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David Robyn Loring, born to Lisa Loring  (lakshmiPriya devi dasi) on May 27th, 1990 passed from his earthly body on Nov. 3, 2007 after a motor vehicle accident in Kenosha County. His birth father was Jeffrey Tauri, and Gregory Picazo was his step father. He also leaves behind 2 brothers, Nicholas, 19, and Jack, 14, who both adored him. He is further survived by his Maternal Grandmother, Robin Loring, Paternal Grandfather Arthur Tauri, a Special Uncle Dave Perry, Great Grandparents Helen Strang and Robert Strang, Grandparents Joan and Gregory Frank Picazo, and so many friends we consider to be brothers, and many aunts and uncles. His Aunt Shelley Sward was one who assisted in his birth delivery and also assisted in his final preparation for leaving his body, by specially preparing beautiful flower garlands that were lovingly covering him. He is also survived by a very special girl, Christina Ruane, and his 4 beagles, Merrie, Monty, Molly, and Minnie.

David came into this world in a unique way, and lived every day as if it could be his last. He was LIFE personified. He glowed, kind of like a pumpkin. For as many difficulties David endured, (and caused), he more than made up for this by his kind and loving soul, sweet smile, and his many talents. When a mother talks about her son, of course she will say they are "so cute". But, David was the "MOST" of everything. He was not only the most cute, most intelligent, most athletic, most creative, most loving, but also the most naughty, most annoying, the most obnoxious, and the most likely to cause some trouble. He really was the MOST, and by his unique nature, he was either feared or loved, but usually both. David and his brothers Nic and Jack were the best of friends, even though at times were enemies. They remained close. They were buddies, and continued to hang out together throughout David's life. Their large circle of friends were more like brothers, and continue to be. There are so many friends, but in particular I'd like to point out Jeff and Andrew Gray, Tyler Kraus, Terry Swain, Christina Ruane, Tony Wirtz, Matt Sellers, Nick Blazewicz, and "The Duck".....so many more that I couldn't possibly name all of the boys who called David "my best friend".

David lived without fear. He was climbing out of his crib at 5 months, running by 8 months, and literally riding a 2 wheeler by age 2. He was amazing. Of course with all this fearlessness came many injuries, accidents, and illnesses. He had more surgeries and hospitalizations than I could even count, but NEVER complained. This was one tough kid. He was actually quite famous, or infamous for that. David was a "scrapper", and got into a number of fights, but boy was he respected. The only one who could ever keep David "in control" was his brother Nic, and this was merely out of respect. Nic looked out for David from day one, and came through to the very end. Jack has even picked up on David's qualities, and is devastated by our loss.

Please light a candle in memory of my dear son, David Loring by visiting http://david-robyn-loring.memory-of.com/ (outside link).  

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In Memory of Bhanutanaya dasi

Written by Kaulini devi dasi
Gita- nagari, Pennsylvania (U.S.)

 
Hare Krishna Dear Devotees,

This is to ask for your sincere prayers for Bhanutanaya dasi, a disciple of His Holiness Satsvarupa Goswami from the early 1980's. I just received a phone call from her sister on Sunday informing me that Bhanutanaya dasi committed suicide on Thursday, December 20, 2007.

Bhanutanaya joined ISKCON in New York City when she was only 15 years old. She was still in high school, so her parents were not very supportive of her decision. She had many obstacles in the beginning of her spiritual life. She even had to hide all of her books and had to chant in her bedroom closet so her parents would not find out her spiritual activities. Bhanutanaya came to Gita-nagari a couple of years later, served for many years on our painting sankirtan party, got married, had her son at our farm, and then moved on with her husband. Over the years she would call me occasionally, expressing her sadness for distancing herself from the devotees and Krsna consciousness. Through the years Bhanutanaya had a very disturbed mind, yet Krsna consciousness kept her in check. When she left the association of devotees, her mental disabilities took over and she suffered for many years. Just this past summer, her sister was at Pennsylvania State University for a program and stopped by the Gita-nagari farm to take pictures. In addition, I made a video for Bhanutanaya. The other day, Bhanu's sister told me that when she showed them to Bhanutanaya that she was so happy. She even placed the pictures over the stove in her kitchen. Unfortunately, after suffering so many mental problems, Krsna's dear devotee, Bhanutanaya dasi committed suicide last week.  I have sent holy dust from Vrindavana, Tulasi leaves from the lotus feet of Sri Damodara, Deity remnants, and a Harinam chaddar to be with her for the cremation.

My realization is that Krsna never forgets the service and the heart of His devotee. Bhanutanaya dasi was very much loved by the devotees who knew her. Your prayers will benefit her so much. I am begging all of you to please pray for her and her loving family to heal from this painful situation.

Your servant,
Kaulini dasi

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Sent in by Vegavati devi dasi
Gita Nagari, PA, USA

On Sunday, November 4, at 10:45 am, Her Grace Lalitamrta-devi dasi left her body, at Gita-nagari dhama, after struggling with cancer for over 5 years.

I do not know how to properly glorify Lalitamrta.  She stands supremely glorified by her own good qualities.  Having joined ISKCON in Philadelphia, she lived at Gita-nagari for 18 years; still, many who visited over those years don’t know her at all, because she never put herself forward. She was always satisfied to stay in the background, serving.  To me she personifies this statement Srila Prabhupada made when describing the Vaisnava quality of silence: “Silent worker—not advertising.”

A few years ago, at a gathering for ladies, we were asked to think of times in our lives when we were most happy and fulfilled, and to draw pictures of ourselves in that setting. Lalitamrta’s drawings showed her distributing books in the airport and at a writing retreat, typing away for her guru maharaja, HH Sastvarupa Maharaja. While at Gita-nagari, she also regularly dressed the gopis, Lalita and Visakha Devis, with a sweet devotional mood.

Though shy by nature (her idea of a good party was to get together with two or three close friends), once she knew you she opened up and revealed a depth of understanding and good humor that endeared her to her friends. And she loved to laugh! 

For various reasons, she had moved, along with her husband Gandiva, away from Gita-nagari, to upstate NY, practically on the Canadian border, last spring. As their host couple and Godsister/Godbrother, Annapurna and Jiva, gradually came to understand that Lalitamrta’s life was indeed drawing to a close, they asked her quite directly: “Where do you want to be?” When she realized the time had come, she said, “I want to be at Gita-nagari.”

By the strength of her devotion, everything fell into place: Lalitamrta made it back to the shelter of Radha-Damodar, during the month of Kartikka, and passed her last few days in the shelter of the dhama amidst loving devotees, old friends and former Gita-nagari residents, now drawn from Baltimore, Philadelphia, Florida, Rhode Island, come to pay their last respects; “new” friends from Gita-nagari who had warmed to her in recent years.

Though weak, she recognized and greeted devotees as they came in, sometimes saying their names. Smiled as they reminded her of funny times in the past.  We took turns leading kirtana, Gita-nagari style. The boys read Krsna book to her, the story of Putana killed.  Some devotees couldn’t come, but sent notes, or called, or sent prayers, or gave donations.  She left this world peaceful, surrounded by loved ones and in the shelter of Krsna’s holy name. Afterwards, there was kirtana for hours, and three days later, we had a feast in her honor, with more kirtana, and many of her favorite foods.

Lalitamrita devi dasi Departs from this Material World in Gita Nagari Farm (U.S.)
 
On Sunday, Novemember 4, 2007 at 10:45 am, Lalitamrita devi dasi, left this world surrounded by her caregivers, her husband, Gandiva dasa, Kaulini dasi, Sangita devi dasi, Annapurna dasi, and other dear friends from around the U.S. who came from far and wide to care for her in her final days. She left this world hearing the holy names of the Lord while other devotees came into her room one by one after hearing she was in her final moments and taking her final breaths. It was a very auspicious departure. Mother Kaulini's Giriraja Deity was placed on her head and Srila Prabhupada's lotus feet were at her head as well. She had garlands placed on her from Radha Damodara, the presiding Deities in Gita Nagari farm. So many of her close friends were there day and night by her side to give her support and love and to help her remember Krsna by reading to her, chanting japa, bhajans, and telling her about what her journey back to home, back to Godhead will be like. Her second initiated Guru Maharaja, Satsvarupa Maharaja spoke to her on the phone. Even though she could not verbalize her responses, he told her that her fears was only illusory and that she would either take birth in a family of advanced devotees or go directly to Krsnaloka.
 
His Holiness Danivir Goswami came to Gita Nagari after hearing about her illness. He came into her room and led a wonderful, soft kirtan. He gave classes to the community to give support and such an emotional and bitter-sweet time for all of them who knew and loved Lalitamrita so much.
 
We pray that Srila Prabhupada will forever keep this dear and sincere devotee at his lotus feet and give her protection from the pain and suffering of the material world.
 
On behalf of her closest friends from Gita Nagari,
The Vaisnavas CARE Board of Directors

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Radhanatha Prabhu

Posted: October 27, 2007

Radhanath dasa Prabhu left his body about 15 minutes after having the respiratory machine that was keeping him breathing removed from his lungs. There were about 25 devotees present in his hospital room chanting Hare Krsna during the procedure. He seemed peaceful for the most part as he left this world surrounded by devotees of the Lord and the Holy Names of Krsna. 
 
We are expecting a detailed letter from Srutadev dasa, who was a good friend to Radhanath dasa Prabhu. We will post it as soon as we receive it. Please pray that His Grace Radhanath dasa Prabhu will forever remain at the lotus feet of His Divine Grace Srila Prabhupada.
 
In addition, we humbly thank a special disciple of Srila Prabhupada and a Vaisnavas C.A.R.E. volunteer, Madana-sundari devi dasi from Honolulu, Hawaii (U.S.) for giving so much care and attention to Radhanath Prabhu during the end-stage of his illness. She kept in contact via internet and phone and helped to raise donations for his material needs which enabled him to continue doing his devotional service of distributing Srila Prabhupada's books. All glories to the volunteers of Vaisnavas C.A.R.E. who do so much for the terminally ill devotees in our movement!
 
On behalf of the Vaisnavas CARE Board of Directors

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Gaurendu Prabhu passes away
By Basu Ghosh Dasa

At approximately 10:00 PM on Tuesday, October 9, while returning to Vallabh Vidyanagar (a suburb of “Anand” town, famous for “Amul” dairy and “Amul Butter” - it’s 45 kilometers North of Baroda), from a journey to Rajkot, a small “Maruti 800″ subcompact car with ISKCON Vallabh Vidyanagar Temple President Satchidananda Prabhu and ISKCON Vallabh Vidyangar Temple Manager Gaurendu Prabhu as passengers met with a terrible accient which claimed the life of Sriman Gaurendu Prabhu, on the spot.

Apparently the driver of the car did not see - in darkness - a large ten ton lorry (truck), which had broken down, in or on the side of road. At the last minute the driver swerved to avoid the truck. However, the rear portion of the car - the left side/passenger side (in India) - struck the back side of the truck, and Gaurendu Prabhu died instantly due to the impact. Satchidananda Prabhu however, saw the impending collision from his seat behind the driver and quickly - and timely - assumed the “brace” position that commercial aircraft passengers are instructed to assume before every flight in case of any emergency. He escaped the impact and subsequent car rolling off the road with minor cuts and bruises.

The driver of the vehicle, an occasional paid driver who was not an ISKCON devotee, was take to the Vadilal Hospital at Ahmedabad, along with Satchidananda Prabhu after some “good samaritians”, who were passing by just after the accident occurred, had called an ambulance.
The driver himself died at the hospital at Ahmedabad on Thursday, October
11, 2007, at 6:00 AM.

Gaurendu Prabhu’s last rites were performed at Vallabh Vidyanagar on Wednesday evening, October 10, 2007, after the compulsory post mortem examination had been completed by the authorities. Devotees from ISKCON Ahmedabad, ISKCON Baroda and Vallabh Vidyanagar performed kirtan at the cremation.

Satchidananda Prabhu received a number of concerned and condolence telephone calls from various ISKCON leaders. H.H. Gopal Krishna Maharaj, H.H. Lokanath Swami, H.H. Bhakti Vikas Swami, and Jasomatinandan Prabhu, who is presently in the USA, all telephoned to convey their concern for his health and to condole Gaurendu Prabhu’s widow and elderly parents.

Gaurendu Prabhu came in touch with ISKCON at the M.S. University of Baroda where he was as student in the early 1990’s. At that time H.H. Bhakti Vikas Swami used to deliver regular lectures on Krishna Consciousness and Bhagavad-gita at the student hostels. Gaurendu Prabhu was originally from Jamnagar, in the Saurastra region of Gujarat, and was a resident of one of the hostels back then. Later on he shifted to Vallabh Vidyanagar after graduation and began to run his own private tutorial business - quite common in India - with moderate success in the Anand town. He married several years back to a devotee girl from Orissa and they have one small daughter.

A couple of years back Gaurendu Prabhu wound up his business and became a full time devotee at Vallabh Vidyanagar temple. He was designated as the temple manager, and in the absence of Satchidananda Prabhu he was managing the temple. He was also managing the Gujarati “Back to Godhead” magazine publication - known as “Bhagavat Darshan” which is located there, and was also managing the distribution of H.H. Bhakti Vikas Swami’s “Bhakti Vikas Books”.

Obviously his loss will be greatly felt by all those connected with the various services he was engaged in at the Vallabh Vidyanagar temple. He will be missed.

It’s sad to note that Gaurendu Prabhu’s elder brother died on a local train last year at Bombay, where he resided (he was a congregational devotee of ISKCON). Back on July 11, 2006, there were several explosions in various suburban Bombay trains, well known as the “train blasts” terrorist attack, and which killed almost 200 innocent people. Gaurendu Prabhu is survived by his wife and daughter, elderly parents and “mentally challenged” brother, who is unable to work.

For further information, as well as anyone interested to extend their pious hand to help them financially or otherwise kindly contact Satchidannada Prabhu via e-mail:
iskcon.vvnagar@pamho.net 

Or telephone Satchidananda Prabhu at ISKCON Vallabh Vidyangar: +91-2692-2310796.
 

A farewell to Radha Kunda Prabhu,
My Friend and Brother.

Yes, Radha Kunda Prabhu, was and continues to be my dear friend and God Brother and he also became my brother in life. In light of all the types I have met through our sanga over my lifetime, I found Radha Kunda Prabhu to have his very own special and exclusive candor, nearly shameless sincerity, unlike others who posture and position themselves almost in artificial imposition to the mainstream. Radha Kunda was in his own exclusive manner extremely sincere to others of exactly who he was and was not.  This I found deeply and profoundly special, even though I saw it as a material weakness on his part.

I was never happier for him than when I found him living in Vrndavan years ago, finally giving up the West for Vraja.  I knew then, as he knew, that this move to Vraja was permanent until the end of this chapter.  He was tired of the material world and often spoke of living in caves rather than having to deal with the Maya that was driven by the rules and taboos of the various societies and cultures of East and West. This intolerance to the world made him belligerent.  Radha Kunda Prabhu was difficult, irresponsible and overbearing at times, yet loving and endearing, almost tender and often generous of himself, when was able to be at rest.  He made me (and so many) laugh and cry, as I cry now, and often very angry or displeased, but most of all he made me live a whole lot more than if I had never met him, both spiritually and materially. He was wild and passionate, yet he was vulnerable and sentimental. Sometimes he would make me laugh for hours on end with his cynicism of the world and the characters that surround us. I would often have to financially support him as he could not hold down a job, but when he worked he would excel beyond all others in his work. He would often sleep in bushes or in the woods to avoid association with the world. Yet, he would walk into a literally barren kitchen and whip up a feast as if he was a master chef at a six-star-restaurant.  Talent was not his lack; he was charismatic, convincing, and when he worked he was a great salesman and a great preacher. He just did not like this world or the “characters in it” and always just wanted to go home.

Back in the early seventies, I saw that in his California driver’s license he had changed his legal name to Rod Kund and often spoke of disassociating himself completely from this world until his time would come. His favorite song from his childhood, which he claimed plagued him by his disapproval from others since he was a young child, was “Please Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood” from the sixties. He told me on many occasions that as far back as he could remember he felt misunderstood in this world and that always drove him to separate himself completely from the norm. Not able to fit in, he always had a difficult time with basic survival and this would in turn exacerbate and aggravate his criticism and disapproval from others.

But then he moved to Vrndavan seven or eight years ago and began telling pastimes of Krsna to everyone he met in his own graceless Rod Kund manner. He would not stop. It became an obsession of sorts almost to the point of annoyance because one could hardly hold a conversation with him. I knew then he had found his place and would finally receive the grace from the Lord, which he had lived so long and awkward life to wait for. I feel very fortunate to have known him, and cared for him from time to time, and to have been at least instrumental in giving him shelter even to his passing.

I will miss you my old friend, my life would not have been so joyous without you. I have many memories of laughter and good times, and of you making so many others smile and laugh and still giving all the credit of your charm to Srila Prabhupada and to Krsna. This was your special gift though thick and thin.   

With tears and joy I wish you farewell, my brother. 

All my love,
Yadu

Her Grace Krsna Premavati Mataji, disciple of Ravindra Svarup Prabhu, passed away from the world on April 14, 2007 in the presence of devotees in Ireland. Also present was Krsna Premavati's daughter and son.  She had just recently moved from her apartment in Belfast to Western Ireland where she was staying with a family of nice devotees who were taking care of her.  We thank all the devotees in Ireland who took care of such a special soul as Mother Krsna Premevati. 

Dear Devotees,

It is with great sadness that we have to announce the departure of His Grace
Suhotra Prabhu from this world.  Since joining the gurukula full time in 2004
he worked continuously on the study guide of the Srimad Bhagavatam, almost
to the exclusion of anything else.

On Tuesday 3rd April, he announced to his class that he would be starting
a one month marathon of study and writing and wouldn’t be free to give class
anymore.

It was not uncommon for Suhotraji to work 36 hours straight at times in
the privacy of his room, even taking prasadam in there. On Saturday 7th
April he mentioned that his mind had become very peaceful now that he could
immerse himself completely in his study and writing of the Bhagavatam guide.
He preferred to be left to himself when writing and would call for anything
he needed.

On Monday 9th April, Vagisa Prabhu went to call Suhotra Prabhu to take an
international telephone call. The door to Suhotraji’s room was latched from
the inside and the lights off. Since Vagisa Prabhu could not get any reply
he forced the door open and found Suhotra Prabhu lying on his bed, his back
against the wall and his feet stretched out in front of him, crossed at the
ankles. His right hand was in his bead bag and his left at his side. A light
chadder lay across his body and legs. Although it appeared that Suhotra
Prabhu has left his body some time before, Vagisa Prabhu called Madhava
Gauranga Prabhu who confirmed that he had gone.

  The government doctor stated off the record that the visible signs were
consistent with a heart attack. Suhotra Prabhu’s body was subsequently taken
to Krishnanagar by officials of the government, accompanied by Rama Vijaya
Prabhu, and Jagannatha Misra Prabhu and other devotees from the temple for
the official post mortem. The results of the post mortem confirm the initial
report. Suhotraji left this world from massive cardiac failure.

In accordance with Vaisnava rituals his body will be cremated as soon as the
government officials release it.

We at the Bhaktivedanta Academy feel the loss of Suhotra Prabhu deeply,
along with all other devotees who are his friends and well wishers.

Your Servants
The devotees of the Bhaktivedanta Academy.

I wish to share some brief words in honor of our
glorious friend and Godbrother, HG Sahotra Prabhu. I
had the good fortune of gaining his valued friendship
while we served together in the USA with the BBT
Library Party in 1975-76. I was always happy to go on
japa walks with him to be with such a jovial devotee
friend, as well as to hear his deeply analytical
viewpoints. I would often observe him walking about
very seriously chanting his japa, while tightly
carrying in his other hand one of Srila Prabhupada's
Bhagavatams, like his "weapon of knowledge". His
favorite verse then was from the C.C.: "I am servant
of Lord Caitanya, a servant of Lord Caitanya, a
servant of the servant of Lord Caitanya...". Also,
during his discussions with the university professors,
to convince them to also purchase the full set of
Srila Parbhupada's books, he would often proudly tell
them towards the end: "I have also become a follower
of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu."

His deep exploration of Gaura-vani, which he so
powerfully shared during his brilliant classes, has
thus attracted the Lord's special mercy to allow him
to peacefully depart in His Gaura Dhama. His lifetime
of stalwart service to Sri Guru and Sri Gauranga has
been a glorious example for all to emulate. Thank you
my beloved friend Sahotra Prabhu for your sincere
kindness and uplifting association.

Gratefully, Gokulananda das ACBSP, ISKCON Vancouver.
 

On Friday night at 9:36PM, my twin brother, our beloved Godbrother and most cherished friend, Mukta Kesa dasa prabhu (pictured with son, Chediraja in 1986) , left this world. Mukta was surrounded by no less than thirty Godbrothers and Godsisters, who chanted the holy name in loving ecstasy bidding him a safe journey to his next destination. His dear friend Varsana Swami was in attendance, and he frequently spoke to all of us, providing us with the most beautiful Krsna conscious perspective to what we witnessed. Mukta was loved by all. His personality and association was so humerous and unique.

He joined our Hare Krsna movement in 1969. He was a samkirtan devotee for so many years, and was a devotee member of our movement when we were indeed still a very small family. For the last few years, Mukta worked tirelessly sending out Srila Prabhupada’s books and personal letters to inmates,encouraging them to take shelter in Krsna consciousness.

The vacuum devotees in New Vrndavana and throughout the world are feeling in Mukta’s absence is devastating. We pray that he has rejoined Srila Prabhupada and other Godbrothers, who have left previously.. to continue chanting and dancing and taking part in Lord Caitanya’s samkirtan movement somewhere in the universe.

Hari Bol Mukta Kesa Prabhu. We will always feel your separation.

The Passing of Yogamaya Dasi
by Hanuman das, Christchurch, New Zealand
November 17, 2006

After six weeks of intense hearing, chanting and prayer with a group of 25 to 30 devotees, Her Grace Yogamaya devi dasi finally left our association.

On Saturday, Yogamaya prabhu woke just after midnight. As she was in some discomfort the devotees present began a soft kirtan. Yogamaya also joined in this kirtan and, although her shortness of breath made it very difficult for her to chant, she continued with determination.

After some time Yogamaya dasi's pain subsided and she became calm. The kirtan continued but, rather than go back to sleep, Yogamaya continued to try and join in. At this time we advised her not to chant but to just listen to the holy name, so she could rest her body. Although she agreed to do this, when the kirtan started she once again joined in. We all smiled in amazement seeing her steady determination; however, we were very concerned, as she was still very short of breath.

After sometime Sumukhi dasi told Yogamaya that the devotees had done all that they could for her material body. Now all that we could do was help her go to Krishna. Yogamaya said, "Yes", and was noticeably ready to begin her final journey.

Yogamaya then asked that the curtains be closed...

Sumukhi: Would you like me to close the curtains on Jillian Comrie? (Yogamaya's name at birth)

Yogamaya: Yes!

Sumukhi: Okay, Yogamaya, I have closed them for you, there's no more Jillian Comrie.

Yogamaya: Yes, I can't lament...

Sumukhi: Yes, Kalasamvara told you not to lament.

Previously Kalasamvara das had spoken to Yogamaya on the phone. He had heard about her lamentation and told her that even though lamentation is natural at this time, she should mediate on the lamentation of the previous Arcaryas and mediate on their prayers in the song book, taking shelter of their mood. He told her it is time to forget about her mind and dictations, and just to meditate on Krishna, who is her friend.

Sumukhi: Krishna is here for you, Yogamaya, and I'm going to tell the devotees that you are going back to Krishna. The devotees will be so happy. Guru Maharaja will be so pleased with you.

Yogamaya smiled, and the devotees then tried to move her as she was quite uncomfortable.

Sumukhi: You are so uncomfortable aren't you?

Yogamaya: Yes, there is so much suffering in this material world.

Sumukhi: There is no happiness in this material world. Srila Prabhupada has taught us that happiness is just a relief from suffering.

Yogamaya: Yes...

Sumukhi: Real happiness is with Krishna, and that's where you're going.

Yogamaya: Yes, there is no happiness in this world.

After some time Yogamaya became absorbed in chanting japa so much that the devotees didn't feel like disturbing her. At 3:00 a.m. she asked what time it was. Sumukhi suggested that maybe this was good time to go back to Krishna. Yogamaya agreed but continued chanting japa. It was a very sweet exchange between two close friends.

Around 3:20 a.m. we decided that the devotees should take rest, leaving me to stay with Yogamaya. We felt that to try and communicate with her now would merely distract her from her intense absorption in the holy name, and if she were to leave it would be perfect. Yogamaya was deeply absorbed in chanting, and in a sense she had already left us. Yogamaya continued to chant japa, despite our requests that she rest. The previous night she had been having intense dreams and complained that the morphine was affecting her ability to focus. It seemed now she was determined to remain fully conscious. After some time I noticed her breathing becoming more shallow and her chanting more difficult. At intervals she would stop chanting though her lips never stopped moving. Recently, devotees caring for Yogamaya had been mentioning that she was chanting in her sleep, and sometimes chanting while waking from her sleep.

Soon Yogamaya's breathing became extremely shallow and I perceived that she was about to lose consciousness. Her eyes were half closed and she was no longer conscious of my presence. I turned up the Prabhupada CD that was playing by her bed and chanted with her.

Midway through her mantra, stopping with a final Krishna... her mouth opened and she stopped breathing. I waited for the next breath but soon realised that it wasn't coming. I couldn't see any symptoms of life. It was 4:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 11, 2006.

All along I had been anticipating some last-minute panic or sudden pain, where devotees would come running to have kirtan or assist Yogamaya as she struggled to maintain her consciousness. The doctors and nurses had been telling us that it would be very likely that Yogamaya would fall into a coma before departing. But there was no such dramatic scene. Yogamaya just chanted Hare Krishna till her final breath. As from the very beginning of her illness, Yogamaya has shown the result of many years of focused and determined sadhana-bhakti and dedication to the sankirtan mission. All along she had been so peaceful, fully surrendered to her situation. Her non-offensive attitude has won her the blessings of so many devotees, many of whom gathered to help her in her final months with us.

Yogamaya's cremation was on Monday, November 13.

Once again I would like to thank all the devotees for their kind help and prayers. Without such wonderful association it would not have been possible for Yogamaya dasi, Draupadi dasi and myself to have made this journey. We remain eternally indebted.

November 12th 2006 A humble saint’s glorious departure.

New Gokula Community, Vancouver, B.C., Canada -

Our beloved God-sister Rudrani Mataji ACBSP has recently departed us in a most glorious manner.

Although we are sad to be now bereft of her uplifting association, we all remain in awe before her exemplary life’s total absorption in Krishna consciousness, in spite of a severely defective body ravaged for decades with chronic rheumatoid arthritis.

We were always amazed by her cheerful and enthusiastic demeanor, as she somehow transcended her bodily affliction, tolerating untold suffering with silent strength. Back in 1976, when Srila Prabhupada was informed of her serious disease (provoked by a near-fatal car accident while traveling to distribute his books), he instructed Rudrani to tolerate her diseased condition while pursuing her devotional life despite all inconvenience.

She sincerely took his instruction to heart and became totally absorbed in Krishna consciousness. With utmost humility and purity of heart, she maintained a very deep level of sadhana and service attitude. She was specially attracted to Tulsi seva; teaming up with her husband Sananda Das (Dr.Sukumaran, a professional Ayur Vedic therapist), they brought our temple’s Tulsi seva dept. to an unprecedented level of pure devotion. Their glorious service also brought many other local devotees on-board to further expand Tulsi’s care. Their glorious team service was also featured in a recent B.T.G. article (in the 2006 March-April issue).

So like father like daughter: long recognized as our most advanced devotee, she exemplified the pure-hearted servant of her perfect guru, who has abundantly blessed his loving daughter with great advancement and purity.

So glorious in her devotional life, she was also most glorious in her departure. During her last two months among us, as her ailing body finally broke down, her spirit shone brighter and brighter. Showing utter indifference to her bodily breakdown, she kept gracefully encouraging all of us with her indomitable serenity and humour.

In her final moments, she turned to her life-long care-giver, her sister-in-law Shanta Mataji (who was holding a large picture of Vrinda Devi in front of her), and she told her with loving eyes: “Yes I’m actually seeing Vrinda Maharani Herself…I have to go now”. Then they chanted the Maha-mantra together for a few moments until her final breath. Such was this beautiful soul’s glorious departure for the Lord’s eternal service.

Thank you Rudrani Mataji for your glorious life’s perfection to strengthen our conviction that Lord Krishna always kindly takes care of His own. Although we will miss your saintly association, you have left us all the ladder of your shining example of unconditional service to Guru and Krishna, to help us along on our own journeys back to Home. And we will remain eternally indebted to you for all these blessings that you selflessly gave us, our saintly hero Rudrani Devi Dasi.

Your grateful servant, Gokulananda das, ISKCON Vancouver. 

On October 27, 2006 in the holy dhama of Vrindavana, His Holiness Narmada Swami left this world. Maharaja had a long term illness which did not allow him to continue with his active devotional service. He made the decision to leave Mumbai and travel to Vraja where he voluntarily fasted from eating and then eventually drinking. During his final days, devotees gathered around him and chanted the holy names of Krsna as well as read to him from Srila Prabhupada's transcendental books. It was reported that in his last moments, he chanted, "Krsna, Krsna," and then left his body very peacefully. With such an auspicious departure from this world, we are certain that Maharaja will forever remain at the lotus feet of Srila Prabhupada. All glories to HH Narmada Swami and all the Vaisnavas who lovingly cared for him!

A Tribute to

His Holiness Bhakti Svarupa Damodara Maharaja

On Monday, October 2, 2006, His Holiness Bhakti Svarupa Damodara Maharaja left this world in a hospital in Calcutta, Srila Prabhupada’s birthplace. Maharaja was a dear disciple of Srila Prabhupada, a member of ISKCON's Governing Body of Commissioners (GBC), and a beloved spiritual master of many disciples around the world.

We at Vaisnavas C.A.R.E. express our sadness for the loss of our godbrother who was such a dedicated servant of Srila Prabhupada. Srila Prabhupada affectionately refered to Maharaja as, “Our Dr. Svarupa Damodara.” 

His Holiness Bhakti Svarupa Damodara Maharaja dedicated his life to fulfilling the orders of Srila Prabhupada and helped spread Krishna consciousness around the world through his writing, lecturing, and by preaching through his devotional project, the Bhaktivedanta Institute. In order to fulfill the orders of Srila Prabhupada, he organized conferences  worldwide to spread the philosophy of Krishna Consciousness to the scientific community. In addition, Maharaja established Krsna conscious temples in his home of Manipur, India. His personal presence within our Krsna consciousness society will be greatly missed. We have faith, however, that his dedicated followers will continue with the mission given to him by his spiritual master, His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada.

We humbly pray to Srila Prabhupada to give strength and guidance to his loving disciples who are feeling deep separation at this time.

Your servants at Vaisnavas C.A.R.E.

Jusaniya dasi
Sangita devi dasi
Jagarini devi dasi
Nirakula devi dasi
Kaulini dasi

Dear Devotees,

Hari Charan dasa passed away at his home in Dallas, Texas (U.S.) on Tuesday, April 25, 2006. He was a newly initiated and sincere disciple of His Holiness Giriraj Swami.

His devoted wife and family cared for him throughout his long illness. Their care of this wonderful Vaisnava was exemplary and a true inspiration.

By the mercy of Guru and Krsna, Hari Charan Prabhu departed from this world in the most auspicious way--surrounded by the loving devotees and the chanting of the Holy Names of the Lord.

Your servants at Vaisnavas C.A.R.E

Read the inspiring lecture of Hari Charan's recent initiation by His Holiness Giriraj Swami 

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Dear Prabhus,

This is to regretfully inform you that Chandi Prabhu, a good disciple of Srila Prabhupada from Mexico, left his body at approximately 8 PM this evening, Monday January 30 while he was recuperating from Pneumonia at the Good Samaritan Hospital in Downtown Los Angeles.  He was 57 years old in this body and was noted among many for having done wonderful service to Srila Prabhupada.  He leaves behind his sons and daughters, Dhanvantari dd, Gaura dd, Nimai Das and grand-daughter Mohini dd, a beautiful and chaste devotee family. We had heard that he was recuperating after a battle with Pneumonia, but according to Jaya Gauranga Prabhu, he suffered a couple of attacks this evening, which caused his passing.

Please pray and send your blessings that Krsna was with him, in his thoughts, at the last moment. Please also pray for his family left behind.

As with others, we will be asking anyone to help by donating a few dollars towards his cremation so that his ashes may be sent to his desired destination in the holy dhama. If you are so inclined and able, please log on to www.buddhiyoga.org/Hospice and make a small “One-time” donation which will be earmarked exclusively to help his unable family with these expenses (between Jan 30 – Feb 15).

Following in the line of the great Vaishnavas, we sadly rejoice in his passing, that he is closer to Krsna and has completed his tasks for this life on Earth among his god brothers and sisters in the service of Lord Krsna and with Srila Prabhupada as his guide.

I feel honored to have known him.

Hare Krsna,

Your servant,
Yadunandana Pada Dasa

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Mrs. Fortin was blessed in many ways, but was also fortunate to have traveled to the holy dhama of Vrindavana.  She visited some temples in America and always encouraged her four devotee children to continue with their devotional service to Srila Prabhupada.  We offer our sincere condolences to her wonderful family and pray they take solace in knowing that this great soul is under the divine protection of Sri Sri Radha and Krsna--now and always. 

With love from the Vaisnavas C.A.R.E. team

                                  Posted July 2, 2005

Dear Prabhus,

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

This is to inform you that Revatinandana Prabhu passed away this morning (April 26, 2005) at 8:45 a.m. (Indian time).

Revatinandana Prabhu, a disciple of His Holiness Bhakti Charu Swami, was
a very dedicated book distributor. As a matter of fact, book distribution
was his life and soul. He was addicted to it. He had a very strict sadhana,
and when he went out at the airports, always finely dressed, with his head
always clean shaven, people were struck by his tall, elegant appearance. He
melted their hearts with his charm and his sakti.

Revatinandana Prabhu had contacted HIV some time back, and only recently
did it become active. Several weeks ago he decided to go to Vrindavan to
leave his body. However, he was advised that he could get treatment at the
Bhaktivedanta hospital in Mumbai. Therefore he took a flight there, and
it is in the plane ride that he peacefully left his body. He was an airport
sankirtan soldier, and he left his body in an airplane.

Revatinandana Prabhu was very soft-hearted. He was always very respectful
to devotees. He never spoke ill of anyone, and he was always enthusiastic,
a very large smile always decorating his face. He was a great ballet
dancer. Like Lord Caitanya, he swirled most elegantly during kirtans, for
the pleasure of the Lord and His devotees.

I humbly request you to pray for him.

Hare Krsna,

Your respectful servant,
Candrasekhar acarya das
 

                                  Posted April 29, 2005

Rupanuga Dasa is the husband of Premanjana devi dasi who is a Vaisnavas C.A.R.E. Volunteer and who has been actively involved in assisting Mother Gaura Priya for over a year.

Mother Gaura Priya left her body last night (April 4, 2005) around 11:30 pm PST, after about an hour we visited with her and the family. She did it exactly the way she desired...amidst kirtan and with her Guru Maharaj being with her over the phone (Voice over Internet). A group of very dedicated LA temple devotees had been staying at her house for the last one week. The Laguna temple President, Tukaram Prabhu, was called to perform her last rites and was with the family till about 4:00 am. He and the devotees from both Laguna and LA temples have been very supportive. Mother Gaura Priya's daughter, Veronica, told Premanjana that the final service (viewing) is scheduled for Thursday at a chapel where the family is planning to receive guests amidst devotees performing kirtan.

The night before her departure, Mother Gaura Priya got the mercy and blessings of two exalted Vaishnavas (Giriraj Maharaj and Idradyumna Swami) and about 20 devotees, including Sarvatma Prabhu and Amogh Lila Prabhu. After the Maha Gaur Purnima festival on Saturday, four cars full of devotees drove to her house. The plan was that the two Maharaj would visit  with her briefly on way to our house. But, they spent over three hours there doing kirtan and giving sermon. They sat there holding her hand while the kirtan went on. They were hoping that she would leave while they were there, but Lord Krishna had different plans. The atmosphere was spiritually charged, obviously with so many great souls being present in one room. The family was very appreciative of what the "Hare Krishnas" had done and were still doing for them.

Indradyumna Swami had planned to visit her again yesterday (Sunday), but he couldn't due other commitments. After Maharaj left the Laguna temple for Santa Barbara, we carried 20 plates of prasadam from the temple over to Mother Gaur Priya's house. Yesterday, she appeared to be distressed with her breathing being really quick. The oxygen didn't seem to help. We chanted and prayed to Srila Prabhupada and Lord Krishna for her painless and quick deliverance.

In the last one week, visiting Mother Gaura Priya and her family had become a part of our day. It's a moment of mixed emotions for us as we feel the vacuum while simultaneously rejoicing her being united with Srila Prabupada and Lord Krishna.

Thank you very much for giving us the opportunity to serve such a nice Vaishnava. This has been a purifying experience for our family.

Your servant,
Rupanuga dasa

Posted April 7, 2005

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