yatra in London in Trafalgar Square. Lord Jagannatha, Baladeva and Subadra mercifully gave darsan to thousands of onlookers in busy London.

I went with the Gangamatas there with Srila Gurudeva's beautiful book, "The Origin of Ratha-yatra." We all met so many wonderful people who were so thrilled to receive this book from us, and to be able to learn about the different histories of Lord Jagannatha's descent.

One devotee we met said he had been looking for this book for so long and that we made his day. Here's a video of it:

When I was walking down the street alongside the parade, I was passing by this cafe. Two very elegant ladies were sitting outside drinking a glass of wine, and they stopped me and asked me what was going on. I explained a bit about Lord Jagannatha, and then they asked me what Hare means. I deliberately did not bring any little books with me (I usually always have a Way of Love with me). I had a Gopi-gita in my bag, and I took it out and showed them a picture of Radha and Krsna and explained how Hare is the devotional energy of the Lord. They loved the Gopi-gita and thought it was so beautiful. These women were very lovely and open-minded, so I told them they should get this book as it will transform their lives and their home. One lady went back into the pub, and came back out and gave me 10 pounds. It was really inspiring.

When we were about to leave, Sita and I saw this man very sad about the death of Michael Jackson. He was writing Michael's name and looked like he was crying. So, Sita went up to him and talked to him about it and gave him a Ratha-yatra book. He gave her one pound for it, which for him was a lot! He told me to take a picture of him giving a pound as it was a big thing for him to give someone money.

News reached Srila Gurudeva of the days activities and about how many wonderful people we met, and he sent his heartly blessings to us all and said he was happy to hear so many received these books.

Letter to Srila Gurudeva from Karol Bagh, Delhi sanga

Good news:
Our sankirtan party has split into two parties. First party is going on van regularly whereas the second party is now going on Rickshaw with KHICHARI Prasad loaded on rickshaw. This rickshaw party is going to big markets and feeds 300-400 people and simultaneously doing 3 jobs together. 2-3 boys carry books bag and distribute them. 2-3 boys doing kirten along with Distributing khicheri Prasad to 300-400 people daily. We are trying to spread the mercy of Caitanya mahaprabhu on your behalf. Many people are coming forward to sponsor the Khicheri Prasad. Rather than coming to the temple, for the kaliyuga jives Caitanya mahaprabhu showed this way by sending the sankirten parties to different directions.Nityanand prabhu and Haridas thakur did the same way and spread the mercy. We are also planning to distribute sweat water (sharbat) to the people along with kirten and books as it is very hot in Delhi (Temperature has touched around 45’ C- Half the boiling point). On 21st May we had a very big pandal programme at paharganj .Around 250-300 people were there from many nearby localities like Sadar bazaar, Nabhi Karim, and Pahar ganj. This is the real Ambulance for the soul suffering from millions of life times – The real Life (soul) saver . Gurudev, I understand that a saint like your Divine grace can inspire and bless us to do such programs. Even though some of our activities can be in the mode of goodness but it helps us to maintain better contact with the General public.

In addition to above , this week we organised a big Harinam sankirten in Karol Bagh market where we use to have our Rath Yatra.In this harinam there were around 300 persons. It started from our house and also terminated at my place. In between the procession many people of the market welcomed our procession and distributed water, juices, milk and prasadam etc. Now the police men and women also know us and welcome and escort our procession.In the procession we had a palenquine in which Lord Jagannath, Lord Baldev ,and Subhadra along with Caitanya Mahaprabhu and Nityanand prabhu were there. We also had Gurudev and Swamiji on the alter. After that we had big feast of 56 bhog ( 56 offerings) with bahjans and kirten. We got 2 buses from Paharganj and Sadar bazar.

Aspiring for the service of Sri Guru and vaisnavas. Rohini nandan das ( Karol bagh) Typed by : Ved- Vyas das

University Bhakti Yoga Club Houston

Watch this video of the devotees in Houston engaged in University preaching program.

Give them the holy names of Krishna

Hare Krishna to all dear devotees and especially warm wishes to all those out there on the streets, subways, airports or at their book tables distributing the sacred literatures of our holy masters.

I wanted to share this link with you all. Download the file here. By downloading the file you'll be able to print some very nice Maha-mantra flyers or calling cards in A7 format, which is half of a postcard, for free distribution to everyone you meet. It's a nice way for people to remember they met a devotee of Lord Krishna. more downloads here

Haribol and happy sharing!
ys Raghava Pandit das

Gigantic Harinam in London

All Glories to Sri Guru and Gouranga!

Dandavat Pranam,

Respected Vaisnavas and Vaisnavis, friends,

Gigantic Harinam in London has become a legend,
an institution, a household word in the Vaisnava World.

London has as one of the Metro poles in the world an ability to be a place of influence and anything that takes place in this huge city is broadcast to the rest of the world.

The Chanting of The Holy Names Hare Krishna and Rama are where ever they are uttered purifying those Jiva's who come in contact with them and when hundreds of devotees from all over the world come together to sing them joyfully, loudly in one of the largest cities in the world literally thousands of people come in contact with them.

They are waiting for them, trying so hard to maintain their facade of so-called material happiness, when the devotees turn up everyone joins in, they begin to turn and twist, smile and laugh, dance and sing, Hare Hare, Rama Rama, The bliss full mood of the devotees and the mercy of Sri Guru and Vaisnavas are transmitted to the core of their being.

They can never forget this, the impression lasts.

What a better opportunity to distribute the transcendental literature of the Guru Parampara.

Book you flower aeroplane, NOW!

and fly in to London to join the Singing, Dancing and Distribution of Love and Affection to all the Souls waiting.

Saturday 30th May 7pm
Meeting outside Covent Garden Tube Station:

Prepare your soul to dance...


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EGAGGlpiiro&feature=channel_page

KUALA LUMPUR DISTRIBUTION

Written by Hemalata dasi

Dandavat Pranams
Please accept my humble obeisances
All Glories To Sri Guru and Sri Gauranga

By the time we left the temple on Saturday the 2nd of May, after the weekly Temple Programme it was already 11pm. Sripad Bhakti Vedanta Bhikshu Maharaj who was very enthusiastic in wanting to distribute books with us decided it was just too late for him as Mangal Arati would be running right on schedule in the morning. We loaded the car boot with various books, made a stock list and Vijay Krsna prabhu had set the price list on only 2 of the 8 titles we were going to distribute. The rest were "FREE but Donation based."

Led by our visiting Brahmachari from Vrindavan, Krsna Kanta prabhu who was very excited at the prospects of distributing books anywhere anytime, we all got the blessings of Maharaj and began the night.

Bangsar, which is just 20 minutes away from the temple was decided as a more exciting location to distribute books given that it is filled with party-goers on Saturday nights and the 3 main streets with almost 100 restaurants, pubs and diners is busy with the hip and happening. So why not try something new, after all no one said transcendental book distribution had to be in austere locations only. Nothing ventured, nothing gained.

As we turned into Jalan Maarof from Jalan Travers and were about to pass the Ramalingeswara Temple on the left, traffic was slowing to almost a halt. Large groups of Indians amounting to about 200 people were seen all over the road. As we looked to the right of the road we noticed a huge chariot all lit up and making its way to our side of the road.


Quickly we decided this would be the perfect opportunity to distribute books and those lovely prashad cakes packed in little packets by our wonderful Carumukhi didi. We had to think fast. We passed the crowd and a short distance away quickly parked in front of a “no parking” spot of a closed lighting showroom that was just waiting for us. Everyone practically flew out of the car, pooped the booth and grabbed especially the Shiva Tattva books and prashad in little bags and went headlong into the crowd.
Chariot Procession in full force along Jalan Maarof in Bangsar
It was such a perfect opportunity. Little did we know that the Chariot was for Goddess DurgaiAmman from the nearby Nageshwari Amman temple as it was the yearly auspicious Chitra Pournami. Indeed she must have blessed us for our little endeavour for Lord Sri Krsna. (Ahhh! That’s why we had to leave the temple a little later)

People were already in a very devotional state having walked with the chariot some distance so when we were handing them books and prashad they were just to happy to receive with open arms. One family even came back and asked for more of those delicious prashad cakes. So we asked them to pose for a photo with us and they were just too happy to smile. That’s (L to R) Balaram prabhu, Ramesh prabhu, Jaya Govindha prabhu, Krsna Kanta prabhu (at the back) , the family and Hema didi (me)
After this photo was snapped we got into the car and proceeded towards the Telawi Streets in full anticipation but as we circled the area almost 3 times we realised the entire area was just dead. This is not the Bangsar we know. Then it made sense. Friday being May Day and a public holiday meant a 3 day weekend which allowed most people to simply getaway and leave town. So we decided we would attach Bangsar on another night and decided on the next nearest town which was actually scheduled for next weekend – Brickfields.

Once again, Brickfields which is like a Little India to those of us in Petaling Jaya although there is indeed another Little India further into KL, know that this little place has almost 12 Hindu temples, mosques, churches, the biggest Buddhist temple and various other temples. We approached Jalan Sambanthan along the Seethram shop stretch and once again found a parking spot waiting for us, which was quite amazing considering that busy road. Krsna Kanta prabhu was quick to fill his bags with books and prashad and made sure everyone’s had an ample supply too. As the car had nearly run out of petrol I had gone for a refill and brought chilled drinking water back for the team. Seen here are some patrons having supper on the pedestrian stretch of the road where tables and chairs are put up at night for customers.

Jaya Govindha prabhu impressing the girls with his Finnish charm and smile. Many people were very impressed, and sat up and took notice when Jaya Govindha prabhu even walked through the shops or stall with his book. In must be the pure white dhoti, tilak, kantimala and Gurudev’s mercy working through him. People would just donate RM10 notes for even free books, to him.

As we finished with this row and headed to the row shops in front of this, we were joined by Santana prabhu who is Ramesh prabhu’s friend and has come to listen to Gurudev’s lecture at our temple. One family in a shop upon speaking to Krsna Kanta prabhu asked him to invite all his friends and wanted to buy us any drink we wanted. Prabhu’s warm personality drew the attention of another family who wanted to know where our temple was. Krsna Kanta prabhu took their details and gave them all our details and asked them to inform him when they were coming so he would cook prashad for all of them.



After finishing this stretch of shops we got into the car and drove to an inner part of Brickfields where the Gopala’s restaurant is. Only 2 customers were there that night so we proceeded a little further up where the red light street actually begins. Being foreigners, Krsna Kanta prabhu and Jaya Govindha prabhu were told that this row would be a little rough but they remained completely enthusiastic. The people on this part of town were not at all rude or offensive to any member of our team. As Balaram prabhu pointed out, they were very receptive eventhough sometimes a little spaced out. It really didn’t matter, because after all they would have found Gurudev’s books in their hands once they sobered up. By and large most people were moved or appreciative that a small group of people were sacrificing their time in a worthy way. It was easy to see that they respected that.

Calling it a night, we made our way back to the temple and realised we spent about 2 and half hours and had distributed 108 books in that short time. It was a wonderful night indeed and we discussed the next book distribution which was going to be as much fun if not more.

Transcendental Book Distribution Ki Jaya !
Srila Gurudev Ki Jaya !

Brighton Borders School of Vraja Program

Posted by Indupati dasa

PROGRAM AT BORDERS IN BRIGHTON, ENGLAND

The event Friday 30th January was a monumental, groundbreaking, profound success said in all humility acknowledging that Srila Gurudeva is the doer.
We had 150 + guests.
We sold more than 60 copies of the CD book School of Braja.
Srila Gurudevas and Srila Prabhupads books on display and for sale.
Borders is going to stock all Srila Gurudevas books and Srila Prabhupads Gita on Sale on return basis.
They want to do a follow up event in an outside venue.
They also want to facilitate us and host us doing events for the community and especially the youth in Borders.
People came from all over the UK to participate, including many of my earliest contacts from when I began doing events 10 years ago.
Everyone loved the event and my contact from Borders were amazed by our coordiantion and enthusiasm.
The event was an example of nice team and networking.
Gangamatas and many others came to help, we had Srila Gurudevas mercy all over.
I got about 40 email address which I will forward for the Harikatha list.
We had raw food and prasadam distribution going on at the same time.

Letter from Vrnda didi in Auckland, NZ

Dandavats my dear Vasanti,
Just letting you know that yesterday I posted a box of Gurudeva's and Srila Prabhupada's books to the prison in Auckland. I gathered together books that were purchased ages ago by the Punja family in Fiji, as well as some books from other sources. Dhruva and Bela's One Love prasad catering business sponsored this lot of books for the prison.Hopefully this will be the first of many more boxes of books going out to various institutes around NZ!Thankyou for planting the seed of this book sponsorship programme here in NZ. I'm happy that I can be involved in some little way in getting our Acarya's books out there to the people.

Love from you sister, Vrnda

Bangalore Home Decor Show

Written by: Sripad Vaikhanas Maharaja

Oh Gurudeva! Oh Nitai! What is going on? Why is no one taking a book from me? I am in a great spot, the people are nice, and many seem interested in the books. But when I start talking to them, they lose interest and walk away. What is wrong with me?

Has this ever happened to you?

A few days ago, we got a free booth at a home décor show at one of the convention centers in Bangalore. Giridhari Prabhu and two of Srila Gurudeva’s young householder disciples, Sankarsana prabhu and Radha-priya didi, improvised a nice booth, covering the walls with extra-large blowups of many of Syamarani didi’s paintings. On two large tables, they laid out the beautiful posters from those paintings, some of them framed to show how nice they would look in the home.

The other tables were filled with the books of Srila Gurudeva in English, Kannada, Tamil, Telegu, Orrian, Bengali and Hindi. We also had Srila Prabhupada’s Bhagavad Gita As It Is and Krsna Book in most of the same languages. In one corner was a table with devotional paraphernalia, japa beads, neck beads, and other items. All in all, it was pretty good looking, roomy, easy to get around and colourful. Now all we had to do was start preaching and selling.

As this was a home décor show, the posters were a natural seller. A lot of people were happy to have such beautiful pictures hanging in their homes. That gave us a chance to show books to those people who came up to see the posters. It was a perfect tie in- “What do you like about this painting? Would you like to know the story behind it?” Our approach was to always start with a big book- why not? It is the same effort to sell a big book as a small book. If that doesn’t work, you can always switch to the small book.

There was a nice flow of people throughout the day. Because the book and poster tables were so pretty, a lot of people would stop just to look at them. With so many nicely designed and colourful books and posters lying side by side, the tables resembled a field of attractive wildflowers and the customers were like bees buzzing around, looking for nectar.

On Saturday, I went go to the show. Yippee!!! It had been a while since I had been able to go out on book distribution. I knew I was a little rusty but was looking forward to talking with people and selling books. Indoor shows are great. You get a calm atmosphere and controlled climate, no rain, no hot sun beating down on you.

So, how did I do? Sankirtana book distribution is such an amazing activity because it is instructive on so many levels. I was about to re-learn many of these important lessons.

When the first people came, I was so intent on selling a book and “preaching” to them, that I would place a Bhagavad Gita or Jaiva Dharma in their hand and tell them non-stop for as long as they would stay, all the reasons that they would love this book and how important it was for them and the entire world that they get one. I was eloquent, charming, and persuasive, and must have sounded so learned and intelligent. The only problem was, no one bought a book. These were nice people, receptive and appreciative, but they did not take any books, large or small.

What was happening? What was wrong with my presentation? When I stopped to think about it, I realized that I was making all the classic mistakes. I was telling these people everything that I thought was great about the books. I figured if I said enough good things, something would strike a chord and they would want one. But, I wasn’t engaging them. I did not know who they were, why they may have stopped, what they did, what were their interests, what were they looking for in life, nothing.

I wasn’t relating to them as persons. I was talking at them, not with them. From my presentation, it seemed if I had no interest in them; I was only trying to sell them something that was important to me.

So then I realized that these are people, souls, just like me. They are wandering here and there searching for happiness and to make some meaning out of life. If I don’t know something about them, what makes them tick, then can I explain how the books in a way that is relevant to their life?

From that point on, I began taking a genuine interest in each of them. “Hello, my name is BV Vaikhanas and I’m from America. Who are you? Very nice to meet you.” Then a big genuine smile from me. “Where are you from, what do you do, what are you interested in, do you have a family, do you like to read, do you ever meditate, what do you think is the meaning of life, what are looking for, what would make you happy?” As they answered, I would come to understand them and could present the books in a natural way that had application to their life.

As I began to remember these lessons, everything began to change. My mood became one of compassion and surrender to the will of Mahaprabhu. I gave up the idea that I was a talented sales master and tried to see myself as a humble servant of the Lord and the other souls out there. As that mood took hold, books began to flow from the table very easily into the hands of happy people. The day just got better and better after that.

The show turned out to be a great success. We sold around a hundred big books and even more CD’s, small books and posters. We met lots of nice people and learned some wonderful lessons about building relationships and sharing these teachings in a very personal way. And we felt like we have a role in the grand mission of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu, Srila Prabhupada, and Srila Gurudeva. It is a pretty good feeling.

Book Distribution in Istanbul

(written by Bhaktivedanta Damodara Maharaja)

Dandavat Pranams,
All Glories to Sri Sri Guru and Gauranga,

Dear Maharajas, Prabhus and sisters.
We have been here in Turkey for more than a week, visiting two cities Istanbul and now Ankara. The history of our little yatra here is quite short, now it is entering it’s third year here. As of now Srila Gurudeva has 11 initiated devotees from here, and more are on the way hopefully. Of course the preaching here exploded when Srila Gurudeva Himself stopped here for 12 days on his way to and from the Odessa festival last September.
Our God-sister Savitri has had a two bedroom flat given to her by her mother, actually she gave it to Srila Gurudeva and we are using it. It is on the Asian side of the city. Istanbul is huge, the second largest city in Europe with a population of @ 11 million. Of course it is a Muslim country but prides itself on its secular outlook.
Having our own centre is great because when you stay at other’s houses you have little control over the situation, but now we are free to have anyone over we choose, at whatever time.

A few days ago we went out on book distribution, and it was amazing. We had copies of Coming Back in Turkish, and a few English books of Gurudeva, and our own fliers and pamphlets.

There was pandemonium. We were constantly surrounded by 6 to 10 people asking questions and taking a look at the books. So many people were attracted, and genuinely interested. No one here has ever been rude or threatened me in all the times I have come here. People are respectful, religious and inquisitive. It certainly is a refreshing change

from the predominately atheist countries of Western Europe.
Simply using the arguments provided by Thakura Bhaktivinode in Jaiva Dharma, people were easily and happily persuaded to cough up $3 or so for the book, and many more took flyers. In no time at all myself, Savitri Dasi (a local), and German Brahmachari Gokul Chandra Dasa (the last of an endangered species) finished our books and returned home. The next day we also went to the Tourist area of Taxim and had the same experience. Just from these two days we have had 4 phone calls from inquisitive persons who want to come to our seminars next week. That is an amazing response. In just the one week we have been here, already 3 people have become vegetarians and are chanting the Holy Name.

One man complained that it was improper to do this outside a mosque, but the others chastised him, “Nothing happened to the mosque, it’s still there, don’t worry.” Quite a few people called after our two days of distribution, so if devotees could regularly come through here, we now have more than 200 people on our mailing list to invite for programs.

Then on Friday, the 11th of April we came to the capital city of Ankara. Nightly programs attended by about 12 persons, but the exciting thing was the Harinam done by the attendees of the program for about an hour. We danced and chanted through the restaurant section of downtown. We were surprised that so many people knew the Hare Krishnas, Turkish people are well travelled and educated also it seems.

The people on the street were so genuinely happy to see us, and many people chanted behind us. Once I asked Srila Gurudeva that, “Srila Bhaktivinode Thakura wrote two whole chapters of Jaiva Dharma specifically concerned with preaching to Muslims so it must be that he knew that in the future, this movement of Lord Caitanya would spread to there

also!” Srila Gurudeva smiled and said, “Without a doubt.”

So I hope this little message can inspire others to come to this country and stay a while. Pujyapada Tridandi Maharaja also came here last year and he is convinced that this is his favourite preaching field in the world. He will do a one week japa retreat in the South some time this year. If there are a few devotees who want to come here and preach, do sankirtana and books, then they can write to us. We have everything here for you, just write to us.

I took a little section out of the Jaiva Dharma, I hope you like it, and feel inspired.
  Lahiri Mahashaya was fluent in the language of the Muslims. He had studied the Koran and also many books of the Sufis. To the Kazi he addressed this question: "What is your idea of liberation?"
  The Kazi replied, "Where you use the word `jiva' (individual spirit soul), we use the word `ru'. The ru has two states of existence: 1. ru-mujarradi, and 2. ru-tarkibi. What you call `cit' (spirit) we call `mujarrad'. What you call `acit' (matter) we call `jisam'. The spiritual world (mujarrad) is beyond material time. The material world (jisam) is subject to time's control. The `tarkibi-ru', or `baddha-jiva' (conditioned soul), is filled with material desires. His mind is filled with material ideas. The `mujarrad-ru' (liberated soul) is pure and free from these contaminations. A person who says, `alam misal' (I am spirit) is able to become a `mujarradi-ru' (liberated soul). By the gradually development of `esk' (spiritual love) the `ru' (soul) becomes purified. A great saint goes to the abode of God. He does not stay in the material world. In that spiritual world he is the servant and God is the master. The soul and God have that relationship eternally. The attainment of that pure relationship with God is called liberation. The Sufis explain the Koran in that way, but not everyone is able to understand this explanation. By the mercy of Lord Caitanya Mahäprabhu, Chanda Kazi understood this and taught this to me. In that way I know that you are all pure devotees of the Lord.
  Lahiri Mahashaya: What is the teaching that is at the root of the Koran?
  Kazi: there are many teachings in the Koran. I cannot single out a particular kind of worship to tell you. However, the purpose of life is to worship God. When they see the supremely blissful Supreme God, all people become plunged into transcendental bliss. Lord Caitanya has explained in this way.
  Lahiri Mahashaya: How does the Koran describe the form of God?
  Kazi: The Koran says that God has no form. However, Lord Caitanya told the Chanda Kazi that the meaning of these words of the Koran is that God has no material form. The Koran does not mean to say that God does not have a spiritual form. The prophet himself saw the form of God, which is filled with transcendental love. He also described all the rasas, but only in a concealed way.
  Lahiri Mahashaya: What do the Sufis say?
  Kazi: their philosophy is "anal hak", which means "I am God". In this way the philosophy of the Vedic impersonalists and the Muslim Sufis is the same.
  Lahiri Mahashaya: Are you a Sufi?
  Kazi: No. I am a pure devotee. I have surrendered my life to Lord Caitanya.

  Thus talking about many things, the saintly Kazi and the Vaiñëavas treated each other with great respect. Finally the meeting ended with a great chanting of the holy names of Lord Hari.

Book distribution in Texas is really fun.  We go place to place, shop to shop, home to home, street light to street light, door to door, neighbor to neighbor, classroom to classroom, highway to highway, Walmart to Walmart, gas station to gas station, all the while listening to Srila Gurudeva chanting sweet bhajans and telling people to chant "Haribol!  Bolo Hari Hari Mukunda Murari! We give them Srila Gurudeva's books and healthy raw food snacks thanks to Gopal's Healthfoods.    Here's a clip about sponsorship for the book rack program in Houston.  

visit our website: www.bhaktiyogaschool.com 

Gaura~Hari~Bol

A Walk in the Park in Hong Kong

Hong Kong is such a packed, crazy city. Syamarani didi and I were walking in the park the other day, and seeing all the people I got inspired to distribute books. So, I went back to the temple and got some books and went back out. The devotees here think its really hard to talk to Chinese people, and to some extent that is true, but I met so many wonderful people. I felt so guided by Gurudeva and Krsna as I was walking. Not thinking about anything - just allowing them to guide me to those souls waiting for these books. I stopped to talk to this elderly man sitting on a bench. I showed him the book To Be Controlled by Love in Chinese and he said, "I don't believe in religion. I only believe in myself." I said that's good - Krsna says in the Bhagavad-gita to abandon all varieties of religion and surrender to Him. He was flipping through the pages of the book and I said, "Just take it home and read it and if you don't like it you can give it away to a friend." He kept looking at the pages and looked really intrigued. I said, "The book is free, but if you want to give a donation so we can print more, that would be great." He said, "I'm a poor man." I said, "No problem - whatever you can give is fine, even if it is 1 or 2 dollars. So he pulled 20 dollars (Hong Kong dollars, which is like 3US) out of his pocket. It was a really genuine exchange.

Then today I was walking in the park and I dropped a book right in front of this bench where 2 ladies were sitting. I took the sign that this book was for one them. So, I said, "I have this beautiful book for you." One lady took it and said Jesus saves. At first I thought, maybe I should keep moving, but some force (not of my own) made me stay to talk with her. Turns out we had the most lovely conversation! I said, "There is one God, with many names - Jesus, Allah, Buddha and Krsna." She said, "Yes, I believe that." Then I showed her a picture of Krsna. She asked, "What does He represent?" I said, "God." She looked interested. I then gave her a flyer for the art program we were having the following day and told her we would love for her to come and I think she would find it a wonderful cultural experience. She read the flyer and she said, "Are you a vegetarian?" I said yes and she got so excited and said she is too. She became a vegetarian because of a heart attack 10 years ago so said she did it for health, not because of faith. I said, "But don't you feel good now?" She said she feels more peaceful. I explained that is because the way animals are killed is so cruel and the consciousness of the person who kills them comes into us." She said, "You are brilliant." It was really sweet. Her name was Margaret and she said she was so happy to meet me and is going to call her Indian friend and see if she will come to the art program.

Transcendental book distribution ki jaya!

Book Distribution at India Festival 2008, Fremont (SF)

A few weeks into August, I grudgingly wake up at around 6 a.m. on a Saturday morning. As I turn off my alarm clock, get out of bed, and start to get ready, I wonder why on earth I am getting up so early during my summer vacation. Then, like a splash of cold water awakening my drowsy consciousness, I remember that it is Sri Balarama’s Appearance Day and I am on my way to help distribute Srila Gurudev’s books and posters at the Festival of India in Fremont. As soon as I remember this, I am excited and happy that this day and the next will be a perfect opportunity to serve Srila Gurudev. I go downstairs and get the boxes of books ready, and wait for Hrdaya Govinda prabhu and Radha.
Before I know it, we are on our way and soon reach the festival site. As usual, Ranga dd is there on time greeting us with a cheerful grin. We unload and decorate our booth and tables with saris, posters, frames, and books. I survey the other booths at the festival, and I think ours is definitely the most beautiful. After setting up, we do a short kirtan and pray that these two days will be a success. In no time at all, streams of people start entering the festival site and exploring our booth.
Our booth is like a precious island full of jewels, and the people outside are like wandering fish in the sea. Hrdaya Govinda is the fisherman, catching the fish with his friendly greetings and reeling them into shore. (Don’t worry, we’re vegetarians so we don’t eat them J) I am shy and lazy a lot of the time and feel unqualified to speak to people about all of these wonderful books, but Ranga dd continuously inspires me to be enthusiastic. So many people come by, drawn by the beautiful posters and books. For every person that comes by the booth, whether they leave with literature or not, we give them a flyer for our local center. We also give them a biography of Srila Gurudev, a small book, and ask if they would like to sign up for the Harikatha mailing list and/or Nama hatta programs.
By Baladev’s mercy, we made enough donations in just two day's to cover the cost of the books and table. We even had extra profit to donate to Navadwip! Just this past weekend, we had a very successful Nama Hatta program at a person’s home, whom we met at the festival. We hope to continue to build a relationship with this very sweet family and the community in that area and beyond. Srila Gurudeva ki jai!! –Gopika dasi


Oh My Goodness! Sharing is so much fun! Hrdayagovinda Prabhu, Ranga Didi, Gopika Didi, and I went to Freemont for the Festival of India 2008 event. Thousands of curious souls walked booth to booth to check out what caught their eye. And as Gopika said, of course ours was super cool and amazing. By Gurudeva’s and Lord Baladeva’s blessings people purchased Gurudeva’s potent books and beautiful posters, and for each purchase we gave them a baggy of popcorn prasadam, which made them feel cared for. At first we were kind of shy, but no problem, that went away with time. It was evident that just as Nike ads advise, we had to “Just Do It”, accept that Gurudeva and Sri Krsna were going to guide the people, and of course help us be bold. We took down the names of people who were interested in receiving Hari-katha and/or hosting Nam-hatta programs at their homes or attending programs. Then from that list we sent out an e-mail, and one person responded. So we did a program at his house, and over 60 people attended. After that successful program he is now interested in having monthly programs at his house, and wants to invite 100 people next time. It’s so wonderful to see Krsna do His God thing in people’s sincere hearts. –Radha dasi

BOOK DISTRIBUTION AT INDIA FESTIVAL, FREMONT (SF)

In the weekend of August 16 - 17, 2008 our Bayarea Sanga (Bhakti Center, San Francisco) participated in a 2 day annual event called 16TH INDIA FESTIVAL - 2008 organised by Federation of Indo-Americans of Northern California for past 16 years in rememberance of India Independence.
Some of the highlights of the festival were booths where vendors were selling clothing, jewelery, food, music, puja paraphernalia , literature and art & craft along with Free Health Fair, cutural programs and seminars. There were also non-profit booths from organisations around Bay Area. The foot traffic for 2 days was estimated to be around 15,000 to 20,000 people. This festival attracts not only Indian people but a mixed crowd who want to know more about different cultures, entertainment, just various respectful reasons.
Through Sri Guru and Vaisnavas causeless mercy our booth was well received. Lots of books were distributed and also Bhakti Art posters. Radha dd, Gopika dd and Hrdyagovinda Prabhu worked very hard.
There are many people there who want to know so much about just everything. Eg. a young man was going through books and he asked where do I start if I want to pursue on this path. And he took Jaiva Dharma. It is difficult to tell them about books when we don't know what it is about. We tried to get some emails for Harikatha Mailing List. For me, it was good experience to even try to talk to people only through Gurudev's causeless mercy. I'm praying at Sri Guru and Vaisnavas causeless mercy that they will allow us to do many many more such services. Lots of people are already aware about our Srila Prabhupada and were curious to know if we were Iskcon.

Radha dd and Gopika dd brought lots of books.. and she very nicely set 2 tables books stacked high. They nicely decorated the booth with beautiful sarees - very attractive. Hopefully we will do much better next year. It just naturally attracts people if you have a larger booth, books stacked high with one copy of each title placed upright in front of each stack, nicely decorated and when people see many people looking at everything. All these are very helpful. Radha dd said these are some of the marketing skills and yes, Radha dd is good about these things. Very inspiring for me. I learnt a lot. Lots of parents were requesting books for children, anything for children. Children are everywhere and if anything can be prepared for young childrens reading, it can definitely be distributed. We had Krsna books for distribution. Beautiful signs were made by Gopika dd. Parents were also asking about devotional cartoons. Coloring books - dasavatar was accepted well, we had few and it was sold out. People were quite receptive, very positive - especially younger people. I think overall our booth went well and praying that we will have many such opportunity to serve again. - Rangadevidasi

Excuse me sir! Welcome to the book distribution zone....

Excuse me sir! Welcome to the book distribution zone, a transcendental Vaikuntha embassy bubble which has opened up on your street corner!

 

More inspiring videos on http://www.youtube.com/user/PureBhaktiBookDist

GVP Book Distribution Prison Program

Hare Krsna,
Dandavat pranama. By the causeless mercy of Sri Sri Guru and Gauranga, Srila Gurudeva's books are now going to the prisons.
Donations are mercifully being given through http://www.gvpbookdistribution.com/ and our team which includes Syamarani dasi, Mahasakti prabhu, Ranga didi, Gopika dasi, Visvambhara prabhu, Radha dasi and myself have been working towards having Srila Gurudeva's books sponsored for prisons, hospitals, hostels, doctor's offices and anywhere devotees are inspired to put these transcendental gems.

We will soon be sending books to two more prison programs (one in Australia and one in North Carolina), and also will be starting our rack program, where racks will be put in various places with sponsored books.

If anyone wants to get involved in any way - please write to me at vasantidasi@gmail.com.

Below is a thank you letter from the Philadephia Prison Program called Books through Bars:

Books Through Bars
4722 Baltimore Ave • Philadelphia, PA 19143
215.727.8170

info@booksthroughbars.org • http://www.booksthroughbars.org/

February 1, 2009

Dear Raksha (Ranga devi),
I am writing to you today on behalf of our organization Books Through Bars in order to thank you for your recent and generous book donation. You can be assured that these books will come to good use and be sent out in packages to incarcerated persons who write to us requesting either spiritual or meditational texts.

Thank you again for your donation and support.

Sincerely,

Emily Abendroth,
Books Through Bars

A day out with Syamarani didi

Malaysia Subhayatra

The Subhayatra with Jagannath, Baladeva and Subadhra was really great. It was in Johur Bahra, Malaysia on January 24, 2009 on Chinese New Year so there were Chinese boys there with a dragon. By the end of the harinama, some of the boys were pulling Jagannath. We had two carts - one with Jagannatha, Baladeva and Subadhra and the other with Srila Prabhupada. Many devotees distributed books and flyers along the way. There was a large Indian community and they were extremely receptive and all gave donations for books, especially for the Siva-tattva book. The Chinese people we met also were interested in our books and gave donations for books such as The Butter Thief and Happiness in A Fool's Paradise.

All for all

I believe that even if a person's intelligence can't grasp a book's content, his soul can, if he has sukrtis.

Hare Krishna and welcome to our Blog

We're happy to announce that today we launched our official GVP Book Distribution Blog and News section. Please visit frequently to stay up-to-date on inspiring book distribution stories from devotees meeting the public and any other related and relevant topics.

Haribol and happy book distributing!

Aspiring to serve Hari, Guru and the Vaisnavas,
GVP Book Distribution team.