krsna

Can You Please list those ghee brands using animal fat , so to avoid them, I used ISKCON ghee and it tasted fantastic, perhaps my taste buds were used to the adulterated ones.I could safely use the ISKCON or the ASARAM Bapu brands, being safe , but they are costly.Can I use Amul? Pls advice, being a Vaishnav, I have to know, which ones are pure.

This point the anti-party also overlooks and eagerly goes to attend the lila-dramas performed by conditioned souls. Thus from start to finish it is a cheating process. A process of self-deception.

Does Sex Attraction Bring People to Krishna?

<!-- end .post-top --><!-- the main section of the post goes here -->Bir Krishna Goswami

Dear devotees,

Please accept my obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada.

I would like to get some feedback concerning certain methods that I have seen devotees employ in order to attract people to Krishna consciousness. These methods utilize young attractive females.

One example is having devotees publically dance a “rasa-lila” enactment to modern music with a Krishna conscious theme.

Another is having ladies dance in such a way in Harinamas that attention becomes focused on them.

Do we think these ways are effective in spreading Lord Caitanya’s message?

Please give me some feedback.

Your servant, Bir Krishna das Goswami

Pure and impure what is to be offered!

<!-- end .post-top --><!-- the main section of the post goes here -->By Madhavendu das

I am submitting this article as a follow up on the article by Antony Brennan title “Indian Ghee contaminated with animal fat.”

Dear Maharajas, Prabhus and Matajis, Please accept my humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada.

I am extremely grateful to HH Bhakti Raghav Swami and Antony Brennan for their kind research on the Ghee. I hope this time it will better inform devotees and bring auspiciousness for the whole society. The degradation of general mass has no limit in this present age. Everyone is just mad after sense enjoyment and they don’t mind to make money by doing any nonsense activity.

Mix or impure Ghee is not a recent problem. It was there also, when Srila Bhakti Siddhanta Saraswati Prabhupada was present. Through his letter he instructed what is to be offer to the Lord. The following are the excerpts from his letters:

“Bilati Sugar (imported sugar/ white sugar) and mixed Ghee are impure. Desi (native) real sugar and unmixed Ghee is pure. (Patravali, Part one, page-3)

Pure and impure things both are material truth, but in relation to serve the Lord one must reject impure ingredients. In the mode of goodness pure things and in the mode of passion and ignorance the impurity besieged and enclosed. By sattva-guna one must have to forlorn the rajah and tamah gunas means being fixed in visuddha-sattva and knowing that visuddha- sattva is pure and serve the Lord with those ingredients. In the impure conscience means the ingredients which possessed rajah and tamah qualities cannot be offered to the Lord. Purity must always be taken into strict consideration. (Patravali, Part one, page-5)

About this two definition of “pure” and “impure”, whatever karmis thinks is pure, may not be so for the devotees, also according to karmi’s consciousness of impure things is pure for the devotees. If the term apavitra (impure) indicate amedya-uneatable then no one can never ever offer it to the Lord. Without Sattvik, Rajahsik and tamasik things can not be offer to the Lord. If some one bring some impure things and tell that this is offered to the Lord-we should never accept it. Anything which is not accepted by the Lord, are rejected by the devotees. There will be no offenses to rejecting those things. Even if it is announced that the pure Sattvik ingredients is offered to the Lord but by non- devotees, we should reject knowing well that Lord does not accept them. (Patravali, Part one, page-8, 9)”

Regarding Sugar: Sugar is one of the main ingredients in so many sweet preparations. But unfortunately no one concerned about its purity. The sugar we use is white sugar which is bleached over animal bones. Refiners use blood (bullocks, buffalos, pigs etc) and bone black frequently to refine Sugar. It is poisonous in certain cases. “The world is enamored and deceived merely by the outward beauty which is nothing but the trap of Maya” Srila Bhakti Siddhanta Saraswati Thakur The brown Sugar is much sweeter, more wholesome and more digestible than white Sugar. The brown coloring matter is the very essence of Sugar, its very life. Here at the Krishna Balaram Mandir we have 5 senior Brhmacaris who obstain and decline to accept and eat foodstuff containing white Sugar. They consider that sugar is untouchable and also unhealthy.

In the Kartik I have spoke to HG Harisuri Prabhu about the white sugar. He told me that we should not use the white sugar. Refiners are using horrible chemicals now days. Prabhupada instructed us to organize our own production, like farm houses etc.

My humble suggestion on the matter, is to have somebody organize our own production or cottage industry. If any wealthy Vaisnava can take inspiration and come forward to pick up this urgency and pressing- need in our ISKCON society; he will very much please and satisfy the Lord and His dear devotees.

Hare Krishna Vaisnava dasanudas Madhavendu das

Srimad Bhagavatam 10.14.3

jnane prayasam udapasya namanta eva

jivanti san-mukharitam bhavadiya-vartam

sthane sthitah sruti-gatam tanu-van-manobhir

ye prayaso 'jita jito 'py asi tais tri-lokyam

SYNONYMS

jnane -- for knowledge; prayasam -- the endeavor; udapasya -- giving up completely; namantah -- offering obeisances; eva -- simply; jivanti -- live; sat-mukharitam -- chanted by the pure devotees; bhavadiya-vartam -- topics related to You; sthane -- in their material position; sthitah -- remaining; sruti-gatam -- received by hearing; tanu -- with their body; vak -- words; manobhih -- and mind; ye -- who; prayasah -- for the most part; ajita -- O unconquerable one; jitah -- conquered; api -- nevertheless; asi -- You become; taih -- by them; tri-lokyam -- within the three worlds.

TRANSLATION

Those who, even while remaining situated in their established social positions, throw away the process of speculative knowledge and with their body, words and mind offer all respects to descriptions of Your personality and activities, dedicating their lives to these narrations, which are vibrated by You personally and by Your pure devotees, certainly conquer Your Lordship, although You are otherwise unconquerable by anyone within the three worlds. :pray: :pray:

<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width=629 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD colSpan=3>World's first Hindu theme park

</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top width=416><!-- S BO --><!-- S IBYL --><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width=416 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD vAlign=bottom>By Kathleen McCaul

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<!-- S IIMA --><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width=203 align=right border=0><TBODY><TR><TD> The park promises to bring the Hindu pantheon to life

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Its backers describe it as the "world's biggest ever mythological theme park". Hindu gods such as Ram, Hanuman and Krishna will be the central attractions for a 'Disneyland on the Ganges' in India.

The aim of the 25 acre park, called Gangadham, is to recreate great moments in Hindu mythology through hi-tech rides, an animated mythological museum, a "temple city", food courts and a sound and light show.

The park is to be on the banks of the Ganges, in the north Indian pilgrimage town of Haridwar.

It is where the Hindu god Vishnu is said to have left his footprint. The town attracts more than 18 million visitors a year.

"There is a huge amount of pilgrim traffic in Haridwar," says Shiv Sagar, the project's chief executive.

"People come to take a bath on the bank of the Ganga river because it is a Hindu belief that this cleanses a person."

Unusual mix

"But after they take a bath there is nowhere for the pilgrims to go to learn about Hindu stories.

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"Gangadham is a spiritual theme park where children and families can go and have a good time, while learning about stories from Hindu mythology," Mr Sagar says.

Construction of the park is due to start later this year. Mr Sagar hopes it will be ready by 2007 - in time for the next Kumbh Mela. This huge religious festival will take place in 2010 and is forecast to attract up to 50 million people.

Although the mix of religion and entertainment may seem unusual, Shiv Sagar is no stranger to the combination. His grandfather, Ramanand Sagar, produced and directed the hugely popular TV serial Ramayan.

The dramatisations of Hindu mythology were broadcast around the world in 60 different languages. An estimated 650 million people tuned in to watch.

"Gangadham is based on the work of my granddad. The idea has been so popular because people already know Dr Sagar's work and know he shows the Gods in a respectful and devotional way," Mr Sagar told the BBC.

<!-- S IBOX --><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width=208 align=right border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=5></TD><TD class=sibtbg> People come to take a bath on the bank of the Ganga river because it is a Hindu belief that this cleanses a person

Gangadham Chief Executive Shiv Sagar

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Shiv has also enlisted the help of Alice Coltrane, the wife of legendary Jazz musician John Coltrane.

"Alice is a very spiritual person and runs an ashram in [Los Angeles]. She knows our family well and stays with us when she is in India. She is one of the main investors in the park," he said.

Mr Sagar argues that Hinduism is a religion versatile enough to adapt to theme parks and TV shows.

Disrespectful

"The Hindu religion is well suited to something like this, religions like Islam are not allowed to depict forms but we have many different forms and representations of Gods," he said.

But Gangadham does have its critics. Some say making the Hindu Gods into figures of fun is disrespectful.

<!-- S IIMA --><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width=203 align=right border=0><TBODY><TR><TD> Its hoped that the park will attract pilgrims from home and abroad

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Devas Samaroo, a Hindu priest and doctor based in London, disagrees.

"If a theme park means to expand on the pantheon of Hindu philosophy, to bring understanding to people within a limited area, to spread the knowledge of so many deities and aspects and qualities of god... I don't think there is anything wrong with a theme park," he said.

Other people criticise the park for being built on the Ganges - there are strict regulations to prevent building on the banks of the river in Haridwar.

Remote pujas

The aim of the project is to build on 25 acres just by the river.

"We have the full support of the government of [the state of] Uttaranchal in terms of all the regulations and other such aspects. They are very keen that this project comes to Haridwar," Mr Sagar says.

<!-- S IIMA --><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width=203 align=right border=0><TBODY><TR><TD> The park is inspired by the Ramayan TV series

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The park is not only aimed at domestic tourists. Shiv realises the park's potential in attracting the 25 million Indians living abroad.

A centre is also being planned that will enable Indians living abroad to set up remote pujas and other rituals over the internet.

News of the park caused excitement at the Eelapathhswarar Hindu temple in Wembley, North London.

"This project sounds unique and I would like to go with my family. If I am alive I will definitely be there for the Kumb Mela!" said Bahi Jayadeyan, chairman of the temple.

Although the park is rooted in Hinduism, Mr Sagar wants to attract visitors of other religions too. If the project takes off, it will move on to an international level. The plan is to open parks in Trinidad, Bali, Fiji and Thailand - and perhaps even Orlando, Los Angeles and London.<!-- E BO -->

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Lectures & Classes 740708AR.LA

 

Arrival Address

--

Los Angeles, July 8, 1974

 

Prabhupada: So I thank you very much for your kind reception. It is necessary.

 

saksad-dharitvena samasta-sastrair

uktas tatha bhavyata eva sadbhih

kintu prabhor yah priya eva tasya

vande guroh sri-caranaravindam

 

This is the process, Vedic process, to receive the transcendental knowledge through the parampara system, and the reception or honor given to the spiritual master, it goes to Krsna. Spiritual master is the official collector. Just like in government there is collector. He receives the money, taxes, from the citizens, not for his personal use but for the government. Similarly, this is the Vedic system, to receive knowledge through the transparent medium, guru, and to receive... Guru means the honor goes to Krsna. So this is necessary. This is not an artificial thing, but spiritually it is necessary. Therefore we hold Vyasa-puja day.

So I am very glad to see that you are maintaining the temple standard as good as I saw when I left. That is my satisfaction. And keep this, I mean to say, situation, atmosphere, always, and follow the regulative principles, chant sixteen rounds. You'll remain always happy, because although we are in Los Angeles, we have nothing to do with the material atmosphere of Los Angeles. Therefore a devotee who lives with Krsna or in Krsna consciousness, he does not live in the material world. He always live in the spiritual world. That is confirmed in the Bhagavad-gita. Mam cavyabhicarini-bhakti-yogena yah sevate: "Anyone who is engaged in bhakti-yoga with Krsna," sa gunan samatityaitan brahma-bhuyaya kalpate, "such person is always above these material modes of nature." Our difficulty or miserable condition of life is due to being under the material laws of nature. So it is very simple method, and you are all intelligent boys and girls in the Western country, and I am very, happy that you have taken it seriously. And continue this. You'll never be unhappy. And not only here but also, as Krsna said, man-mana bhava mad-bhakto mad-yaji mam namaskuru, if you simply practice these four principle--always think of Krsna, man-mana, or become Krsna's devotees and offer Krsna obeisances and worship Krsna--these four... We are teaching these four principle in the temple, how to worship Krsna how to serve Krsna, how to become Krsna's devotee, and how to think of Krsna twenty-four hours. And if we do this, there is guarantee. Krsna says, mam eva esyasi asamsaya: "Without any doubt, you will come to Me. You will go back to home, back to Godhead."

Comments Posted By Kulapavana

Varnasrama and Varna Sankara

While the society in general definitely has a serious problem with varna-sankara, or unwanted population (however defined), I am not sure that we - as a Movement - have done an exemplary job dealing with this issue on our own turf. How well did our own youth turn out? How good were our schools? Have we even established a functioning educational system for our children? What kind of a future have we created for them in our society of devotees? I am not sure the answers are very flattering or give us a right to be very critical of others.It is very easy to give moralizing lectures but it is far more difficult to actually demonstrate how to achieve these lofty goals. That does not mean however that we should stop preaching about the need for establishing a proper society, only that we preach from realization as well as from books. We have had four decades to implement our own advice for the world. I hope we have at least learned something from all these years.You write: “Of course we cannot have varnasrama without having ’simple living and high thinking’. High thinking is something that comes naturally to devotees but simple living is more of a struggle for the vast majority of us. ” Actually, one cannot have the varnasrama without the understanding of one’s varna and acting in accordance with that designation. Without that step it is all just an empty talk and exercise in futility. If you want to avoid creating confused and unproductive varna sankara you have to engage actual brahmanas in teaching the youth, actual kshatriyas in administration and protection, actual vaishyas in supporting that program, and actual sudras in providing whatever help is required. Our youth is confused because we are confused. It is true with respect to society in general and with respect to our own Movement. Lets take care of our own problems before we run off to save the world from impending gloom and doom. Then we can actually show people how it is done.

Comment Posted By Kulapavana On 26.03.2007 @ 11:32

Life begins at fifty!

I think it would be very wonderful if devotees established some sort of retirement home system for older Vaishnavas. Perhaps something like a small version of the Snug Harbor program established long time ago for retired sailors (see http://www.snug-harbor.org/history/sailor.html ). Not that all devotees should retire like that, but to have such an option would be very benefitial in my opinion. As a community we are rapidly entering the time when such issues become very relevant and even urgently needed.I would like to create such a program not merely for devotees to live out their last years of life in relative comfort and ease among other Vaishnavas (an important reason by itself), but also as a way to provide our communities with valuable service and spiritual grounding. Older Vaishnavas have so much to offer! Wealth of experience and realization, as well as time, skills, and patience to perform all kinds of service. If there was a Vaishnava retirement home near your temple, the resident devotees would be able to lend a helping hand in the temple as well as nurture the congregation. They could hold seminars, translate and publish various Vaishnava books and writings, do research on important subjects, and provide much needed spiritual grounding for smaller centers.Even from an economic point of view such retirement homes make a lot of sense. Pooling together resources, as well as sharing various costs and responsibilities is much more cost effective than individual retirement. It is much more fun too.I am very serious about this project. If anybody is interested in helping please send me an email to: kpav108 (at) earthlink.net Comment Posted By Kulapavana On 09.02.2007 @ 14:35

Slavery to Banks: A Vedic Prophecy

Dear Yugala Kishor prabhu,If I understood you correctly (after all, according to you I am supposed to be easily confused even by my own words) you make the point that since both Srila Prabhupada and myself used fiat money every day we have no business calling people who issue them rascals and crooks. That point is actually quite absurd. What was Srila Prabhupada to do? Barter for a bus fare in NY with rasagulas? Or issue his own money based on a gold standard? Both of these would be illegal in US, so they are not even an option. So much for your “argument”…Srila Prabhupada had a very broad vision for Krsna Consciousness Movement. He thought big. He wanted his disciples to look at this world and not be confused or cheated by it’s crooks and rascals. More importantly, he wanted to change the world by starting a revolution, not a sleek marketing campaign for a streamlined, uncontroversial version of popular spirituality for the masses. It was precisely that grand vision of Srila Prabhupada that inspired many of us to join his movement in the first place.Perhaps your debate is really with Srila Prabhupada and his vision. Perhaps you think that it would be better to avoid raising such topics and stirring up controversies. Maybe we should bury all the “inconvenient” Prabhupada quotes somewhere deep, where nobody can find them? Well, too late for that.But you are absolutely right in pointing out the possible misuse of such quotes - that is a very real risk. There is no single quote that has been more abused in our society than “The end justifies the means”, with the close second being “By hook or crook”. These two phrases brought us truckloads of shame and misery over the years. In comparison, the quote about crooks and rascals of the present day banking system seems nothing but a sound take on reality.You close your comment to my post by saying:“In the final analysis, we should use whatever is there in the world to push on KC.”It is a nice sentiment and a catchy phrase, but as the above discussion shows, some of the “things of this world” are more appropriate for use in presenting Krsna Consciousness than others. And it takes smart people with integrity and knowledge of the shastra to figure out what is to be used, and what is to be rejected. I have no doubt you are one of such people, prabhu. Comment Posted By Kulapavana On 12.02.2007 @ 14:28

Morning Walk with Srila Prabhupada, Johannesburg, October 16, 1975

You are cheatedHarikesa: So actually this money doesn’t even exist in Vedic society—money.Prabhupada: Money is not required. You require things. Just like instead of money, you are getting papers. Money means gold. Where is gold? You are cheated. Money means gold. So instead of possessing gold, you are possessing some paper, written there, “hundred dollars.” And you are such a fool, you are satisfied. You are being cheated. Bank’s cheque and currency notes, you keep it in your…—”Oh, here is my money.” Is that money? Just see.Devotee: They only do that to make it easier for them, because they’ve got so much money that they can’t carry it…Prabhupada: That’s all right, but actually it is not money. You are befooled. You are such a fool that you accept a piece of paper as money. Therefore I say you are rascal. That is my business. If I say “Government, give me gold,” and government has passed law, “No, you cannot possess gold,” that means cheating. How I shall keep gold, that is my business. First of all you give me gold. It is due to me. But you are giving me paper. That means cheating is begun from you.Harikesa: How will the government decide what my gold is and what his gold is? How does the gold get distributed?Prabhupada: Gold coins. Formerly there was gold coins. We have seen in our childhood gold coins, silver coins. There was no paper.Harikesa: But you have to do something to get it.Prabhupada: Yes. I will have to do something. That is another thing. But why you are cheating me? Instead of gold, you are giving me paper.———————————————————————————–

Srila Prabhupada did not mince words here. He called people who see nothing wrong with the fiat money system “fools”, and the ones who issue fiat money he called “cheaters” and “rascals”. Do you think he was a conspiration theory buff? No, that is the truth. Henry Ford might have been an anti-semite and a meat eater, but he was not a fool.Still, the issue remains: what can an average devotee of Krsna do about such a massive and widespread cheating business? We can pray to Krsna for the cheating and exploitation to stop, we can enlighten people about the various dangers of this material world, and we can - and should! - clearly denounce the rascals who perpetuate this cheating fiat money system, just like Srila Prabhupada did. Srila Prabhupada might not have devoted much time to this issue, but he made it very, very clear where he stands with regards to the crooks who run the world’s central banks. Comment Posted By Kulapavana On 09.02.2007 @ 13:51

While there is little doubt that central banks play a huge role in shaping the events of our world, what is an average Hare Krsna devotee to do about it? Seems like we are merely entertaining the “illusions of grandeur” by such talk. Where are our economic experts? Are they busy making sure our movement has a solid economic base for it’s preaching mission? Or are we merely struggling from day to day, unable to cover the cost of many critically needed programs? Before we save the world from economic gloom and doom maybe we should first save our own movement. Who takes seriously a raggedy beggar on the street promising untold riches if we just follow his “program”? A little common sense and humility goes a long way when it comes to practical matters. Most people are not impressed by big talk. They are impressed by big deeds. Food for thought. Comment Posted By Kulapavana On 05.02.2007 @ 14:43

Prabhupada’s Parrots

“The importance of repeating the words and instruction of Krishna of the disciplic sucession is repeated time and time again by Srila Prabhupada. He said, “We simply repeat the words and the instruction given by the predecessor.”—————————————————————————————————

-It is interesting to note that while repeating the instructions of his predecessor - Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati - Srila Prabhupada very rarely quoted him verbatim. What he was repeating wast the assimilated instructions received from his spiritual master. It is unfortunate that in our society of devotees so much emphasis is placed on simple parroting, and so little on assimilation.Thank you for that interesting article, and for raising this very important subject matter. Comment Posted By Kulapavana On 25.01.2007 @ 16:33

The Environment–You Are Correct, but Strategically Off BaseOne model that seems to be suited for protecting Vrindavana is that of Nature Conservancy (http://www.nature.org/).

That model has worked very well all over the world. Nature Conservancy collects donations to buy land in ecologically important locations and turns that land into nature preserves. It is one of the most trusted environmental organizations in the world, with a proven strategy model and long track record of success. Comment Posted By Kulapavana On 22.01.2007 @ 14:29Iskcon’s practical record in the area of environmentally responsible living and land development is very modest at best. Even our own farms are not much to bragg about in that area. We have good intentions but that is about it. Therefore it seems like a good idea to work with people who are experienced in environmental activism and have local connections. We may claim to be the most environmntally responsible religion but facts on the ground in our most holy places simply mock that claim. We may be building fantastic temples spending millions of dollars in the process, but if all the Vrindavana forests are gone, what is the point? What will the pilgrims see? That we worship Krsna on the altar but neglect His holy Dhama just outside the temple door? How much money and time was spent on serving the Dhama, versus time and money spent on our buildings? We may give a lip service to conservationism but if we can’t protect the land we see as most sacred, it is all just empty words. Comment Posted By Kulapavana On 19.01.2007 @ 16:33

Is this sleeper-vada???

One should take initiation from a bona fide spiritual master coming in the disciplic succession, who is authorized by his predecessor spiritual master. This is called diksä-vidhäna. Lord Krsna states in Bhagavad-gitä, vyapäsritya: one should accept a spiritual master. By this process the entire world can be converted to Krsna consciousness.

Srimad Bhagavatam 4.8.54 PURPORT:deal:

http://prabhupadaconnect.com/Vishnujana_1969.html

The good old days when devotees were simple and sincere....

If they are lazy! Hahaha!

MELVIN is a nin com poop, na na na !!! :smash:

how true.

Modern man is surely setting himself up for a global cataclysm of technological breakdown as governments, industry and the economy become totally dependent on petroleum, computers and nuclear energy.

 

ISKCON was supposed to become the world leader in return to "simple living and high thinking" but has simply become just another cog in the wheel of modern society and dependence on all the things that are destroying the planet - petroleum dependecy, nuclear power etc. etc.

 

ISKCON is living just like all the rest of the lemmings of modern civilization that are running off the cliff of technological dependence.[/quote]

 

 

fragile and unreliable? this forum is a testimony of the power of modern technology. it can easily be argued that EVERYTHING in this world is fragile and unreliable. have you ever tried to grow your own food? now you are talking fragile and unreliable. weather, pests, disease can wipe out your crop in a very short order.

 

be thankful for what you have. how would Srila Prabhupada come to the West and spread his movement without the aid of modern technology?

Is Kula advocating that we support modernity?

Are we to tread the path of the life extension movement?

Are we to worship at the temple of new stem techonolgy?

C'mon Kula give us all an update on how we can all benefit from living in the 21st century post-Soviet era!!!

"Modern technology is so fragile and unreliable."

Srila Prabhupada has given us a warning in this regard:

• 
  
  "Yes there was all darkness in New York (City) on the 10th instant and it was not a happy incident. I learn that many people remained in the elevators (lifts) and in the subway trains (underground) for more than seven to eight hours in darkness. I do not read newspapers but there must have been some mishaps also which we do not know. That is the way of material civilisation too much depending on machine. At any time the whole thing may collapse and therefore we may not be self complacent depending so much on artificial life. The modern life of civilisation depends wholly on electricity and petrol and both of them are artificial for man."
  (His Divine Grace Srila Prabhupada letter to "My dear daughter Sally," November 13, 1965)
  

bUT IF YOU HAVE TO ABSOLUTELY BUY GhEE IN THE SHOPS OF iNDIA, WHICH ONES ARE GOOD, KOSHER//??

i mean 100% veg origin, with no meat, fish or eggs....????

Indian Ghee Contaminated with Animal Fat

<!-- end .post-top --><!-- the main section of the post goes here -->By Antony Brennan, originally posted at ISKCON News (www. news. iskon. com) on 19 Nov 2007

Laboratory tests reveal that many brands of ghee manufactured in India are adulterated with the body fat of animals. The lab report says the only way to guarantee the purity of your ghee is to make it yourself.

Using an Infrared Spectrum test, Anatech laboratory research center analyzed a variety of brands and confirmed that much of India’s ghee production is contaminated.

“We had samples tested and it has proved positive for animal fat beyond any doubt,” Bhakti Raghava Swami who organized the research said.

Anatech laboratory was chosen for the tests after approaching a variety of labs. “Anatech was the only lab which had facilities to accurately identify the contaminants,” Bhakti Raghava Maharaj said. “The others could tell if it was adulterated but not particularly by animal fats,” he said . The lab reported that some ghee contained up to 15% animal fat

India TV, amongst other channels, aired footage filmed at some of the ghee manufacturing plants. The footage revealed what vegetarians had feared. It confirmed that animals were being rendered and their fat added to ghee products.

“There were bodies of dead animals all around,” said Madhavendu Dasa after seeing the news reports. “There were scenes of animal fat boiling in big drums and some where slabs of fat were just hanging,” he said.

One factory allegedly adulterates ghee with a chemical named Styrai which is usually only used for detergent and soap. Excessive consumption of Styrai is said to cause liver diseases including cancer.

In India, milk and milk products attract only a 5% profit margin. In order to compete effectively in the market some manufacturers have taken the step of adulterating their products to reduce the base cost and increase the profit margin. The discovery and subsequent reporting of the ghee deception may prove to reduce the profits of many ghee producer.

Anatech laboratory research center has also tested milk and other milk products to reveal that some brands are adulterated with vegetable oil or are a mix between cow and buffalo milk.

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<!-- C O M M E N T S -->Hare krishna,

Can you please list the name the brands which perticullarly uses Animal fat, and also seprate list of companies which uses vegetable oil or buffalo milk to produce ghee…. I am ok with vegetarian mixtures with ghee as I dont have any time to cook ghee for my self so please give the details…

Thanks

Śrīmad Bhāgavatam 1.2.18

naṣṭa-prāyeṣv abhadreṣu

nityaḿ bhāgavata-sevayā

bhagavaty uttama-śloke

bhaktir bhavati naiṣṭhikī

SYNONYMS

naṣṭa — destroyed; prāyeṣu — almost to nil; abhadreṣu — all that is inauspicious; nityam — regularly; bhāgavata — Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam, or the pure devotee; sevayā — by serving; bhagavati — unto the Personality of Godhead; uttama — transcendental; śloke — prayers; bhaktiḥ — loving service; bhavati — comes into being; naiṣṭhikī — irrevocable.

TRANSLATION

By regular attendance in classes on the Bhāgavatam and by rendering of service to the pure devotee, all that is troublesome to the heart is almost completely destroyed, and loving service unto the Personality of Godhead, who is praised with transcendental songs, is established as an irrevocable fact.

PURPORT

Here is the remedy for eliminating all inauspicious things within the heart which are considered to be obstacles in the path of self-realization. The remedy is the association of the Bhāgavatas. There are two types of Bhāgavatas, namely the book Bhāgavata and the devotee Bhāgavata. Both the Bhāgavatas are competent remedies, and both of them or either of them can be good enough to eliminate the obstacles. A devotee Bhāgavata is as good as the book Bhāgavata because the devotee Bhāgavata leads his life in terms of the book Bhāgavata and the book Bhāgavata is full of information about the Personality of Godhead and His pure devotees, who are also Bhāgavatas. Bhāgavata book and person are identical.

The devotee Bhāgavata is a direct representative of Bhagavān, the Personality of Godhead. So by pleasing the devotee Bhāgavata one can receive the benefit of the book Bhāgavata. Human reason fails to understand how by serving the devotee Bhāgavata or the book Bhāgavata one gets gradual promotion on the path of devotion. But actually these are facts explained by Śrīla Nāradadeva, who happened to be a maidservant's son in his previous life. The maidservant was engaged in the menial service of the sages, and thus he also came into contact with them. And simply by associating with them and accepting the remnants of foodstuff left by the sages, the son of the maidservant got the chance to become the great devotee and personality Śrīla Nāradadeva. These are the miraculous effects of the association of Bhāgavatas. And to understand these effects practically, it should be noted that by such sincere association of the Bhāgavatas one is sure to receive transcendental knowledge very easily, with the result that he becomes fixed in the devotional service of the Lord. The more progress is made in devotional service under the guidance of the Bhāgavatas, the more one becomes fixed in the transcendental loving service of the Lord. The messages of the book Bhāgavata, therefore, have to be received from the devotee Bhāgavata, and the combination of these two Bhāgavatas will help the neophyte devotee to make progress on and on. :deal: :deal: :deal: :deal: :deal:

<!-- end .post-top --><!-- the main section of the post goes here -->By Padmapani das

Dear Ajitananda Prabhu,

Please accept my humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada.

Today my heart was broken because I heard the sad news of your departure from this world. For me and all those who know and love you, this is the worst of all sufferings. But for you, my dear friend, I know that it’s a great blessing in disguise because you’re going directly to Srila Prabhupada’s lotus feet to serve him with all your heart and soul.

Although you and I never met personally, we forged an unbreakable bond of godbrotherly love due to our shared appreciation of Srila Prabhupada’s causeless and unlimited mercy. Twenty years ago, you were living in Los Angeles and I sent you a big box of Vaisnava Journals to distribute to the devotees there. You so kindly and humbly took them door-to-door and handed them out personally to so many devotees. I never forgot your sincere service, and just recently after many years, I heard from you again and you reminded me:

“It is a pleasure to be in touch with you after all these years. The 200 magazines you asked me to distribute in L. A. were distributed — every last one of them — to devotees living there.”

Thank you, Prabhu, for being so helpful and kindhearted. From our correspondence and your deeply devotional and eloquent writings about Srila Prabhupada, I could immediately understand that you’re a Vaikuntha man with a heart of gold. You always practiced what you preached and exemplified those things of which you wrote so touchingly:

“Practically everyone in this material world is envious of one another. Prabhupada once said in a lecture that I heard that the difference between the devotees in the material world and the devotees in the spiritual world is that the devotees in the material world are envious of one another and the devotees in the spiritual world are non-envious and appreciate the devotional service of all the devotees of Lord Krishna.”

When I wrote to you and told you how much I value your service to Srila Prabhupada, you immediately replied:

“I consider your appreciation of my small attempt to glorify him to be a reciprocation from Lord Krishna. Thank you for all your kind words. Thank you even more for helping me to glorify Srila Prabhupada! I am spiritually and materially bankrupt, and my only hope is that Prabhupada will have mercy on me.

“Finding kind words in this material creation which, according to Srila Prabhupada, is filled, in every nook and corner, with envious living beings, is a miracle. Perhaps I am blessed in some way that I am not consciously aware of.

“I remember the nice times we had associating with one another in Prabhupada’s service. It would be nice if we could cooperate eternally to glorify our eternal, beloved well wishing savior!”

How can I even imagine reciprocating with such a high level of Krishna consciousness and devotional mood filled with pure unmotivated love? It’s me who is bankrupt, Prabhu, and not you. In fact, I consider you not only to be one of the all-time greats in our movement, but also one of our most gifted writers. Many years ago, you sent me a beautiful offering to Srila Prabhupada, entitled, “In Praise of Srila Prabhupada.” I carried it with me all that time, and when I had the chance, your offering was the first to be published here:

http://www.prabhupadaconnect.com/offerings1.html

Later, when you sent me your video offering to Srila Prabhupada, aptly entitled, “Srila Prabhupada’s Beautiful Transcendental Qualities,” I was overwhelmed to hear your voice reading this most superexcellent offering to His Divine Grace:

http://www.prabhupadaconnect.com/Srila_Prabhupadas_Beautiful_Transcendental_Qualities.html

I hope that everyone can have the opportunity to read and hear your offering of love to our beloved Prabhupada, for surely it will melt all hearts and inspire us all to appreciate not only Srila Prabhupada, of course, but also one another. You always knew that love of Prabhupada and all the devotees is the secret ingredient to the success of our movement.

I recall the famous exchange between Srila Prabhupada and Dr. J. F. Stall, professor of philsosophy and South Asian languages at the University of California at Berkeley in 1970. After exchanging numerous letters, Srila Prabhupada finally concluded:

“Regarding our correspondence, actually this quotation and counterquotation cannot solve the problem. In a court both the learned lawyers quote from law books, but that is not the solution to the case. The determination of the case is the judgment of the presiding judge. So argument cannot bring us to a conclusion. The scriptural quotations are sometimes contradictory, and every philosopher has a different opinion, because without putting forward a different thesis, no one can become a famous philosopher. It is therefore difficult to arrive at the right conclusion. The conclusion is, as above mentioned, to accept the judgment of authority. We follow the authority of Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu, who is nondifferent from Krsna, and His version according to Vedic scripture is that in this age this chanting is the only solution for all problems of life. And that is actually being shown by practical experience.” (Srila Prabhupada, Science of Self-Realization)

As always, following in Srila Prabhupada’s lotus footprints, you concluded your last letter to me in a similar fashion:

“Let the Pandits argue until they become jaded. But let’s continue to work together to try our best to enlighten the world about the glories of Srila Prabhupada.”

I’m with you, Prabhu. Please take with me with you back to Srila Prabhupada’s divine lotus feet. Let me serve you there, as you so nicely serve Prabhupada like the true loving disciple that you always are. Otherwise, it’s me who has no hope. Thank you for everything, Ajitananda Prabhu. All glories to your service. All glories to Srila Prabhupada!

With much gratitude.

Your servant, Padmapani das

Our process of helping the misguided youth should remain the same. Namely, they should join the different services in the temple; chanting, dancing in ecstasy with Hare Krishna Mantra. They must be cleanly shaved, with tilak, have saffron robes, take prasadam, attend classes, chant 16 rounds of beads daily, etc. We are sure anyone who joins us will be free of all material disease including craziness and madness.

Letter to: Bhagavan — Bombay 24 March, 1971

Breaking Through the Shell: Psychoanalysis and Bhakti

by Narayani dasi

Posted on chakra.org November 26, 2007

When I considered writing on this topic, I thought to myself that no one will probably want to read it, and may even be indignant, and ask: "What do you think we are -- nut cases?" "Oh, yes!" would be my answer. "Every one of us is a nut case, in that we need to crack through a hardened shell to get at who we really are."

The most common answer to that would be: "I already know that -- a servant of the Lord!"... which implies, in analysis, a host of intrinsically profound and intensely exalted qualities, all of which are inherent in the soul, which is, so to speak, the nut itself.

All of this goes to prove the uselessness of empty clichés in the attempt of "breaking the shell," for that so-called argument is self-defeating.

Nevertheless, I still hear my objector, now with his indignation replaced by a air of untouchable sanctity: "Only the Lord can show me the way. I'm at His mercy."

That's indeed true, for: "In every millennium the Lord appears where there is trouble for the devotees."

How does He appear and how do we recognize it? "One can know the Lord by His activities, such as lifting Govardhana Hill."

However, the Lord is present in two ways: through vapuh or personal presence, manifested by extraordinary activities, and also through vani or instruction.

Logically, if there is no one doing such things as lifting a mountain with a finger, and yet we still experience trouble, we should look around for symptoms of His guidance, which is of the nature of light. Of course, this does not mean physical light, like that of a bulb or even the sun, but light within the mind, which is reflected through the senses: "...all the gates of his body are illumined."

I believe that it is narrow-minded and sectarian to limit such luminaries to our own tradition, or even to the tradition of theological thought and philosophy, for without appropriate self- realization or reflection on the nature of self, theological thought and philosophy can digress into a merely intellectual exercise, for those that are intellectually capable, or to dogmatic cliches, as in the case of people who mouth philosophical propositions but have no capacity for logical synthesis. Thus, the first chapters of the Bhagavad-gita deal primarily with the subject of self, but it is meant to open doors, rather than be reduced to memorized verses that have little meaning, undigested.

In this respect, psychological insights can have more power than philosophical ones to unravel truth that is hidden by the power of the mind to invest in illusion. It was an astute observation from Srila Prabhupada that "the mind is the greatest friend - or worst enemy." How can one fight an enemy unless one knows it? Particularly one should know the weaknesses and strengths of the enemy. Psychology reveals the weaknesses of the mind that turn it against the best interest of the self and that thus make its evolution out of matter impossible.

For example, even though we know that "power corrupts," that "absolute power corrupts absolutely" and that performing devotional service to get power over others is simply enchaining oneself and others in samsara bondage, it is impossible to overcome or even to perceive such hunger for power within one's heart, unless one can expose its roots. This is due to the power of the mind to rationalize or accept what is actually a weakness as a strength, or what is immoral as moral, by putting it through a series of logical errors (example: "I am doing this for Prabhupada", though Srila Prabhupada expressed, as one of the founding principles of ISKCON, to do away with exploitation. The motive for this passion to rationalize or avoid exposing oneself to inner truth is the root of which I am speaking. To put it another way, perhaps more clear: just as a disease in the hidden root of a plant can be observed in the leaves, so a hidden cause in the centre of our psyche can result in manifestly unhealthy symptoms, such as an insatiable appetite for power.

This hunger for power is but one of a long list of symptoms that can result from being once a child who felt particularly helpless, insecure and insufficiently protected. Rather than receiving love, acceptance, having one's needs listened to and being empathized with, one might have experienced instead orders from one's parents to "be quiet" or "do as you're told". It is not uncommon for a child to be punished by his parents simply for expressing his feelings through crying and so on; in fact it is often considered "good parenting". Yet it is dehumanizing and gives the child a clear message that repressing one's feelings -- which is arguably the cause of all psychopathology -- is "good", and that to the extent that one can repress one's feelings, one becomes acceptable. Thus it is not only in illegal forms of parenting, where the abuse is clearly perceivable, but in socially acceptable forms, that great harm is done.

At this point it is necessary to give "credit where credit is due," for it was the psychoanalyst Alice Miller who perceived this connection and its devastating effects on the capacity to be human, resulting in estrangement from others, inability to communicate meaningfully, a lack of empathy and, in extreme cases, total sadism, the heartlessness of the Third Reich. Her books Breaking Down the Wall of Silence and others are giant steps forward towards a therapeutic process of psychology that is personal, and acknowledges the spirit in the psyche that is inherently loving, in contrast to Freud, who viewed love as simply a burdensome sublimation of libido, and who recommended therapy to be detached and analytical.

Prior to Miller, the psychoanalyst Erich Fromm was very instrumental in personalizing and in spiritualizing psychotherapy in this way, necessarily eventuating in a view that was in direct opposition to Freud, one that was therefore considered outrageous and presumptuous by his fellow colleagues, and that resulted in his losing his position in a prestigious institute, and the financial and social security thereof. Fromm perceived that industrial civilization requires and indeed produces dehumanized and emotionally repressed individuals who are trained from the crib to be "acceptable" and "convenient". Thus it is possible, even if one receives a thoroughly loving childhood and thus survives with his capacity to feel, reflect and connect with others unimpeded, which is rare in modern society, it is modern society itself that could still depersonalize the individual and turn him into a " labor asset." Under the circumstances, those who are groomed from the start to be acceptable have the greatest likelihood to be reduced into neat and quiescent, unfeeling and non-objecting cogs in the machinery of industry, but it is at the price of their humanity.

One may ask how all this analysis of causes results in the freedom of spirit, and it will not; it will indeed remain on the intellectual level if one is unwilling to confront these roots as they are being exposed. If both Fromm and Miller are correct, then we have to not only confront the evils of our economic system but also of our evil, but socially acceptable conceptions about parenting, which are indeed something we have more direct control over, particularly if we are entering into this milestone. For the rest of us, without exception we have all been through the parenting experience already -- that of our parents or guardians -- and to continue to repress what we experienced as small children, so that we can idealize our parents in a socially acceptable way, only forces us to express those repressed feelings in ways that do us, and those we love, much damage.

The difficulty in confronting this root, in particular, is far greater than confronting the evil inherent in industrialism, to which one can take a more cerebral, detached position. It is socially unacceptable to assign guilt to one's parents; one is after all supposed to honor them, there being even a religious commandment that supports this supposition. However, the result of idealizing a person who once dehumanized oneself is to continue one's life dehumanized, unable to establish or develop love and empathy and everything else that is human and inherent of the soul. Our most spiritual qualities will then remain out of our reach. Furthermore, asserts Miller as a consequence of her research, one will necessarily act out the horrors that are hidden within, such as by displaying that dynamic towards one's own children. Only if what is hidden and repressed within the memory is brought to the surface, into the light, and in the light of truth, seen for what it is -- not the result of an enlightened philosophy of child-rearing, but the dehumanization of the soul, can this cycle of vice be culled. Otherwise, in the very least, our past will continue to haunt us and cover our ability to cultivate the exalted qualities of the Vaisnava, for which we most ardently aspire.

To put it into a linguistically acceptable form: there are many anarthas or unwanted things in the heart, and it is very difficult to perceive them, as they are buried deeply in the subconscious. When they manifest themselves they are often dressed up and rationalized in various ways, so as to appear to be manifestations of the real bhakti plant and thus acceptable, or manifestations of a parenting philosophy that has also become socially acceptable (for the worst crime in our society is to be not accepted.) It is painful to confront them, or pull them up by the root, but only by doing so is our soul of bhakti able to grow freely, and exhibit the symptoms of profound empathy and love that is intrinsic to love of God, and love of God itself.

Why is it that we do not make use of psychology for this purpose?

It is only our fear and narrow-minded sectarianism that makes us believe that we cannot learn from others. Alternatively, it may be a total ignorance of our philosophy, which hinges tightly on the concept of yukta vairagya, utilizing material energies for spiritual awakening. For this reason, beginning with Srila Bhaktisiddhanta, even motor vehicles have been used to assist in awakening others, through preaching and book distribution. The idea is "why re-invent the wheel?" It is not only the gross material energies, however, that can be dovetailed for higher purposes. Few would disagree that the mind and heart must also become so aligned, but many find it too hard to do so, and are surprised that chanting does not magically "clear away the dust." They disregard that only chanting in the mode of goodness or pure goodness yields positive results. The other types of chanting and performing devotional service have mixtures of motives and thus the effects are mixed. It is exactly for sorting out this mixture and the helpless confusion of various motives, some rational, most irrational, that the science of psychology has been developed.

I have mentioned so far only two authors, but there are others, such as Rollo May, who display profound understanding of the nature of spirit and the chains that bind it. All of these books have a combined capability to strengthen our inner world and help us see, think and love without illusions. They are not meant to replace our spiritual practices, but to aid us in our bringing those practices onto a higher level, where they become more than ritual, an expression of the soul, imbued with unfettered love.

"Youth is a wonderful thing. What a crime to waste it on children.":cool:

That was said by world-renowned Irish author

George Bernard Shaw.

<!-- end .post-top --><!-- the main section of the post goes here -->By Jatayu dasa (SDG)

Learning to appreciate the devotees is a Vaisnava etiquette that helps us in our quest for purification, especially the appreciation of senior devotees.

I have always been slow to understand this but as time passed I began to develop a certain admiration for those devotees who came before me. This is due largely to the fact that I have become a senior devotee.

I can’t say that I always act like a senior devotee so I guess I am senior by default, simply because of time only. But the arrogance and offensive behavior I showed senior devotees when I was a new devotee frightens me even today causing me to wonder how I ever made it this far in devotional life. As I reflect upon the many years behind me I consider myself very fortunate to have been surrounded by so many senior devotees, most of whom were disciples of Srila Prabhupada.

Though I could not understand it at the time, being around these strong personalities helped to make me strong through all the rough times I would have to face in the future. Still I sadly remember treating these rare souls as though they were my equal. I had no idea who they were and to some degree today, I still remain in ignorance of who they are. And even sadder it is, that I didn’t even know what services they performed or the austerities they endured while serving Srila Prabhupada.

Many did not have a proper place to sleep or proper meals and almost all lacked warm clothing. Some were Srila Prabhupadas personal servant; some were temple presidents while others did book distribution for years. All of these I have not done and truthfully, could never do. Being a devotee for a number of years I feel I have a lot to give but so did these devotees and my foolishness stopped them from giving me what could have made me a better devotee. If only I had the wisdom then to sit before them and just listen with respect I would be much richer in spiritual insight today.

Now many of them are gone, the opportunity is gone and I sit here lamenting over the fact that I was given a great treasure and lost it. Such a valuable asset sat before me within arms reach, day after day, year after year and I squandered it. They would have handed me years of experience and knowledge but because I acted like a silly clown the doors were closed. Had I even a small amount of humility then they would have opened up their hearts to me and my spiritual advancement would have taken giant steps. Had I even tried a little bit to serve them with but a token amount of submission the road to my spiritual journey would have been so much easier to travel.

I actually feel bad when devotees around me mistakenly judge me about the amount of service I rendered in the past. Perhaps the senior devotees I mistakenly judged felt the same way. I can surely say that I cannot match the immense service the devotees rendered to Srila Prabhupada, nor can I say that I suffered so many setbacks as did they. I cannot say that I could even pass the extreme tests that they did when encountering problems in India or preaching amidst deprogrammers.

It was they that struggled so hard so that I would have a temple to go to in India, it was they that sweated day and night so that I had one of Srila Prabhupadas books to read and it was they that I saw on the streets singing Hare Krsna that inspired me towards spiritual life. Had I only a small amount of appreciation for these brave souls for their sacrifices, their stories would have steered me clear of so many personal setbacks of my own.

If for one minute I could have thought that it was possible that they knew more than me and acted accordingly, their loving advice would have saved me many tears. Happily, by Krsna's grace it is not too late to dive into the open hearts of these advanced devotees taking advantage of their deep realizations. Somehow, I have learned, that they do know more than me and they are more advanced than me and it will be by their kindness that I am able to take a few steps closer to Krsna. And what about the steps I have already taken, are they not the mercy of senior devotees?

They have certainly blessed me with their realizations and it is a wonderful feeling. So now I am learning to act so that they will welcome me into their association and accept whatever little service I offer them. My offenses to them caused them to turn away from me and it hurts and thus my realizations are, that the lost of devotee association is the greatest tragedy in this world. There is no greater lost or misfortune than to find oneself in separation of their friendship.

I have also learned to open my heart to them, in turn they have greeted me with love and affection. Looking at my own actions to my junior devotees I think that I have not equaled the kindness afforded me from Srila Prabhupadas disciples. I need these devotees; I need them to advance in Krsna consciousness.

I need them to stay afloat in spiritual life. When I came to ISKCON everything was there, the morning program, the deities, the books and the temples. Had it not been for them I would not even have a place to live. Maybe they will forgive me one day for having neglected them for so many years and not appreciating the sacrifices they made.

So let me now offer my most humble obeisances to all the disciples of Srila Prabhupada, no matter who they are for they are certainly very dear to Krsna having served His pure devotee Srila Prabhupada, when love was the only motive.