Letters to the editor

Today is the Disappearance Day of Jiva Goswami 

Śrīla Jīva Goswāmī (1513 - 1598 CE [85-years!]), born in Ramakeli, Bengal, is one of the foremost Vaiṣṇava ācāryas and a principal follower of Śrī Caitanya Mahāprabhu. Renowned as the chief theologian of Gauḍīya Vaiṣṇavism, he combined vast scholarship with spotless devotion. From an early age, he mastered the Vedas, Nyāya, Mīmāṁsā, and Vedānta, yet renounced worldly life to dedicate himself entirely to bhakti.

Śrīla Jīva Goswāmī firmly established Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam as the natural commentary on Vedānta-sūtra and the essential summary of all Vedic knowledge. In his monumental Ṣaṭ-sandarbhas, beginning with Tattva-sandarbha, he systematically demonstrated that Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam is the supreme pramāṇa (evidence) for understanding Absolute Truth. Through flawless scriptural logic, he conclusively established Śrī Kṛṣṇa as Svayaṁ Bhagavān, the Supreme Personality of Godhead, with Śrī Rādhā as the embodiment of the highest divine love.

His writings harmonize rigorous philosophical reasoning with ecstatic devotion, illuminating the soul’s eternal relationship with Rādhā-Kṛṣṇan and guiding practitioners toward pure, unalloyed bhakti. Within Śrī Caitanya Mahāprabhu’s movement, Śrīla Jīva Goswāmī served as its philosophical backbone, preserving and systematizing its teachings centered on the congregational chanting of the Hare Kṛṣṇa mahā-mantra. His legacy continues to inspire generations to cultivate surrender and attain pure love of God.

ASA - He wrote 400,000 verses, no? 4 x the size of the Mahabharata! Seems like he never grew up. Always in the mood of a small boy!!!!

Dear Siksha Gurudeva, please kindly accept my most humble obeisances; all glories to Srila Prabhupada; all glories to your good self for your own life of dedication in service to Prabhupada and Krishna; all glories to all the devotees of Lord Chaitanya.

Please kindly forgive me for choosing to extend my offering via this sight, rather than personally attending the online gathering or being personally present. Truth be told: I don't really feel like a disciple of any sort. Since I have never been good at praising others, I will simply share what I have already shared so many times in the past: leaving all the eloquent rhetoric to those devotees who are truly worthy of being your disciples.

I very am confident of your kindness, your mercy and your shelter, as you have shown many times over in the past. When I was in my darkest moments of service and lacking in association, you came to our home; and not just once or twice, but every time you visited Boise. It was a godsend to be able to have those home programs during your visit. There was so much devotee association, kirtans, prasadam in those times: who could ask for more? Indeed, you are like the ocean of mercy (karuna sindhu) that we chant every morning. I know that there are many others who are more sincere and more qualified than I, who can testify to these facts.

I can only add that my sadhana continues. Every day I reflect on my good fortune to worship my Deities, chanting prayers and engaging in japa. Everything that I do in my life is centered completely on my sadhana, as if I am addicted to the routine. I have to remind myself that Krishna could very easily remove all such opportunities within a moment, and without warning: then what would I do? Most of the mornings my japa is done before I chant guru puja and read Srimad Bhagavatam. I still keep up attendance with the online classes from Hawaii. Books still go out when driving for Uber. In fact, many passengers have expressed how they feel it was destiny for me to have been their driver because of our conversations on philosophy and life in general. They have such a great need to express what is in their hearts. Some say that "this was the greatest Uber ride they have ever had."

I don't believe that I would have such experiences if you weren't so merciful to us, inspiring us with your kind association to just keep to this process of hearing, chanting and always remembering Krishna, and never give it up; to always stay in good association with devotees. And you are always steering us in the right direction, to do the right things so that things can be made right amongst devotees here. It's no wonder we chant every single morning "yasya prasadam bhagavat prasado; yasya aprasadam na gati kuto api."

As you requested, I have included some pictures of our Deities. The outfit in these pictures is brand new. It was made by one very nice mataji living in India. We never met and I know absolutely nothing about her, except that she is an aspiring disciple of Srila Jayapataka Swami, and she had a very sincere desire to do this service. What more proof do I need that Krishna hasn't given up on me, although I so envious and offensive. All of this is only possible by the grace of your good self, and Krishna. I will close here, hoping that you will continue to extend your mercy to us.

On behalf of my wife and I:

Your lowly servant,

Balabhadra dasa

HpSwami - AgtSP.

Paoho. We go nice places but in large degree we go where we are invited.

You are inviting Gauranga to visit your Ashrama by your devotion to your Sadhana, no?

When He comes he will solve all problems!

Patita pavana.

You are strong Goswami in many ways!

Why go any place other than back to Godhead?

Join us now in a letter from Yasoda Dasi

HpS-ASA -- Scanned whole diet.

Interesting.

Did you share it with Anantesvara Das.

Sorry took so long to answer.

Very rushed and exhausting here.

Got a lot of general principles and specific details out of it.

Feel embarrassed at all the effort.

Chastised for much laziness.

Traveling in India 90% impossible to follow details..

Anantesvara Das said that our nature craves simplicity so he reduced a lot of stuff.

We hope everyone gets full access to Ayurveda.

You join Chile Education Congress?

We can distribute some propaganda.

Jayananda Das told us that the only diet he found that worked really well was don't eat to much and work hard.

We all thank you.

Dear Gurudev,

All glories to Śrīla Prabhupāda. Please accept my most respectful obeisances. 

I spoke with Prabhu Anantesavara about your health situation, and based on his description and recommendations I made this suggestions for your diet and cooking service. I sent them to devotees in NVM. Please take a look and give feedback if you want.

Your servant. Nikunja Bihari das.

COMPREHENSIVE MANUAL OF AYURVEDIC NUTRITION AND CARE

For the attention of: H.H. Hanumatpresaka Swami

Clinical Focus: Rasayana (Rejuvenation), Vata-Pitta Shamana (Balancing Air and Fire).

Age: 77 years.

1. Foundations and Treatment Objectives

At 77 years old, the body naturally enters the Vata stage (dominated by the air and ether elements). This brings dryness, fragility, and variable digestion. Given that Gurumaharaja has a base Pitta (Fire) constitution, the challenge is unique:

1. Hydrate (Snigdha): To combat Vata dryness (dry skin, constipation, fatigue, chest pain, arrhythmias).
2. Cool (Sheeta): To not aggravate Pitta (acidity, inflammation, rashes), but using foods that cool the body without being cold in temperature.
3. Nourish the Agni: Keep digestion strong without irritating the stomach.

The Golden Rule: All food must be Warm, Moist, Freshly Cooked, and Unctuous.

2. Critical Hydration Protocol: "The Two Thermos System"

Because Gurumaharaja wakes up at 00:50 AM, he spends many hours awake chanting before his first meal. Chanting dries the throat and depletes fluids (Kapha). If he does not hydrate, he will arrive at breakfast with a "burned out" and dry system.

A. Thermos Nº 1: Early Morning (00:50 AM - 09:00 AM)

• Content: Pure Warm Water (Previously boiled).
• Instruction for the Sevaka: Before Gurumaharaja wakes up (or left the night before if it retains heat), there must be a thermos full of warm water in his room or place of Japa.
• Use: He must sip small amounts frequently. This cleanses the digestive tract (Amashaya), gently stimulates intestinal movement, and keeps the vocal cords hydrated without triggering full digestion (which would interrupt his meditation).

B. Thermos Nº 2: The Day (09:00 AM - 05:00 PM)

• Content: Medicinal CCF Infusion + Anise. (See recipe in Section 6).
• Instruction for the Sevaka: This thermos is prepared fresh in the morning (while breakfast is being cooked) and left available for Gurumaharaja to drink between breakfast and dinner.
• Function: This "medicated" water keeps the digestive fire lit, prevents gas from grain intake, and cools Pitta heat.
• Rule: Do not drink large amounts 30 minutes before or 45 minutes after solid meals to avoid diluting gastric juices.

3. Spiritual and Kitchen Hygiene Protocol

Food absorbs the consciousness of the cook. For an elevated soul, subtle purity is as important as physical nutrition.

Principle: "The state of the cook's consciousness becomes the cellular structure of the eater's body."

1. Prior Chanting (Sadhana): It is an indispensable requirement that any devotee entering to cook has completed their 16 rounds of Japa.

• Implication: Since breakfast is served at 9:00 AM and requires preparation, the cook must wake up very early (e.g., 4:00 AM) to finish their chanting before touching the vegetables.

1. Physical Hygiene: Full bath, clean clothes (preferably cotton and devotional attire). Short and clean nails.
2. Mental State: Cooking is a meditation. Mundane talk (Prajalpa), political discussions, or management issues are prohibited inside the kitchen. It is recommended to listen to soft Kirtan or maintain silence while mentally reciting mantras.
3. Space Cleanliness: The kitchen must be spotless before starting. There must be no dirty dishes from the previous night.

4. Detailed Food Guide

A. Vegetables: The Kingdom of Squashes

Vegetables must be cooked until tender. Never "al dente" or crunchy.

• The Best (Daily Use): Squashes of all kinds (Pumpkin, Zucchini, Butternut, Chayote). They are the perfect food: sweet, cooling, and easy to digest.
• Roots: Carrots and Sweet Potato. They provide stability and natural sweetness.
• Greens: Green beans (Vainitas) and Asparagus.
• What to AVOID:
• Raw: NO salads. Lettuce and raw vegetables increase Vata (gas) immediately.
• Cruciferous: Broccoli, Cauliflower, and Cabbage are very gas-producing (Vatala). Avoid them or use them very sporadically and only if pureed with spices.
• Nightshades: Tomato, Eggplant, Bell Peppers. They tend to cause inflammation and acidity.

B. Grains and Legumes (The Base)

• Rice: Use White Basmati. It is the easiest grain in the world to digest. Brown rice is too rough for his current digestive tract.
• Mung Dal: Yellow mung bean (split and skinned) is the only legume that does not produce gas and balances all three doshas.
• Red Lentils: Acceptable as an alternative.
• PROHIBITED: Garbanzos/Chickpeas (they are extremely dry and produce a lot of gas), black or kidney beans.

C. Fruits

• Rule: Raw fruit at this age can ferment.
• Ideal: Apples and Pears, but cooked in compote with a clove and cinnamon.
• Raw Exception: Very ripe Papaya (excellent for digestion) or Avocado.
• Avoid: Sour/Acidic fruits (Pineapple, sour Orange) and Melon (difficult to digest).

D. Dairy

• YES: Cow's milk (organic and boiled correctly), Ghee (fundamental for life), fresh Panir (soft homemade cheese).
• NO: Yogurt. It blocks subtle channels and increases mucus. Hard or cured cheeses (difficult to digest).

E. Spices and Condiments Management (Traffic Light)

• Green (Always Use): Turmeric, Cumin, Coriander, Fennel, Cardamom, Fresh Ginger.
• Yellow (Use Little): Parsley (it is diuretic/drying, use little), Black Pepper (just a pinch), Cinnamon (only in sweets), Salt (in moderation).
• Red (Never): Hot Chilies, Garlic, Onion, Dry Ginger Powder.
• The Lemon: Use only Lime and only a few drops at the end. Never cook the lime or mix it with milk.

🚦 INGREDIENT TRAFFIC LIGHT (QUICK GUIDE)

Category

✅ ALLOWED (Prioritize)(Sattvic, Nutritious, Balancing)

⚠️ MODERATE / CAUTION(Low frequency or special prep)

🚫 AVOID / PROHIBITED(Aggravates Vata/Pitta or Tamasic)

CEREALS

✅White Basmati Rice (The best), Cooked Oats (porridge style), Quinoa (washed very well and cooked), Wheat (if fresh soft chapati).

⚠️Brown Rice (hard to digest), Millet, Corn.

🚫Yeasted Bread (fermented), Old/Hard Bread, Dry Crackers/Biscuits.

LEGUMES

✅Yellow Mung Dal (Skinned), Red Lentils (Masoor - skinless). Always soaked.

⚠️Brown Lentils, Toor Dal (can cause gas if not cooked well).

🚫Garbanzos (Very dry/Vata), Black/Red Beans, Soy, Fermented foods.

VEGETABLES

✅All Squashes: Pumpkin, Zucchini, Chayote, Butternut. Carrot (cooked), Sweet Potato, Green Beans, Asparagus, Cucumber (cooked or seeded).

⚠️Green leafy vegetables (Spinach/Chard - only with lots of Ghee), Parsley, Beetroot.

🚫Raw (Salads), Nightshades (Tomato, Eggplant, Peppers), Cruciferous (Broccoli, Cauliflower, Cabbage - gas), Onion and Garlic.

FRUITS

✅Cooked/Compote: Apple, Pear. Natural: Sweet Papaya, Avocado, Sweet Grapes, Dates (soaked).

⚠️Banana (heavy), Mango (only if very sweet), Fresh Figs.

🚫Sour fruit (Sour Orange, Pineapple, Kiwi), Dry fruit without soaking, Melon/Watermelon.

DAIRY

✅Cow's Milk (Warm, organic, spiced), Ghee (Fundamental), Fresh Panir (soft homemade cheese).

⚠️Soft unsalted cheeses.

🚫Yogurt (Blocks channels), Hard/Cured cheeses, Cold milk from the fridge.

SPICES

✅Turmeric, Cumin, Coriander, Fennel, Cardamom, Fresh Ginger, Saffron, Rock Salt.

⚠️Cinnamon, Clove, Black Pepper, Fenugreek (Methi), Mustard Seeds.

🚫Hot Chilies/Peppers, Raw Garlic, Dry Ginger Powder.

OILS

✅Ghee (Liquid Gold), Coconut Oil (to cool in summer).

⚠️Olive Oil (only raw over food, do not cook), Sesame Oil.

🚫Canola Oil, Margarine, Reused or rancid oils.

SEEDS & NUTS

✅Almonds (Peeled and soaked), Sunflower Seeds, Pumpkin Seeds.

⚠️Walnuts, Cashews.

🚫Peanuts (Inflammatory/Pitta), Nuts with skin or dry roasted.

5. Dinacharya: Step-by-Step Daily Routine

THE EARLY MORNING (Vata - Movement and Ether)

• 00:50 AM: Wake up.
• 01:00 AM: Hygiene and First Hydration.
• The Sevaka must ensure that Thermos Nº 1 (Warm water) is ready. Gurumaharaja must drink a glass to activate the body.
• 01:10 AM - 09:00 AM: Japa and Study.
• During these 8 hours, he must continue sipping from Thermos Nº 1.
• Note: If he feels weak or an "empty" stomach around 5:00 or 6:00 AM, he may have a mild fennel tea, but ideally keep to only warm water until breakfast.

BREAKFAST - LUNCH (Pitta - Digestive Fire)

• 07:00 AM - 08:30 AM: Preparation.
• The cook (already with 16 rounds done) prepares fresh Kitchari or the suggested option.
• Thermos Nº 2 (CCF Tea) is prepared for the day.

DETAILED MENU: FIRST MEAL (09:00 AM)

Concept: This is the main meal of the day (Raj Bhoga). It must be substantial, unctuous, and hot. Coming from a long fast (since 1 AM), the texture must be predominantly moist (stews, thick soups, porridges). Avoid dry food.

• OPTION A: Pumpkin Kitchari (The Perfect Medicine)
• Ideal for 3-4 times a week. It is the most balanced dish.
• Base: Basmati Rice and Yellow Mung Dal cooked together until they break down.
• Star Veg: Cubes of Pumpkin or Butternut Squash that melt into the mix.
• Special Touch: When serving, add 1 teaspoon of raw Ghee and chopped fresh cilantro.
• Variation: You can alternate using peeled Zucchini instead of pumpkin to vary the flavor, or Chayote.
• OPTION B: The Complete Ayurvedic Plate (Rice + Dal + Subji)
• Ideal for when he wishes to chew separate textures.
• Grain: Steamed White Basmati Rice (well cooked, soft).
• Protein (Dal): Mung Dal Soup (or skinless Red Lentil).
• Condition: It must be a soup, not a dry puree. Seasoned with "Voggarane" (ghee, cumin, turmeric, and ginger sauté).
• Vegetable (Subji): Moist Vegetable Stew.
• Suggested Recipe: "Carrot and Green Bean Stew". Cooked with a little water and coconut milk (or just water and ghee) so it has "sauce".
• Important: Never serve dry sautéed or roasted vegetables as they aggravate Vata. Always with sauce.
• OPTION C: Golden Oats "Rasayana" (Sweet but Nutritious)
• Ideal for days where he prefers a "Western style" breakfast but medicinal.
• Base: Oat flakes (not instant) cooked in water first, finished with a little cow's milk (or homemade almond milk).
• Spices (Golden Milk style): Turmeric (anti-inflammatory), Cinnamon, Cardamom, and a touch of Fresh Ginger.
• Nutritional Secret: Add chopped Dates (previously soaked) while cooking to sweeten and provide energy.
• Fat: Add 1 teaspoon of Ghee at the end.
• Note: It should not be like a cement block, but like a liquid cream (Porridge).
• OPTION D: Stewed Quinoa with Vegetables
• A protein-rich alternative to rice.
• Caution: Quinoa has saponins (bitter/Pitta). It must be washed 5 or 6 times under the tap, rubbing well until no foam comes out, before cooking.
• Preparation: Cook quinoa with double or triple the water, along with cubes of Zucchini and Carrot.
• Seasoning: Turmeric, Cumin, and Ghee.
• Texture: "Risotto" style (creamy), not loose dry grains.

Garnishes and Accompaniments (For all options)

So the food isn't monotonous, the cook can use these allowed elements in small amounts when serving:

1. Lime Drops: Squeeze ½ teaspoon of fresh green lime over the Kitchari or Dal to awaken the flavor (Substitutes yogurt).
2. Cilantro Chutney (Fresh):

• Blend: Fresh cilantro + a little grated coconut + fresh ginger + lime drops + pinch of salt.
• Effect: Very refreshing for Pitta and stimulates digestion.

1. Chapati (Only if soft): If Indian bread (Chapati) is served, it must be freshly made, very soft, and spread with Ghee. If it turns out hard or dry, better not to serve it.

🚫 Reminder of what NOT to serve at 9:00 AM

• Hard toast (dry/Vata).
• Raw fruit mixed with hot food (causes indigestion).
• Cold smoothies.
• Leftovers from the previous day.

THE AFTERNOON (Digestion)

• 01:00 PM: Hydration.
• CCF Tea from Thermos Nº 2.

DINNER (Vata - Preparation for Rest)

The meal must be predominantly LIQUID and HOT. If something dry or heavy is eaten at this time, it will ferment during the night and block Gurumaharaja's energy the next day.

DETAILED MENU: SECOND MEAL (03:30 - 04:00 PM)

Concept: "Medicinal Soups and Creams". We seek easy absorption. The digestive system should not work hard, only absorb nutrients.

• OPTION A: Golden Pumpkin Cream (The Favorite)
• The safest and most nutritious option for Vata-Pitta.
• Base Ingredient: Pumpkin or Butternut Squash.
• Invisible Protein: Add a small handful of Mung Dal (yellow lentil) to the pot so it cooks and breaks down together with the vegetable.
• Preparation: Boil the pumpkin and dal with a little fresh ginger and turmeric until very soft. Blend everything (or mash well) to make a silky cream.
• The Final Touch (Tadka): In a small pan, heat 1 tsp of Ghee and sauté a pinch of Cumin and ground Cilantro. Pour this aromatic oil over the cream.
• Texture: Velvety and hot.
• OPTION B: Rice and Vegetable "Peya" Soup (Healing Soup)
• Ideal if Gurumaharaja feels tired or digestion is weak.
• Concept: In Ayurveda, Peya is rice cooked with 14 parts water. It is basically the nutritious liquid of the rice.
• Ingredients: Basmati Rice (small amount), finely chopped Carrot, finely chopped Green beans (Vainitas).
• Seasoning: Fresh Ginger, Rock Salt, and a pinch of black pepper (to clear the throat).
• Result: It is a clear soup with some floating rice grains and tender vegetables. deeply hydrating.
• OPTION C: Ayurvedic Sweet Potato Puree
• A comforting option ("Comfort Food") that gives stability.
• Base: Peeled and boiled Sweet Potato.
• Preparation: Make a smooth puree (add cooking water so it's not dry). Mix with 1 generous tablespoon of Ghee.
• Spices: Cinnamon (little) and a pinch of Nutmeg (helps induce sleep).
• Optional: Can be accompanied by a small cup of clear vegetable broth.
• Why it works: The natural sweet taste calms Vata and Pitta and satisfies emotionally.
• OPTION D: Zucchini and Coconut Milk Stew
• A fresher option for hot days (Pitta).
• Base: Zucchinis peeled and cut into cubes.
• Preparation: Stewed gently in water with turmeric and fennel seeds.
• The Finish: When tender, turn off heat and add a splash of Coconut Milk (or homemade almond milk).
• Texture: Creamy white/yellow soup. Very gentle on the stomach.

⚠️ Strict Rules for this Afternoon Meal

1. ZERO LEFTOVERS: Do not serve the Kitchari left over from the morning. Even if it looks good, its subtle properties (Prana) are gone and it is now heavy (Guru). The cook must make fresh soup at 3:00 PM.
2. AVOID BREAD: No crackers, toast, or dry chapatis at this time. Dry flour absorbs liquids from the intestine and promotes morning constipation in the elderly.
3. WATCH THE SALT: Use little salt at dinner to avoid fluid retention at night.
4. NO FRUIT: Do not serve fruit dessert at this time. Fruit ferments if eaten after cooked vegetables.

How to serve it?

For Gurumaharaja, the presentation must invite calm:

• A medium bowl (does not need to be a giant portion).
• Temperature: Hot (steaming).
• Always with an extra teaspoon of shiny Ghee on top.

THE NIGHT (Kapha - Sleep)

• Variable time (pre-sleep): Medicated Milk.
• Take 30 minutes before going to bed.
• Nourishes the nervous system and favors restful sleep.
• Milk boiled 3 times with spices (See recipe Section 6).
• This induces deep sleep and nourishes Ojas.

6. Master Recipes and Formulas

A. CCF Infusion + Anise (For Thermos Nº 2)

This is the standard drink for his day.

• Ingredients (for 1 liter):
• 1 tsp Cumin (seeds).
• 1 tsp Coriander (seeds).
• 1 tsp Fennel (seeds).
• ½ tsp Green Anise (seeds) - adds sweetness and expels gas.
• Preparation: Boil water, add seeds, lower heat, and let infuse gently for 10 minutes. Strain and store in the thermos.

B. Pumpkin Kitchari (Base Recipe for 09:00 AM)

• Ingredients:

1. ½ cup Basmati Rice (washed and soaked 20 min).
2. ¼ cup Yellow Mung Dal (washed and soaked).
3. 1 cup Pumpkin/Squash in small cubes.
4. 2 tbsp Ghee.
5. Spices: ½ tsp Turmeric, 1 tsp Cumin, 1 tbsp grated Fresh Ginger.

• Preparation:

1. Heat Ghee in a pot. Sauté cumin and ginger until fragrant. Add turmeric.
2. Add rice, dal, and pumpkin. Mix for 1 minute.
3. Add 4-5 cups of hot water (we want thick soup texture).
4. Cook covered on low heat 30-35 min until everything falls apart.
5. Serve with fresh cilantro and lime drops.

C. Three-Boil Milk (Night)

• Ingredients: 1 cup organic Milk, 2 cardamom pods (opened), 1 pinch saffron, ½ tsp Ghee.
• The Method (Kshira Paka):

1. Heat milk with spices over medium heat.
2. When the foam rises to the rim -> Remove from heat. (Boil 1).
3. Return to heat -> Let foam rise -> Remove. (Boil 2).
4. Return to heat -> Let foam rise -> Remove. (Boil 3).

• Serve: Warm (not boiling). Sweeten with a little whole cane sugar or Jaggery (panela/muscovado) if desired, but cardamom and milk are already sweet.

Hare Krishna Gurudev. Pamho. AgtSP. Agtyou.

How are you, Gurudev? This is Deva-Vrata das, currently living in Córdoba, Argentina (we don't know about tomorrow).

Today, November 30th, my mind is focused on trying to have a good distribution of books during this marathon. With a clear conscience, for my own spiritual benefit, the benefit of others, and to please you and Srila Prabhupāda with this transcendental activity.

Today on the "Japa Joe" program, I asked for your blessings for this endeavor, because without your blessings and those of the paramparā, I am powerless in every aspect.

A year ago, I was with you, Gurudev, in Spain... what a privilege and undeserved gift of life... thank you for everything once again...

What else can I do in life besides distribute Srila Prabhupāda's books? I'm useless, I'm not even good at it, I have no talent, but I do have a bit of stubbornness...

Besides, my faith is weak... but, I ask again, what else can I do?

I know your way of thinking a little... this isn't about selling books... It's about trying to give Krishna to people and encouraging others to do this... And I know you're not interested in numbers... but I need to motivate myself, haha.

I'm recording Vaisesika das's book, "Our Family Business," to motivate myself and the devotees... https://t.me/SankirtanaSrilaPrabhupada

We'll be together in December in the streets of Traslasierra, Córdoba—you, me, and Srila Prabhupada.

Hare Krishna Gurudev

HpS/ASA - Hare Krsna. AgtSP. Paoho. Thank you for this news. Numbers aren't bad. Our only Karma is to think about how to distribute books in anyway possible, but especially by making people into book distibutors.

Offer people five books instead of one. Ask them if they think these might be really useful for some of their friends. Then they are in the Sankirtan mood. Buy a book to learn, is like Jnana, no? Most people cannot do Jnana yoga in Kali yuga. Yet, joining the Sankirtan movement. Learning to teach. Is the Yuga dharma.

Then we have our technique.

SP said, Every salesman has his own technique.

We are worse than you, but we also try.

We bought books, got books from the library. Read books mentioned in other books we had read.

Bought a KRSNA book. Big hardcover from maybe Buddhimanta Das when we was in a dhoti and kirta at the Whole Earth Day festival at our university campus.

Best of wishes for a very pure Marathon!

Hare Krsna Gurudev. Pamho. AgtSP. Agtyou.

¿Cómo está Gurudev?

Aquí Deva-Vrata das, actualmemte viviendo en Córdoba, Argentina (mañana no sabemos)

Hoy 30 de noviembre tengo mi mente enfocada en tratar de tener una buena distribución de libros esta maratón. Con buena conciencia, para beneficio espiritual personal, beneficio de la gente y para complacerte a ti y a Srila Prabhupāda, con esta actividad trascendental.

Hoy en el programa "Japa Joe" pedía tus bendiciones para esta empresa, ya que sin tus bendiciones y las del paramparā soy impotente en todo aspecto.

Hace un año estaba contigo Gurudev, en España... qué privilegio y regalo de la vida inmerecido... gracias por todo una vez más...

¿qué otra cosa puedo hacer en la vida que no sea distribuir libros de Śrīla Prabhupāda? Soy un inútil, ni siquiera soy bueno haciéndolo, no tengo talento, pero si un poco de obstinación...

Además, mi fe es endeble... pero, vuelvo a decir ¿qué otra cosa puedo hacer?

Conozco un poco tu pensamiento... esto no se trata de vender libros...

Sino de tratar de dar a Krishna a la gente y de incentivar que otros hagan esta actividad...

Y sé a tí los números no te interesan... pero necesito motivarme jajaja

Estoy grabando el libro de Vaisesika das "Nuestra empresa familiar", para incentivarme a mi mismo y a los devotos...

https://t.me/SankirtanaSrilaPrabhupada

Estaremos juntos en diciembre en la calles de Traslasierra Córdoba, tú yo y Śrīla Prabhupāda.

Hare Krsna Gurudev

Hare Krsna, TB,

Tom Brown, Secretary ASA - HAre Krsna, Hayagriva A. D. AgtSP!!!

We were telling a student the concept of soul, it taking shelter of sperm, then fertilizing with egg in ovum etc.

All this was done to tell difference between dead body and living body.

Then the question of multiple babies arised , there we got stuck, questions like are there soul in eggs, then the process of non identical, identical twins arose, which has got very nice explaination from the medical science, which bolsters the perspective that we are lump of matters.

so can TB or HpS put light soul theory of fertilization and twins reproduction especially from embryology perspective.

yet to accept with faith that the soul exist to serve Krsna.

TB/ASA - We all don't know too much about embryology and persepctive of Sankhya.

In all cases it seems pretty simple. Get a sponsor for a house and then architect, craftsment etc start to build. Two houses on the same lot, or maybe two bothers whose wives decide they like the other wive's houise and so a second identical house starts on the same lot.

Rare but seems simple.

Is O.K.?

Hare Krishna. All Glories to Srila Prabhupada and to his faithful and truthful followers such as yourself.

 HpS/ASA - We have a some distance to go before we can say that we are completely faithful to all of Srila Prabhupada's instructions eg. Bathing three times daily and applying Tilak, avoiding completely hearing mundane news etc.

It has been several months since I last reported on the blog. Because of that silence, someone might say, “It seems that Manuel monkey has distracted himself in some leafy tree in Pogo Park” But that is not the case. I am always very attentive to your sankirtana. My ears, my hands, my tail, and mainly my heart stay alert, trying to receive your mercy and to be of useful in the seva.

Thank you so much for giving us delicious bananas of bhakti every day in the FMP and a transcendental feast every Sunday in the ASA Workshops.

Allow me, then, to offer you a brief report on the editorial fruits that have already ripened and those that are still developing on the branches of the NIOS publications tree:

I) Book for the 40th Anniversary of Grupo Integro: It has already been published. Your greeting letter in both English and Spanish appears inside, and the NIOS logo is included in the credits.

HpS - Didn't NIOS pay to receive some copies???

II) Educating Krishna’s Children: This is the Spanish version of Mother Aruddha’s book. It is fully typeset. The interior layout and the cover have already been approved by Radhika Raman Prabhu and his mother. We expect the printed copies to be ready during the first week of December. This book is beautiful and helpful for parents and caregivers, as well as for anyone who needs to remember that Krishna is mischievous and joyful, and that raising and educating Krishna-conscious children can be delightful and in fact it is a very valuable service for the pleasure of Guru and Gauranga. The translation was done by Mother Purnamasi, and the layout and design by ARTd. Do you have any suggestions?

HpS - No. Wonderful to hear. Hope it can be made readily available in Spanish community. Create a revolution. Be presented in Santiago in February/March.

III) WOD (Waves of Devotion in Spanish): It is currently 80% typeset, but we cannot complete it as a part of the English edition’s typography is still missing. ARTd spoke with Dhanurdhara Swami, who said he would contact the disciple responsible for the editing of his books, but that has not happened yet. ARTd will try one more time to contact Maharaja. Do you have any suggestions?

HpS - Send a copy of the letter to Maharaja to us. We may even see him personally when we are in Radha kunda.

IV) SOLARIS No. 9: It is in the midst of the layout process. In addition to the Spanish articles, this issue includes four articles in English. (Our goal is that each issue can contain between 30% and 50% of its content in English.)

One more point: ARTd has been talking to Hector, Miguel, Oscar, Raul, Pablo, and Walter to prepare a NIOS-Perú proposal for the academic Sankirtana during your stay in Lima. (they have a group meeting next Thursday Nov 20th). He is coordinating activities with Laksmana-agraha to organize with ISKCON to host events on Varna-asrama dharma and Guru-tattva. He is also talking with mothers and devotees such as Candra-mukhi, Palika, Mitravinda, Nitya-kisori, Gita-Govinda, Gandharva, Ray Ramananda, and others; they are all very happy about your arrival. So, starting next week, I will send you a report and a proposal from NIOS-Peru for the academic Sankirtana and activities with ISKCON. All of this, of course, considering that you are now making this trip as emeritus professor. 

Radhika Raman, his mother, and other scholars from Latin America will also attend on certain days during that period.

We are happy that, Krishna willing, we will have your auspicious association next March along with Tom Brown, Buck White, and the entire ASA team.

That is all for now. HARE KRISHNA, Bhakta Manuel.

HpS/ASA - As per our conversation, you will take charge of organizing the online Vyasapuja on the 20th December in the morning.

We will post that under a separate post also.

Thank you.

This is all such substantial work.

We hope that other groups in Latin America will also make such great reports.

Of course, they should all be also released at the Third Latin American Congress in Santiago, no?

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Frutos que Maduran:

Reporte de las Publicaciones de NIOS en el Perú

Hare Krishna. Todas las Glorias a Srila Prabhupada y a sus seguidores fieles y veraces como usted.

Hace varios meses que no me reporto en el blog. Quizá, por ese silencio, alguien podría decir: “Parece que el mono Manuel está entretenido en algún árbol frondoso del parque Pogo”. Pero no es así. Siempre estoy pendiente de su sankirtana. Mis orejas, mis manos, mi cola y, sobre todo, mi corazón están atentos para tratar de recibir su misericordia y ser útil en el seva. Muchas Gracias por regalarnos todos los días deliciosos plátanos de bhakti en el FMP y un banquete trascendental todos los domingos en los Talleres de ASA.

Permítame entonces, esta vez, hacer un pequeño reporte sobre los frutos editoriales que ya maduraron y los que todavía están en la rama, madurando, en el árbol de las publicaciones de NIOS:

I) Libro por los 40 años del Grupo Íntegro: Ya se publicó. En los interiores está su carta-saludo en inglés y español, y en los créditos aparece el logo de NIOS.

II) La Educación en el hogar de los niños de Krishna: Esta es la versión en español del libro de la madre Aruddha. Ya está totalmente diagramado. Los interiores y la carátula han sido aprobados por Radhika Raman Prabhu y su mamá. Esperamos que la primera semana de diciembre ya estén impresos. Este libro es bonito y útil para padres, madres y para quienes necesiten recordar que Krishna es travieso y divertido, y que criar y educar a los hijos conscientes de Krishna puede ser algo alegre y, de hecho, un valioso servicio para el placer de Guru y Gauranga. La traducción la hizo la madre Purnamasi, y la diagramación y el diseño, ARTd. ¿Alguna sugerencia?

III) WOD (Waves of Devotion en español): Ya está diagramado al 80%, pero no podemos finalizarlo porque nos falta una parte de la tipografía de la versión en inglés. ARTd habló con Dhanurdhara Swami, y él dijo que lo iba a conectar con su discípulo encargado de la edición de sus libros, pero aún no sucede. ARTd intentará una vez más comunicarse con Maharaja. ¿Alguna sugerencia?

IV) SOLARIS No. 9: Está en plena danza de diagramación. Aparte de los artículos en español, esta vez tenemos cuatro artículos en inglés. (La meta es que, en cada número, entre el 30% y 50% del contenido esté en inglés).

Un punto más: Para hacer una propuesta de NIOS-Perú para el Sankirtana académico durante tu estadía en Lima ARTd ha estado conversando con Héctor, Miguel, Óscar, Raúl, Pablo y Walter (tienen una reunión grupal el jueves 20). Con Laksmana-agraha está coordinando actividades con ISKCON para realizar eventos sobre el Varna-asrama dharma y el Guru-tattva. Y también está conversando con madres y devotos como Candra-mukhi, Palika, Mitravinda, Nitya-kisori, Gita-Govinda, Gandharva, Ray Ramananda y otros, todos están muy contentos con su llegada. Entonces, comenzando la próxima semana le enviaré un reporte y una propuesta de NIOS-Perú para el sankirtana académico y actividades con ISKCON. Todo esto, considerando, por supuesto, que ahora usted realiza este viaje como profesor emérito.

Radhika Raman, su mamá y otros académicos de Latinoamérica estarán presentes, algunos días, para esas fechas.

Estamos felices de que, Krishna mediante, en marzo tendremos su auspiciosa asociación junto con Tom Brown, Buck White y todo el equipo ASA.

Eso es todo por ahora. HARE KRISHNA, Bhakta Manuel.