I am especially encouraged by your increasing the distribution of books. That is our primary business, to sell these transcendental literatures profusely all over the world. And your methods which you have introduced for distributing the books are very much liked by me and approved fully. Whatever we have to do to induce people to take a book, that is nice. We shall judge the thing by its result, not by its means. But at the same time, we must avoid irritating anyone or disappointing anyone later by cheating them or telling big lies which become detected. Your program for approaching their businessmen in their offices is especially liked by me. Now tax your brain to create programs for engaging the wider and wider classes of population in Krsna Consciousness.
Approval (1973 - 1977)
Correspondence
1973 Correspondence
I am especially encouraged by your increasing the distribution of books. That is our primary business, to sell these transcendental literatures profusely all over the world. And your methods which you have introduced for distributing the books are very much liked by me and approved fully. Whatever we have to do to induce people to take a book, that is nice. We shall judge the thing by its result, not by its means. But at the same time, we must avoid irritating anyone or disappointing anyone later by cheating them or telling big lies which become detected. Your program for approaching their businessmen in their offices is especially liked by me. Now tax your brain to create programs for engaging the wider and wider classes of population in Krsna Consciousness.
Enclosed find also the copy of one letter which I recently sent to Rsi Kumar, wherein I have approved his request to get 15% discount on books sent to South Africa. Because it is a new field and there is more than 15% of import duty and shipping cost, it will be difficult if he has to pay the full amount. Therefore you may credit his account the $700 plus 15% of the total amount which is due to you to date.
I am in favor of whatever will push on this Krsna Consciousness movement throughout the world. So if you both wish to serve at Gurukula, if Karandhara and Satsvarupa and Mohanananda all agree then certainly you should go there. You have already proven your ability in this field by raising two nice Krsna Conscious children. So if you can help now to raise hundreds and thousands of children in Krsna Consciousness, that will be the greatest service to Krsna and certainly you shall both go back to home, back to Godhead, by doing this. But before any new service, be certain that your absence shall not cause any harm to our Los Angeles Temple. After all it is you who first worked so hard in the beginning and should see in the future how it would expand. So first speak with Karandhara and take his approval.
I am in favor of whatever will push on this Krsna Consciousness movement throughout the world. So if you both wish to serve at Gurukula, if Karandhara and Satsvarupa and Mohanananda all agree then certainly you should go there. You have already proven your ability in this field by raising two nice Krsna Conscious children. So if you can help now to raise hundreds and thousands of children in Krsna Consciousness, that will be the greatest service to Krsna and certainly you shall both go back to home, back to Godhead, by doing this. But before any new service, be certain that your absence shall not cause any harm to our Los Angeles Temple. After all it is you who first worked so hard in the beginning and should see in the future how it would expand. So first speak with Karandhara and take his approval.
So far your request for initiations for Patrick and Jane, that is approved by me. So far the infant is concerned, let him wait until he is older. You may receive the beads chanted upon by Kirtanananda Maharaja and hold the fire sacrifice. Concerning the second initiations for Ojasir das Brahmacari, Smaranananda das Adhikary and his wife Samsaramochan Devi Dasi, that is also approved, and you will find enclosed the Gayatri threads. So hold the fire yajna and for those who are initiated as brahmanas, teach them how to count on the finger divisions, and play the Gayatri mantra tape in their right ear and have them repeat it along with my vibration word for word, then hang sacred thread on his neck as usual. Girls don't require thread but can responsively chant the Gayatri mantra. In each individual case the instruction should be given and the mantra replayed. The giving of the Gayatri mantra can be held after the fire yajna and each devotee can come alone to you to receive the thread.
Krsna Consciousness means always increasing, so I am glad to see that you are remaining enthusiastic to push on this Krsna Consciousness movement more and more. Your request for initiation is approved by me, and I have sent a letter in this regard. You are president of Buffalo temple, so in consultation with your GBC man you may discuss how to push on the spreading of this Krsna Consciousness movement through street sankirtana, book distribution, etc., whatever is practical for you to follow. In regard to preaching the glories of the Lord there are no hard and fast rules, we must simply always remain ourself fixed in Krsna Consciousness and then Krsna will give us the good guidance how to push things on. So since Rupanuga Maharaja is coming there you may discuss with him. I am desiring now to turn over the management of the society to my disciples, the temple presidents and GBC men especially, so cooperatively you may work out the management details.
Regarding the question of your wife's initiation, that is certainly approved by me. You may arrange with Kirtanananda Maharaja for receiving beads duly chanted upon by him. Now both of you cooperate for pushing on this Krsna Consciousness movement as this is our only business in this human form of life.
Second initiations of Sudarsani dasi and Madhurya-lilananda dasi are duly approved by me. Enclosed you will find the Gayatri Mantra slips. You may have one fire ceremony and they may listen to the tape of me chanting the Gayatri Mantra in their right ear and repeat it. Regarding the first initiations, they are also approved by me and their names are as follows. Dan Swanson is now Dvijati Pujaka das, Christopher Beard is now Carucandra das, Phillip West is now Prabala das and Rebecca Strowger is now Rupa Ramesvari dasi. Will you please send one copy of this letter to Kirtanananda Swami along with their beads of the aspiring devotees for I have authorized him to chant on the beads on my behalf.
Regarding Syamasundara's opinions I never approved those ideas should be circulated. If anyone strictly follows the regulative principles of Krishna Consciousness then he will always remain enthusiastic and dynamic. So if there are any defects within our Society it is only symptom that the instructions of the Spiritual Master are being neglected. Follow my instructions strictly and always think for giving this gift of Krishna Consciousness wherever you go and to whomever you meet, this is the advice of Lord Caitanya.
I have had Bali Mardan Maharaja send you one telegram approving your scheme to purchase the apartment building for the M-V Trust.
Your program for those who are desiring to take sannyasa is approved by me and I request that you make something concrete and distribute it to all the other GBC members and amongst yourselves you may decide who will take sannyasa.
The initiation of Bhakta Olaf das is duly approved by me and his new name is Asok Kumar. You may also have him send his beads along with a cover letter from you to Rebatinandan Swami, who is in London and has been authorized by me to chant on the beads. I hope this finds you in good health.
I am in due receipt of your letter and I approve of the initiations of Bill Allan who is now to be called Balaji das, Paul Terry who is now to be called Parambrahma das, Richard Selvin who is now Radhanatha das and Tom Meyers who is now Taru das. I hope this meets you in good health.
The initiation that you have recommended are approved by me. Victor Mistretta is now to be called Vrikodara and Darrel Martin is now Dvibhuja. You may send one letter to Kirtanananda Swami along with their beads for chanting on. I have authorized him to chant on the beads on my behalf. I hope this finds you in good health.
But whatever you do should be done with wholehearted enthusiasm and strict adherence to the principles of chanting 16 rounds, rising for mangala arati, following the four basic principles, always remaining clean etc. You may consult with Karandhara das and request him to approve your second initiation.
Wherever there are individuals there is bound to be difference of opinion. Therefore for this purpose I have formulated the GBC. Therefore any new programs or proposals or discrepancies should be submitted before the Governing Board Commission and then their conclusion should be submitted to me for the final approval. In other words I am requesting you as my senior men not to tax my brain with so many details but simply come to a conclusion amongst yourselves and then present this final conclusion for my sanction. In this way I will be free to concentrate on my translation of Srimad-Bhagavatam.
So you will continue on and consult with Karandhara and the other GBC men and formulate some program to preach this Krishna Consciousness in the colleges and this will please me very much. I am approving of the initiation of John Favors who is now to be called GHANASYAMA DASA. From your description he is to be a very nice and intelligent boy so please train him up properly. You may send his beads on to Kirtanananda Maharaja for chanting.
You may also discuss together the question of whether a pandal program in Delhi will detract from our collection of funds for the Vrindaban program. I do not think this will be the case, but it seems the collection field will increase with the pandal program. But you please discuss it with the senior men there in India, and then you may send me your joint decision for approval.
I am approving of the first initiation of Debra Hillard. However it is not our policy to give first and second initiations at once. It is better she wait some time. Her new name will be DEBRAJA DASI and also I am agreeing to the second initiation of Shanti dasi. Now you please arrange it so that the Deities are worshiped very very properly and always remain humble in their presence.
Yes, your appointment as the new president of the Miami Temple is completely approved by me, now take advantage and preach among all the young people there and recruit some good men. For some time now I have been thinking to have a nice place in Florida and now it looks like you are trying for it.
I am approving of second initiation for Hari-puja dasi as you requested.
I beg to acknowledge receipt of your letter dated the 29th January 1973 and I have examined the contents carefully. Your project for a Temple sounds all right to me, and even if you don't get that particular building, Radha-Krsna Deities are approved for the present Temple. Of course, I want that you can work out all these kinds of details with Karandhara, your GBC secretary.
Yes, the name Gokulananda for your new son is approved by me, now raise this Sankirtana man up very carefully in Krsna consciousness. Now you can be an ideal householder and one of our Society's leaders, so kindly follow the regulated principles strictly.
Gaura Nitai Deities may be approved and ordered by the local Temple presidents with consultation of the GBC. There should be at least three or four brahmanas available. So there is no need to delay any shipments if these qualifications are met.
This program of approaching MPs is very very important. If you can get this petition approved, that would be a great boon to our movement. Even if 15 or 20 MPs join our Society that will be a new chapter for us. And your petition is very attractively worded. Actually India is the spiritual leader of the world but the fools and rascals are trying to sabotage the position.
Your statement that "no intelligent man can resist becoming the member" because of our books is a very good observation. Now these beautiful books have become the firm basis for our movement and any intelligent person in any part of the world cannot but fail to admire them.
Devotees there or visiting must follow our regulated principles under your direction or they need not stay. Devotees should not be in India on their own business or on a whim, they should have our GBC approval. Everyone must be favorably engaged.
I am here for a few days only, then to Bombay and on the 1st to London for a few days before going on to L.A. via New York.
Actually, I don't want our energy spent in that way, to develop a school at New Vrndavana. Rather, all of our children should go to Dallas when they are four and begin their training program there. In Dallas, they have full facility approved by me, I have personally seen that they are doing very nicely there. So, for the younger children to be at New Vrndavana that is alright, but when they are a little older, at four, they should go on to our Dallas facility.
Yes, I have received an invitation to visit South Africa and visa application forms but it will take some time for any approval to come through. In the meantime, I am going to Zurich for about 10 days and then to London and from there to New York and Los Angeles.
Your program for traveling on the West coast holding festivals at schools and communes is approved by me. Especially you must try to convince these students to join us. There is nothing else that will save the world from destruction and it is our responsibility to recruit these young educated boys and girls before they become spoiled by the degraded conditions of this so-called human society.
I beg to acknowledge receipt of your letter dated April 25, 1973. Regarding the drawing for the TLC, you can do it in the same lines as it was done previously. Your drawing for the room of Sanatana Goswami is approved by me. Also approved by me is the sketch by Pariksit Das. Now you can go on making the pictures more and more beautiful and by so doing go back home, back to Godhead.
Upon your recommendation I am glad to accept these devotees as my initiated disciples. So now you may hold a fire yajna and send their beads to Kirtanananda Swami for chanting. Also I give approval for the one brahminical initiation. Please find one Gayatri mantra enclosed. After the fire yajna you may play the tape of me chanting Gayatri mantra into the right ear in private. Teach how to count on the finger divisions.
Your plan to get a large vehicle for traveling with built in shower, kitchen etc. is approved by me. But you should try to get new, because the old ones are always needing repair. We have seen by practical experience.
I can understand that you wish to remain as householders living outside the temple, and that you have bought your own cottage in Argyll, Scotland. That is perfectly all right. Narottama dasa thakur has sung that it does not matter whether one is sannyasi or householder, simply that one should be always in Krsna Consciousness chanting the holy name. So you describe that you have set up an altar in your home and you are offering prasadam, and this is all approved by me. One thing, however, is that living as a householder you cannot go into the streets and hold sankirtana and sell our books as a means of maintenance. Such sankirtana activity can be done with the devotees of our temple in Scotland, but cannot be done independently. If you wish to live separately you have to earn your livelihood by business, by taking some employment to maintain your home and family. But not by chanting in the street; this is not a good idea for householders.
I approve of your plans to divide my downstairs quarters into 3 rooms and utilize it.
Yes! why not? You may write yo the other temples and ask them to contribute something to the program, that is approved by me. I simply want to see that the work is going on vigorously, and the money shall not be used to pay bad bill. The money should simply be used for construction.
I like also your programme of sending out your best men to teach the others. That is the actual process of Krishna Consciousness. To train others continue this programme so that in the future every devotee in our movement will know the art of distributing books. This is approved by me.
Tamala Krishna has no sense that he wants to settle up the things in court as he has done in our Bombay affairs. Un-necessarily he has cancelled our sales agreement with Mrs. Nair and we are suffering so much in litigation. So, he has not gained any experience what is the meaning of going to court. Therefore I can not agree with him that we shall prove in court that we are doing alright. We do not want to keep any clause in the deed of gift which will generate a sort of litigation with the __ in the future. The trust gift must be unconditional. So Sri Pannala Pittie is right and I agree with him. When I was in India Tamala Krishna said that the draft deed would be first accepted by Pannala Pittie and then he would get it confirmed by our lawyer in Bombay. But I do not know why by talking on telephone you should decide such an important transaction. I hope either you or Tamala Krishna should not act anything in this connection without consulting our friends like Pannala Pittie and finally approved by me. So one lakh of Rupees which I promised to pay first in the beginning of this construction, that promise stands good and I shall immediately pay one lakh of Rupees for construction as soon as the deed is finally executed.
Regarding Hyderabad, I have got the draft and letter and the reply is sent to Mahamsa and you. If you have got a copy then you ask Mr. Vakil that the clause No. 5 shall be omitted. You cannot go to Hyderabad unless approved by me, you will understand everything from the enclosed letter. But I am happy to know that the preaching is going on. Above all our preaching must go on. If we do not get that land then we may purchase some other land, that is not a very difficult thing, but preaching is our real business.
Regarding your telegram worded as follows: "Sending draft Hyderabad deed in your name. Send me Bombay your power of attorney for Hyderabad transaction. Urgent." I have not as yet received the draft. One draft which was sent by Mahamsa was not approved by me. I have already sent you a copy of a letter addressed to Mahamsa. So when I receive the deed sent by you and it is approved by me, I will send you the power of attorney.
So the Hyderabad situation should be cautiously dealt with and Mr. Pittie should be consulted. When the final agreement is made send me a copy and if I approve then I shall send you the power of attorney.
There is no question of giving anything up in Krsna consciousness. That is the sum and substance of the Bhagavad-gita. Arjuna also thought like that "I shall not fight and fell silent" but Krsna did not approve of this sentimental attitude of the Great Arjuna. The whole Bhagavad-gita was spoken to Arjuna simply to convince him that he should work for the satisfaction of Krsna. Therefore Krsna plainly says, "Whatever you do as work, whatever you eat, or give away in charity, do it for Me." This is real Krsna consciousness, to work for the satisfaction of Krsna.
I beg to acknowledge receipt of your zonal report and proposal for purchasing Australian headquarters.
I approve your proposal for converting Spiritual Sky Incense Co. into a trust, and the trustees as proposed by you are approved by me. Encourage all the GBC members to manage everything very perfectly. We are very much assured that the GBC members are improving gradually, and in the future they will be able to manage world preaching of the Krsna consciousness movement without difficulty.
Regarding the Lord Caitanya murti, it is not at all good and I do not approve. Lord Caitanya is stout and strong. There are so many pictures which you can follow. So have the artist start a new murti.
I am very pleased that you and Hrdayananda Swami are traveling and preaching and that everyone was singing and dancing at the kirtana at the U. of Iowa. It is a sign of great success. Your plan to spend up to one month in each big university city sometimes taking an apartment for conducting regular evening meetings is approved by me. But do not open any permanent centers, just take the apartment for a month and then move onto another city. For the time being new centers may not be opened. Whatever centers we have got already, let us organize them very soundly. If more men are available, let them come to India. I have already written to Karandhara that fifty more men are required in India, so if possible, you may arrange for some men to come from your zone.
Regarding Guyana, if the money is there, so you open an office and print books. That will be all right. Yes, Kesava may be GBC man for South America. That is approved by me. And you can incorporate Central America into the Eastern Zone. So do it with great enthusiasm. I am very glad to learn that men are joining in Santo Domingo.
Yes, we want to begin the temple construction immediately, so let them approve the plans. In the meantime finish the fencing, cleansing, and painting the residential quarters. If possible make the privy a little usable. It is not a practical idea of Mr. Birla to first collect half the money and then construct. People will pay as the construction goes on. If they are doubtful, then they can form a temple construction committee. and see that every pie is used for temple construction. At least Mr. Birla must give whatever he has promised for Vrindaban. Vrindaban needs money, but we can't press him for Bombay. If he likes, he will give, but he is such a rich man he can pay for both.
As far as your grhastha community committee, I have no objection as it has the approval of Karandhara prabhu and he is there for you all to take advice from. One thing is though that we should not take such meetings and committees too seriously, as in the ultimate capacity our chanting is the only thing that will save us. However, if sometimes devotees should like to come together and chant Hare Krsna and discuss, just as we instituted our Istagosthi program, then this of course I have no objection to.
That you are engaged in street Sankirtana in San Francisco is fully approved by me. That you are feeling more and more enthusiasm by doing this is quite natural as Sankirtana is our life and soul. My Guru Maharaja used to say, "One who has got life, he can preach."
Yes, your debating program is approved by me. If we study the Bhagavad-gita thoroughly we can defeat all philosophies.
I have not received any reply from Tusta Krsna Swami to my letters. I do not know why he has left New Zealand. In Hawaii a great wrong doing has been done by Gaurasundara and Siddha-svarupa. They sold the temple and went away with all the money without taking any permission from me. It is a fall down on their parts. They have done the wrong thing. You should not go to Hawaii to join them. Stay in New Zealand and work cooperatively with Madhudvisa Swami. The "communal form of Krsna Consciousness" which you mention is not approved by me. It is all concoction. My Guru Maharaja condemned this practice. We must stay together and vigorously preach the Krsna Consciousness philosophy to the world. That is the real spirit of Lord Caitanya's Movement. Do not fall victim to this sentimental idea of peaceful life in seclusion. That is not our dharma.
Letter to: All Centers
—
Los Angeles
13 December, 1973
73-12-13
ALL GLORIES TO
SRI GURU AND GAURANGA!
MEMO TO ALL CENTERS
Dear Prabhus,
Please accept my most humble obeisances at your lotus feet. Today we received a newsletter from Syamasundara. Prabhu regarding gems and I assume every Center received the same letter. I discussed the contents with Srila Prabhupada and His Divine Grace instructed me to immediately issue the following letter.
First of all, Srila Prabhupada never sanctioned or encouraged this program of buying or selling jewels. Furthermore, Srila Prabhupada does not want us to purchase jewels and gems for decorating the Deities in our own Temples. Expensive gems and jewelry will only attract thieves and rogues. It was because of the jewels in Indian Temples that the Mohammedans invaded India, destroying the Deities and Temples and plundering the jewels. In previous ages, when people were honest and pious kings maintained law and order, then the Deities and Temples were decorated with costly jewels but in this age it is not advised. Srila Prabhupada said, "Bhakti does not depend on seeing the Deity with jewelry—it is a different matter. We worship the Deity by strictly observing the rules and regulations of Deity worship—not by decorating with jewelry. Jewels will not attract anyone except thieves and rogues. People will be attracted by our preaching. I don't advise the Temples to purchase jewelry. Do not expose the Deity to this danger. I am not in favor of this." Furthermore, "purchasing jewels means increased anxiety only. It is not the days for this practice. I do not advise buying or selling jewelry."
In addition to thieves and rogues, there is risk that even our own men may fall victim to stealing. We have the examples of Kausika and Mahadeva, both devotees who stole from Temples. Prabhupada said, "Our men are coming from outside with so many bad habits and the stealing mentality is there. We are trying to reform, but if the opportunity is there, the mentality may come forward and they may fall down. We will loose our money, our prestige and out students. Why expose them in that way? No jewelry! It is not the time for that."
In summary, purchasing jewelry for the Deities is unnecessary, dangerous and unauthorized. Prabhupada said to "write elaborately to all Centers on this point. Try to understand the principle."
We improve on Deity worship by regulated puja, purified chanting and bold and enthusiastic preaching work. Those are the real ornaments with which to decorate the Lord.
Haribol Prabhus.
Your unworthy servant,
Karandhara das Adhikari
/kdd
APPROVED: ACBS
His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami
A letter has just been received here from Syamasundara. about selling jewels. I do not approve of our Temples purchasing jewels. I have instructed Karandhara to issue a newsletter to all our Centers to this effect. It is not a good program.
Yes, I approve of the Life Member Committee. for the Temple construction in Hyderabad. You may do the same in Bombay also.
Letter to: All Centers
—
Los Angeles
16 December, 1973
73-12-16
Memo to All Centers
Repeatedly Srila Prabhupada says, "I only want my disciples to take this Movement seriously."
So, the punch line is that Prabhupada wants to initiate the following schedule:
1. Reside 4 months in India, 4 months in Europe and 4 months in the U.S.A. out of each year.
2. See or speak to no one except very important visitors wherever his is staying.
3. Be completely relieved of managerial affairs and have full time for translating.
What this means to us is the following:
1. Don't ask Prabhupada to come to our Temple.
2. Solve all problems amongst ourselves and don't burden Prabhupada with them.
3. Continue to advance dynamically in Krsna Consciousness by keeping all our principles very strictly and vigorously preach and propagate the movement around the world.
Now we have the GBC, the sannyasins, the presidents and so many qualified devotees. We have to give up the habit of placing everything on Prabhupada's shoulders. We must be responsible, mature, steadfast and convinced.
Wherever Prabhupada is staying he will deliver morning lectures. Presidents, etc., may visit there and go on the walks with Prabhupada. Other than that we must take care of all affairs.
Enough said. The rest is up to us.
Haribol.
Your servant,
Karandhara das Adhikari
APPROVED: A.C. Bhaktivedanta
Swami
KDA:kdd
Whatever imperfections and discrepancies may exist, if you all agree to my directions and cooperate in the right spirit then everything will turn out, but it will require everyone involved to be responsible and cooperate in executing and following the instructions of the Spiritual Master. Now, one thing is I understand that in the past you were visiting Lalita Prasadji and that you may also be planning to continue to visit him when you return to India. This is not approved by me and I request you not to go to see him any more. He holds a grudge against my Guru Maharaja and even if it is transcendental it will gradually appear mundane in our eyes. Whatever is to be learned of the teachings of Srila Bhaktivinode Thakura can be learned from our books. There is no need whatsoever for any outside instruction. So I hope that you have understood these matters and I pray to Krsna always for your protection and advancement in Krsna consciousness.
1974 Correspondence
Yes, Bhavananda and Jayapataka Maharajas are the approved directors of Mayapur. They are selfless workers. Regarding food for the Mayapur Festival, in other temples they are going and collecting their food, and yet we have to purchase in Mayapur? If you depend always on collecting money from here only it will not be successful. If for buildings, festivals, etc. you have to collect from here, what is the use?
13. The picture you have enclosed of Siva Linga is approved by me and it is in the right proportion. It may be black or white according to the stone.
The BBT can authorize a center to print, as in the case of foreign translations, with the agreement that when the foreign printing becomes financially solvent they will pay royalties to the BBT. But all printing of ISKCON literature must be by the BBT or under their sanction and approval.
Yes, I did not approve of your starting you own magazine. You can write articles for Back to Godhead magazine. Why attempt separately?
But if by starting an incense business economically you become solvent to run on your center then it is good, and for this purpose I will advise Bali Mardan to give you the necessary capital on your approval. But I don't think it is practical to run a factory in Tokyo.
Letter to: Resolution
—
Bombay
1 April, 1974
74-04-01
RESOLUTION
At the meeting of the members of the Bureau of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness, held at the Hare Krishna Land, Gandhi Gram Road, Juhu, Bombay 400 054, on First April, 1974, the following was resolved:
1. That the Society will construct one additional floor on each of the six existing buildings on the Hare Krishna Land, (purchased in October, 1973.)
2. That the President, Secretary, and Treasurer are hereby authorized to appoint any architect, labor contractor, other contractors, engineers, to purchase, etc. for the purpose of construction.
3. That the construction may begin immediately upon approval given by the Bombay Municipal Corporation.
Signed for INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR KRISHNA CONSCIOUSNESS:
A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami
Gurudasa Adhikari
Dated this First Day of April, 1974
-/bs
I beg to acknowledge receipt of your letter of 30/3/74 along with the French edition of Back to Godhead which is certainly a great pleasure for me. I can see by this publication and by your report that things are going on nicely in Europe. All your programs are approved by me; simply if you keep on with it, slowly but surely we will become very solidly situated there with many devotees and books and temples. Krsna simply wants to see our desire.
It is very reassuring to me to hear you are conscientiously engaged in carrying out the orders of your spiritual master in the specific assignment given to you in Hawaii.
I fully approve of the decisions made by you as follows.
1) Your decision to peacefully and legally take over possession of the forty acres of land. So proceed as quickly as possible with the lawyer so that the land is legally ISKCON's with yourself as trustee, and then we can take it and use it for Krsna.
2) Yes, you must get the payments being made on the sale of the land donated to ISKCON by Siddhasvarupa transferred to our account and not to Gaurasundara.
Gaurasundara has tried to make complete havoc of our affairs there but because I have faithful sons like yourself I think we shall be able to recover what he has tried to ruin. I am also glad you are consulting with BaliMardan in these affairs.
The main thing is to go on with our regular program, distributing books, chanting Hare Krsna, holding festivals, hearing the philosophy, and then as you are reporting, more devotees will come. So I think it is going very successfully under your Krsna Conscious management. Please keep me informed as things progress.
Your chart for reporting book and record distribution is approved by me, as from this chart I can quickly see how the centers are doing. Yes, by all means you may print my morning walk speaking about "Life comes from Life" into a small book; this argument should be spread, as any intelligent man will be convinced that our discussion is thoroughly scientific and exposes the so called materialistic scientists as rascals.
Yes, I think the advise given by Brahmananda Maharaja is sound, namely not to worry about maintaining a permanent center in South Africa but travelling with sankirtana there for distributing books and preaching, which you say is a good field there. We do not have so many men; it requires at least five men to maintain a center, so I approve of your plan to close the center and travel in South Africa.
Your proposal to come to Vrindaban and serve the deities in our new Krsna Balarama temple is approved by me. We require many first class devotees to make the temple alive with transcendental bliss, so as your departure is also sanctioned by Jayatirtha, you make your plans and come to Vrindaban at your convenience.
We have a temple there and the quarter is very nice. But if some suitable arrangement is made we can take up your place at Kirti Nagar on the approval of my secretary there. So the best thing is you may come immediately at Bombay at the above address and probably I may go back to New Delhi along with you because I have to go to Vrindaban before I go to Europe. I am expected in Rome on the 23rd of May and then Geneva, Paris, Stockholm and London and then I will return to India. In Vrindaban I am constructing the big temple you have seen. I hope you will approve my scheme in Vrindaban.
Yes, I have heard myself about Winipeg, that it is a big city in Canada. So if you think it better to move Regina center there that is approved by me. Yes, you plan to keep headquarters 1/2 year in Chicago and 1/2 year in Dallas, that is approved by me. Please send regular reports.
Letter to: All GBC and Presidents:
—
Dallas
17 July, 1974
74-07-17
MEMO TO ALL CENTERS
To all GBC and Presidents:
Please accept my humble obeisances at your feet. Srila Prabhupada has especially requested that henceforth there should be no approaches made to Alfred Ford or his family members for donations for temples. Prabhupada will personally handle these types of communications between Alfred Ford and our Society.
Also all devotees when writing a letter to Srila Prabhupada should include the return address on the letter and not only the envelope. Sometimes the envelope gets lost, and if there is no return address on the letter it is difficult to address the reply. All temples should be sure to print their full temple address on their letterhead, and not just have the name of the society with a blank space for the camp address which is sometimes omitted by the writer of the letter.
I hope this meets you in good health.
Your servant,
Brahmananda Swami
Approved:
A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami
Your program of adding six more men to your party is approved by me. Yes, the advanced men can distribute the big books, and the new men the smaller ones. Your entire program is approved by me. By the grace of Krsna, you can teach others at the temples to distribute the books and perform Deity worship, and distributing prasadam. You do this work with my full sanction.
I beg to acknowledge receipt of your letter dated August 14, 1974 and have noted the contents. I was very glad to learn that you had such a nice Janmastami celebration and that even our Mr. Setti was dancing during the kirtana. Actually it is due only to him that the plans for the residence quarters were approved by the Municipality. I have today received in the mail a receipt from the Municipality for the amount of Rs. 4,230/- as fees for cultural center.
Your program for printing the Spanish literature is approved by me. Do it nicely.
BBT management should be rigidly done very carefully, and I think Ramesvara is a good manager. He can be appointed BBT secretary. I approve BBT moving to New York, because of their freehand dealing. Ramesvara may be made your assistant and remain with you. It is all right that no others be appointed as Trustees at present.
I have just now received some letters from London from Madhavananda and others brought by Paramahamsa Swami who was there. Regarding Madhavananda being the president, if he received the vote, why you have opposed? You must be impartial. My recommendation is that he must be the president. He has been chosen by the vote, and I am giving the casting vote for him. He is doing things very nicely there, so he must be the president. Prabha Visnu should go on Sankirtana, and Madhavananda should be president. Everything must go on. The women are doing nicely, so why are they being changed from the pujari to the Sankirtana? These things should be done by the President. These are internal things, and you should not interfere. I do not approve of your changing the women. It should be the choice of Madhavananda who should be the pujari.
Why did you close Edinburgh without asking me? Paramahamsa reports that you have closed the Edinburgh temple. Edinburgh was doing nicely. You can't close a temple without asking me? Is this too much to do this? Our propaganda is opening temples, and you are closing them. We are not for closing but for increasing. I do not approve of this. If possible the Edinburgh temple must be re-opened again.
If you close the temple, what is the management? Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu pushed the Sankirtana movement, but He never said to close the Jagannatha temple or the Govindaji temple. In Edinburgh we had a nice house, why you have closed it? Why you have whimsically done this? If possible the Edinburgh temple must be re-opened. Don't do anything whimsically without consulting me.
I made the GBC to give me relief, but if you do like this, then where is the relief. It is anxiety for me. This is the difficulty, that as soon as one gets power, he becomes whimsical and spoils everything. What can I do? If anything has to be changed, that can be decided at the annual GBC meeting, but not whimsically.
I am not in favor of closing even a small temple. It is not a plaything to close a temple or to start a temple. When we open a temple we are inviting Krsna. So you can't say to Krsna, go away. You have no feeling what are the ideals of a temple. You should always consider that we have invited Lord Caitanya, Lord Jagannatha, and Radha Krsna, and if we close it, it is an insult. How can we call Them, and then say get out. We should always feel when we open a temple that the Deity is living and not dead stone or wood. It is a great offense. Before opening a temple it must be considered a hundred times, and after opening it cannot be closed. It must be maintained.
- arcye visnau siladhir gurusu
- nara matir Vaisnave jati buddhih
"One who considers the arca murti or worshipable Deity of Lord Visnu to be stone, the spiritual master to be an ordinary human being, and a Vaisnava to belong to a particular caste or creed, is possessed of hellish intelligence."
If the Edinburgh house is still available, it must be re-opened.
Letter to: GBC Godbrothers
—
Vrindaban
14 September, 1974
74-09-14
Dear GBC Godbrothers:
Please accept our humble obeisances. Srila Prabhupada has become very disturbed at the news that Hamsaduta Prabhu has closed the Edinburgh temple without consulting Srila Prabhupada and has asked us to issue the following memo.
No GBC man can whimsically do anything without consulting Srila Prabhupada, especially in the matter of opening a new temple and closing an old one. Such activities must be absolutely regulated and cannot be done without consultation of Srila Prabhupada and other GBC. In the annual meeting in Mayapur the activities of the whole year should be resolved, and the GBC cannot do more or less than that.
In addition Srila Prabhupada reiterates that all GBC must strictly follow the rules and regulations and do what Srila Prabhupada does. We must be the strict prototypes of Srila Prabhupada. We must be pure by preaching and chanting.
To close a temple is a very serious business, as well as opening one. It means that we are calling Krsna to come and reside there. Once Krsna is there, we cannot tell Him to now leave. Whimsically closing a temple means we do not understand what is devotional service and violates bhakti. Only under very extraordinary conditions can a temple be closed when there is consultation. Even then a temple is not to be eliminated but moved to an other place.
We hope this meets you in good health.
Approved Signed
A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Brahmananda Swami
Bali Mardan das
Bhagavan das
I am in due receipt of your letter dated August 3, 1974. I have the proposed advertisements for BTG and I approve them. I have also seen the article by Brahmananda Swami and it has been returned to you with Dayananda together with corrections.
The advertisement proposals for BTG are approved by me. Yes, you use your American ingenuity in this way to spread Krsna Consciousness.
Letter to: Ramesvar Prabhu
—
Vrindaban
74-09-19_HI
Dear Ramesvar Prabhu:
Please accept my humble obeisances. I am in due receipt of your letter dated September 11, 1974. In response to Srila Prabhupad has asked me to write you that what you have deducted from Guru Kripa's collection should also be transferred to Bombay account immediately. BBT must pay for these things, not that it should be deducted from the money being sent here for construction.
Regarding the Dollars 7,500 Giriraj is supposed to have received, that I am enquiring from him, but in the meantime the balance, which comes to Dollars 22,490.63 should be immediately transferred to Bombay American Express account with notice by separate post informing me as such.
I hope this meets you in good health.
Your servant,
Bramananda Swami
Personal Secretary
Approved:
A.C.B.S
Letter to: Giriraj Prabhu
—
Vrindaban
19/9/74
74-09-19
Dear Giriraj Prabhu:
Please accept my humble obeisances. Ramesvar has written that Dollars 78,531.75 has been transferred from L.A. to Bombay American Express account. Please have this money transferred by Telegraphic Transfer to Punjab National Bank, Vrindaban Branch a/c No. 6685, ISKCON Savings Fund.
Ramesvar also informs that you have received there the equivalent of dollars 7,500 from Life Members, so this should also be sent by you here to Vrindaban is the some manner, He has deducted this amount from what he has transferred from Guru Kripa's collection.
I am also informed that you have received Rs. 50,000/- for a donation for Vrindaban project, so please arrange for this immediate transfer as well.
Are you having a spare key to Prabhupad's elmira (metal) in his bedroom? If so, the ms. of Madhya Lila is lying there and is needed by Nitai.
I hope this meets you in good health.
Your servant,
Brahmananda Swami
Personal Secretary
Approved A.C.B.S
We cannot change the quality of printing for the matter of a little change in the price. This printing is not approved by me. Repeatedly changing of printers is not at all good. We cannot approve any printing less than quality of printing of Dai Nippon.
Regarding your house, yes, you should purchase. Your hall is far better than Los Angeles, I think. You have installed the Deity there so nicely with all nice decorations, and I have seen how clean you are keeping it. And, the room was fully packed even the balcony. On the whole that building is just suitable for our purpose. Your scheme for collecting from the Indian community is all right and I approve the inscription for the plaques. Krsna is giving you all good facilities for spreading Krsna consciousness, and I can assure you that He will supply even more.
Letter to: Giriraj Prabhu
—
Mayapur
74-09-29
My Dear Giriraj Prabhu:
Please accept my humble obeisances at your feet. I am in due receipt of you letter dated September 24, 1974 with enclosed copy of the Income Tax Notice. I have discussed toy letter with His Divine Grace and may reply to the points.
Regarding the money you have transferred to Vrindaban, you have not mentioned what account, I assume it is No. 668, Punjab National Bank. Now they have taken commission of Rs, 305/80 as well as Rs. 5/- for telegram, but this must ve gotten back. Enclosed is a letter from the Vrindaban branch to the Bombay Head Office specifically requesting that no commission charges be made. So you should do the needful. Here at Calcutta we transferred money to PNB Vrindaban, and by showing this letter did not have to pay commision charges. Please let me know what is the outcome of this. Keep the balance of Am. Exp. a/c until the future.
Regarding the repayment of the loan from the account, that Bhagavan knows more then me. It is not good that still the accounts are not in order.
Regarding the Tax Comission, yes use Mr. Nair's letter that he wanted to give us the land at concession because we had no money at the time. Prabhupad replied that he would pay on installment and Nsir agreed because our cause is very great. We get so many donations of land. Prabhupad has asked me to write to Mahamsa Swami for him to send the Pulla Reddy letter. This letter from Mrs, Saroff is difficult to obtained at a later date. So you can mention the Vrindaban land in your appeal, but there are also many others. The most recent is a parcel of land donated in Orissa to ISKCON-Bombay. Enclosed please find the document. Similarly in foreign countries Bhaktivedanta Manor was given by George Harrison, and Alfred Ford is giving the Hawaii property, and when this is transaction is completed we can supply the relative documents. So because of the nature of out institution we regularly get donations of land which are not used for profit-making.
Regarding the Life Membership increase, Gargamuni Swami
Presented strong arguments for not increasing it, but because of the situation indigenous to Calcutta. If you are getting success there, and similarly thay got success at Natadwara I understand, I suggest that we have the donar membership at Rs. 1,000/- and the life membership at Rs. 2,000/-. I will discuss it with Gargamuni Swami this weekend and try yo get some agreement.
I hope this meets you in good health.
Your servant,
Brahmananda Swami
Approved
ACBS
Letter to: Ramesvara
—
Mayapur
1 October, 1974
74-10-01
Dear Ramesvara Prabhu:
Please accept my humble obeisances at your feet. I am in due receipt of your letter dated September 5, 1974 and have discussed the contents with Srila Prabhupada. The Dollars 5,000 which you have collected for Food Relief may be sent for the construction of the Prasadam Distribution Pavilion here at Mayapur temple. One thousand people will be able to be fed at a time and it will cost Dollars 25,000. Gargamuni Swami has pledged to provide one half of the funds. Hamsaduta Prabhu has just sent Dollars 4,000 for Food Relief which will also be used for this project. Please send your money directly to Gargamuni Swami's Calcutta account, with a separate letter to this effect.
Regarding the Dollars 10,000 already sent, Rs. 55,000/- is now in Calcutta and they are planning to purchase the grains necessary. The balance of the money was spent on the Vrindaban Janmastami Festival as a loan, of which Rs. 10,000 has been repaid. Bhagavan Prabhu has more complete details on how this was done.
I hope this meets you in good health and spirits.
Your servant,
Brahmananda Swami
Personal Secretary
Approved: (signature)
ACBS
Letter to: Gargamuni Swami
—
Nadia
7/10/74
74-10-07-E1
Dear Gargamuni Swami:
Please accept my humble obeisances. Srila Prabhupad has requested me to ask you to kindly bring Mr. Nannungo and his wife Chhavi here to Mayapur to make the Orissa scheme. Prabhupad will talk with him about how much he is prepared to help.
The three month tourist visas of Sruti Kirti, Nitai, and myself expire within three weeks time. Could you please send down the necessary forms that we can fill out along with other requirements such as how many photographs are required for an extention of the tourist visa. We of course would prefer not having for all three of us having to go into Calcutta to the immigration office personally. Can we get an extension of more than three months?
I hope this meets you in good health.
Your servant
Brahmananda Swami
-/bs Personal Secretary
Approved:
ACBS
Letter to: Giriraj Prabhu
—
Mayapur
7/10/74
74-10-07-F1
Dear Giriraj Prabhu:
Please accept my humble obeisances. Regarding your letter dated September 27, 1974 Srila Prabhupad requests the following to be included in the article for "Holymen of India." It should be very nicely written that so far cultural contribution/is world concerned, Srila Prabhupad stands first above all other Indian holymen. Many have gone to the west an abroad, but on one has done what Srila Prabhupad has done. He has completely brought the Vedic culture to the West, and they are following completely. He has transplanted it. This simile of transplanting should be elaborated. As we transplant a tulsi seedling and then it becomes a full grown plant, so Prabhupad has made the Vedic culture flourish all over the world, without harming or changing anything. When transplanting you have to be very careful of the seedling. If you harm it even slightly it will not grow again. Similarily Prabhupad has not superficially transplanted the Vedic culture.
Please send the final draft. I hope this meets you in good health.
Your servant,
Brahmananda Swami
Personal Secretary
approved: ACBS
There is no need of changing the signatures. It is all right that Jayatirtha continue signing checks jointly with you for normal business matters that have been approved by the trustees. So let it go on.
Letter to: Gurudas Prabhu
—
Mayapur
14/10/74
74-10-14_E1
Dear Gurudas Prabhu:
Please accept my humble obeisances. Your letter to Srila Prabhupad dated October 3, 1974 in transit has been received. Srila Prabhupad affirms that he never gave you permission to leave India, but only to leave Vrindaban. You left without informing me of you intentions. Now you are asking for him to write a letter so you can collect money. But what about the monies you have already received? Where is the account? So far I know you have received from Murtidas Dollars 4,000.00; from Nanda Kumar 1700.00; from Srila Prabhupad before he left India Rs. 60,000/-, and from Karandhar Rs. 40,000/-. You must present the account of how these monies were spent before getting any facility for collecting additional funds. As GBC I must request you not to try to collect any money until you account for this money.
What is the need of your going out side of India to collect? Ample money is already coming without your having to go, and Srila Prabhupad has taken responsibility for providing funds whatever you need himself. He wanted you to stay in Vrindaban and manage there. Why have you left?
I hope this meets you in good health.
Your servant
Brahmananda Swami
Personal Secretary, GBC
-/bs
Approved: ACBS
Letter to: Giriraj Prabhu
—
Mayapur
17/10/74
74-10-17_F1
Dear Giriraj Prabhu:
Please accept my humble obeisances. I am in do receipt of your registered letter dated October 7, 1974 with enclosed true copy of gift deed and CBI receipt for the fixed deposit certificates. Srila Prabhupad would like to know what is the balance of the Central a/c in American Express Bank. We are expecting that shortly L.A. is to transfer Dollars 40,000.00 in that account, and this money should be kept there until you receive the balance pf that account to date.
Srila Prabhupad had also given to you for deposit into his personal account in CBI Gowlia Tank Branch Dollars 2,000.00; Dollars 1,000 from Tejiyas and Dollars 1,000 from himself; so please report on this. You can send the deposit receipt from the Bank.
Did you receive the copy of the Bhubaneswar gift deed? I sent a photo copy to you. This should be returned to me. Please acknowledge receipt. Let me know if it is necessary for a document form form Geeta Devi Saraf.
Regarding the new Life Membership fee. I understand you compromised with Gargamuni Swami by creating a Patron Membership for Rs. 2222/=, but what are the additional benefits of a Patron Membership? Tejiyas das writes that he is also getting 90% success with the increased fee.
I note that you are ready to accommodate Srila Prabhupad in his come there. In the meantime what about this road that is being constructed? You have not given any report about the intended Government seizure of Hare Krishna Land. What was the results of the hearing?
Do not send Jashomatinandana to Punjab. He should remain in Bamcay and work there.
Enclosed is the letter to CBI regarding the extended Fixed Deposit.
I hope this letter meets you in good health. Jayatirtha was to inform you to send five copies of each book to Calcutta, Gargamuni Swami, to fulfill the Embassy Order gotten by Vrindaban De.
Your servant
Brahmananda Swami
Personal Secretary
Approved: ACBS
Regarding the land purchased, I am enclosing one copy of one letter to Pranava. The land purchase should be done according to this letter. I shall advise the Bank to pay the necessary money, but the sales agreement and the conveyance deeds must be sent to me for my approval. If necessary I shall advise the bank to give a letter of credit to the Vendor, then upon completion of the conveyance, this amount shall be paid in the presence of the registrar.
Regarding starting a travelling Sankirtana party with yourself at the head, yes it is approved. It is good.
Letter to: Radhavallabha
—
India
3 November, 1974
74-11-03
Dear Radhavallabha Prabhu:
Please accept my humble obeisances. your letter addressed to Nitai Prabhu dated 25/10/74 has been brought to Srila Prabhupada's attention. Regarding book production, Srila Prabhupada is most concerned that you finish C.C. Ādi:1 as soon as you can and at least by Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura's disappearance day as you have anticipated.
Regarding the indexing for Srimad-Bhagavatam, that has caused some confusion. From you letter it appears that you are printing a one volume index covering the first four Cantos, in a softcover edition. But, the indexes for the First and Second Cantos have already been published at the concluding volume of the Canto. Why are you now changing the procedure? Since the indexes for the first two Cantos have already appeared, why not just publish indexes for the next two Cantos which have not yet appeared? And, even if you bring out indexes for all the first four Cantos, since the entire work is not yet completed, you will again have to do the work over again when the succeeding Cantos are published.
Anyway you can do it as you are doing it, but it is advisable to consult directly with Srila Prabhupada on such a matter specially if you are making some change in any of the publishing, that should be consulted with Srila Prabhupada first. Kindly do this.
Prabhupada is expected to remain in Bombay for one month so that the samples of the newly printed books may be sent here.
I hope this meets you in good health.
Your servant,
Brahmananda Swami
Personal Secretary
Approved: ACBS
Letter to: Jayatirtha & Karandhar
—
Bombay
16 November, 1974
74-11-16
Dear Jayatirtha & Karandhar Prabhus,
Please accept my humble obeisances. Regarding the corporate status of ISKCON in relation to Spiritual sky, it is desirable that Spiritual Sky separate itself from ISKCON so that ISKCON will not be subject to any debts incurred by Spiritual Sky.
It is expected that in the near future the tax shelter that was offered to Spiritual Sky by ISKCON will not be available when the U.S. tax laws are changed. It is also understood that the Spiritual Sky management intends to separate itself from ISKCON in the near future.
Further, in a memo dated October 16, 1974 written by Ramesvara it is stated: "For a number of reasons the temples around the Society in general have been completely dropping Spiritual Sky over the past three months as a permanent business function." Jayatirtha has also indicated that the future Spiritual Sky personnel policy is to phase out devotee participation as fas as possible.
Therefore the conclusion is that the formal separation between Spiritual Sky and ISKCON should be concluded immediately. You are requested to make Spiritual Sky a separate entity and apart from ISKCON at the earliest possible.
It is also considered that if a suitable price can be gotten for the business, then it may be sold.
I hope this meets you in good health.
Your servants, Brahmananda Swami, Bali Mardan das Adhikary, Bhagavan das Adhikary
Approved: ACBS
(Initialed by Prabhupada)
Letter to: Unknown
—
Bombay
17 November, 1974
74-11-17
DRAFT OF ADDITIONS TO MEMORANDUM OF ASSOCIATION FOR CALCUTTA REGISTRATION
5B There shall be a Governing Body Commission whose purpose is to act as the instrument for the execution of the will of the Founder-Acarya His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada. The GBC members will be initially selected by His Divine Grace Srila Prabhupada. It will oversee all operations and management of ISKCON, as it receives direction from Srila Prabhupada, and Srila Prabhupada has the final approval in all matters.
(m) To perform extensive research work in Sanskrit and Bengali literature of historic texts of Vaisnavism such as Bhagavad-gita, Srimad-Bhagavatam, Caitanya Caritamrta, Bhakti Rasamrtia Sinduh, etc. and to distribute this research work throughout educational institutions all over the world, regardless of race, color or creed, and religion.
(n) To promote Vedic research work in the area of argiculture and animal husbandry, and alternative energy sources according to the historic Vedic texts for the sound and healthy development of body, mind, and soul; and to promote and distribute this research work.
(c) To perform research work into the ancient Vedic educational schemes such as Gurukula as well the development of the individual through yoga and to promote and distribute this research work throughout India and the world.
Seen:
ACBS
Letter to: Ramesvar
—
Bombay
17/11/74
74-11-17
Dear Ramesvar:
Please accept my humble obeisances. Your letter dated October 20, 1974 has been received and I have been asked by Srila Prabhupad to enquire who has had this document prepared without Srila Prabhupad's authority being given? It is understood from Bali Maradan that it has taken over one year to prepare this document at a cost of of Dollars 10,00.00. Who has ordered this money to be spent and who has paid for it?
When this questions are answered, Then Srila Prabhupad will reply your letter.
I hope this meets you in good health.
Your Servant,
Brahmananda Swami
Personal Secretary
Approved: ACBS
Please accept my blessings, I am in due reciept of you letter dated October 22nd, 1974 regarding your proposal to spread Krishna Consciousness in Germany village to village by horse and wagon I do not know if this is a practical suggestion, but if the preaching goes on I have no objection. You can consult with Hamsaduta in this connection to see if he approves. Preaching is the important thing and not the mode of transport, So if it can be done I have no objection.
Regarding the prasadam, I never approved Mr. Malkani cooking in the temple. He is not initiated. Of course he is Hindu, but he went there to start his business. But, he is not initiated to cook in the temple. Any paid cook is not desirable. Who was cooking formally? He wanted to start his business, not to be engaged by us. The independent cooking done in the temple kitchen is not good.*
Why Taittiriya should have a servant? Godbrothers are not meant for being servants. Without the spiritual master's order, nobody can utilize the service of a godbrother as one's personal servant. We address each-other as prabhu, so how can we engage our godbrother as servant? Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu engaged Govindadas who was His god brother as His servant, but that was only on the order of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu's spiritual master.
So the best thing is that Bali Mardan live with me. This is the only solution.
Regarding ghee for India, what is the price? Australia is also sending in exchange of books. We have received from Australia ghee for Rs. 10-per kg.
I hope this meets you in good health.
Your ever well wisher,
A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami
*The right thing is that only twice initiated brahmana disciples cook in the temple.
Letter to: Kirtiraja das Adhikary
—
24 November, 1974
Bombay
74-11-24
Kirtiraja das Adhikary
BBT
3764 Watseka Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90034
Dear Kirtiraja das Adhikary
Please accept my humble obeisances. I am due receipt of your letter dated November 10, 1974, and have noted the contents. Regarding the correct form for Srila Prabhupada's name for appearing in publishing books, it should be as follows:
BHAKTIVEDANTA, SWAMI A.C.
You should see that henceforth all 13 volumes of Srimad Bhagavatam are listed, in Four Cantos, and that they are published by Bhaktivedanta Book Trust.
The Krsna books can be listed as: KRSNA. However in the formal name of the Society the KRISHNA form is used.
I hope this meet you in good health.
Your servant,
Brahmananda Swami
Personal Secretary
Approved: ACBS
(Initialed by Prabhupada)
So immediately you reply to the Editor of Bhavan's Journal, Dr. K.M. Munshi Marg, Bombay—400 007, enclosing the letter of Swami Cinmayananda's letter about the approval of learned panditas and sannyasis about the Hare Krishna movement members entering into Hindu temples. You can mention also that we are allowed to enter into the biggest temple in India, Tirupati, as well as Nathadwar where the head of the temple received us very well and presented some gifts. Except the Jagannatha temple in Puri no where have we been checked admission.
This time we wish to go to the Jagannatha temple again, and let us see what they do. The Hindu Vishva Parishad approves us as rigid Hindus as it it will be clear from the letter of Swami Cinmayananda.
Letter to: Radhavallabha
—
India
3 December, 1974
74-12-03
Dear Radhavallabha Prabhu:
Please accept my humble obeisances. I am in due receipt of you letter dated November 20, 1974 and also your telegram regarding the S.B. indexes. I have discussed the points of your letter with Srila Prabhupada. He said that yes, it was a very good idea to offer the first published edition of C.C. Ādi:1 to Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura on his disappearance day, January 1, 1975.
Regarding the S.B. index idea of separate volumes, Prabhupada does not like this idea. He said that we are selling the books mostly to casual customers, so what will be the fate of the index for them? They will never see the index. Therefore, Srila Prabhupada prefers that each volume have its own separate index. This system should be revived.
I hope this meets you in good health.
Your servant
Brahmananda Swami
Personal Secretary
Approved: ACBS
Letter to: Radhavallabha
—
India
10 December, 1974
74-12-10
My Dear Radhavallabha das Prabhu,
Please accept my humble obeisances. Srila Prabhupada has requested me that you should please publish one new book of Lord Kapiladeva's teachings. The book should consist of Prabhupada's purports to Chapter 25 of S.B. #4 as well as all the lectures he has given on these verses here in the last month and a half. The title of the book should be: Kapila's (the son of Devahuti) Sankhya Philosophy.
The tapes of these lectures have been sent to L.A. via one devotee returning to Washington D.C. (4 tapes) and Bali Mardan (3 tapes). The balance of 4 tapes is with Srutakirti and he will hand them over to you in Hawaii, via Ramesvara. Prabhupada suggested that Hayagriva could edit the lectures into the purports for making this book.
I hope this meets you in good health.
Your servant
Brahmananda Swami
Personal Secretary
Approved: ACBS
Regarding your farm, that will be very nice. But be sure to maintain your temple there in Denver. It is a very beautiful temple. Do not loose it. Also your idea of forming a trust between ISKCON and the leading men in the Indian community is approved by me. That is very nice. Let the Indians take part in our movement and help us to push on this mission of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu. In that trust you must be very careful to make sure that my name is registered there as the founder-acarya and that I am to be the ultimate authority. In other words, in any case of necessity of vetoing or cancelling any decision made by the other trustees, I should be able to do like that. My decision should over-rule all the other trustees combined.
I think also that Vijayadhvaja das must not be very responsible if he has sold this van in his own name and appropriated that money to his own use. Therefore he should not be in charge there. Because you are eager to distribute my books and magazines and because you are chanting 16 rounds daily I think that you are trustworthy and qualified to be in charge there. So you can go ahead and register our Society there with taking all proper and necessary steps. Before the finalization of registration takes place I would request you to send me one copy of the constitution for our society there so I can approve it finally. My name should be there as the founder-acharya, A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami. I should have full authority in all matters. Vijoyadhvaja das can continue to preach there and kirtanas if he likes. But it is my desire that he leaves the management and handling of money and registration to your good self. He should be encouraged to help by being a strong preacher and attracting many devotees amongst the local men.
1975 Correspondence
Let Gopala Krishna come to India immediately. When he comes, he can get approval from Delhi for importing grains.
I have been informed by Jayatirtha prabhu that you have decided not to get the farm and that you want to get a building in Berkeley. I have discussed with him and that idea is approved by me.
All of your proposals have been approved by me. Try to increase the book distribution as much as possible. This is our business—to put our books in the hands of intelligent men of America. If they read even one page, the influence will be so great.
Hamsaduta is here with me now and I have given the letters to him. They have all been read and discussed by the GBC members who are present here. I want that the GBC should relieve me of this management burden and in the future, all such questions should be taken up with the local GBC member. If no satisfactory solution can be reached, then other GBC members may be consulted. The GBC can formulate proposals and submit them to me for approval. So, kindly co-operate with Hamsaduta and thereby help me use my time to finish my translating work in my old age.
The sample that you sent me of the new design for the BBT logo is approved by me. For the sake of consistency, you can also use it on the cover jacket.
Gurukrpa Svami has referred your latter dated March 12th, 1975 to me for final approval. I think your idea is very good. You are giving your forefather's hard-earned money and I don't want to see it spoiled in any way. In a year or so you can turn the property over to: A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, Founder Acarya of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness. You are sincerely trying to please Krishna, and therefore He is giving you all intelligence—how to do it.
I am in due receipt of your letter dated March 26th, 1975 and have noted the contents. In order to start the proposed project in your letter you must have full sanction of the GBC. Then I will approve of it, if they approve it. Do not try to start any project independent of the GBC. I want that everyone will co-operate nicely with the GBC. Please follow all of the rules and regulations very carefully and chant at least 16 rounds daily.
Regarding your physical malady, you should do whatever is required to treat it properly. Whatever is most practical. The names for the new child are approved by me. Circumcision is not important.
Regarding BBT affairs, European publications are your main business, but for the time being, you must also see to the accounts and managing of the BBT in USA. Bhagavan can also be another BBT trustee. His name can be added to the list. It is approved by me that you get the books for only 20% above the cost of printing.
I am in due receipt of your report dated April 30, 1975 and have noted the contents. When our Mexico City branch is open, how can we close it? That building there is very nice and we have been there for five years now. I am not at all in favor of closing such a temple. Stay there in that building somehow or other, and if you like, you may also open a center in Guadalajara. We can keep men in Mexico City who are approved by the government, why should we close it? Jagadisa prabhu is there, so, work together with consultation so that we may remain in that building. Jagadisa has met one good lawyer and he is helping us. It looks favorable for us. You and Jagadisa please arrange it so that we may not have to leave Mexico City. That is my desire.
I am in due receipt of your letter dated May 12, 1975 and have read the Cintamani poetry book. It is indirect, impersonal and useless. Who will read these things? Krishna's name is only mentioned in two poems in the whole book. What is this? There are so many poems written by great acaryas. Why do you try to concoct something like this? It is not in our line. How is that our Kirtanananda Swami is there and he has approved printing this? It is a waste of time, paper, money, ink, and labor. There is so much work to do for spreading this Krishna Consciousness. Who will become attracted by such things as this. You should all spend more time reading my books very carefully and stop all this unnecessary manufacturing.
I am in due receipt of your letter dated May 23, 1975 and have noted the contents. I approve your ideas. Yes, London is a city where we can open many centers. If possible, do it.
In Melbourne, I saw one devotee girl who looked almost exactly like Himavati. Therefore I asked about her. Yes, she is welcome here if she likes.
As I am training these European and American boys, most of them coming from Christian and Jewish families, and they are accepting to become a pure brahmana and then a pure sannyasi. This system should be introduced. They must sit for proper examination after being trained. And then why not accept them as real brahmana by quality and work? This procedure is recommended both in the Bhagavad-gita and in the Srimad-bhagavatam. In the Bhagavad-gita, it is said that the brahmana, ksatriya, vaisya, sudra should be selected by quality and work. Similarly, in the Srimad-bhagavatam, it is said that if quality and work is present in a different varna, that is to say, if the quality of a brahmana is visible in a person born in sudra family, such person on account of quality and work, should be accepted as brahmana. So, if we start a varna-asrama college in terms of Bhagavad-gita instructions and approved by Srimad-bhagavatam, why the university will not give degree to a qualified person as approved brahmana.
It sounds like things are going very nicely there. I will come for Rathayatra festival and then I shall see the new building also. The photos were very nice. Regarding the sannyasis convincing men within the temple that they should leave and go with them on their parties, that is not at all good. I have never approved of this action. You can tell them. Everyone is concocting something of their own. It must be checked. The sannyasis should work with what men they have got and they cannot secretly convince men in the temples to leave their duties. Those duties also must be done and they are just as important as any other service.
I am in due receipt of your letters dated June 21st and June 29th, 1975 and have noted the contents. Your printing in Hindi in Mathura is a good idea. Do it in consultation with Gopala Krishna Prabhu. So you send me the translation and after seeing it, I shall approve.
The paper sample you have sent is not at all good. It is third class. If good paper is not available then we shall not print. If the printer is getting import license to import books for selling, why we are not getting? What have we done that we are not getting this license? Why are we prohibited from selling our books, and the others can do it? How are they paying for the books? Are they sending out foreign exchange as payment? The best thing will be for them to get import license to import paper. We shall supply them the paper. But this paper you have sent is not approved. It is not even half as good as the paper supplied from Japan.
I am in receipt of your letter, undated. Regarding the booklet, "A Guide to the Care of Srimate Tulasi devi," yes, the book is very nice. It is approved. But one thing is that no sprays can be used, not at all. Tulasi is a worshipable plant so there is no question of using any sprays. The best thing is to simply daily water tulasi devi and keep her clean. Nothing else is required.
You cannot sell the Hawaii house. It is a good house, and I do not approve selling it. If you want to expand, then you can purchase other houses for residences. I do not want any of our houses to be sold. I have no objection to your moving the farm on the same island with the temple, but you can purchase a farm separate and keep the present house. What will be gained by selling the house? I do not like this idea.
I understand you want to print Swahili literature with Dai Nippon and it will cost U.S. 8,000. So Dai Nippon gives BBT-L.A. credit, so let them order, and you pay L.A., even if you can transfer funds yearly. It doesn't matter. This publishing work is very important. I approve for you to get books from BBT-L.A. at reduced prices, at the cost price, the same as India is getting. You can inform Ramesvara that I give my sanction.
Regarding the adjacent piece of land, if you can donate, then the adjacent land owner can also donate. The management of affairs should be in the hands of my devotees. Your program for making Life Members is approved by me. You should work under the supervision of the GBC.
Regarding Spiritual Sky, yes you can be appointed. Gopala Krishna has suggested that the Board meet bi-annually, and I approve of it.
This time that there were 10,000 Indians for Janmastami is very encouraging. Yes, they are good supporters. Yes, I approve of your program. We work where there is a good field. Do it nicely. You have noted that is the secret of success. Please continue this policy of straight forward dealings. Regarding Bury Place yes, for raising money to purchase there will be no difficulty. Try to keep our temple there. Purchase it and then repair it nicely and it will be a permanent establishment. We are staying there for the last two years. How we can be moved from there? You can hold the day after Diwali the Anakut Govardhana ceremony. There should be heaps of prasadam.
I am in due receipt of your letter dated September 10, 1975 with the enclosed clippings. The clippings are very interesting and I enjoyed them very much. I have been showing them here to all the people who have been visiting me. Yes, the plan you have sited for the lake and island is approved by me. I am very glad that you are doing this work and since the work started on September 8th, it is already going on. It is because you are charming the Indian community, therefore they are giving you money for these projects. So you should continue in this way.
I thank you very much for the package containing the woolen slippers and the nice bag for the karatalas. They are very nicely done. Regarding the baby Acarya das, yes, the name is approved by me and it is a very nice thing that he was born with umbilical cord wrapped like sacred thread. I am very pleased to hear about the book distribution. I know that Atlanta is very good place for book distribution and you are doing it nicely.
This will be sufficient for you to publish one volume. I expect before leaving India on September 30th to have finished the 6th Canto. I have received a letter from Jayadvaita das dated September 8th regarding the Upadesamrta book. The title of the book can be Nectar of Instruction. We already have the Nectar of Devotion so now you will have the Nectar of Instruction. You can make it just like the set-up of the Nectar of Devotion book. The words Sri Upadesamrta do not have to appear in the title. A dedication is not required because it is not a big book. The suggestion for the picture of Rupa Gosvami's Govindaji Temple is approved. Regarding the conclusion of the book, yes, it says in the text that the most fortunate devotees execute devotional service near Radha-kunda. That is stated in the book. I am enclosing the introduction for the book; please find.
Regarding the corrections you have sent, this kind of changes is admissible. There is no harm.
Regarding your managing production of Spanish and German books, yes, it is approved by me. Why not?
The local management has to be done by temple president, GBC should see whether management is going on nicely, and if there are any discrepancies that will be discussed at the GBC meeting in Mayapur. That is the process. Sannyasis are meant for preaching only. That is the principle. But, contrary to the principle if things are being embezzled then how can I save them. How one man can manage the whole world affairs? This is my concern.
So far I know you are approved manager, so why complaints are there I do not know.
Letter to: All Temple Presidents, G.B.C. and Sannyasis
—
17 October, 1975
75-10-17
59 Muller Street,
Yeoville, Johannesburg,
South Africa
Dear Prabhus,
Please accept my humble obeisances. All Glories to His Divine Grace, Srila Prabhupad. It has come to our notice that one Godbrother of Srila Prabhupad's, Swami Bon Maharaj, has been spreading damaging propaganda against Srila Prabhupad and against our movement. Satsvarupa Maharaj recently informed Srila Prabhupad that one Professor in Canada refused to take a standing order of Srila Prabhupad's books because he associated with Swami Bon at his Oriental Institute in Vrindaban, and Swami Bon so much made untrue accusations against our beloved Spiritual Master Srila Prabhupad. Swami Bon recently made a tour of Canada and Satsvarup Maharaj reported that his statements were "poisonous, saying many false things about Krsna consciousness." Recently, one professor, Dr. Hines, of Indian Religious Studies at Yale marked: "I think Swami Bon is just jealous of Srila Prabhupad."
Under the circumstances, we shall fully non-cooperate with this Swami Bon and neither we shall form any kind of association with any person whose aim it is to blaspheme the Lord or his pure devotee.
I hope that this meets you all in blissful serving mood,
Your unworthy servant,
Pusta Krsna Swami
Acting Secretary for
Srila Prabhupad
Approved:
ACBS
(initialed by hand)
I am glad to note that you are taking out the traveling party. I hope that you have good success. Just do everything very soberly. Regarding the instruments, stringed instruments are Vedic, but the real Vedic instrument is mrdanga and karatala. Anyway, you have to do according to the time and circumstances if you use these other instruments. So you have got my approval and you can go on.
I am in due receipt of the booklet on the Kau Farm on the big island of Hawaii dated October 26, 1975. The thing is that to mortgage your present house is not at all good. There is a Bengali saying that one should not borrow money to purchase a gold earring. So I do not approve of this mortgaging transaction.
The name of your exhibition is approved by me and it is a very good idea that you want to get federal funding. So far the Garuda Stambha is concerned, from the photograph, yes, it is approved what you have done. It can be placed in the Los Angeles temple in front of the Deity underneath the balcony. It must be underneath the balcony, otherwise how can it be done. It is better if it is not underneath, but if there is no other space for where to do it, then you will have to do it like that.
I am in due receipt of your letter dated October 11, 1975 and have noted the contents. Regarding your coming to India and travelling with me, oh yes, you are welcome. It is very good that you have been observing Catur-masya. I have already sent through Brahmananda Swami a telegram approving your travel program. That's very nice that you will travel to the Southeast Asian countries, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, Hong Kong and also China. That is very nice.
You wanted one white assistant for facilitation of your work in Ahmedabad, so we have selected the best man for this work, Sriman Hai Haya Das Adhikari. I understand that you wrote one letter to Gopala Krishna disapproving sending Hai Haya. He is approved manager and why you thought that there is some politics. I am very much surprised to hear all this.
I beg to aknowledge receipt of your letter dated December 2, 1975. No! you have made some discovery. All along you have been hearing the recording of Yamuna devi and now you want to change. It is not ordinary singing, it is concert, many people are singing, so it is not bad. Just like Sankirtana, many voices are there, men and women, so it is the same thing, sankirtana. I approve of it. Here in Krishna Balarama Temple we are hearing the same recording every morning, so if it is good here why not there?
Your idea for holding Jagannatha festival in the big cities is approved by me, do it. yes you come in January.
The poem is very nice, however one should not think himself a devotee, poem 3. should read
"Your servant's calling so sadly,"
"Your servant's falling so badly,"
"A servant's trapped in the city."
one cannot call himself a devotee, but servant he can call himself always.*
Your bus program sounds nice, it is approved my me.
1976 Correspondence
Since there is no longer such a rush for printing, you may once again send sketches for my approval. Thank you for organizing the art department.
This type of decoration on the books, the gold guilding and gold stamping, is generally found on Bibles and Shakespearean texts. Whether people will now confuse our books with these others? Our get-up is already approved, you should not unnecessarily increase the price. You say that these additions will be especially useful for libraries, but if the price is increased they may not accept them. Of course, it depends on the local sellers—they can say whatever is best. You should only make these changes if the sales will actually be increased. I don't want the BBT or the temples to lose.
I will have to see personally what are the mistakes in the synonyms and also how you intend to correct them. I was not satisfied with the corrections that were made before. I saw some changes which I did no approve. Nitai may correct whatever mistakes are there, but the corrected material must be sent to me for final approval. So reprinting the volumes will have to wait until the mistakes are corrected and approved by me. In the meantime you can supply the standing orders whatever new volumes are published.
Letter to: All Governing Body Commissioners
—
Nellore, South India
6 January, 1976
76-01-06
To
All Governing Body Commissioners
Re: Examinations for awarding titles of Bhakti-sastri, Bhakti-vaibhava, Bhaktivedanta and Bhakti-sarvabhauma. Your response is requested immediately by Srila Prabhupada.
Dear Prabhus,
Please accept my most humble obeisances. Srila Prabhupada has requested me to write you in regard to the above examinations which he wishes to institute. Here in India many persons often criticize our sannyasis and brahmanas as being unqualified due to insufficient knowledge of the scriptures. Factually, there are numerous instances when our sannyasis and brahmanas have fallen down often due to insufficient understanding of the philosophy. This should not be a point of criticism nor a reason for falldown, since Srila Prabhupada has mercifully made the most essential scriptures available to us in his books. The problem is that not all the devotees are carefully studying the books, the result being a fall down or at least unsteadiness.
His Divine Grace therefore wishes to institute examinations to be given to all prospective candidates for sannyasa and brahmana initiation. In addition he wishes that all present sannyasis and brahmanas also pass the examination. Awarding of these titles will be based upon the following books:
Bhakti-sastri - Bhagavad-gita, Nectar of Devotion, Nectar of Instruction, Isopanisad, Easy Journey To Other Planets, and all other small paperbacks, as well as Arcana-paddhati (a book to be compiled by Nitai Prabhu based on Hari-bhakti-vilasa on Deity worship)
Bhakti-vaibhava - All of the above plus the first six cantos of Srimad-Bhagavatam
Bhaktivedanta - All of the above plus cantos 7 through 12 of Srimad-Bhagavatam
Bhakti-sarvabhauma - All the above plus the entire Caitanya-caritamrta
Anyone wishing to be initiated as a brahmana will have to pass the Bhaktisastri exam and anyone wishing to take sannyasa will have to pass the Bhaktivaibhava examination as well. This will prevent our Society from degrading to the level of so many other institutions where, in order to maintain the Temple, they accept all third class men as brahmanas. Any sannyasis or brahmanas already initiated who fail to pass the exams will be considered low class or less qualified. Anyone wishing to be 2nd initiated will sit for examination once a year at Mayapur. Answers will be in essay form and authoritative quotations will be given a bigger score. During the exams books may not be consulted.
Srila Prabhupada wishes to begin this program at this year's Mayapur meeting. He requests that you all send your opinions and comments here immediately so that everything may be prepared in time.
Hoping this meets you in the best of health and Krsna Consciousness.
Approved: Your servant,
A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Tamala Krsna Goswami
Personal Secretary
All of the leaders should study my books books very carefully, since now everyone will have to appear for the examination. But I don't get any time to go into seclusion. My Guru Maharaja also did not approve of seclusion. He used to say: "Dusta mana, tumi kisera Vaisnava? Pratisthara tare, nirjanera ghare, tava hari-nama kevala kaitava." My dear mind, what kind of Vaisnava are you? Simply for cheap adoration you sit in a solitary place and pretend to chant the Hare Krishna maha-mantra, but this is all cheating.
I have seen that the Temples in your zone are now leaders in Book Distribution in their respective categories. Particularly Miami, Gainesville, and Houston. I am glad to see that Abhirama is doing well. He is a very intelligent boy. Now he is concentrating on book distribution so there will be no difficulty. This should be our first business. Temple opening is secondary. Yes, I approve Amarendra's program to have the men go out on book distribution and distribute the feast at the Temple instead of at the college. Regarding closing the Phoenix center, since there is no Deity installed, it can be closed if you decide to do so.
Yes, I approve your distribution ideas, namely subscriber agents, news agents. The subscription drive is a solid program. And if you regularly publish and get registered, you can get a one or two paise charges (postal concession). All right, you may take advertisements. Go ahead and educate the public regarding our philosophy and ISKCON activities. Also in the future there are many cities such as Bombay, Surat, and Calcutta with large numbers of Gujaratis, you may arrange for getting subscriptions there. Gradually as you work there, you will get local men to join you.
I have received one article from Rupanuga entitled, "Officials approve Krishna Ministry". Thank you very much. We have succeeded by Krishna's blessing. Now do it nicely. It is a great stride. We can start in other places, too.
The bus programme is a good idea.
Yes, any lease may be submitted to me for approval.
Why should they complain about the way we are living there? We have our cottages and we take our own food. However, if it is necessary to make alterations, you can do. Concerning plumbing indoors, that is not difficult. This can be done very easily if you have a high water tank, and sufficient water there. Just like sometimes we see at big, big factories. If the water supply is sufficient, there is no question of insanitation. Disease comes when there are dirty conditions. Also, don't eat more than necessary. As soon as palatable food is offered, they eat. That is the disease. Concerning the outhouses, if they are not approved then you can have a septic tank, or pass stool in the open field. I was doing that. I never liked to go to the nonsense toilet so I was going in the field.
The proposed farm project in nothern California is approved by me. Such projects as well as constructing temples, protecting cows, gathering milk, then making ghee, then opening Hare Krishna Restaurants are all good programs for grhasthas.
Concerning the printing of the Brahmasamhita, I have informed Ramesvara Maharaja that the BBT Trustees can discuss this, and if they approve it, then I have no objection. You have stated that you would also assist in the printing costs. I can write an introduction to the book if it is approved by the others to go ahead and print it.
I am in due receipt of your letter dated April 21, 1976, and I have noted the contents with care. Your plan to have the Rathayatra on July 18th, down 5th Avenue, is approved by me and I shall try to be there definitely. However make the carts very strong, not that while the procession is going on, the wheel breaks on the cart. It is better to have one first class cart. The cart in Philadelphia was done very nicely. If you are unable to make three strong carts, then make at least one very nicely. But, if you can make three very strong, then I have no objection.
I have been informed by Ādi Kesava Maharaja that the people in Washington are prepared to approve our purchase of the Delhi house at 12 Ring Road, but they cannot do so until* they receive the application which we submitted in New Delhi. So much time has passed and still they have not received the original application in Washington from the U.S. Embassy in New Delhi. Please look into the matter and inform me in Hawaii where I shall most probably remain until the end of the month of May.
- I hope that this meets you in good health.
Your ever well-wisher,
- A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami
- ACBS/pks
*Did you take any receipt of the application to the office?
I am in due receipt of your letter dated April 29, 1976, along with photocopy of your letter concerning the organization of Gurukula. You have some experience now with Gurukula, so your full-time engagement should now be how to organize the Gurukulas all over the world. Do it very nicely and thoughtfully. So far your plans are concerned for the same, you can have them conjointly approved with the other GBC. In this way, you may make the Gurukula program your portfolio and organize it throughout the world.
The house that you mentioned in London, if it is necessary, I approve the L40,000 loan. There is another Hindu very sympathetic by the name of Mr. Modi. See if he cannot be of some service in the absence of Mr. Samani. It is very encouraging to hear the reports of increased sankirtana. Go on like this more and more.
Concerning the situation in Germany: So you are the right man to train them up. It is Krsna's desire that Hamsaduta is replaced by you. I have certified that you are our first class temple manager in our society. A little change is invigorating, so try to serve me to the best of your capacity. As Harikesa Maharaja appears to be very nicely there, why not Harikesa Swami be your assistant.
Your plan to print the books in German language is thoroughly approved by me. Make the same propaganda as in America to attract the scholarly world. Do it immediately. It doesn't matter where you print the books. You can print with Dai Nippon or in India. But why not Germany? We have got money in Germany, and you can present the bill to the bank for payment.
So far that your request for funds to construct Vrindaban Gurukula, is concerned, I approve your plan to take one lac (Rs. 1 lac), out of the money that Bombay receives from Los Angeles. That will leave Bombay with Rs. 6 lacs monthly as you pointed out. I trust that by now you have rented the house in Delhi and there is no immediate difficulty for finding a place in Delhi at present.
I received the plan of my house in Mayapur from Bombay address. I do not approve of this plan just yet. I liked one plan which I saw in London. Where is that original plan? Then I can make comparison. There was supposed to be a lift from the ground floor to the first floor. Also, why the guest rooms are upstairs, above me. Guest rooms are alright, but they cannot be occupied while I am there. There is also the question of the kitchen. And moreover, if there is no sunshine it will not be very nice. Will sunshine be able to enter my room? . . (there are over-hanging verandas) . . and is there a place on the roof open to the sun for taking massage? In any case, I want to see the plans which I saw in London for comparison. Also, I do not want to go ahead with the construction of my house is Mayapur until I see the master plan of the Mayapur City. It may be that there in a more secluded, less congested, place to situate my house. Being so near the front gate, and the main road, it may get too noisy at times there. So, you can take up these matters with Saurabha, and have him send me the original plan which I saw in London. The site of the house can also be determined only after we have the master plan.
No, the printing of the Gitar Gan cover this fashion is not at all approved by me. You have done most nonsensically. Why change the cover? When people look to see the Bhagavad-gita they expect to see Krishna and Arjuna, not the picture of Krishna with cow. You have done a great mistake by changing the front picture and it will hamper the sale. In future you don't do any changes without asking me first.
Your plan to compose the French books in Los Angeles is approved by me. The composition arrangements are very good here. They should always busy composing books. The article from the French-Soir I have given to Ramesvara Maharaja for possible use in connection with Back to Godhead magazine. Try to introduce Rathayatra and Janmastami, at least 4-5 ceremonies and festivals annually. I recall how in the London newspaper, The Guardian, that when our Rathayatra ceremony was taking place in Trafalgar Square, they commented that Rathayatra was rivalling to Nelson, as there is a statue of Lord Nelson in Trafalgar Square. So in this way they thought that if Rathayatra goes on, Nelson will be killed.
Concerning the altars, it is not necessary to have three altars of different style. All the three altars should be of the same style. I am enclosing the copy of the style which I have approved for all three altars. This style is nice, the one which you had chosen for Lord Ramacandra's altar, so you can use this style for all three.
Concerning the initiation of your wife, Revatinandan Swami has approved her being recommended for first initiation, and he has been informed accordingly of her spiritual name. As disciples you must strictly chant 16 rounds of japa, Hare Krishna Maha-mantra, daily. Also strictly avoid the unwanted habits of illicit sex-life, meat-eating, gambling, and intoxication, and in this way make progress in Krishna Consciousness and be happy.
Concerning the installation ceremonies, it is approved that you get some leading Ramanuja Pandits from S. India. The Vrindaban Pandits were useless. But one thing. Along with the panditas, our men should also join in.
If the Maharastra govt. has given "No Objection Certificate" on the import of our books, then what is the need for the central govt. to approve also? What is the situation? If one government has already sanctioned, then what is the need for another government to sanction?
This is to certify that you should send the Back-to-Godhead magazine regularly to Sridhara Swami in Navadvipa as already requested. I am glad to see that you are now conscientiously executing your duty. Always check with me first before sending out any literature to persons who have not been specifically approved by me.
The idea to have a wider larger altar for Radha-Krishna is approved however on the plan which you have enclosed it appears that there are pillars separating Lalita and Visakha from Radha-Krishna. There should be no pillars in between the Deity of Visakha Lalita and Radha-Krishna. The scheme should be just like in our Krishna-Balarama Mandir. So from the front there should not be a pillar in between Radha-Krishna and Visakha or Lalita.
Regarding the approval of the University, we have got both students and teachers and can supply the list to them. But first we must know the conditions which they are asking of us to fulfill. It was very good that they liked the prasadam. Introduce the recitation of Gitar Gan in every school. That will be a nice credit.
Regarding the situation in Fiji, it is necessary that we come to a proper understanding as to the status of the land and the organization of ISKCON Fiji itself. The first point is that the governing board of ISKCON may have yourself and your brother as members, but must also have the GBC for the zone, Gurukrpa Swami, the GBC Chairman, Tamala Krsna Goswami , and Upendra das as members. The second point is that after ISKCON has been organized in the above way the land which the temple is being constructed on must be leased to ISKCON Fiji with a 99 year unconditional lease with option to renew which I shall approve.
I am in due receipt of your letter dated August 2, 1976 and have noted the contents with pleasure. Your idea of opening up an account, depositing in it, and sending me the monthly statements is very nice. I approve of your idea cent per cent. You have voluntarily put yourself under my control. Thank you very much.
Letter to: All GBC Secretaries
—
Unknown Place
19 August, 1976
76-08-19
All GBC Secretaries
Dear GBC Prabhu:
Please accept our humble obeisances at your feet. It has come to His Divine Grace's attention that many members of our society are engaged in the same business that Rsabhdeva (ex-President Laguna Beach) and devotees of Laguna Beach Temple were engaged in. These devotees were recently in Delhi and Calcutta. Some of them also met one of our GBC men in Hongkong. The list of devotees doing this business includes some senior devotees. Furthermore, it was discovered that some GBC members were backing these projects. Exact details on how these activities are carried out were revealed by a participant and His Divine Grace is thoroughly aware of the entire operation now.
His Divine Grace is very very unhappy about this. He said that under no circumstances can any GBC or Temple President accept any money from these devotees. This business has to be stopped at once immediately. His Divine Grace wants all of you to refer to the instruction of 3rd verse of Upadesamrta. First and foremost our profession must be very hones—above all suspicion. His Divine Grace said "I am trying to retire from management to translate but if these things come then how can I translate. I have set up the framework and everything should be done within the framework. Kindly see that this business is stopped at once."
Your servants
Gargamuni Swami GBC
Gopala Krsna Das
Harikesa Swami
Approved: ACBS
Either I go with you or not, the program which you are doing is completely approved by me. Go on steadily with your program. As long as we are following the regulative principles of devotional service I am always with you. So be encouraged to continue this program more and more and expand it so that the preaching may be heard in every town and village. I am very pleased by your report with the enclosed news clippings. Thank you very much.
I am in due receipt of your letter dated August 6, 1976 and have noted the contents. Please send that Bhavan's Journal Manuscript to me in either Delhi or Vrndavana. It is approved by me if you want to sell the farm.
Now I am here in Africa and will be returning within a week. From Bombay I shall let you know what is to be done after consulting Tamal Krishna Goswami Maharaj and Shyamasundar, two GBC members. I do not approve the proposal for constructing another new set of temples in the new land. If we construct temple, we must do it according to the big plan in the land already purchased. We have already one cottage in the land, and for three days it is not advisable to construct other houses. Those who have got permits may immediately go and remain in the cottage already there. If need be for three days you can rent some tents and cots. I am surprised that Calcutta cannot arrange even for your food expenditure in Mayapur, then what is the question of the festival?
I am in due receipt of your letter dated August 23, 1976 and have noted the contents with care. Your scheme to purchase that building with BBT loan is fully approved by me.
So far foreign devotees are concerned I can bring immediately 500 devotees from foreign countries but the government will not allow them to stay. If any devotee comes he has to go back again after three months or six months, at 10,000 Rs. expenditure. Still I am struggling and whenever it is possible I am bringing foreign devotees to preach in India and as you say the Indians are cheaters even though not all of them. The majority who come and join us, it has been experienced, they are not sincere. Under the circumstances what can be done, I do not know. Even experienced devotees—perhaps you know Anand Baba—he was asked also to go as there were so many complaints against him. But one hope is there that you are publishing in the Orissan language and it is being distributed and your writing is approved by me. So if you concentrate on these literature printing matters and try to distribute as far as possible that is our great success.
Concerning the editing of Jayadvaita Prabhu, whatever he does is approved by me. I have confidence in him. Your changes which I have seen of the sanskrit synonyms is also approved by me. Tanmayataya refers to the fact that the trees and the father were absorbed in the same feelings.
All of the sketches which you have sent to me while I am in India are approved. The picture of the Mohini Murti capturing the demons should take place outside on grass, there is no floor or walls.
People are suffering greatly presently due to having lost all proper vision. They are completely without knowledge as to what is the real purpose of life. They have forgotten what is the real purpose of life. It is up to you to reestablish their lost relationship with Krsna by being sincere to preach the message of Krsna purely by yourself following the instructions of the Lord and his bona-fide representative, the spiritual master. If you follow nicely our Krsna conscious program and preach to these unfortunate people, surely Krsna will recognize your very nice service as He states in Bhagavad-gita, na ca tasmad manusyesu kascin me priya krttamma, whoever preaches this message of Bhagavad gita is considered by Me to be the most dear. So continue on this way, you have my full approval and support.
I think there is a very good scope for preaching in Yugoslavia as the recent reports show a good success there. You should encourage this preaching program and support it fully. I have received today the Spanish Edition of Srimad-Bhagavatam 1.4. They have printed 75,000 copies. Similarly you should print in the German language as many copies as possible. That is my only life. When I see that there is publication of the Srimad-Bhagavatam and other books in other languages that gives me life. It is very nice that you will print in Yugoslavian, Hungarian , Polish and Russian. It is approved by me if you want to give less than 25% of the BBT income for the Mayapur construction as you require to print books. Your scheme for an English magazine for Great Britain is nice. You should print more and more books and increase your inventory.
Yadubara should be encouraged as he has given good service. Both his wife and himself are both serving nicely. I approve their work and they should be encouraged in all respects. In future we shall get more and more valuable services from them.
I am in due receipt of your letter dated September 11, 1976 and have noted the contents with care. I fully approve of your temple design, it is very nice.
I am in due receipt of your letter dated 21st Sept. 1976 and have noted the contents. I have received and approved Ramesvara's report from Fiji. I am awaiting your report on Africa. You see what is the situation in Africa, it appears to be a little mess. Yes, that's a fact, New York is the most important city in the world, and our Temple is situated in the most important center. Jayatirtha may act as GBC for South Africa as you have proposed.
Yes, the GBCs should move and visit other other zones, and I quite approve that the GBC chairman can do this.
I approve your efforts to sue this Ted Patrick and his publisher. It must be done.
This matter must be decided by the GBC. Let them consult together and decide. Whatever they decide is approved by me.
Now you have got good contact in Poland. You must immediately supply the books for the University library. It is a very good order. Yes, encourage them to visit other libraries. It is my earnest desire to have my books translated and published in Russian and Polish. Yes, the translations must be checked. Work with Jayatirtha in that connection. I think Easy Journey to Other Planets will be very much appreciated because it is the scientific basis of our Krishna Consciousness Movement. I approve your plan to relocate to Bhaktivedanta Manor within the next year.
Letter to: Ramesvara
—
NEWSLETTER
26 November, 1976
76-11-26
Dear Ramesvara Maharaja,
Please accept my humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada. The following is an extract from a morning class on S.B. 5/6/3, delivered on 25/11/76. Srila Prabhupada has requested that it be sent to all temples and G.B.C.
"If you pat your subordinates it will increase their faulty habits and if you chastise them, they will improve. Therefore it is advised that either your son or disciple, you should always chastise them, never give them leniency. So a little leniency, immediately so many faults will grow. Now for our practical life we are known all over the world as shaven headed, is it not? Now we are becoming hair-headed, we are forgetting shaving. Because there is a little leniency, immediately faulty things are creeping in. So we should be known as shaven-headed, not hair-headed. This is discrepancy. At least once in a month you must be clearly shaven-headed. On the bright fortnight, on the day of purnima, four days after ekadasi. Once in a month, in the bright fortnight we must be shaven-headed. It is not desirable that in grown up age also, you be chastised. that is not desirable-that is also difficult because when the disciple or son is grown up, if he is chastised, then he breaks. So before being chastised we should be conscious that this is our rules and regulations, we must observe. Therefore it is advised by Canakya Pandit (Sanskrit) After the 16th year of the disciple or son, he should be treated as friend because if you chastise when he is grown up then he will break up- that is also another risk. So our request is that instead of chastising, with folded hands I request you, don't you become hippies again by growing hair. Keep your head cleansed at least once in a month. That is my request. Neither I can chastise you, I am an old man and you are young men."
And in the room after the lecture:
S.P.: "At least once in a month you must be shaven-headed."
Dev.: "Actually we usually shave more than once a month-every two weeks because even after two weeks it looks a little dirty.
Dev.: "You can get good wigs."
S.P.: "No. There is no need. That is also mental concoction. Nowadays you can go with coat, pant and shaven head, no one will criticize. It has become fashion. Russians, they use, Krushchev, I have seen, shaven head.
Dev.: "They don't have a sikha. That's all."
S.P.: "It is practice only"
And also there was some discussion regarding the new G.A.P. record: "A Change of Heart". In your recent BBT newsletter you quoted Srila Prabhupada as saying: "Why not in the temple." When he was asked whether it could be played in the temple. However, I was under the impression that he had said "Not in the temple." Therefore, to clarify matters Jagadisa prabhu again inquired from His Divine Grace. Please bear in mind that Srila Prabhupada has heard one full side of the album. His Divine Grace's comments were as follows:
HSd.: Srila Prabhupada, when you were in L.A., you heard that new record by Krsna Kanti...
HSd.: ...this pop music, you know, the tape you just got. The western style music
HSd.: In the new BBT newsletter which just came yesterday, there is a statement by Ramesvara that you were asked whether this record could be played in the temples and you replied: "Why not in the temples" Hari Sauri thought you said, "not in the temples," but Ramesvara,..
S.P.: No, not in the temple. If the wordings are alright, if there is no mistake in the set up of the wording, the change of musical tune, that is not harmful. Hare Krsna, this vibration you can make in different tune, we are already doing that.
HSd: But we are talking about these songs they are writing, philosophy songs, like this "caterpillar had a change of heart"
S.P.: Therefore we see the wording.
D: If the words are alright, can they be played in the temple?
GKd: Because no one can hear the words, it's the pop music that people hear.
Ak Sw: The words are just like modern pop songs, you can't really tell what it means. I suggested to these people: "Why don't you put music to Prabhupada's books. Take the words straight from prabhupada's books...
HSd: No, Prabhupada has approved this method for attracting karmis, but the thing is, when you become a devotee,..
S.P.: Yes.
Ak Sw: That kind of music reminds us of past bad sinful activities,..
HSd: The question is whether it should be played in the temple or not?
S.P.: Temple it may not be played. What is the use of playing in the temple?
GKd: I know from practical experience Srila Prabhupada, I just played the record, it is all current pop music with English philosophy wording and the brahmacaris were so agitated. They came to listen to it and they were taking fun of it like the pop songs.
Ak Sw: Because that style of music reminds us of the night club.
S.P.: Therefore I said it is better not to make these records.
GKd: Just your records and parampara records should be played I think. There are so many tapes of your records.
HSd: Yes, but this style they are doing now they explain that they wanted it because then that way they will be able to get them played on the radio; otherwise, they won't play bhajans or anything on the radio. But there's a distinction between that kind of music and pure Krishna Consciousness music. Even though the words indicate Krishna Consciousness, most of the songs are written in such a way that it's like, indirect. It's not directly Krsna. It's indirect.
S.P.: Yes, indirect.
HSd: Like they give this thing: "A caterpillar changed his mind," like that. It provokes some speculation.
S.P.: No. Indirect (it's) for gross outsiders. not for us. Therefore it should not be played in the temple. Gross outsiders only.
Kindly send a copy to each of our centers as soon as is conveniently possible. His Divine Grace specially requests that the system of shaving on the fourth day (the head) after Ekadasi, on Purnima, be introduced immediately in all centers.
Hoping this meets you in good health and Krsna Consciousness.
Your eternally worthless servant,
Hari Sauri Das, personal servant
Approved: A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami.
Yes, I approve of your helping to rectify the situation in Germany.
I am very satisfied by the report of your activities. I fully approve your plan to come to India for Kumba Mela and to work mainly in India after that, visiting America every six months to see that everything is going on properly with the life membership program.
We shall not exchange our top floor flat because we have the advantage of the roof. I also approve the suggestion to hold the pandal in Bombay the weekend after returning from Vardha.
Yes, the management must be very first class. If required we can keep some paid men. Amateur management is not always efficient. I approve of your ideas for management. We shall get it passed by resolution meeting. I like the ideas.
I approve your plan to combine together with Kesava to lead a party of Spanish speaking devotees with nama-sankirtana to every town and village in Spain.
Your suggestion for paying back the loan is approved. You deposit in my account and whenever you require money I shall request the bank to transfer again. In this way keep regular accounts. Please find enclosed the original and duplicate copies of a letter of advice to the Punjab National Bank to transfer Rs. 46,500 into the Trust account. You may do the needful.
1977 Correspondence
I approve of the arrangement for the writing on the "Bhaktivedanta Swami Gate". Your dealing with the municipality men and hosting them at the temple shows you have done these things very nicely.
N.B. I have received a letter from the Bombay secretary, Aditya dasi, requesting me to sign a number of legal forms for the bank. Neither you or Gopala Krsna have even signed or initialled an approval, so how can I sign these forms? If you actually want me to sign them please write me your approval with regular signature.
The best thing will be if you and your family stay in Poland over a long period of time so that you can train the interested persons. At the same time others may come and go visiting for book distribution. You should try to get residency and if you can get property there that is very nice. That is our main business, that by our association we should try to train people up in our philosophy and principles. Yes, I approve your idea to have a sankirtana party in America to support the Polish preaching. You have got good intelligence so utilize it properly and Krishna will help you.
Your entire program as you have outlined it is one hundred percent approved by me. I have got all faith that you can intelligently guide and develop this center very nicely. I also like the idea of Amoghalila going there. Just now Gopala Krishna has gone to Delhi and Vrndavana but when he returns I shall speak to him about Amogha-lila going to Karachi.
I beg to acknowledge receipt of your telegram requesting permission for the fire ceremony for the new initiates and second initiations.
I have already sent you a telegram reading as follows:
"Initiated names Phil—Pippalada Dasa, Mark—Mahaprabhu Krpa Dasa, Susan—Syama Dasi, Rita—Pitambar Dasi, Brahmans all approved sacred thread of Aravinda sent with letter.
Signed . . . Bhaktivedanta Swami"
As you have recommended all of these new devotees so I accept them as my duly initiated disciples. Their spiritual names are as follows:
Phil Newberry—Pippalada Dasa
Mark Knox—Mahaprabhu Krpa Dasa
Susan Marietta—Syama Dasi
Rita—Pitambar Dasi
By now you must have held the fire ceremony for their initiation.
Letter to: All G.B.C., All Temple Presidents
—
Vrindaban
9 July, 1977
77-07-09
To All G.B.C., and Temple Presidents
Dear Maharajas and Prabhus,
Please accept my humble obeisances at your feet. Recently when all of the GBC members were with His Divine Grace in Vrndavana, Srila Prabhupada indicated that soon He would appoint some of His senior disciples to act as "ritvik
- representative of the acarya, for the purpose of performing initiations, both first initiation and second initiation. His Divine Grace has so far given a list of eleven disciples who will act in that capacity:
His Holiness Kirtanananda Swami
His Holiness Satsvarupa dasa Gosvami
His Holiness Jayapataka Swami
His Holiness Tamala Krsna Gosvami
His Holiness Hrdayananda Gosvami
His Holiness Bhavananda Gosvami
His Holiness Hamsaduta Swami
His Holiness Ramesvara Swami
His Holiness Harikesa Swami
His Grace Bhagavan dasa Adhikari
His Grace Jayatirtha dasa Adhikari
In the past Temple Presidents have written to Srila Prabhupada recommending a particular devotee's initiation. Now that Srila Prabhupada has named these representatives, Temple Presidents may henceforward send recommendation for first and second initiation to whichever of these eleven representatives are nearest their temple. After considering the recommendation, these representatives may accept the devotee as an initiated disciple of Srila Prabhupada by giving a spiritual name, or in the case of second initiation, by chanting on the Gayatri thread, just as Srila Prabhupada has done. The newly initiated devotees are disciples of His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupad, the above eleven senior devotees acting as His representative. After the Temple President receives a letter from these representatives giving the spiritual name or the thread, he can perform the fire yajna in the temple as was being done before. The name of a newly initiated disciple should be sent by the representative who has accepted him or her to Srila Prabhupada, to be included in His Divine Grace's "Initiated Disciples" book.
Hoping this finds you all well.
Your servant,
Tamala Krsna Gosvami
Secretary to Srila Prabhupada
Approved:
A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami
| Page Title: | Approval (1973 - 1977) |
| Compiler: | MadhuGopaldas |
| Created: | 02 of Jul, 2010 |
| Totals by Section: | BG=0, SB=0, CC=0, OB=0, Lec=0, Con=0, Let=203 |
| No. of Quotes: | 203 |