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Home , ISKCON Leicester, Kadamba Kanana Swami, Krishna Janmashtami

October 2017 BHAKTIVEDANTA October 2017 MANOR NEWSLETTER International Society for Consciousness (ISKCON) Founder His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada

Janmashtami 2017 1 8 The Backbone of the Manor’s

10 10 Appearance day of Srila Prabhupada 14 Srila Prabhupada: Haveli update Our Hare Krishnaa movement is standing on three principal things: 12 chanting, dancing, and 18 eating prasadam. It is Mother Kulangana not very difficult. It is very enjoyable to chant, dance, and take prasadam. And if you like, you can hear a little philosophy of this movement. Ratha-yatra -- London, July 13, 1972 16

Please send your news, photos and comments to: Mohan das [email protected]

Bhaktivedanta Manor Dharam Marg · Hilfield Lane Aldenham · Herts (for sat-nav only, please use postcode WD25 8HE) 01923 851000 www.krishnatemple.com

© 2017, All articles & photographs copyright of October 2017

A spiritual wonderland for Krishna’s birthday

On the 13th and 15th of August, celebrated with song and dance and a Bhaktivedanta Manor celebrated specially-decorated altar, but here we its famous Sri Krishna Janmashtami create a spiritual Disneyland, a day out , transforming the serene temple for the family.” grounds into a resplendent festival site A large crowd was attracted to the brimming with tents. bright and lively (devotional As Temple President Srutidharma music) Tent, which had a band playing das said, “usually Janmashtami is a plethora of musical instruments such as guitars, the tabla (hand drum) and mridanga (clay drum). These instruments accompanied the melodious voices of singers from across the UK. It was a common sight over the two days to see the crowd joyfully dancing with devotion. The tent run by the resident monks showcased a hilarious yet thought- provoking play. It was about a king and his four wives, three of whom

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represented different attachments within this world: possessions, family and proven logic to explain why the concept friends, and the body. The fourth wife of a conscious soul makes sense, represented Krishna who is neglected without using spiritual terminology or until it is too late! any philosophy. The play encouraged people pay The “Veggie Steady Cook” tent, much attention to the fourth wife by signing up like the similarly-named television show to a course or subscribing to the Back “Ready Steady Cook”, was a barrel to Godhead magazine. of laughs! Two teams of cooks had to prepare a vegetarian dish whilst One of the most innovative presenters told the audience about the contributions to the festival this year virtues of a vegetarian diet. was the Pandava Sena tent. The youth organisation put on a clever and Krishna Land, the children’s area, mesmerising shadow performance of was bursting full of colour and activity the . A brainchild of as always. As well as having the new members of Pandava Sena, the opportunity to get face-painting, - performance gave new light to the dots and henna done, children were traditional wisdom of the Gita. also able to enjoy a bouncy castle, swing baby Krishna, and watch some Science of the Soul, in its second year fantastic plays acted out by fellow kids. now, was a relatively new attraction. Led by devotees who are also qualified As the UK’s foremost centre for cow scientists, it used verified science and protection and working oxen, New farm provided adults and

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children alike the opportunity to feed Charu Swami delivered an interactive the animals, learn about the poor state presentation, while the Bhaktivedanta of cows in the modern dairy industry Players exclusively premiered their and understand the significance of cows “Krishna Kaliya” drama. and bulls in Vedic culture. Visitors could A musical highlight of the festival was also purchase dairy products made at the performance by the Babaji Reggae the cruelty-free farm. Band. They turned the main tent into The meditation garden was a a concert full of both classical Indian beautiful, quaint escape from the hustle and reggae-style songs, that made the and bustle of the rest of the festival. crowd jump to their feet and dance to Set with 108 stepping-stones, Srila the beat. Prabhupada’s chanting playing in the The final show on the day of background, as well as lovely flowers Janmashtami was a beautifully and shrubbery dotting the area, the produced play by the older members of garden was decorated with visitors the Pandava Sena, depicting the birth of taking a moment to chant the Hare Lord Krishna. With the conclusion of the Krishna mantra. Over 7,000 pilgrims play, abhishek (ceremonial bathing) of chanted the Mahamantra. the deities was performed on the stage Meanwhile, the stage programme and the assembled devotees offered inside the main marquee was as vibrant flowers during the midnight aarti (lamp as ever, with a variety of kirtan and offering). dance groups. His Holiness

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6 October 2017

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the backbone of the Manor’s festivals Bhaktivedanta Manor is described Krishna Purna dasi. She heads a aptly as a true sanctuary for the soul, team of 22 dedicated VCC members, a spiritual haven. And so what better who helped manage administrative place can there be to volunteer for duties, organise volunteer training and Janmashtami 2017. His Holiness registering. They allocated volunteers (GBC Chairman, to various Janmashtami services. Each ISKCON) describes the Janmashtami service was led by a team leader, most celebration at Bhaktivedanta Manor of whom have worked in that service for as the best in the whole world. This is over 20 years. For all volunteers training only possible because of the sincere was mandatory, with VCC members commitment from a huge team of ensuring their assigned volunteers were dedicated volunteers who take part in all nicely looked after. the temple’s activities. Preparation for Janmashtami started 3 In preparation for the festival, volunteers weeks before the festival. The kitchens attend a training programme and this were busy every day from noon to year, our theme was “Atithi Devo Bhava” 10pm. About 200 volunteers came after meaning “the guest should be treated work to serve every evening. Evening like God.” The focus was on being very meals of prasadam (food offered welcoming to guests and serving them to Krishna) were daily provided for nicely. volunteers during this period. “This year alone, roughly 1,600 served There was an air of pure excitement and on both festival days,” said Volunteer positive energy during the preparation Care Council (VCC) Team Leader, work, as well as a great degree of

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anticipation. Srutidharma das reminded everybody When asked “Why do you like of the importance of serving and that volunteering at the Manor” these were there are no age limits in order to some of the responses: volunteer. He mentioned how the late Mother Kulangana, gave 45 years “Volunteering at the Manor helps me to of continuous dedication in serving connect to other devotees.” at the Temple. Lila Masi was also “Volunteering is a devotional mentioned, who at the age of 85, is experience.” another example of an exemplary role “It gave me a chance to explore model. Then there was an update on new experiences and create beautiful the Sri Krishna Haveli by Gauri das, the memories.” brilliant shadow performance on the “I want to please Srila Prabhupada.” Bhagavad Gita, by the Pandava Sena. Finally, Krishna Purna dasi, the volunteer Volunteers Thank You Evening coordinator thanked everyone for their The Evening was held on 1st September hard work and enthusiasm in helping to this year, which was attended by over make Janamashtami so successful this 1000 volunteers! year. The VCC team arranged a fun quiz with If you are interested in volunteering some great prizes, with the pizza tent for Bhaktivedanta Manor, contact: team taking away the first prize! [email protected] After an introduction by Farish Lakhani,

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Radhashtami: Festival of the Supreme Goddess The birthday celebrations of Lord Krishna’s consort Radharani, known as Radhashtami, is always the sweetest of events. It is described that She is the chief associate and devotee of Lord Krishna, and the origin of all goddesses. Apart from being the topmost worshipper of Krishna, She is also an expansion of His energy. Since She is also an extension of Krishna, She is the feminine aspect of God. Thus, the followers of Lord Chaitanya’s teachings understand God as both male and female: Krishna expands into two, Himself and Radharani, for divine pastimes. On Radhashtami, twenty beautifully decorated cakes were offered on the shrine, which was adorned with over a thousand flowers. As well as devotional songs and an informative class by Kripamoya das, there was a play about the pastimes of Radha and Krishna. The performance had the audience beaming with smiles. Later there was an abhisheka (bathing ceremony) for the deities and a special musical procession in Watford.

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Appearance Day of Srila Prabhupada ISKCON’s Founder-Acharya, His Divine his disciples and followers. Kirtan Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami and ceremony enlivened all who Prabhupada was very pleased with observed this joyous day, and Manor Bhaktivedanta Manor and its extensive School graduates prepared and grounds. He would especially take time offered first class food preparations. out of his global itinerary to spend time It was an extraordinary day on which in his quarters upstairs at the Manor. devotees acknowledged their debt to They are to this day maintained as Srila Prabhupada by honouring and they were in Prabhupada’s physical celebrating his life. The overall message presence. The exchange of love of the festival was that we should simply between Prabhupada and his followers try with love and devotion to assist is very tangibly experienced there. Prabhupada in his mission to the best of Srila Prabhupada was born on our ability. Nandotsava, the auspicious day after Janmashtami. After the last guests left the Janmashtami darshan (viewing of the deities), devotees worked till dawn decorating Prabhupada’s temple room vyasasana (seat of the spiritual master) and quarters. From 4.30am devotees gathered at mangala arotik (the first service of the day) to celebrate the Appearance of Srila Prabhupada. The festival was attended by residents, congregation and guests, who heard glorifications of Srila Prabhupada by

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Kirtan London attracts hundreds to Barefoot in the Park In July, the historic Hyde Park bandstand, The event also featured beautiful “gopi- built in 1869, hosted “Barefoot in the dots” face painting, a delicious free Park”, a unique participatory musical vegan lunch, and an “Ask a Monk” area experience attended by over 450 kirtan- where philosophical questions could lovers. Spiritual seekers from all over be answered. Also, copies of the books London and beyond eagerly immersed Bhagavad Gita “As it Is” and “Chant themselves in 7 hours of singing the and be Happy”, as well as a variety of mantra in a range of kirtan CDs and t-shirts were available to beautiful melodies. purchase. The enthusiastic crowd meditated, Guests left feeling spiritually charged, danced joyfully or laid on the grass donating generously and eagerly listening intently as the July sunshine awaiting the next event. flooded the bandstand. The sound Kirtan London events are specifically vibrations attracted curious passers-by tailored to meet the needs of those to enquire about the melodious music new to Kirtan/Bhakti . For more from the smiling volunteers who stood information, visit www.kirtanlondon.com by the entrance, ushering members of the public in, to experience the power of kirtan. 12 October 2017

College retreat at historical Belgian castle The College of Vedic Studies (COVS) ’s teachings on the organised a bank holiday retreat to three essential elements of life: spiritual the scenic Radhadesh castle temple in cultivation, holistic wellbeing and Belgium. contribution to others. Kadamba Kanana Swami held talks on Other members of the men’s residence humility and the “Srimad-Bhagavatam” performed dramas, which were both scripture, while also leading lively entertaining and educational. . Responses: Sutapa das conducted an interactive - Many of the 72 attendees promised seminar entitled ‘Conspiracy 108’, to increase their (spiritual about how the illusory energy called practice) and follow other aspects of can take us off the spiritual path. Krishna consciousness. Then Gurudas joined him to host a - Some newcomers signed up to the Q&A-style talk show. “Explore” course and expressed interest On the last day, Santonu held a in ISKCON’s house programmes held seminar focussing on the pitfalls of false in the UK prestige and expecting respect from -Feedback from the retreat was very, others, before closing proceedings with very positive!

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Hospitality The hospitality team have been taking special care of guests from a wide range of different backgrounds and organisations. Between May and September this year they have facilitated more than 1000 first-time visitors, giving tours, serving food and drinks and making them feel welcome.

Chairman of Goldman Sachs (India) Sonjoy Chatterjee made an informal visit to Bhaktivedanta Manor where he met Temple representatives. Mr Chatterje is the Chairman and Co- Chief Executive Officer of Goldman Sachs (India).

Velvet Jay Productions Velvet Joy Productions spent a day filming at Bhaktivedanta Manor for an artistic documentary about the life of the late singer known as Poly Styrene. She was resident at the Manor during the 1980s and became known as Maharani dasi. Her daughter, Celesta, attended the Manor School at that time. 14 October 2017

Ceremony marks the start of the Shree Krishna Haveli At the end of last July, Bhaktivedanta fire pits, each supervised by priests who Manor organised a special event for chanted Sanskrit prayers in unison. families who have made generous On the Temple shrine the sandals of donations or pledges towards the Sri Lord Krishna have been installed on a Krishna Haveli project. In Vedic culture, golden stand. These sandals can be a “swathi nakshatram” refers to a very ceremoniously placed on the head of auspicious time for receiving blessings pilgrims, as a blessing and an act of and good will for new ventures. So, the humility and surrender at the feet of Lord event was the perfect opportunity to Krishna. All participants at the Haveli mark the beginning of the site work of event were given the opportunity to this most exciting project! receive this blessing. There was an abhikseka (bathing) Special guest speakers included ceremony of the utsav (ceremonial) and Bhakti Rasamrita deities of Sri Sri Radha Gokulananda. Swami. The ceremony was conducted by That was followed by a sacred (fire amara das and Kripamoya das sacrifice) which included five separate 15 Bhaktivedanta Manor Newsletter

Honouring our Patrons This year’s annual Patrons Evening took a classical dance by Shyam Dattani, place on 5th August to honour those winner of BBC’s 2017 Young Dancer individuals and families who support award for South Asian style dance. Bhaktivedanta Manor through their There was also an encouraging update generous regular donations. These on ISKCON worldwide, given by UK and donations go towards the various Ireland Governing Body Commissioner charitable projects and day-to-day Praghosa das. The evening was rounded running of the temple. off with a humorous play with a spiritual The Patron Council members greeted meaning, called “The Boatman and the the 900 guests, made up of Patrons, Scholar”, performed by Jaya Krishna their families, alongside invited senior das and Radha Mohan das. devotees, dignitaries and others. The The Manor would like to thank all the venue had a cabaret-style dining setup. attendees and the volunteers who served All the decor plates and cutlery were so diligently to make it happen. Over ecologically sourced with a ‘green’ 300 volunteers took part, and the event theme in mind to support our ethos of would not have been successful without ecological living, waste reduction, and the hard work and dedication of each recycling. individual. As attendees enjoyed a three-course If you would like to become a Patron of meal, Manor Managing Director Gauri Bhaktivedanta Manor, please contact: das delivered an update on the progress [email protected] of the Haveli. This was followed by 16 October 2017 The commitment is made before a spiritual master, who, along with all visitors present, encourages initiates on their spiritual journey. The spiritual master who graced the most recent occasion was His Holiness Bhakti Charu Swami. 20 candidates took 1st initiation, which requires various important com-mitments: to daily chant the Hare Krishna mantra at least 1,728 Initiation: making a times, to follow 4 rules and regula- tions. 5 candidates also took 2nd spiritual commitment initiation, called initiation, a Initiation is a rite of passage constituting commitment by candidates to strive to a lifetime commitment to specified codes take their spiritual lives to a higher level of conduct and spiritual standards. and perform direct service to the deities.

and supported the drama team of Chaitanya’s Instant Theatre. His most recognized service was when he helped to build the ratha (chariot) for Lord Jagannatha to use at the famous (chariot festival) where Srila Prabhupada danced the entire route. Mohan was amongst the first residents to move into Bhaktivedanta Manor in 1973. He worked on building Radha The life of Mohan prabhu Gokulananda’s first altar, and during Radha Gokulananda’s installation on Mohan das, a disciple of Srila Janmashtami day he is seen in the Prabhupada left his body on 19th videos ecstatically dancing behind Srila August after suffering from a brain Prabhupada. tumour. In 1977, while visiting Bhaktivedanta After moving into ISKCON UK’s first Manor, Srila Prabhupada’s health was temple at Bury Place when he was weak. During this visit, to support Srila young, he served in different places, Prabhupada’s frail body, Mohan made ready to do whatever practical work a palanquin from an office chair so was required. He went to Edinburgh that Srila Prabhupada could be carried to renovate the newly acquired centre around the Manor. This very chair now in the early 1970s. He served at sits in Srila Prabhupada’s bedroom. Chaitanya College during the 1980s, For the last 15 years, Mohan served in where he made a recording studio ISKCON . 17 Bhaktivedanta Manor Newsletter

Mother Kulangana a Life and Legacy of Devotion

On Monday 14 August, the eve of many atrocities and experienced many Sri Krishna Janmashtami, Mother traumatic incidents, such as being Kulangana passed away surrounded separated from her mother as a young by devotees chanting Hare Krishna. girl. The next morning her body, draped in She was a lover of animals and often sacred items, was carried around the missed class to play with the animals temple in circumambulation. Devotees on her farm. Yet still she excelled then gathered to offer their final in her studies and qualified as a respects, offering garlands, flower petals Physiotherapist. and prayers. After a successful career in both Poland A memorial was held on the following and France, she moved to England Saturday, which was attended by for a post in North London. Shortly hundreds of devotees of all ages, united after this, on a shopping trip in central in their love and respect for such a very London, she came face-to-face with the special devotee. harinam (street-chanting) party, and was Born in 1932 in Poland as Krystyna, so enticed by the smiling and happy Mother Kulangana was raised in a chanting that she followed the devotees well-respected family. Growing up all the way to the temple. in war-torn Warsaw, she witnessed She quickly found herself drawn to 18 October 2017

the devotees’ way of life. She loved legacy. Beautifully painted sweets have the singing, the philosophy, the become the very symbol of the Manor, camaraderie and the food. Thus she and a sought after spiritual delicacy. moved into the temple at Bury Place, Mother Kulangana was always known and soon after received initiation from as a kind and gentle soul, with a Srila Prabhupada. nature as sweet as her service. She Mother Kulangana had an affinity for will be missed by many - most of the milk products from childhood as cows community cannot even recall a time were kept on her family farm. Thus, when she was not present in their she was naturally attracted to cooking lives. Although she leaves this world the milk sweets the devotees offered to behind, her legacy lives on. And in Krishna every day. She quickly became every soft mangal arati sweet (the first an expert cook, mastering the various sweet of the morning) the devotees of recipes, skills and techniques required Bhaktivedanta Manor offer to Sri Sri for milk sweet making. Another gift Radha Gokulanada, there will reside which gave Mother Kulangana no end the memory of Mother Kulangana’s soft of pleasure was painting the sweets with and sweet devotion. food colouring. Her artistic depictions Her life will remain an inspiration for of Krishna’s pastimes and the various generations to come. Her dedication scenes of , indicated the to Srila Prabhupada set the highest spiritual vision that Mother Kulangana example. Day and night she read his was imbued with. Her creative books and listened to his lectures. In portrayals never failed to please and her departure, she only wanted to listen inspire anyone who saw them. to his chanting. She taught us how to She resided at Bhaktivedanta Manor for overcome adversity, how to become twenty-seven years, during which time absorbed in devotional service, how she prepared thousands of sweets for to maintain complete chastity and the temple deities. She inspired a new enthusiasm in our spirituality, and most generation of sweet-makers, passing of all, how to dedicate one’s mind, on her techniques and recipes so that body and words in the service of the young devotees could continue her Lord. 19 Bhaktivedanta Manor Newsletter Sri Krishna Haveli project update

What happening now: • The Pre-school has been • The new access road works have successfully relocated from the site begun. • The School will move later this year, • The foundations for the Tulsi Glass as their new site is not ready and houses are being done. they are working on getting consent from OFSTED for the move. • By late October, the road will be complete and and two new Tulsi • Vascroft are working further on houses constructed. plans for Value Engineering, by late November, work on the Haveli main • Asbestos testing is being carried out site should be started. now, in preparation for demolition. Leave a Legacy..

From Dream to Reality

£4 a day gets us the rest of the way Pledge your support. Contact Vaisnava das [email protected] - 07907 809 006 20 ...Build the Haveli www.krishnatemple.com/haveli