Today I have been to the American Consular office & upon presentation of the invitation letters from the different centers I was at once granted visitors visa under #B2. The officer whom I met was very sympathetic & he said that Immigration visa from this side would take a long time for being granted better I took the visitors visa—so I have accepted it. Now for the present you may not take any steps until my arrival.
I accept (Letters)
Expressions researched:
"I accept"
|"I accepted"
|"I am accepting"
|"I have accepted"
|"i also accept"
|"i have also accepted"
|"i will accept"
Notes from the compiler:
add "my acceptance"
Correspondence
1967 Correspondence
Letter to Brahmananda -- Calcutta 22 October, 1967:
On Wed. next I am departing for Navadvipa, I shall stay there for at least a week & after coming back my program is to start for U.S.A. But as you say that permanent visa can be arranged from here on the basis of certificates which you intend to send me. So you will immediately let me know whether or not I shall start on the visitor's visa. I inquired in U.S. Consulate about this & the man who immediately granted me my visitor's visa told me that a permanent visa will take a long time for decision, so I accepted the visitor's visa. My Navadvipa address you will find on the envelope. Tomorrow I shall take information of Mr. William Stuart, The U.S. vice consul in Bombay.
1968 Correspondence
Letter to Upendra -- Los Angeles 13 February, 1968:
Your strong desire to serve me is very beautiful; your serving me means serving Krishna. I am also your servant so I cannot accept your service from you, or from any of my disciples. I accept service from my disciples on behalf of Krishna. Just like a tax collector must collect for the treasury, not for himself. If he himself touches so much as a farthing it would be unlawful. So I have no right to accept service from any disciple, but on behalf of Krishna I can accept. Sincere service to the Spiritual Master is service to the Supreme Lord.
Letter to Sudarsana -- Los Angeles 15 February, 1968:
In reply to your letter, Jan. 31 1968, which I received just day before yesterday, I have accepted you as initiated student and your spiritual name is Srimati Sudarsana devi. (One who looks forward on the Sudarsan wheel in the hand of Krishna)
Please follow the regulations and chant 16 rounds daily at least without any offense. The list of offenses, 10 kinds, are in my apartment in N.Y., and you ask your God-brother, Brahmananda, and he will supply you. Similarly, there is another list of the qualifications, as well as prayer for Spiritual Master, are also there. Try to secure them, and follow the regulations, and Krishna will help you in being elevated to higher and higher platforms of Krishna Consciousness. Thanking you very much.
Letter to Yadunandana -- Los Angeles 15 February, 1968:
In reply to your letter of February 8, 1968, I thank you very much for it, and I have accepted you as my initiated student and your spiritual name is Sriman Yadunandana das Brahmacari. (Yadunandana is another name of Krishna)
Please follow the regulations and chant 16 rounds daily, at least, without any offense. The list of offenses, 10 kinds, are in my apartment in N.Y., and you ask your God-brother, Brahmananda, and he will supply you. Similarly, there is another list of the qualifications, as well as prayer for Spiritual Master, are also there. Try to secure them, and follow the regulations, and Krishna will help you in being elevated to higher and higher platforms of Krishna Consciousness.
Letter to Brahmananda -- Los Angeles 15 February, 1968:
Regarding apartments: we are Indians, especially mendicant, we can adjust things in any kind of place. But I shall stay in any place hell or heaven, if it is approved by you. Of course, on behalf of Krishna I am accepting your sincere service, but on the whole, I am servant of the servant of Krishna (CC Madhya 13.80). Therefore I may be in designation your Spiritual Master, but actually I am servant of the servant of Krishna, and because you are all sincere servants of Krishna, I am your servant. I shall be glad to stay wherever yourself, Rayarama, and others like me to stay.
Letter to Gargamuni -- Allston, Mass 5 May, 1968:
So, whenever everything was all ready for my marriage with another girl, my great father who was a great devotee of the Lord, called me and instructed me in the following words:
"My dear boy, I understand that you are trying to get yourself married again, but I would advise you not to do this. It is Krishna's Grace that your present wife is not just according to your liking. This will help you not to become attached with wife and home, and this will help you in the matter of your future advancement of Krishna Consciousness."
Now, I accepted my father's advice, and by his blessings, only, I was never attached to my wife or home which resulted in my complete liberation from worldly attachment and devote myself fully in Krishna Consciousness.
Letter to Satsvarupa -- Montreal 16 June, 1968:
Professor Abdul is Mohammedan, and is writing a thesis of Sufi religion. And he was also impressed. Unfortunately, I had to eat there, but I accepted a little fruits only, while they were eating all sorts of nonsense, but at least they did not drink. We are the two persons only, Janardana and myself, we avoided all kinds of nonsense.
Letter to Jagannatham Prabhu -- Montreal 22 June, 1968:
Regarding our Gaudiya Math in Bombay: I am very sorry that you are disappointed in respect of their activities. I know this fact because in 1934 I was one of the active members in starting this Math. The Gowalia Tank center was opened by me, and although I lived separately from the Math, practically I was in charge of the Math and under the instructions from His Divine Grace. Then after His Departure, you know so many unhappy things happened, but, as I was a householder, I remained always aloof from those unhappy incidences. I have accepted this renounced order of life in 1958, and since then I am completely devoted to the service of His Divine Grace Srila Prabhupada. You'll be very glad to know that by the Grace of Srila Prabhupada, the duty which was entrusted upon me is being discharged as faithfully as possible, and by the Mercy of His Divine Grace, I have got here many American boys and girls, who are sincerely assisting me.
Letter to Syama -- Montreal 30 August, 1968:
The nice sentiments expressed in your letter under reply is very much pleasing to me. When I initiated you, I accepted you on that very moment as my daughter. So you are eternally my daughter and I am your father. There is no doubt about it. And our relationship is based on Krishna Consciousness, so the more successful you preach and help Krishna Consciousness movement, the more our relationship in transcendental platform is firm and fixed up.
Letter to Gurudasa -- Los Angeles 22 November, 1968:
The objective of the Vedas is to know Krishna and the Bhagavad-gita is the essence of all Vedic instructions. Lord Caitanya made it still easier by introducing the Holy Name of Krishna and it has now become so easy that the cult of Vedic knowledge can be preached all over the world without any difficulty. As evidence of this statement, you may know from me that the Hare Krishna movement is spreading like wildfire all over America, Canada, England and Germany. If you kindly join this movement and help this inundation overflood South America, it will be a great service to the Lord. I am very glad to receive your letter and I accept your invitation. Now you can arrange for it and in the meantime I am sending herewith some papers in this connection, which you may please go through.
1969 Correspondence
Letter to Arundhati -- Los Angeles 21 February, 1969:
Your desire to serve me is very praiseworthy. But because I am the humble servant of Krishna I cannot accept any service on my account. So what I say you follow so you may advance in Krishna Consciousness. That is your service and I accept it on behalf of Krishna. This is a very good attitude, and your wish to serve me actually means to serve Krishna.
Letter to Brahmananda -- New Vrindaban 26 May, 1969:
Regarding San Francisco payment of BTG dues, whatever they can send now is all right. The balance will be sent by Dindayal, so they must fulfill their quota. Then when they get the magazines everything will be adjusted. Mukunda also will pay. Don't be discouraged, go on with your work. After all, Krishna will pay. I have seen the letter from Professor Hopkins, and you can tell him that I have accepted his offer, provided nobody shall smoke before me, specially when I take the class.
Letter to Rayarama -- Los Angeles 9 July, 1969:
If possible, then try to give the results of your work to Krishna. We do not disapprove of any activities of the world provided the result is given to Krishna. That is the whole instruction of the Bhagavad-gita. You have learned this philosophy for so many years, so try to execute it to your best capacity. So far as I am concerned, I have accepted you as my disciple and you have accepted me as your spiritual father. This relationship cannot be ended anymore. It is eternal. So it will be my duty always to pray to Krishna for your further and further improvement in Krishna Consciousness, so you should go on serving this movement to your best capacity.
1970 Correspondence
Letter to Hayagriva -- Los Angeles 14 January, 1970:
In fact I am a worthless person because my Spiritual Master ordered me to take up this work in 1922 but I did not carry his order until 1958, when I was obliged to carry out His order by His arrangement only. This means although I was not very enthusiastic to carry out His order He forced me circumstantially to accept it. So this is His special mercy upon me and I always think about this with gratitude to this exalted personality coming directly from Vaikuntha World and we had the great fortune to meet Him. I think that is the only credit on our part that we happened to meet Him by some "ajnata sukriti" or unknown auspicious activities. He is so kind upon me that when I came to your country, where I was completely unknown, He sent to me some good souls like you unsolicited. So I accept you all as assistants or representatives of my Guru Maharaja Who is still helping me because I am so feeble and unworthy.
Letter to Mr. Kugimoto - La Cienega Blvd. Los Angeles, Cal. 90034 January 17, 1970:
You have said that the price is just at your rockbottom. I have accepted the estimate, and very soon I shall send you the manuscript. The manuscript is also ready but I am simply waiting for finishing the 52 pictures.
Letter to Madhava Maharaja -- Los Angeles 21 January, 1970:
Regarding Mayapur land, practically my jurisdiction of preaching work is covered mostly in these Western countries; and because Srila Bhaktivinode Thakura wanted it that the American and European devotees should come to Mayapur, therefore I am trying for it. If you kindly help in this connection it will be a great assistance. I have already written to Acyutananda in this connection and whichever plot of land you altogether select, I will accept it.
Letter to Hanuman Prasad Poddar -- Los Angeles 5 February, 1970:
So out of the members of the audience who come regularly, when one becomes more interested he is invited to participate in the program of Krishna Consciousness daily life and study. After some time of appreciating our program and trying to understand our philosophy, when someone is very interested and recommended by the Temple Commander, for becoming initiated, I accept him and give him first initiation in the form of Harinama in a regular ceremony with fire sacrifice. I chant Hare Krishna Mantra on the 108 beads and then the beads are offered to the disciple with a change of name as Krishna das. He is advised to strictly follow the regulative principles of 1. no eating of meat, fish, or eggs; 2. no taking of intoxicants including coffee, tea, and tobacco; 3. no illicit sex-life; and 4. no gambling or mental speculation.
Letter to Rupanuga -- Los Angeles 7 March, 1970:
I beg to acknowledge receipt of your letter dated 1 March, 1970, in which you have given your recommendation that Mr. Nico Kuyt be initiated by me. So in accordance with your recommendation, I have accepted him as my bona fide disciple, and I am returning his beads herewith duly chanted.
Letter to Rudra -- Los Angeles 9 March, 1970:
Lord Nityananda is Guru. He can instruct us, but ultimately it depends on the disciple. A doctor may say "Do this, Do not do this," but if the patient does not follow the prescription, what is the result? Similarly, Nityananda Prabhu will hear the prayer of an insincere rascal, if that rascal actually wants to change his condition. One must agree not to be a rascal any more, then his rascaldom can be reformed. Jagai and Madhai begged the Lord for His mercy and they were prototype rascals, drunkards and debauchees. Lord Caitanya told them first you stop your nonsense activities, then I will accept you. So a rascal may be accepted provided he agrees to stop his nonsenses. Otherwise, how can one expect to be reformed if he does not agree or like to be reformed. To be reformed, he must agree to the reforming process.
In this connection, in order to remain fixed in spiritual strength, always be sure to chant the prescribed sixteen rounds of beads daily without fail. This is essential for insuring your spiritual progress.
Letter to Bhagavan -- Los Angeles 26 May, 1970:
I beg to acknowledge receipt of your letter dated 21st May, 1970, along with the letters and beads from Roger and Bob. I have accepted them as my initiated disciples as you have recommended, and their beads and reply letters have been dispatched on Sunday May 24th, I hope you have received them by this time. Please continue to see that these two nice boys and all the other devotees there are following rigidly the scheduled program of regulated activities in devotional service, chanting the rounds, attending classes and studying our philosophy as well as going on Sankirtana, etc.
Letter to Harivilasa -- Los Angeles 14 June, 1970:
I beg to acknowledge receipt of your letter dated 3rd June, 1970, along with recommendation of Sriman Suridas Adhikari. So immediately I have accepted you as my disciple. Your spiritual name is Harivilasa Das Brahmacari. Your beads are sent back to you by separate air post. Here is enclosed the list of regulative principles and offenses. Further assistance you should take from Tamala Krsna Das Adhikari, Suridas Das Adhikari and Umapati Das Adhikari. Follow their example, and whenever there is difficulty, try to understand from your Godbrothers.
Letter to Satsvarupa, Uddhava -- Los Angeles 27 July, 1970:
You are all my children and I love my American boys and girls who are sent to me by my spiritual master and I have accepted them as my disciples. Before coming to your country I took sannyasa in 1959. I was publishing BTG since 1944. After taking sannyasa I was more engaged in writing my books without any attempt to construct temples or to make disciples like my other Godbrothers in India. I was not very much interested in these matters because my Guru Maharaja liked very much publication of books than constructing big, big temples and creating some neophyte disciples.
Letter to Acyutananda -- Bombay 14 November, 1970:
Regarding your feeling of disruption to your preaching program since others have come in, when I was in Los Angeles you repeatedly asked me to send at least ten men. Now the men have come and you say something else—you want to have kirtana alone. So which point shall I accept?
Letter to Puri Maharaja -- Bombay 2 December, 1970:
I shall go to your place from Vrndavana or from Allahabad, and we have to arrange in that way. We are thirty men and women all together. Whether you want us all to visit? Perhaps if we go from Vrindaban we shall have to take advantages of the Grand Trunk Express. Of course there is sufficient time now, and I shall be in regular correspondence with you on my tour, but I accept to visit all the places mentioned by you when I go by that side.
1971 Correspondence
Letter to Nayanabhirama -- Allahabad 4 February, 1971:
I am pleased to note that Karen Anderson has been endorsed by you for initiation and certainly I will accept her as my disciple. Presently I am inquiring into purchasing a quantity of tulasi beads here. When I secure them, then I shall duly chant on one set for Karen and dispatch them forthwith. The $50.00 initiation donation was duly received and you can thank Karen very much for her contribution to my book fund.
Letter to Satadhanya (Stan Federoff) -- Bombay 30 March, 1971:
I am very glad to know that you are feeling happy in Krsna's service and you are chanting His holy Names regularly according to the Vaisnava prescription. I am very glad that you have requested initiation and I have duly chanted your beads and they are enclosed herewith. So, I have accepted you as my initiated disciple and your spiritual name is Satadhanya das Brahmacari. Please follow the regulative principles very strictly, chant Hare Krsna Mahamantra sixteen times daily round the beads and be happy.
Letter to Tilaka (Evalyn) -- Los Angeles 5 July, 1971:
I beg to thank you very much for your kind letter dated 11th June, 1971 asking for initiation and you will be glad to know that I have accepted you as my duly initiated disciple. Your beads have been chanted on and are enclosed herewith. Your spiritual name is Tilaka Devi Dasi. Tilaka means victory personified.
Letter to Narayani -- Bombay, India 11 June, 1971:
I beg to thank you very much for your letter dated 27th May, 1971, and you will be glad to know that, upon the recommendation of Sriman Janmanjaya Prabhu, that I have accepted you as my duly initiated disciple. Your spiritual name is Narayani Devi Dasi. Narayani means the energy of Narayana, the Supreme Personality of Godhead. I have also chanted on your beads and they are enclosed herewith.
Letter to Krpasindhu (Rick Holtzman) -- Brooklyn 20 July, 1971:
I beg to thank you very much for your kind letter dated 7th July, 1971 and you will be glad to know that I have accepted you as my duly initiated disciple. Your beads have been duly chanted by me and are being returned personally by Jagadisa Prabhu, who is here now in N.Y. I have given you the spiritual name Krpasindhu Das Brahmacari. Krpasindhu means Krishna, the ocean of mercy.
Letter to Tulsi -- Nairobi 13 October, 1971:
At your recommendation I have accepted Vin, Bruce and Elicia as my duly initiated disciples. One letter and their beads are enclosed herewith.
1972 Correspondence
Letter to Abhirama -- Bombay 17 January, 1972:
Upon your recommendation, I have accepted Jim and Michelle Conway as my duly initiated disciples, and their letter follows.
Letter to Ranadhira -- Bombay 17 January, 1972:
I have accepted, upon your recommendation, Bill and Kathy Bowes as my duly initiated disciples, and their letter follows.
Letter to Amarendra -- Calcutta 4 March, 1972:
n.b. Upon your recommendation I have accepted the three boys as my duly initiated disciples, and I have replied them on back.
Letter to Devotees -- Los Angeles 26 August, 1972:
My Guru Maharaja wanted me to spread this Krishna Consciousness Movement in western world, and you are all helping in this great attempt. My Spiritual Master knew it that alone I could not do this great work. Therefore He has very kindly sent you all to help me in this task. I accept you therefore as representatives of my Guru Maharaja playing as my affectionate disciples.
Letter to Tejiyas -- Dallas 9 September, 1972:
I am especially encouraged that you are planning another wonderful festival of Hare Krsna festival in Delhi, and that you are trying to get again the LIC grounds. Then it will be first class. One thing is, Tamala Krsna has invited me to come to Hyderabad starting 17th November, and I have accepted his invitation. So I think you may begin the Delhi festival from 5th November and it must be finished by the 16th November, and then I can fly to Hyderabad on 17th as agreed with Tamala Krsna.
Letter to Cyavana -- Los Angeles 15 September, 1972:
I am glad to note that you are by good diplomacy maintaining our good relationships with all the men who have helped us there in Nairobi. We don't want any disruption. Rsi Kumar is not there now so you do everything nicely and diplomatically. Brahmananda Swami is there, GBC man, so you consult with him and do everything diplomatically. On the whole, they should not be given any power unless they are my initiated disciples, but try to keep them as consultants. It is not that we should stop our relationship and not remain on speaking terms any more but try to keep everyone as our friend and engage them in Krsna Consciousness somehow or other. Enclosed please find the copy of Mr. Shah's letter, and I have accepted his resignation.
Letter to Bhagavan -- Ahmedabad 13 December, 1972:
I beg to acknowledge receipt of your letter dated November 21, 1972, along with letters of requesting for initiation by me. I have accepted all of them as my duly initiated students, and their letter along with beads are enclosed herewith.
Letter to Sukadeva -- Ahmedabad 13 December, 1972:
Upon your recommendation I am accepting the three persons to be my duly initiated disciples and their letter and beads are enclosed herewith. You may report me from time to time how you are making progress.
Letter to Sudama -- Bombay 23 December, 1972:
Upon your recommendation, I have accepted the six new students as my disciples, duly initiated, and their letter and beads are enclosed herewith, along with sacred threads (four) and copies of gayatri mantra (five). Now hold the fire yagna and give gayatri mantra to Apurna, Gariyan, Mangalananda, Sudhanu, and Manjari dasi. Teach them to count on the finger divisions, and play for them the tape of me reciting gayatri mantra into their right ear. The fire yagna can be held for all eleven devotees.
1973 Correspondence
Letter to Kirtika -- Sydney 19 February, 1973:
Regarding your questions. If your prayers are sincere then Krishna will accept them and if Krishna accepts them then automatically I accept them, and if I accept them then automatically Krishna accepts them. So like this Krishna is everywhere. He is even between the atoms. So therefore wherever you are He will accept your prayers, and therefore I automatically accept. But the most important part again, the prayer must be sincere.
Letter to Jayatirtha -- Calcutta 15 March, 1973:
Yes, because you have recommended them I accept all of the devotees for first and second initiations. The sacred threads will be coming under separate cover; for the others, their new names are listed below.
Letter to Rsabhadeva -- Calcutta 21 March, 1973:
Yes, your Temple is always gathering nice devotees and I accept Brian, Leslie and Caroline as my duly initiated disciples and you can send the beads for chanting to Kirtanananda Swami, along with a copy of this letter.
Letter to Doug Russell -- Los Angeles 18 April, 1973:
Upon the recommendation of Rsabhadeva Das I am accepting you as my initiated disciple. Your spiritual name is now Asurakula Nasana Dasa, the servant of the killer of the descendants of the asuras. Krishna, He killed so many demons, so in this age of demoniac tendency, we may not kill the demons like Krishna did it, but we can kill the demoniac tendency.
Letter to Gunagrahi -- Mayapur 20 June, 1973:
Upon your recommendation I have accepted the following as my disciples: Lawrence Burstein's name is now Lokavarnotamma das, Claude Crocker is now Cittaranjan das, Catherine Crocker is now Citraketu devi dasi and David Sherk shall now be called Gadai das. Regarding second initiation, enclosed is a sacred thread for Lalitananda das and gayatri mantra for he and one for Sita devi dasi. Hold a fire yajna for the first initiates and later, privately you may play the gayatri mantra tape for the new brahmanas. Have them hear the tape in the right ear and show them how to count on their fingers.
Letter to Batu Gopala -- Mayapur 22 June, 1973:
On your recommendation I have accepted the four students in your temple as my disciples. Their new names are as follows:
Marilee Ash—Mrgaksi dasi
Harvey Mechanic—Mrgendra das
Dan Cunningham—Gatravan das
George Vutetakis—Gopati das
Have them send their beads to Kirtanananda Swami for chanting. You can hold a fire yajna for the initiates and invite many guests. Hope this meets you in good health.
Letter to Makhanlal -- Mayapur 22 June, 1973:
Preaching means to increase our family members, so I can see that the preaching at ISKCON St. Louis is going on very sincerely, otherwise so many would not be interested in becoming devotees. So on your carefully considered recommendation, I am accepting these girls and boys as my initiated disciples and their names are as follows:
Thomas Doherty—Tamopaha das;
Jim Higgins—Niscinta das;
Paul Gibson—Punderika das;
Lance Nally—Gaya das;
Steven Lisowski—Satyamadhava das;
Nancy Alderman—Nikunjarasi Vilasi dasi;
Deborah Little—Daksinesvari dasi;
Ginette Newman—Govindarupini dasi;
Donald Parker—Modandin das;
Sylvia Parker—Savitri dasi
Letter to Nityananda -- Bhaktivedanta Manor 20 July, 1973:
On you recommendation I am accepting the three candidates for initiation as my disciples. Their names are as follows:
Miss Jeri Whorrel—Hamsini dasi
Roy Roberts—Satyavrata das
David Deben—Caturbahu das
You can send their beads for chanting to Satsvarupa Maharaja in Dallas. Now hold a fire yajna and invite as many guests as possible; hold kirtana and distribute prasadam. I am enclosing one brahmana thread duly chanted on by me for Vrikodara; have him hear the tape recording of me speaking the gayatri mantra, in his right ear and you instruct him in his Brahminical duties.
Letter to Kurusrestha -- Bhaktivedanta Manor 23 July, 1973:
On your recommendation I have accepted the two new devotees as my disciples. There names are as follows:
Brad Weinberg; Bhadrayana das
Cathy Serna—Cinmayi dasi
You may hold a fire ceremony for these two, and instruct them conscientiously about the ten offenses in chanting. You may send their beads for chanting to Satsvarupa Maharaja in Dallas.
Letter to Sukadeva -- Bhaktivedanta Manor 23 July, 1973:
On your recommendation, I accept the named devotees for first initiation, and their new names are as follows:
Donald Welton: Candravidya das
Karen Welton: Kadambaripriya dasi
Wally Prohaska: Visnuyasa das
Judy Prohaska: Kantimati dasi
You may give the gayatri mantra to Prsni Garbha dasi by playing the tape of me chanting gayatri into her right ear and explaining the principles of suci.
Letter to Nityananda -- Bhaktivedanta Manor 17 August, 1973:
On your recommendation I accept Srimati Hamsini Devi Dasi for second initiation. Please find the Gayatri Mantra enclosed.
Letter to Sukadeva 4 -- England 20 August, 1973:
On your recommendation I accept the boys named by you for first initiation. Their names are as follows.
D.A. Norton Jr. - Abhinanda Das
N.P. Coty - Nistula Das
G.J. Folsy - Simha Das
S.D. Kadetz - Sura Das
R.E. Smith - Ragamathani Dasi
D.A. Gilles - Samharina Dasi
P.J. Walter - Vidhatri Dasi
T.L. Joyce - Tripuramalini Dasi
Hold a fire ceremony, and distribute sumptuous prasadam to one and all.
Letter to Sudama -- Bhaktivedanta Manor 28 August, 1973:
On your recommendation I accept Pat Hedmark as my duly initiated disciple and his name is Praghosa Das. For the second initiate I am enclosing 3 sacred threads and four Mantras. Hold a fire ceremony and distribute Prasadm generously.
Letter to Sukadeva 5 -- Seattle September, 1973:
I beg to acknowledge receipt of your letter dated September 10, 1973. I am accepting Rasala Das (Walter Mason Woods) as my initiated disciple. Please see that he chants Hare Krishna minimum 16 rounds daily on the beads and follows our regulative principles without fail.
Letter to Rsabhadeva -- Bombay 27 September, 1973:
Regarding the initiations I am accepting the following devotees as my initiated disciples: Bhayahari das (Glen,) Visvamitra das (Vern,) Sanka Das (Jim,) Sarvani dasi (Sharon,) and Nirupadi Dasi (Judy). Please see that they all strictly follow our rules and regulations and that they chant 16 rounds minimum on the beads Hare Krishna mantra.
Letter to Hanuman -- Bombay 4 October, 1973:
Upon your recommendation I accept the three students you have recommended for first initiation. Their spiritual names are as follows:
Marcos Medina: Nityatrpta dasa
George Nikenson: Nrihari dasa
Beatrice Nikenson: Bhakta dasi
Now just as all my other disciples are doing, you take care that they follow very faithfully chanting of 16 rounds daily, and following all of the rules and principles of Krishna conscious very strictly.
Letter to Karandhara -- Bombay 4 October, 1973:
I beg to acknowledge receipt of your letter dated September 15th, 1973 requesting initiation for seven devotees and second initiation for three devotees. Upon your recommendation I accept them as my disciples. Their spiritual names are as follows:
Lewis: Upendranath dasa
Richard: Premarupa dasa
Sandy B.: Sanhari dasi
Sandy F.: Soubardya dasi
Merrissa: Mulaprakrti dasi
Sria: Kadamba dasi
Diane: Anandavidya dasi
So now you should duly perform the yajna, chanting on their beads, and instruct them carefully to follow all the rules and regulations. At the same yajna you may also perform the second initiation of the three Brahmins. This yajna is best held in the morning amongst devotees.
Letter to Rupanuga -- Bombay 13 October, 1973:
Regarding the initiations, I accept the following as my disciples:
Anupama Das (Rupa Goswami's younger brother)—Frank
Nikhilesvari dasi—Nora
Also enclosed is one sacred thread for Vrajajana Das Brahmacari. . So you can chant on the beads and perform the sacrifice. I also give the gayatri mantra second initiation to Bhagyavati dasi. You can give them the translation right away.
Letter to Madhudvisa -- Bombay 16 October, 1973:
Regarding the initiations I accept the following devotee as my disciple:
Varaha murti das - Adrian.
Also enclosed please find the sacred threads for the gayatri initiations of Gopi Kanta das Brahmacari and Yasomatinanda das Brahmacari. So you can chant on the beads and hold the fire sacrifice amongst the devotees. The mantra should be heard from the tape through the right ear.
Letter to Jagadisa -- Bombay 18 October, 1973:
Regarding your recommendation, I am accepting the following devotee as my initiated disciple.
Bhaktavasya Dasi—Geraldine Luczyk.
Yes, I authorize that you may chant on the beads of the newly initiated disciples.
Letter to Govardhan Das -- Bombay 18 October, 1973:
So far the new disciples are concerned, I am accepting on your recommendation the following as my initiated disciples:
Maharani Dasi - Shirley Daniels
Dhenumati Dasi - Coleen Handlon
Krsnakathananda Das Adhikari - Richard Marcolini and Sarvashaktimati das - Angeline Marcolini
Letter to Purusottama -- Bombay 23 October, 1973:
Regarding your recommendations, I accept the following as my initiated disciples:
Sutapa Das - Luke
Anakadundubhi Das - David
Trivarga Das - Jerry
I have chanted on the beads you have sent me, and they are mailed under separate post. But, in future I request you to send the beads for being chanted upon by Madhudvisa Maharaja. This is to avoid the postal charges back and forth. Please see that the new disciples are always engaged in devotional service.
Letter to Karandhara -- New Delhi 14 November, 1973:
Regarding the initiations I accept the following as my initiated disciples:
Hamsavatara. das—Howard
Ramacandra das—Ron
Amrtananda das—Fred
Jagannatha Puri das—Jesse
Sangita devi das—Susan
Jaya Gopi devi dasi—Jane
Atma Shakti devi—Wendy
Champak devi dasi—Chava
Jayagourangi devi—Joanne
And, I accept the second initiation of the following devotees:
Devendranath das
Brahmarupa das
Ganedra das
Jitavrata das
Bhagavaccitta dasi
Nirakula devi
Tusti dasi
Dvijapriya dasi
Enclosed please find four sacred threads duly chanted upon by me.
Letter to Abhirama -- Los Angeles 1 December, 1973:
Regarding the initiations, I accept the following as my initiated disciples:
Richard Richman—Raghava das
Joel Peir—Caitanya Jivan das
Paul Baker—Sriman Pandit das
Carl Franzen—Sulochana das
Howard Wilfield—Narahari das
Neils Hertz—Vallabha Sen das
Barbara Drehl—Bhuvana Pavani dasi
Holly Franzen—Sulochana dasi
Patti Welfield—Bhagavat Sakti dasi
Maureen Hertz—Ragunandini dasi
So you take instruction from Rupanuga Maharaja on how to properly perform the yajna after he has chanted on their beads. Each disciple should go for collecting guru-daksine after the ceremony and the proceeds may be sent here c/o Karandhara.
Letter to Makhanlal -- Los Angeles 11 December, 1973:
I accept the following devotees as my duly initiated disciples:
Chuck—Caturatma das
Allen—Anirdesya-vapu das
Robert—Pranada das
Dean—Prana das
Joanne—Keli-Cancala dasi
Nancy—Vidamba dasi
I am returning their beads by separate post. See always to their welfare in Krsna Consciousness.
1974 Correspondence
Letter to Citsukhananda -- Los Angeles 5 January, 1974:
On your recommendation I am accepting the following devotees as my initiated disciples and there Spiritual names are as follows:
1st Initiation
Wilfredo—Varesa
Ricardo—Urdhvabhaga
Pedro—Puruji
Harry—Tarksya
Carlos—Durantavira
Steve—Siddhajana
Salvador—Gopesa
Jorje—Kavi
Teo—Krato
Solvai—Subhanana Dasi
Bula—Tilakaini Dasi
Maria—Modani Dasi
Anthony Velasquez—Pitamvara
Lenox—Vasuki
Anthony—Vama
Reinaldo—(now here in Los Angeles) Simhadasa
2nd Initiation
Viraha dasa
Pramona dasa
Tamoha dasa
Vara devi dasi
Letter to Dayananda -- Los Angeles 7 January, 1974:
I have accepted the devotees whose names you have sent me for second initiation, Aksobhya das, Jnanagamya das, Carucandra das, Rathangapani das, Krsna Kumari dasi and Bisa Laksi dasi. I am enclosing 4 sacred threads chanted on by me, and 6 copies of the gayatri mantra. Have them hear the mantra on the tape through their right ear, and instruct them carefully on Brahminical life.
Letter to Nadia -- Los Angeles 11 January, 1974:
Gurukrpa Maharaja has recommended you for first initiation, and I have accepted you as my disciples. Your spiritual names follow respectively:
Eddie Yazegean—Nadia das
Ron Pala—Mayapur das
Jesse Mathis—Godrumia das
I am also accepting Kritagama and Pundarika das Brahmacaris for the second, Brahminical initiation.
Letter to Tamala Krsna -- Los Angeles 11 January, 1974:
Regarding your invitation to go to Dvaraka, yes I have already written you I have accepted, and I can go there. Hearing that you have collected Rs 81,000 in the month of December is very pleasing; you are a very good boy.
Letter to Damodara -- Honolulu 16 January, 1974:
I have accepted as my disciples, those devotees recommended by you, and their spiritual names are as follows:
Edward Striker, Aindra dasa
Neil Kallmyer, Nilambara dasa
James Machuga, Jagara dasa
Pamela Machuga Padma malini devi dasi
Now instruct them very seriously about their responsibilities.
Letter to Damodara -- Honolulu 16 January, 1974:
As for the second initiation, I have accepted those disciples whose names you have sent me, Laksmivan das, Varuthapa das and Krsnabhava devi, and I am enclosing two sacred threads and three copies of the gayatri mantra. Please instruct them and show them by example as well what is the character and practice of a brahmana. They should hear the tape of me chanting the gayatri mantra through the right ear.
Letter to Sahadeva -- Honolulu 23 January, 1974:
We are criticizing the caste brahmanas for saying that the Americans and Europeans cannot be awarded brahmana initiation, because according to Vedic sastra, anyone who is properly trained up under a bona fide spiritual master, can become twice born. But if our brahmanas do not take their second initiation seriously, then we will be deserving of criticism. So on this basis, if your think the men you have recommended are still eligible, you can resubmit their names to me and I will accept them.
You have also submitted two names for first initiation. With this first initiation, we can more readily give them a chance. Provided they are enthusiastic and you observe they are following the devotional practices then you can submit their names. I have accepted the names submitted by your and their names are as follows:
Brent Chevaliar—
Clarice Sandoz—
You may hold a fire yajna for them and instruct them in avoiding the ten offenses to chanting Hare Krsna Mantra.
Letter to Bhakta dasa -- Honolulu 26 January, 1974:
As for first initiations, I have accepted the devotees whose names you have recommended to me, and their spiritual names are as follows:
Jeannie Pennera—Kamatavi devi dasi
Ray Flores—Rudravapu dasa
Mark Weldman—Natanga dasa
Daniel Koenig—Dhanadhyaksa dasa
Letter to Bhagavan -- Hong Kong 1 February, 1974:
I have accepted the devotees you have recommended for first initiation and their spiritual names are as follows:*
John Jean-Guy Bouchre de Belle—Jayantakrt dasa
John, Jean Keraval—Jayakula dasa
Kathy de Poo—Kanti-dasi
Claude Landemaine—Kausi dasa
Letter to Baja Panalalji -- New Delhi 5 February, 1974:
I understand from different sources that you want to construct the Temple portion by your choice, so I accept the plan submitted by you in place of the original plan.
Letter to Madhudvisa -- Vrindaban 18 March, 1974:
I have accepted the two Melbourne devotees for initiation as recommended by you and their names are given as follows:
Charles of the Sea—Praceta dasa
Christian—Camari dasi
Please instruct them in the ten offenses to chanting and hold a fire yajna there. You may chant on their beads.
Letter to Uttamasloka -- Vrindaban 18 March, 1974:
Please accept my blessings. I have accepted for first initiation the devotees recommended by you, and their spiritual names are as follows:
Rick Richert—Revati-prana-natha dasa
Kevin Douglas—Kesisatru dasa
Be sure to instruct them on the ten offenses and their obligation to chant at least 16 rounds daily, without fail. You may send their beads to Rupanuga Maharaja for chanting, and you may hold a fire yajna in the temple.
Letter to Amarendra -- Bombay 21 March, 1974:
Please accept my blessings. I have accepted the devotees recommended by you for first initiation, and their spiritual names are as follows:
Don Ronsse—__ das Adhikari
Lisa Ronss—Candrt devi dasi
Heidi Ranebhy—Nagari devi dasi
Their beads may be chanted on by Rupanuga Maharaja. You may hold a fire yajna and speak about avoiding the ten offenses in chanting. Please instruct these students in all ways so that they can advance nicely in your care in Krsna Consciousness.
Letter to Bahudak -- Bombay 21 March, 1974:
I have accepted for first initiation the following devotee recommended by you:
David McLeod—Devagiri das
You may send his beads to be chanted on by Jagadisa. Be sure to instruct him in the avoidance of the ten offenses and how he has now vowed in all seriousness never to fall down on the four sinful activities.
I have also accepted one devotee, Prabhupada dasa Adhikari, for second initiation, upon your recommendation. Please impress on him that this second initiation is not awarded cheaply or automatically, and that he must be very strict in following the regulative principles of bhakti yoga.
Letter to Balavanta -- Bombay 21 March, 1974:
I have accepted the devotees for first initiation according to your recommendations, and their spiritual names are as follows:
Gene Johnson—Jvarajit dasa
Ron Brunch—Ramanotsuka dasa
Elaine Magyer—Titiksa devi dasi
You may send their beads to Rupanuga Maharaja for chanting. Instruct them carefully in avoiding the ten offenses, and make sure that they and everyone in the temple is chanting at least 16 rounds daily, without fail.
Letter to Hasyakari -- Bombay 21 March, 1974:
I beg to acknowledge receipt of names recommended by your for first initiation. On your word I have accepted them as my disciples and their spiritual names are as follows.
Philip Cote—Phanamandita dasa
Keith Weber—Kalpavrksa dasa
Ron Burnstein—Muktakesa dasa
Cheryl Denbroff—Siladitya devi dasi
Candy Burton—Kamya devi dasi
Pam Parker—Padmahara devi dasi
You may send their beads to Rupanuga Maharaja for chanting. Hold a fire yajna in the temple and impress on all these new devotees that they must chant at least 16 rounds daily, without fail and refrain from the four sinful activities. If one observes just these principles he will be rapid progress in spiritual life.
Letter to Jagadisa -- Bombay 21 March, 1974:
I have accepted those devotees who you have recommended for first initiation, and their spiritual names are as follows.
Keith Haslar—Kamsahanta dasa
Lorraine Haslar—Lokadrsti devi dasi
Drew—Duryodhana guru dasa
Be sure to carefully train them in offenseless chanting, by avoidance of the ten offenses to chanting. You may chant on their beads and hold a fire yajna.
Letter to Damodara -- Bombay, India 23 March, 1974:
I have accepted the devotee recommended by you for first initiation and his spiritual name is as follows:
Douglas Duty,...Dandi dasa
His beads may be chanted on by Rupanuga Maharaja. Please hold a fire yajna and speak to him on the ten offenses against chanting. Personally see that he is chanting at least 16 rounds daily, without fail.
Letter to Batu Gopala -- Bombay 23 March, 1974:
Please accept my blessings. I have accepted the devotees recommended by you for first initiations, and their spiritual names are as follows.
Dan McGready—Divyanga dasa
Michelle—Maharajani devi dasi
Paula—Pramada devi dasi
Their beads may be chanted on by Jagadisa Prabhu. Please impress upon them that their chant must avoid the ten offenses, and that they must chant the minimum 16 rounds without fail, and be very careful to keep themselves free of the four sinful activities. They are in your charge so you must set the example.
Letter to Govinda -- Bombay 23 March, 1974:
I have accepted the devotees recommended by you for first initiation, and their spiritual names are as follows.
Miriam—Mekhala devi dasi
Linda—Lalana devi dasi
Ron—Ranganatha dasa
Ruth—Ruci devi dasi
Have their beads chanted on by Jagadisa Prabhu. Our whole Krsna Consciousness rests on following the regulative principles, chanting 16 rounds at least, daily and without fail, and avoiding the four sinful activities.
Letter to Bhagavan -- Bombay 24 March, 1974:
I have received the names of the devotees recommended by you for first initiation, and upon your word I have accepted them as my disciples. There new spiritual names are as follows.
Francine Steinberg—Rangini devi
Jenny Gilbert—Jagatkirti devi
Danielle Mary—Dandakesa devi
Maureene Remila—Mandahasa devi
You may chant on their beads and hold a fire yajna in the temple. As GBC you must see that they and all the devotees in the temples are first of all chanting at least 16 rounds on beads. Be sure they are aware of the ten offenses to chanting, and that they remain enthusiastic about improving their devotional service in that way.
I have accepted for second initiation Sakirta das and Dayamrgya das and have enclosed sacred threads and gayatri mantra. Have them hear the tape of me saying the mantra through the right ear.
Letter to Dayananda -- Bombay 24 March, 1974:
I have accepted the devotees named by you as my disciples and their spiritual names are as follows
Sherry—Syamalangi devi
Debbie—Dyuti devi
Gary—Giri dasa
It is very pleasing to me to accept also some of our older Gurukula students who you have recommended as ready for initiation. Ekendra das Brahmacari and Dvarakadhisa dasa Brahmacari have already been given their spiritual names by me. Catton—Katyayana das Brahmacari, and Lisa—Manisa devi, are also now initiated devotees. All initiated devotees must chant at least 16 rounds daily, without fail. Now that they are initiated there is no question of not doing their rounds.
Letter to Trista Hubbarth -- Bombay 3 May, 1975:
Actual spiritual knowledge is to take the authoritative statements from the scriptures and from the great acaryas, spiritual masters in disciplic succession. Other's opinions are not important. For example, in the Bhagavad gita, Lord Krsna gives His opinion, but He is accepted as the Supreme Personality of Godhead by all the great sages of the Vedic philosophy including Vyasadeva the compiler of all the scriptures, as well as Narada, Brahma, Siva and in the modern time, Ramanuja, Sankaracarya, Lord Caitanya, etc. They all confirm that Krsna is the supreme truth, the Personality of Godhead. Although this is plainly described throughout the Vedas, you will not find it in the teachings of the so called swamis and yogis who are teaching nowadays. Therefore you have intelligently discovered that in my Bhagavad-gita the approach is very different from what you have found elsewhere. That is because I am not trying to avoid Krsna or give some misinterpretation, but I have accepted the actual Bhagavad-gita, wherein Krsna says, Mattah parataram nanyat (BG 7.7), there is no higher than Me.
Letter to Sudama -- Rome 26 May, 1974:
Based on their declarations of sincerely following all the prescribed Vaisnava regulations for one year, and on your recommendation, I have accepted Jagat Prabhu das, Praghosa das, Kanva das and Nitai Gauracandra das for second initiation and I have enclosed sacred thread and gayatri. You were present in Hawaii when I was there and was particularly stressing that the presidents must be very careful on recommending gayatri initiation. After all, we are criticizing false cast brahmanas, if we ourselves are bogus brahmanas then our position is very bad.
Letter to Nityananda -- Rome 27 May, 1974:
On your recommendation I have accepted Robbie Bernstein and James Steelman a my initiated disciples, and their spiritual names are as follows:
Robbie—Rajendra dasa
James—Jvarajit dasa
Please work with them carefully so they will always keep up chanting their rounds and remain enthusiastic to follow the principles.
Letter to Trai -- Rome 27 May, 1974:
Upon your recommendation I have accepted Neal Buyers as my initiated disciple and his new spiritual name is Niranjana dasa. Keep him carefully now. Krsna Consciousness means to create ideal men, so you must set the example in following the rules and chanting Hare Krsna mantra and see that others are doing it also.
Letter to Hamsaduta -- Paris 8 June, 1974:
I have accepted for initiation the devotees recommended by you and their new spiritual names are as follows:
Matthew Norton—Manihara dasa
Ann Norton—Amekhala devi dasi
You may chant on their beads.
Letter to Ravindra Svarupa -- Paris 9 June, 1974:
I have accepted on your recommendation the three devotees as my duly initiated disciples, and their spiritual names are as follows:
Patti—Pattarajni devi
Donna—Dantadhara devi
Lois—Atura devi
I have also accepted your recommendation for Vanamali prabhu to take second initiation. Enclosed is one sacred thread and gayatri mantra. Have him hear the tape of my chanting the mantra, in his right ear. The beads of the initiated devotees may be chanted on by Kirtanananda Maharaja.
Letter to Rsabhadeva -- Paris 9 June, 1974:
I have accepted as my disciples the devotees recommended by you and their spiritual names are as follows:
Gary—Gopta dasa
Joe—Jyotirganesvara dasa
Peter—Padmagarbha dasa
Steve—Stavapriya dasa
Paya—Papaharinidevi
Rebecca—Rangavalli devi
Jayatirtha prabhu may chant on their beads and you may hold a fire yajna. Initiation means to begin so now these devotees, under your supervision must take the vow with utmost seriousness to chant everyday at least 16 rounds on beads and to refrain from the four sinful activities.
Letter to Sahadeva -- Paris 9 June, 1974:
On your recommendation I have accepted the devotee submitted by you as my duly initiated disciple. His new spiritual name is as follows: Bruce Dickmeyer—Bhusaya dasa.
I understand this is the second time you are submitting the names of Siddhavidya and Kirticandra for second initiation and that you have seriously considered their eligibility for brahminical status. Therefore I will accept them as brahmanas, and the sanctified threads are enclosed as well as gayatri mantra. Have them listen to the tape of me chanting the mantra. The beads of the new initiates may be chanted on by Jagadisa Prabhu. I understand you are situated in a new building. You may send me pictures.
Letter to Jayatirtha -- Frankfurt 18 June, 1974:
I appreciate that you say you have very carefully considered the names and the candidates have had several interviews and written statements before you would consider them, both for first and second initiation. I am especially concerned that the second initiation not be taken cheaply and devotees who do not even rise early be recommended for brahmana. Therefore I have accepted the devotees recommended by you and their new spiritual names are as follows:
John Maley—Caitanya Simha dasa
Rhonda Maley—Racitambara-devi
Eugene Edwards—Urjasvat dasa
Mark Molinero—Mahesvasa dasa
Kathryn Ruesnik—Kusala devi
Joe Masters—Jitamrtyu dasa
Sharamine Bruce—Sailodgata devi
Alfredo Ruiz—Abhipraya dasa
Michael Pickup—Manya dasa
You may hold a fire yajna and chant on their beads and impress on them they are taking vows before Radha-Krsna, the spiritual master and the Vaisnavas. They must always chant at least 16 rounds daily and avoid the four sinful activities.
Letter to Sukadeva -- Vrindaban 9 August, 1974:
The men you have recommended I accept as my disciples, and their name are as follows:
John Philion—Jyotiraditya dasa
Shannon Philion—Sarada
Sherman Alston—Shasta dasa
Karen Alston—Krsnapriya dasi
Eric Thomas—Aja dasa
John Rowe—Jagadadija dasa
I hope this meets you in good health.
Letter to Abhirama -- Vrindaban 16 August, 1974:
I have accepted the students upon your recommendation as my initiated disciples. Their spiritual names are as follows:
David Milo Cramer—Dhruva das
Ernest Czwal—Drsta das
Thomas Gribble—Takrahari
John Paul Gribble—Jagatsakha
Ron Jermakakian—Rajakari
Joseph Rizzo—Ragaputra
Jerome Schein—Srisa
Joseph Cyril Streb—Sarvopama
Marsha Bryant—Manini
Aurora Gribble—Akancani
Farnie Spottswood—Srutirupa devi dasi
Donna Tonkinson—Drsya
John Jill—Jambavan
As you have suggested, you may hold a fire sacrifice and the beads may be chanted upon by Rupanuga Prabhu. You should impress upon the new disciples that they are taking vows before Radha and Krsna, the spiritual master, and the Vaisnavas. They must always chant at least 16 rounds daily and avoid the four sinful activities.
Letter to Batu Gopala -- Vrindaban 16 August, 1974:
Regarding the devotees whom you have recommended, I accept them upon your recommendation and their initiated names are as follows:
John Haslett—Halayudha
Marjorie Haslett—Manovega devi
Chris Hayes—Khangi
Please see to it that they follow the regulative principles strictly. That is your responsibility.
Letter to Mahamsa -- Vrindaban 16 August, 1974:
Regarding the initiations I have accepted them as my disciples and their spiritual names are as follows:
Krishna das—Kauravesvara
Ravindra—Raghavendra
You may hold a fire sacrifice and chant on their beads and impress upon them they are taking vows before Radha and Krsna, the spiritual master, and the Vaisnavas. They must always chant 16 rounds daily and avoid the four sinful activities.
Letter to Hrdayananda -- Vrindaban 17 August, 1974:
Upon your recommendation I have accepted the following students as my initiated disciples, and their spiritual names are as follows:
CARACAS:
Walter—Vanasancari das;
Miguel—Munipriya das;
Elba—Adhara das;
Thais—Tadakari das;
Janoski-Jayahatakosthaka das
SAN JUAN:
Magaly—Manohara dasi;
Americo—Adhari das;
Guillermo—Gopa das
SANTO DOMINGO:
Rafael—Rasakeli dasi;
Ramon—Rajivalicana das
MEXICO:
Orasess—Prabhudas;
Miguel Angel—Mantri das;
Fernando—Kutahanta das;
Georgina—Jaladhosa dasi;
Malena—Mathura dasi.
I am also enclosing sacred threads and sheets for Havi das, Purujit das, Urdhvabhaga das (CARACAS); and SAN JUAN; Raghupatiprana das, Vaisnavananda das, and Bhuvana Rasini das; TSKP—Kirtideva das.
Letter to Bhagavan -- Vrindaban 21 August, 1974:
I am pleased that you are treating this matter of initiation as a serious business. I have accepted the following as my disciples:
BOYS
Amyot, Robert—Avyaya das
Cochet, Gerard—Krtajna das
Bouvant, Bernard—Bhutakrd das
Brinster, Phillipe—Bhima das
Mougard, Yves—Mahabala das
Perrin, Jean—Prakasatma das
Verraes, Jurgen—Viruha das
Voyer, Bernard—Vrsakrti das
GIRLS
Chabaud, Odile—Sasvatpavana dasi
Giralt, Carmen Guptalaya dasi
Heudebourg, Marie—Homavatsala
Jako, Gislaine—Jalapriyadasi
Schaufuss, Ann—Satarupa dasi
Vautier, Annie—Visesa dasi
I am also enclosing a sanctified thread and mantra sheet for the second initiation of Abhinanda das.
Letter to Bali-mardana -- Vrindaban 30 August, 1974:
Regarding Karandhara, he has already been informed that I have accepted his resignation from BBT. It is all right that Tamala Krsna borrows $10,000 for a bus and that Chicago borrows $10,000 to purchase their present building.
Letter to Dina Bandhu -- Vrindaban 3 September, 1974:
Upon your recommendation I have accepted as my initiated disciples the following devotees and their names are:
1. Ed—Edhaniyasvabhava das
2. Pat—Pati das
3. Linda—Lila devi
Also enclosed are sanctified threads for Mahi Barta das, Krta krta das, Sarva das, Sretha das, Now hold a fire sacrifice and impress upon the devotees that they are taking vows before Radha and Krsna, the spiritual master, and the Vaisnavas. Everyone should attend mangal arati and chant 16 rounds daily.
Letter to Rsabhadeva -- Vrindaban 3 September, 1974:
Upon your recommendation I am accepting the following as my initiated disciples and their names are as follows:
1. David Bowmar—Dhanviganesa das
2. Kenneth Venezia—Kalanka das
3. James Sullivan—Jagattraya das
4. Walter Parry—Vrndapati das
5. Michael Matlock—Mangaladata das
6. Christina Wroth—Kriyasakti devi
Please see that they strictly follow all the principles, chanting 16 rounds daily. This is also for the older disciples as well.
Letter to Gurukrpa -- Vrindaban 19 September, 1974:
I have received your request through Bhagavan das to initiate the following as twice initiated brahmanas. Upon your recommendation I accept them. Enclosed are the sanctified threads and the mantra sheet for Vamsivadana Suvasa das and Nischintya das.
You can hold a fire sacrifice and they can hear the mantra from my tape recording through the right ear. They must chant the mantra three times daily.
Letter to Adi-kesava -- Calcutta 24 September, 1974:
Upon your recommendation I am accepting the following as my initiated disciples.
1. Ted Prior—Tatpara dasa
2. Louis Soules—Ladhvamsi dasa
Also, I am accepting the second initiation of Bhudhara dasa, Prthusrava dasa, and Narindra dasa. Enclosed are the sanctified threads and the mantra sheet.
Letter to Madhudvisa -- Calcutta 25 September, 1974:
Upon your recommendation I am accepting the following as my initiated disciples.
1. Mr. Ashok Jeram Patel—Astasiddhi dasa
2. Ian Saller—Yamalarjuna dasa
Please see to it that they follow strictly the four regulative principles and chant 16 rounds minimum daily on the beads.
Letter to Sukadeva -- Calcutta 25 September, 1974:
Upon your recommendation I am accepting David Kiish as my disciple. His spiritual name is Damaghosa dasa. I am also accepting Abhinanda dasa Brahmacari for second initiation. Enclosed is his sanctified sacred thread and mantra sheet. Hold a fire sacrifice amongst the devotees and he can hear the mantra from my tape record through the right ear. For chanting on the beads, a sannyasi or GBC man can do it.
Letter to Sri Govinda -- Mayapur 29 September, 1974:
Regarding the initiations, I accept for second initiation upon your recommendation Mrgendra dasa, Bhaktavasya dasi, Subhadra dasi, and Krsna mayi dasi. Enclosed are the thread and sheet. The following I accept as my disciples and their names are as follows:
1. Tom Obnibene—Trinakarta dasa; 2. Chuck Ryskamp—Cakri dasa; 3. Bill Byars—Visvatomukha dasa; 4. Lee Sutton—Lamala dasa; 5. Barb Sutton-Brmhani devi dasi.
Letter to Sri Govinda -- Mayapur 29 September, 1974:
Regarding the initiations, I accept for second initiation upon your recommendation Mrgendra dasa, Bhaktavasya dasi, Subhadra dasi, and Krsna mayi dasi. Enclosed are the thread and sheet. The following I accept as my disciples and their names are as follows:
1. Tom Obnibene—Trinakarta dasa; 2. Chuck Ryskamp—Cakri dasa; 3. Bill Byars—Visvatomukha dasa; 4. Lee Sutton—Lamala dasa; 5. Barb Sutton-Brmhani devi dasi.
Now hold a fire sacrifice and impress upon the devotees that they are taking vows before Radha Krsna, the spiritual master, and the Vaisnavas.
Letter to Kirtanananda -- Mayapur 5 October, 1974:
Also regarding the devotees you have recommended, I have accepted them and their names are as follows: Mike Hoare—Manonatha dasa, Tony Riccardi—Tejomaya, Alfred Tarantino—Ajeya dasa, Terry Sheldon—Tapahpunja dasa, Catherine Conners—Khastha devi dasi. I have also accepted the following as twice initiated: Candramauli das, Krsna-sravana das, Gopinatha das, Krpacarya das, Vahna das, Cirantana das, Gomata devi dasi, Vidya devi dasi, Bhaktiniddhi devi dasi, Vrajasana devi dasi, Vrajeswara devi dasi, Visvadika devi dasi. The threads duly sanctified are enclosed. You can impress upon the initiates that they are taking vows at the fire sacrifice before Krishna and Radha, the spiritual master, and the Vaisnavas, so they should not deviate or fail to follow our principles.
Letter to Tulsi -- Mayapur 7 October, 1974:
I accept the following for second initiation, and the sanctified threads are enclosed: 1. Hamsavatara. das Adhikari, 2. Sangita devi dasi, 3. Loka Saranga das Brahmacari, 4. Omkara dasi, 5. Manindra devi dasi, 6. Divya devi dasi. On your recommendation I accept the following for first initiation and their names are as follows:
1. Roger Villalaban—Ranapriya,
2. Chuck—Ksetrajna dasa,
3. Roger Barbour—Raksana dasa,
4. Bob—Bhava dasa,
5. Glenn—Guruttama dasa,
6. Louis—Lohitaksa dasa,
7. Diane—Diksavati devi dasi,
8. Michelle—Mahavegavati devi dasi,
9. Dawn—Devamata devi dasi,
10. Andrea—Rasajna devi dasi,
11. Francie—Phalini devi dasi.
Letter to Ajita -- West Bengal 10 October, 1974:
Upon your recommendation I accept for second initiation Aristahe Das Brahmacari, and enclosed is his sanctified brahminical thread and the mantra sheet. When you hold the fire sacrifice, impress upon the devotees that they are taking vows before Radha and Krishna, the spiritual master, and the Vaisnavas, so it is a serious thing. The gayatri mantra should be heard from my tape recording through the right ear.
Letter to Ajita -- Mayapur 19 October, 1974:
I am pleased to accept the following as my initiated disciples and their names are as follows: Per Jaderstrand—Prapujaka dasa, and Margaretta Jaderstrand—Mahamedha devi dasi. Upon your recommendation I accept for second initiation Aristahe das Brahmacari, and enclosed is his sanctified brahminical thread and the mantra sheet.
Letter to Balavanta -- Mayapur 20 October, 1974:
Upon your recommendation I accept the following as my initiated disciples and their names are: John Johnson—Jitakrodha dasa; Susan Neuoff—Surasa dasi; and Cindy Sacco—Svaha dasi. I also accept Naradi devi dasi for second initiation.
Letter to Sripati -- Mayapur 28 October, 1974:
Upon your recommendation I am accepting for brahminical initiation Ghosa Thakura dasa, Priya Bandhu dasa, Priya Bhakta dasa, Bhadra Priya dasi, Sadhvi dasi, and Mohini dasi. Enclosed are the sanctififed threads. I also accept for first initiation the following devotees and their names are: Paul Campbell—Puskaraksa dasa; Christian Thomas—Krtakrta dasa; Leona Bolivar—Lalita devi dasi; Marie Cadeau—Medhya devi dasi.
Letter to Dayananda -- Bombay 1 November, 1974:
Regarding your recommendations for initiations, I accept the following as my disciples and their names are: Mike Pugh—Mayesa dasa; Beverly Pugh—Vaisnavapriya devi dasi; Raymond Crowe—Rajendranandana dasa; Jan Crowe—Lokahita devi dasi; Joe Torres (Joseph Terrones—ed.)—Jyotirmaya dasa; Raymond Kennedy—Ramadeva dasa; Dennis Winiker—Dhanurdhara dasa. I also accept for second initiation Subandhu dasa and Jayasri devi dasi, the sancitified thread and mantra sheets are enclosed.
Letter to Kirtanananda -- Bombay 21 November, 1974:
I am in due receipt of your letter dated October 18th, 1974, with your recommendations for first and second initiations. The following are those who I have accepted as my disciples and they are to be given the Hare Nama Initiation. Their names are as follows. Jerry Boy—Janakisa Dasa. Bill Jones—Bimbadhara Dasa. Cris Hall—Krpamaya Dasa.
So far these second initiations are concerned, I accept the following as duly initiated twice born Brahmans. Yajnabhuk Dasa. Lalitasakhi Devi Dasi. Rasa-lila Devi Dasi.
Letter to Madhudvisa -- Bombay 21 November, 1974:
Regarding the initiations upon your recommendation I am accepting the devotees as my disciples and their spiritual names are as follows;
Broad—Bhuvanadhara Dasa. John J—Jagadvira Dasa.
Jean—Gayantidevi Dasi. Keith—Krpakara Dasa.
Dan—Dhami Dasa. Maryanne—Matida Devi Dasi.
Bruce—Bhaskara Dasa. Sandy—Samjata Dasa.
Diane—Deva Deva Priya Devi Dasi.
I am also accepting the following as twice born initiated Brahmans and their mantra sheets and sacred thread is enclosed.
Ramprasada Adhikari. Raminia Devi Dasi. Gopala Devi Dasi.
Letter to Hamsaduta -- Bombay 23 November, 1974:
Regarding the initiations, upon your recommendations I have accepted the following as my disciples and their names are as follows: Ulrike—Amsumala devi dasi; Sabine—Snata devi dasi; Joachim—Jalandhara dasa; Achim—Haraka dasa; Thomas—Taponidhi dasa; Beth—Visoka devi; Detlinde—Dinasarana devi; Ceamack—Candravalipati dasa; Marco—Mahakarta dasa. I also accept the following as twice born initiated brahmanas: Udvargha dasa; Ravinari dasa: Manidhara dasa; Modananlasa devi; Manimanjari devi; Manda devi; Ramburu devi; Silpakarini devi.
Letter to Bhakta dasa -- Bombay 24 November, 1974:
Regarding the devotees you have recommended, I am pleased to accept them as my disciples and their names are as follows: Marilyn—Manini devi; Jamie—Janjapukandhi devi; Carol Hansen—Kelilalita devi; Carol Tungate—Kalpalatika devi; Huber—Hanumatpresaka dasa; Steve—Satkrta dasa; Lou—Lankesa das; Kirk—Kalanidhi dasa. Also I accept the following as twice born initiated brahmanas: Vatsala dasa; Sasikhala devi; and Vaisesikha dasa. The sanctified threads and the mantra sheets are enclosed. Hold a fire sacrifice, and the gayatri mantra should be heard through the right ear from my tape recording.
Letter to Ajita -- Bombay 28 November, 1974:
Upon your recommendation I accept Dvarakesa das Brahmacari for second initiation as twice born brahmana. Enclosed is the sacred thread duly sanctified by me, and the mantra sheet. Now hold a fire sacrifice and he may hear the gayatri mantra through the right ear from my tape recording. The mantra must be recited three times daily.
Letter to Hamsaduta -- Bombay 1 December, 1974:
As you have recommended for initiation Lisa Reuter and Willy, I have accepted them as my disciples. Their names are Lekhasravanti devi dasi and Bimbasya dasa. Please see to it that they chant on their beads and follow the regulative principles carefully. You are authorized to chant on their beads.
Letter to Prabhavisnu -- Bombay 3 December, 1974:
Upon your recommendation I am accepting the following devotees as my initiated disciples and their names are as follows: 1. Soley—Sarvasagara dasa; 2. Angela—Aksunnasakti devi dasi; 3. Jackie—Janardanaprita devi dasi. Their beads may be chanted upon by Hamsaduta. I am also accepting the following as twice born brahmanas upon your recommendation: Brsabha dasa; Jaya Laksmana das; Jnana das; and Jalastitha devi das.
Letter to Sama -- Bombay 9 December, 1974:
Upon your recommendation I have accepted the following as my disciples and their names are as follows: Tim—Tarakara dasa; Dorinda—Dainyahrt devi dasi. Their beads may be chanted upon by Kirtanananda Swami or Tamala Krishna Goswami.
Letter to Aksayananda -- Bombay 10 December, 1974:
I am in due receipt of your letter dated 10/12/74, and upon your recommendation I am accepting for twice born brahminical initiation Sriman Muktananda das Brahmacari. Enclosed is his sacred thread duly sanctified and his mantra sheet.
Letter to Bahudak -- Bombay 15 December, 1974:
Upon your recommendation I have accepted the following as my disciples, and their names are as follows; Doug—Daksina das, Robert—Ranjita das, Margie—Madhumati devi dasi; Danny—Dharmarupa das, Sharon—Subhavrata devi dasi. Their beads may be chanted on by Kirtanananda Swami or Tamala Krsna Goswami.
Letter to Bahudak -- Bombay 15 December, 1974:
N.B. Also I have accepted Partha, Uttama, __, Bhadra for 2nd initiation—threads enclosed.
Letter to Rsabhadeva -- Bombay 16 December, 1974:
Upon your recommendation I have accepted the following for second initiation; Asurakulanasana dasa brahmachari, Satangati dasa brahmachari, Ratnanabha dasa Adhikari, Khandabhasi dasi, Dhatreyi dasi. Their threads are enclosed herein.
Letter to Kurusrestha -- Bombay 28 December, 1974:
I have accepted the following devotees for first initiation; Martin Babor—Madhvacarya dasa, Bruce Roberts—Bahulavan dasa, Jenny Roberts—Jalasayi devi dasi, Steve Schecter—Siddhanta dasa, Joe Asheraft-Jitadusana dasa, Tove Olson—Trpti devi dasi and Richard Santoro—Rangaji dasa. Their beads can be chanted on by Kirtanananda Swami. I have accepted the following devotees for second initiation; Svavasa dasa Adhikari, Tadit devi dasi, Dhanvir das Brahmacari, Arthada dasa Brahmacari. Their threads and mantra sheets are enclosed herein. Make sure that they hear the gayatri mantra from the tape of myself. They should hear through the right ear.
Letter to Mahamsa -- Bombay 29 December, 1974:
Upon Acyutananda Swamis recommendation I have accepted the following as my duly initiated disciples: Rangacari—Radhasaran dasa, Amarnath—Aradhana dasa, Chalapati—Chandrodaya dasa, Asoka—AmiyaVilasa dasa. There beads have been chanted on by me and have been sent by __ das brahmacari to Hyderabad. Please make sure that these boys follow the 4 regulative principles very carefully and chant 16 nice rounds daily.
1975 Correspondence
Letter to Jayatirtha -- Bombay 1 January, 1975:
Regarding this matter of Spiritual Sky management, I have given the decision over to the GBC men. Whatever they decide, I will accept.
Letter to Ajita -- Bombay 6 January, 1975:
I have accepted Gauracanda dasa brahmacari and Sriharini devi dasi as duly twice-born brahmanas and their threads are enclosed along with mantra sheet. You can hold a fire sacrifice and let them hear the mantra through the right ear from the tape of myself saying it.
Letter to Madhudvisa -- Bombay 8 January, 1975:
I have accepted Bhakta Wayne and Bhakta Rod as my firstly initiated disciples. Their names are as follows: Venugopala and Ramasaran. Also I have accepted Antaratma dasa, Ramai dasa, Gunavati dasi, and Camari dasi as duly initiated brahmanas. Their threads and mantra sheets are enclosed.
Letter to Abhirama -- Bombay 16 January, 1975:
I have accepted the ten persons whom you have recommended for second initiation and their threads have been enclosed along with mantra sheet. I have also accepted the three you have recommended for first initiation. Their names are: William—Isa das, Eric—Ahobala-Nrsimha dasa, Nancy—Nartaka Gopala dasi. Their beads may be chanted on by Kirtanananda Svami.
Letter to Adi-kesava -- Bombay 16 January, 1975:
I have accepted the four persons that you have recommended for second initiation and their threads and mantra sheet are enclosed herein. I have also accepted the six persons you have recommended for first initiation. Their names are: Edward—Sadasiva dasa, Robert—Rupa dasa, Susan—Sitapati dasi, Theothora-Tryadhisa dasi, Mildred—Mahalaksmi dasi, David—Dharmasetu dasa. Their beads can be chanted on by Kirtanananda Svami.
Letter to Bhrsakapi -- Bombay 16 January, 1975:
I have accepted the three devotees that you have recommended for 1st initiation and their names are as follows: Ben—Bhavanatha dasa, Jeff—Yadunatha dasa, Jim—Yajna dasa. Their beads may be chanted on by Kirtanananda Svami.
Letter to Uttamasloka -- Bombay 16 January, 1975:
I have accepted for 1st initiation the 6 persons you you have recommended. Their names are as follows: Earl—Harideva dasa, Geoff Meek—Govinda bhakta dasa, Lucien—Laksminatha dasa, Tim—Trilokanatha dasa, Tuija—Tribhuvanesvari dasi, Cathy—Ksiracora dasi. Their beads may be chanted on by Kirtanananda Svami. I have also accepted Purnamasi devi dasi and Rudrani devi dasi as my duly initiated (secondly) disciples.
Letter to Satsvarupa -- Bombay 19 January, 1975:
I have accepted Bhakta Seth for first initiation. His name can be Sesa das. You may chant his beads. Also, I have accepted Maha Buddhi das and Mahadyuti das as my duly initiated brahmanas. Let them hear the gayatri mantra through the right ear from the tape of myself chanting it. Their threads and mantra sheets are enclosed herein.
Letter to Amsu -- Bombay 21 January, 1975:
I have accepted Kati McIntosh as my initiated disciple. Her name is Karanakarana devi dasi. Her beads can be chanted by Kirtanananda Svami.
Letter to Batu Gopala -- Honolulu 1 February, 1975:
I have accepted the devotees that you have recommended for 1st initiation and their names are as follows: Leon—Lilamohana, Virginia—Venu-Vilasa devi dasi, John—Gurugovinda dasa. Their beads can be chanted on by Kirtanananda Svami. Make sure that all of these candidates follow our principles very staunchly. Train them nicely by your own example.
Letter to Dayananda -- Honolulu 2 February, 1975:
I have accepted Brenda and Gary Wallis for 1st initiation. Their names are as follows: Balavati devi dasi and Gaurasarana dasa. Their beads may be chanted on by Kirtanananda Svami. I have also accepted Kamanagari dasi, Jyotir dasa, and Svarga devi dasi as my duly initiated brahmanas.
Letter to Jagadisa -- Honolulu 2 February, 1975:
I have accepted Doug, Judith and Paul for 1st initiation and their names are respectively; Dayala Nitai, dasa, Jaganmayi devi dasi, and Paripurna dasa. Their beads can be chanted on by Kirtanananda Svami. Train them nicely to follow all of our rules and regulations strictly without fail and to engage 24 hours in Krishna's service.
Letter to Kirtanananda -- Honolulu 2 February, 1975:
I have accepted the ten devotees you have named and their new names are as follows: Gregory—Gaurasakti dasa, Walker—Venkata dasa, Patrick—Parisevana dasa, Barbara—Vibhavari devi dasi, Anne—Amrtaprada devi dasi, Sheryl—Sobhavati, Mary—Mahadevi dasi, Donna—Damagrahya devi daski, Marie—Mudakari devi dasi, Catherine—Kratuphalas devi dasi. You may chant on their japa beads.
Letter to Ravindra Svarupa -- Honolulu 2 February, 1975:
I have accepted Joe and tim as my disciples and their new names are respectively; Yamunapriya dasa and Tattvavada dasa. Their beads may be chanted on by Kirtanananda Svami.
Letter to Sri Govinda -- Honolulu 6 February, 1975:
I have accepted the devotees that you have recommended for 1st initiation and their names are as follows: Randall—Rathayatra dasa, Joseph—Jayakrsna dasa, Rodney—Ramakeli dasa, Ron—Ramananda dasa, Susan—Suprabha devi dasi, Deby—Danasila devi dasi. Their beads can be chanted by Kirtanananda Svami.
Letter to Govardhana -- Mexico City 15 February, 1975:
Thank you for the photo of Sri Sri Radha Kunja-Bihari. It is very nice photo. They are looking very beautiful. I have accepted the following for 1st initiation: Bruce—Brajendralala, Miriam—Mukhya, Jeff—Jayavamana, Robin—Rajendranatha, Kim—Kaviraja, Karl—Kapiladeva, Sue—Sukti. Their beads may be chanted on by Satsvarupa Maharaja. Be sure and help them become first class devotees by following all the rules and regulations, very carefully, especially, they must rise early for mangala arati, chant at least 16 rounds and attend class.
Letter to Nityananda -- Mexico City 15 February, 1975:
I have accepted the two persons that you have recommended for 1st initiation. Their names are Michael—Muniraja, and Robin—Rajanatha. Their beads can be chanted by Kirtanananda Swami. Train them to be first class devotees by following very strictly all of our rule regulations, chanting at least 16 good rounds daily.
Letter to Dina Bandhu -- Mexico City 16 February, 1975:
I have accepted upon your recommendation the three persons for 1st initiation and their names are as follows: Dave—Devarsi, Michele—Maladhari, Andrea—Abhaya. Their beads will be sent to you by separate post. I have also accepted Anantatma dasa for 2nd initiation. His thread and mantra sheet are enclosed herein. Let him hear the tape of myself chanting the gayatri mantra. It should be heard through the right ear.
Letter to Jayatirtha -- Mexico City 16 February, 1975:
I have accepted Jesus's for 1st initiation upon your recommendation. His name is Yaduvamsi. His beads may be chanted by Kirtanananda Svami. I have also accepted Aroudha, Vidambha, Pujana, Sastramayi, Jalakara as my duly initiated brahmanas.
Letter to Gunagrahi -- Caracas, Venezuela 19 February, 1975:
I have accepted upon your recommendation Dan for first initiation. His name is Dvarakaraja dasa. His beads may be chanted upon by Kirtanananda Svami or Satsvarupa Maharaja. I have also accepted Matanga das and Vamsi dasa for 2nd initiation. Their threads and mantra sheet are enclosed herein.
Letter to Manasvi -- Tehran 13 March, 1975:
I have accepted the persons whom you have recommended for 1st initiation. Their names are: Linda—Lilasravana, Kathryn—Kamini, Cynthia—sita, Joe—Yasodala, Ronald—Ranganatha. Their beads can be chanted by Kirtanananda Svami. Also I have accepted Laksmana dasa for 2nd initiation. His thread and mantra sheet is enclosed herein. Let him hear the tape of myself chanting the gayatri mantra in his right ear. Keep the standard of devotional service very strict there.
Letter to Supriya -- Bombay 18 March, 1975:
Upon the recommendation of your temple president Govardhana dasa, I am accepting you as my initiated disciple. Your name can be Sukrta dasa. I am hoping that you will fulfill your promise to chant at least 16 good rounds a day and to follow all of the four regulative principles. These things are of the utmost importance. Your beads will be sent along with Govardhana dasa.
Letter to Dr. Ghosh -- Mayapur 5 April, 1975:
I am in due receipt of your two letters dated March 20th and March 23rd, 1975 and have noted the contents very carefully. I thank you very much for your kind invitation and, tentatively, I accept it. Most probably, we shall go to Allahabad from Vrndavana by the 28th of April, 1975 and stay there for a week, and then start for Bombay on the way to Australia by the 5th of May I wish to hold classes on Bhagavad-gita and Srimad-Bhagavatam for one hour in the evening and one hour in the morning. I do not know if gentlemen there will spare so much time. If not two hours, then I shall hold one hour Bhagavad-gita class, and I wish to see how people there appreciate our missionary activities. It is strictly on the basis of Lord Krishna's teachings as they are presented by Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu. That is our mission.
Letter to Dulal Candra -- Melbourne 19 May, 1975:
I accept Bob Bauer and Sue Bauer as my duly initiated disciples. Their names are Bhokta dasa, and Sukhavaha devi dasi. Their beads may be chanted by Kirtanananda Swami.
Letter to Gunagrahi -- Melbourne 19 May, 1975:
I accept Sharon Swanson for 1st initiation. Her name is Sandamini. Her beads may be chanted on by Satsvarupa Maharaja. Also I have accepted Sajjane Jivana for 2nd initiation. Let her hear the gayatri tape (of myself chanting) through the right ear. Her mantra sheet is enclosed.
Letter to Prabhanu -- Melbourne 20 May, 1975:
I am in due receipt of your letter dated May 15th, 1975 and have noted the contents. I have accepted Lauri and Joni for 1st initiation. Their names are as follows: Lalita devi dasi and Jivanausadhi devi dasi respectively. Their beads may be chanted on by Satsvarupa Maharaja. Also I have accept Simha dasa, Anagha dasa, and Dhanasri dasi, and Kantimati dasi for 2nd initiation.
Letter to Hasyakari -- Honolulu 26 May, 1975:
I have accepted the devotees you have recommended for initiation. Their names are: Stephen—Sundarakara, Janet—Jaganmurti, Patricia—Premaka. Their beads may be chanted by Kirtanananda Swami. The thread for Phanamandita dasa is enclosed and the mantra sheet is also enclosed with the gayatri mantra. Let Siladitya devi, Mahavegavati devi, and Phanamandita dasa all hear the tape of myself chanting the gayatri mantra through the right ear. Make sure that these boys and girls follow very carefully all of the rules and regulations, as well as chant 16 rounds daily and read my books carefully.
Letter to Nityananda -- Honolulu 5 June, 1975:
I have accepted Caron Dempsey for first initiation. Her name is Krsna-pujya devi dasi. Her beads can be chanted on by Satsvarupa Maharaja. Be sure that all of the devotees there are very carefully following all of the regulative principles and chanting 16 rounds daily and let them study the books deeply.
Letter to Doc Dockstader, Shari Dockstader -- Honolulu 8 June, 1975:
Upon the recommendation of Revatinandana Swami, I have accepted you both as my initiated disciples and I have sent your names to Revatinandana Swami who can give them to you at the proper time at the initiation ceremony. Please continue your Krishna Conscious program with great faith and steadiness.
Letter to Revatinandana -- Honolulu 8 June, 1975:
I have accepted Doc and Shari for 1st initiation and their names are as follows: Dharmadhyaksa dasa and Sri Radha devi dasi. Make sure that they continue to follow the principles, chant 16 rounds and read studiously and their spiritual advancement will be guaranteed.
Letter to Tusta Krsna -- Honolulu 10 June, 1975:
I accept Kerry Welsh for 1st initiation. His name is Krodhaha dasa. You can give him the name at his ceremony.
Letter to Narayana -- Honolulu 16 June, 1975:
I have accepted Saunaka dasa for 2nd initiation. His thread and mantra sheet are enclosed. Let him hear the tape of myself chanting the gayatri mantra through his right ear.
Letter to Batu Gopala -- Honolulu 17 June, 1975:
I accept the persons you have recommended for initiation (first). Their names are as follows, Bill—Bhama dasa, Brenda—Brahma-vadini devi dasi, Michael—Mahana dasa. Their beads may be chanted by Kirtanananda Swami. Also, I have accepted Divyanga dasa for 2nd initiation. His thread and mantra sheet are enclosed herein. Let him hear the tape of myself chanting gayatri mantra through his right ear.
Letter to Rsabhadeva -- Denver 27 June, 1975:
I am accepting the following for second initiation as twice born brahmana and their threads are enclosed duly sanctified: Anatacharya das, Gupta das, and Rasatoonga dasi.
I also accept the following as my disciples and their spiritual names are as follows: Arthur Davis—Arka dasa; Ken Kilmer—Kumunda dasa; Kim Kilmer—Kundara dasa; Racy Niciu—Rucirangada dasa; Robert Queen—Rama Sriyah dasa; Russel Noles—Radhapati dasa.
Letter to Nandikesvara -- Denver 28 June, 1975:
I am accepting the following as twice born brahmanas and their threads duly sanctified are enclosed: Duryodhana guru dasa and his wife Vrndadevi dasi, and hold a fire sacrifice and impress upon them that they are taking vows before Radha Krsna, the spiritual master, and the assembled Vaisnavas.
I also accept the following as my initiated disciple: Dandra Fohr—Sanga devi dasi. Please see that she carefully follows the regulative principles.
Letter to Tulsi -- Denver 28 June, 1975:
I have received your request for initiations and I accept the following as my disciples and their spiritual names are as follows: Robin West—Rathagrahi dasa; David Moore—Disa dasa; and Dorrie Winham—Dharmada devi dasa.
I also accept the following as twice born brahmanas and their threads are enclosed duly sanctified: Citraka dasa, Ameyatma dasa, Guruttama dasa, Urjasvat dasa, Padmahara dasi, Manya dasa, Parvata Muni dasa, Nikunjavasini dasi, Krsna Lauliya dasi, Caitanya Simha dasa, and Racitambara dasi.
Letter to Hrdayananda -- Denver 1 July, 1975:
With regard to your letter dated June 9, 1975, upon your request I am accepting the following as my initiated disciples: Joca—Yajni dasa; Claudio—Caturmurti das; Bosco—Bhamaka dasa; Lucio—Lokasaksi dasa; Marcio—Maha kala dasa; Julio—Jagad bharta dasa; Flavio—Virocana dasa; and Bernadech—Bhuta mata dasi; Lucia—Raga bhumi devi; Marcia—Maha yogisvari dasi.
Please see that all these new devotees from Brazil are strictly following the regulative principles and chanting 16 rounds minimum daily.
Letter to Nityananda -- Denver 1 July, 1975:
Upon your recommendation I accept Paul Warren Menard as my initiated disciple. His spiritual name is Pana dasa. Please see that he maintains the Vaisnava standards and chants always 16 rounds minimum.
Letter to Kurusrestha -- Denver 2 July, 1975:
Upon your recommendation, I am accepting the following twice born brahmanas; Koshalendra Das Adhikari, Jyoti Das Adhikari. Enclosed please find their threads sanctified by me. I also accept as my initiated disciples the following devotees and their spiritual names follow: Al Rhiener—Adhata, Cleef Athey—Kamari Das.
Letter to Locanananda -- Evanston, Illinois 7 July, 1975:
Upon your recommendation, I accept the following as my initiated disciples and their names are: Henk van teylingen—Hayesvara dasa; Gabriel Sebach—Gabhiratma dasa; Ernesto Lucifero—Ekatma dasa.
Letter to Tulsi -- Evanston, Illinois 7 July, 1975:
Upon your recommendation I am accepting the following as my initiated disciples and their names are:
Barbara Stark—Bhrama Karika devi; and Bhakta Ned—Nirguna dasa. I also accept for second initiation Mahaswara dasa. His sacred thread is duly enclosed sanctified by me.
Letter to Madhavananda -- Los Angeles 25 July, 1975:
Upon your recommendation I am accepting the following as my initiated disciples:
Olivier Anconne—Bhusana dasa
Frank—Visodhana dasa
Frances Marlier—Anisa devi dasi
Also upon your recommendation, I am accepting the following as twice-born initiated brahmanas:
Indriyadamana dasa Brahmacari
Mahabala dasa Brahmacari
Brajisma dasa Brahmacari
Vrsaktri dasa Brahmacari
Avyaya dasa Adhikari
Jyestha devi dasi
Navalanga devi dasi
Their sanctified threads and mantra sheets are enclosed.
Letter to Tulsi -- Dallas 29 July, 1975:
Upon your request I accept the following as my disciples and their names are: Mihallais Gitsis—Nandagopa dasa; Jamie Cray—Mahapurusa dasa; Terry Dann—Priyatmaja dasa; and James Mason—Kamalanatha dasa.
I also accept the following disciples as twice born brahmanas. Devamrta dasa brahmacari and Gopiparanadhana das brahmacari. Their threads duly sanctified by me are enclosed. Please have the beads chanted upon by a GBC sannyasi and hold a fire sacrifice. The brahmanas should hear the gayatri mantra with the right ear from my recorded tape.
Letter to Gunagrahi -- Bombay 16 August, 1975:
Upon your recommendation I accept for second initiation Sona puri devi dasi. Enclosed is the mantra sheet. Hold a fire sacrifice and let her hear the mantra from my recorded tape through the right ear.
Letter to Kirtanananda -- Bombay 17 August, 1975:
Upon your recommendation I am accepting the following as my initiated disciples and their spiritual names are as follows: Barbara Wolfe—Vedanta dasi; Janet Cleaver—Viduttama dasi; Kurt Cleaver—Sarvasaksi dasa; Florence Walldeck—Vedapriya dasi; Carlos Ordenoz—Nityodita dasa; Gary Williams—Rsi Kumar dasa; Jeff Long—MahaRudra dasa; Jeff Wiseman—Atmabhu dasa; Jeff Daniels—Visvamohan dasa; Eileen Daniels—Vinalangi dasi; Karen Bogdonoff—Janani dasi.
I also accept for second initiated brahmanas the following: Suksmarupini dasi, Damagraha dasi, Dharmakala dasi, Maha Kamini dasi, Nogomala dasi, Kunjari dasi, Jalakolahali dasa, Baivsyhe dasa, Caidayastru das, Hari Dharma dasa, Advaitacarya dasa. Enclosed are the sanctified threads and mantra sheet.
Letter to Abhirama -- New Delhi 21 August, 1975:
I am in due receipt of your letter dated August 18, 1975, and upon your recommendation I am accepting the following as my initiated disciples and their names are: Sunil Awatramani—Srisatya dasa; Wayne Prabhu—Upasya dasa; Marcia Bernheimer—Gatiprada devi; Antoinette Kennedy—Gitagamya dasi; Bernadette Bonaccurso—Visnu-kanta devi.
I also accept the following as twice born initiated brahmanas: Langa Ganesa dasa, Janardana das, Nandana Acarya das, and Raghunatha Puri das. Hold a fire sacrifice and let them hear my recorded tape through the right ear.
Letter to Nityananda -- New Delhi 21 August, 1975:
Upon your recommendation I am accepting the following disciples as initiated and their names are as follows: Thomas White—Padavja dasa; Henrietta Whelan—Jayaprada dasi; Katherine Kern—Kamarikanta devi; Jim Tucker—Jagatkarta dasa. I also accept for second initiation Sanatanai devi dasi. The mantra sheet is enclosed.
Letter to Alanatha -- Vrindaban 1 September, 1975:
Upon your recommendation I am accepting Vaclav and Jan as my initiated disciples. Their spiritual names are Paragati dasa and Turiya dasa respectively. See that they chant regularly 16 rounds and follow our principles. Then they will remain strong in Krishna consciousness. Their beads can be chanted upon by Hamsaduta dasa.
Letter to Badarinarayana -- Vrindaban 1 September, 1975:
I am in due receipt of your note dated May 9, 1975 attached to the letter by Pam Conger. Upon your recommendation I am accepting her as my initiated disciple, and her spiritual name is Padmahasta dasi. Please see that she chants regularly 16 rounds.
Letter to Cyavana -- Vrindaban 4 September, 1975:
Upon your recommendation I accept the children of Rasa-lila as my disciples. There spiritual names are Radhika devi dasi and Sanatana das Brahmacari. You can chant on their beads.
Letter to Balavanta -- Vrindaban 7 September, 1975:
Upon your recommendation I am accepting the following as twice-born initiated brahmanas and their sanctified threads and mantra sheets are enclosed: Ballabadra Bhattacarya das Brahmacari and Mahejya das Brahmacari. I also accept as my initiated disciples the following and their spiritual names are: Dr. Richard Thompson, Ph.D.—Sadaputa das; Mike Dunn—Vedaguhya das; Chuck and Diana Sanders—Munjakesa das and Madamohini dasi; and Cindy Barber—Janmasunya dasi. Please see that they are chanting 16 rounds without fail.
Letter to Yasomatinandana -- Vrindaban 7 September, 1975:
I am in due receipt of your letter dated August 11, 1975 with the enclosed letter from Laksmana devi dasi. I have already sent a telegram that I accept her for brahminical initiation.
Letter to Kurusrestha -- Ahmedabad 26 September, 1975:
Upon your recommendation I am accepting the following as my initiated disciples and there spiritual names are as follows:
Mike Puglise—Govardhanadhari das
Cheryl Puglise—Gopanandakari devi dasi
Christina Mills—Pradhanagopika dasi
Scott Byrnes—Yajnopabhokta das
Please see that they follow the four regulative principles strictly and chant 16 rounds daily, and they will remain strong in Krishna consciousness. I also give brahminical initiation to Puja dasi. The mantra sheet is enclosed. She can hear at the fire sacrifice my tape recording through the right ear.
Letter to Rocana -- Ahmedabad 26 September, 1975:
Upon your recommendation I am accepting the the following as my initiated disciples, and their names are:
Dennis and Paula—Jnanamudra das & Trailokyasundari devi dasi
Timothy Moore—Yoginatha das
Peter and Carol Fortany—Rukminisa das and Vedagarbha devi dasi
Ken Perry—Parampadam das
Marlanee Boyadjian—Yasodanandapatni devi dasi
Please see that that they will follow our rules and regulations and chant minimum 16 rounds daily. I also accept for second initiation Mahidhara das and Pracetana devi dasi. Enclosed is the sanctified thread and the mantra sheet.
Letter to Sukadeva -- Ahmedabad 26 September, 1975:
Upon your recommendation I accept Sita devi for second initiation. Enclosed is the mantra sheet. She must hear the recorded tape I have given through the right ear.
Letter to Dina Bandhu -- Durban 7 October, 1975:
Upon your recommendation I am accepting both boys for my disciples. Their names are Girijarata dasa—Marty, and Amoghavirya dasa—Michael. Also, I am accepting Edhaniyasvabhava das brahmacari and Lila devi dasi as twice born brahmanas.
Letter to Sama -- Johannesburg 20 October, 1975:
I herein accept your proposal for first initiation as of Francis (Tulasiballabha das) and Carol (Ujjvalaprada dasi). Now, I am accepting them on your recommendation so you must convince them of the seriousness of following the four regulative principles and chanting a minimum of 16 rounds japa daily. Hold a fire-yajna and do the needful in this connection.
Letter to Amarendra -- Johannesburg 21 October, 1975:
On your recommendation I am accepting the following devotees for initiation:
1st. initiation: Robert Tarjan (Dronacaryaguru), Keith Consbruck (Manusrestha dasa)
2nd. initiation: Bhusaya das Brahmacari, Jagannatha Tirtha das Brahmacari, Ekadasi das Brahmacari, Mahaprabhu das Adhikari, and Jalangi devi dasi.
Letter to Tulsi -- Johannesburg 22 October, 1975:
On your recommendation, I am accepting the following devotees for initiation:
1st. Initiation: Miriam Bicks (Dhrti devi dasi)
Karen Wilson (Krsnastuta devi dasi)
Connie (Pusti devi dasi)
Maddonna (Kulapriya devi dasi)
Bhakti Pete (Mahanidhi das)
Ann Matesow (Yuvati devi dasi)
Jim—(Ksamabhudi das)
2nd Initiation: Gajapati das, Pundarika Vidyanidhi, and Raksana.
Letter to Sukadeva -- Bombay 9 November, 1975:
Regarding your request for initiation. I am accepting the following as my initiated disciples and their names are as follows: Steve Frederick Ricciardi—Puranarsi; Eric Duncan Botts—Santiparayana; Michael Stanely Misiak—Dharmajivana; David John Smith—Ādi Karta; Ronald McClelland—Sarvasatya; Michael Delare Bodhaine—Munisvara; Carissa Annette Crammer—Mahavisnupriya. And for second initiation I accept the following as twice-born brahmanas: Godruma das Brahmacari, Bharata das Brahmacari and Daksa das Brahmacari.
Letter to Visvakarma -- Bombay 9 November, 1975:
Upon your recommendation I am accepting Rodney Mort as my disciple and his name is Jitakandarpa. I also accept Nakadi das Brahmacari for brahminical initiation.
Letter to Alanatha -- Bombay 10 November, 1975:
Upon your recommendation I am accepting the following as my initiated disciples. Their names are as follows: Johnnie—Jamadagni das; Maggie—Vedatita devi dasi and Christine—Samhartri devi dasi. I also accept for second initiation Vrsnivallabha das Brahmacari. Enclosed is the sanctified mantra thread and mantra sheet. It is your responsibility as the president of the temple to see that these devotees strictly follow the rules and regulations such as chanting 16 rounds minimum on the beads. 16 is the minimum; one can chant more. There is no harm, but one at least must chant the fixed number of rounds.
Letter to Kirtanananda -- Bombay 10 November, 1975:
Regarding your recommendations for first and second initiation; I accept the following for first initiation: Ann Shotland—Sukulina dasi and Diana Alpert—Gopalasyapriya dasi. And for second initiation I accept the following as twice-born brahmanas: Janaladha das, Manipuspaka dasi, Manisa dasi, Damodara Pandit das, Kalanidhi das, Uttamauja das, Ajitananda das and Mudhakari devi dasi.
Letter to Gurudasa -- Bombay 12 November, 1975:
Upon your recommendation I am accepting for brahminical initiation Locasvara das. Enclosed is his sanctified gayatri thread and also the mantra sheet. I also accept for initiation Chris Nell and hs spiritual name is Srutisagara das. His beads may be chanted on by Tamala Krsna Gosvami. A fire sacrifice should be held so the brahminical initiate can hear the mantra through the right ear from my recorded tape. You should impress upon them of the responsibility for following the rules and regulations and chanting 16 rounds minimum each day. This will save them from maya.
Letter to Govardhana -- Bombay 18 November, 1975:
Upon your recommendation, I accept as twice-born initiated brahmanas Ramananda Raya das and Visvatomukha das. Enclosed are their brahminical threads, duly sanctified and the mantra sheet. Hold a fire sacrifice and impress upon them the importance of following the rules and regulations so that they may not be affected by the influence of maya.
Letter to Jagadisa -- Bombay 20 November, 1975:
Upon your recommendation, I am accepting the following devotees as my initiated disciples and their spiritual names are as follows: William C. Rich is Kanupriya das; Gregory Furgeson is Gopala das; Melinda Pickup is Yogamaya dasi; David Sliman is Sesadeva das; Sam Santoro is Pralabaha das; Kelly Griffin is Yugapriya and Tracy Smith is Vamana-devi. I also accept for second initiation Rajendranandanana das, Lokahita dasi. Also from Winnipeg, I accept for second initiation Dharmaprana das, Natha das, Lalita devi dasi and Misrani devi dasi. The sanctified gayatri threads are enclosed and also the mantra sheets.
Letter to Nalinikanta -- Bombay 21 November, 1975:
Upon your recommendation I am accepting the following two brahmacaris as my initiated disciples. And their names are Malcolm Perey is Yamunapata das and Monte Flynn is Kalatita das.
Letter to Cakravarti -- New Delhi 2 December, 1975:
I have accepted the following list of Boy and Girls as my duly initiated disciples. So you are the president there at Schloss Rettershof, it is your duty to see that the standards of Krishna Consciousness are always maintained, especially chanting 16 rounds daily, observing the four regulative principles, no meat, fish, eggs, no intoxication, no gambling, and no illicit sex life. The students must all attend morning and evening arati and classes. If we follow this simple program along with regular sankirtana, distributing the books and preaching, then there will be no fall down. Just like if one keeps himself clean and properly nourished by eating regularly, he will not infect disease, but if there is neglect, then there is room for infection, he becomes weak and fall prey to disease. So Krishna consciousness is the medicine for the material disease, and chanting Hare Krishna mantra sincerely is the basic ingredient of that medicine.
George—Pavenesvara das
Joseph—Airavata
Thomas—Gurusrestha Das
Duri—Dhanadhena Das
Tulsi—Dinadyatma Das
Ananda Kumar—Giri Pati Das
Bernhardt—Marendra Das
Jurgen—Yadasampati Das
Peter—Devarsirat Das
Jutta—Saumyarupa Devi Dasi
Sabina—Amahamaha Devi Dasi
I hope this letter finds you well.
Letter to Sivarama -- Vrindaban 7 December, 1975:
I am accepting the student you have recommended for Brahmin initiation, their names as follows; Dharmaprana das Brahmacari, Natha Das Brahmacari, Misrami Devi Dasi, and Lalita Devi Dasi. Hold a fire ceremony, and let the students hear the mantra from the tape recording through the right rear. Brahminical life means to be very very clean, inside and out.
Letter to Hrdayananda -- Vrindaban 11 December, 1975:
I accept the below listed students as my initiated disciples their new names are given and you may hold a fire ceremony and chant on their beads. Instruct them to chant 16 rounds daily and refrain from the four sinful habits of material life. The second initiates should hear the Matra from the tape recording through the right ear, instruct them in habits of cleanliness, and brahminical qualifications and behavior.
Brazil
Amaro—Srivatsa Das
Sergio—Jagajjaitra Das
Helio—Kalanemiha Das
Evaraldo—Anantakirti Das
Antonoi—Visvavandya Das
Rogerio—Kuladeva Das
Pedro Paulo—Yajnatrata Das
Ariel—Dvijapriya Das
Argentina
Oscar—Jayadhvaja Das
Hector—Sadhyasrestha Das
Ramon—Sahasranama Das
Humberto—Dharmananda Das
Maria—Rasasun Devi Dasi
Lilian—Yogini Devi Dasi
Silvia—Rasavasini Devi Dasi
Kamala Carana Das—second initiation
Premaprayojana Das—second initiation
Mexico city
Arturo—Dvija hari Das
Rafael—Yajnaphalada Das
Vivara—Visvaksena Das
Alfredo—Devyahpati Das
Ricardo—Kripalu Das
Ricardo A.—Adityesa Das
Isabel—Bhutabhavya Das
Efren—Sananava Das
Raul—Stutya Das
Jorge—Vedasara Das
Letter to Bhagavan -- Bombay 19 December, 1975:
I have received the list of first and second initiations and I have accepted them as my duly initiated disciples. Enclosed please find the sacred threads duly chanted upon by me. Now hold a fire ceremony, and instruct the new devotees to chant 16 rounds daily and follow the regulative principles of devotional service.
Letter to Yuvraj Thakura Sahib -- Bombay 31 December, 1975:
As you have recommended, I accept Jagaddhatri devi dasi for 2nd initiation. Now you must hold a fire ceremony. She should hear the mantra from the tape recording through the right ear. Brahmana initiation means to be very clean, inside and outside. Inside by chanting the glories of the Lord, and outside by bathing regularly, washing hands and mouth after eating. Instruct her on all of these things and do it yourself, as "EXAMPLE IS BETTER THAN PRECEPT."
1976 Correspondence
Letter to Hrdayananda -- Nellore 4 January, 1976:
I accept Sriman Raghava Caitanya das Brahmacari for second initiation. Enclosed please find his sacred thread duly chanted on.
Letter to Jagadisa -- Nellore 5 January, 1976:
I accept all the recommended devotees as my duly initiated disciples. Now hold a fire ceremony, and instruct the new devotees to chant 16 rounds daily and follow the regulative principles of devotional service. Their initiated names are as follows:
Bhakta Benoit—Jayagovinda das
Bhakta Arthur—Sadapusta das
Bhakta Alain—Paranagra das
Bhakta Michel—Vidyaraja das
Bhaktin Louise—Sarada dasi
Bhaktin Elizabeth—Ambhoda dasi
Bhaktin Joyce—Syamaballabha dasi
I accept Medhya devi dasi for brahminical initiation.
Letter to Aksayananda -- Nellore 6 January, 1976:
I accept Govinda das Brahmacari for second initiation. Enclosed is his sacred thread duly chanted on by me. Now you have to hold a fire ceremony and let him hear the gayatri mantra from the tape recording in his right ear. If he is going to engage in the Deity's service, he must be taught to be very clean. Brahmin means to be clean—internally by chanting the Lord's glories and externally by regular bathing.
Letter to Brisakapi -- Nellore 7 January, 1976:
I accept John Weber as my initiated disciple. His new name is Ramasena das Brahmacari. See that he chants daily sixteen rounds and follows strictly the rules and regulations. Similarly, I accept Krsna Gopala das, Vardhanya das, Puspuvan das, Gabhira das, Ambujaksa das, and Megha devi dasi for second initiation.
Letter to Abhirama -- Bombay 9 January, 1976:
I accept all the candidates for first initiation as my duly initiated disciples. Their spiritual names are:
Bhakta Wayne Melton—Visvavrksa dasa
Bhakta Michael Cremo—Drutakarma dasa
Bhakta Sunil Awatramani—Adridharana dasa
Bhakta Andrew Hooper—Srimaya dasa
Bhaktin Bernadette—Andharupa dasi
Bhaktin Antoinette—Harestanu dasi
Letter to Locanananda -- Bombay 10 January, 1976:
I have received the names of all the candidates for initiation and I accept them all as my duly initiated disciples. Their new spiritual names are as follows:
Jan Appelman—Jayagopal dasa
Freddy Van de Buerie—Mahasrnga dasa
Raymond Nota—Jnanaraja dasa
Henry Fluster—Akhiladhara dasa
Peter Vander Heyden—Divyasinhadasa
Patricio—Krtayajna dasa
Jannie Smit—Mangalaya dasi
Tettje Meursing—Aharada dasi
Francisco van der Linden—Atitagamana dasi
Letter to Visvakarma -- Bombay 10 January, 1976:
I accept the recommended devotees as my initiated disciples. Their spiritual names are:
Errol Lewis—Ugresa dasa
Craig Harper—Asuramarjara dasa
Subash Batra—SubhaVilasa dasa
Asha Batra—Ashalata dasi
Now you have to hold a fire ceremony. Instruct everyone to faithfully chant 16 rounds and follow the regulative principles. Teach them by your personal example.
Letter to Bahudak -- Bombay 11 January, 1976:
All of the devotees you have recommended I accept for initiation. Dharmarupa das, Subavrata dasi, Mahojjvala dasi, Sthanur das, Jagadadija das, Damagosh das and Kanti-mati should after holding a fire ceremony, be allowed to hear the Gayatri mantra through the right ear from the tape recording. They must always keep clean, internally by chanting the Lord's glories, and externally by regular bathing. In addition they should regularly study Bhagavad-gita, Nectar of Devotion, Nectar of Instruction, Isopanisad and all the paperbacks because soon we shall be holding examinations based on these books for the brahmanas. Those who pass will be given the title Bhakti-sastri. Gail Bergeron's spiritual name is Paratpara dasi. She that she chants minimum 16 rounds daily and strictly follows the regulative principles.
Letter to Rupanuga -- Bombay 11 January, 1976:
I accept Bhakta John as my disciple and also Padmamalini dasi for second initiation. His name is Amara das. Now hold a fire ceremony. She may be allowed to hear the mantra through the right ear from the tape. Instruct them both on the meaning of first and second initiation respectively.
Letter to Makhanlal -- Calcutta 15 January, 1976:
I accept all the new devotees as my initiated disciples. Their names are:
Glenn Wharton—Isvaripati dasa
Andy De Souza—Sarvadevamaya dasa
Thomas Wyhaupt—Guruvagmi
Harry Troy—Vedatma dasa
Letter to Yasomatinandana -- Mayapur 18 January, 1976:
I am in due receipt of the names of the persons recommended for first and second initiation. I accept all the new devotees as my initiated disciples. Their spiritual names are:
Bhakta Phil—Sarvaksadasa
Bhakta Mark—Parivadi dasa
Bhakta Jimmy—Kalasamvara dasa
Bhakta Bruce—Rudracandi dasa
Bhakta Martin—Krodhesvara dasa
Bhaktin Karen—Sarvaga dasi
Bhaktin Sue—Brahmapatni dasi
All of them must agree to faithfully chant 16 rounds minimum daily and rigidly abide by the four regulative principles.
I accept Sriman Ram das and Sriman Dayasara das for second initiation.
Letter to Nalinikanta -- Mayapur 31 January, 1976:
I accept Mr. and Mrs. Kelley as my disciples. Their spiritual names are Sarvasiddhirat das and Svayamprabha dasi. Now you must hold a fire ceremony and they should vow to always chant minimum of sixteen round daily and strictly to adhere to the regulative principles.
Letter to Sukadeva -- Mayapur 5 February, 1976:
I have received the names of the candidates for initiation which you included in your recent undated letter and I accept them all as my duly initiated disciples. Their new spiritual names are as follows:
Scott Wheeler Whitley—Sauri das
Howard Lee Sewell—Haravapu das
Roberta Marie Rivet—Radhanarupini dasi
Shinna Theresa Diaz—Sakhi dasi
I also accept Kanva das Brahmacari for second initiation. Enclosed you will find his sacred thread which I have chanted on.
Letter to Batu Gopala -- Mayapur 18 February, 1976:
I accept Sriman Dhananjaya Pandit das for brahman initiation. You may hold a fire sacrifice and he should listen to the Gayatri mantra in the right ear from the tape.
Letter to Mr. Dhawan -- Vrindaban 2 April, 1976:
Question #5: What has Hasur Mohammed Sahib said about 14th Century and why?
Answer: I have not sufficient information about the instruction of Hazur Mohammed Sahib, but if you mean Mohammed, the inaugurator of Islam religion, I accept him as empowered servant of God because he preached God consciousness in those parts of the world and induced them to accept the authority of God. He is accepted as the servant of God and we have all respect for him. I do not know what he has said about the 14th Century, therefore, I cannot answer this point.
Letter to Nityananda -- Honolulu 4 May, 1976:
On your recommendation I am accepting the following devotees for initiation:
Lee Sutton—Kuruksetra das
Ernie Courey—Vidyapati das
Barbara Sutton—Parijata dasi
Padavja das Brahmacari (second initiation)
Letter to Brisakapi -- Honolulu 6 May, 1976:
On your recommendation, I am accepting Larry Tucker for first initiation, and Bhavanath das Brahmacari for second initiation. The first initiates' spiritual name is Lokaguru das. Have his beads chanted on by one of the sannyasis, and see that the devotees are strictly following the 4 regulative principles: no illicit sex life, no intoxication, no gambling, and no meat-eating. Everyone must chant a minimum of 16 rounds of Hare Krishna Mahamantra daily, and in this way be protected from the frailties of material existence.
Letter to Ajita -- Honolulu 11 May, 1976:
Upon your recommendation, I am accepting Lilamohana das and Kesava das for second initiation. Their threads are enclosed and you can play the gayatri mantra with accompanying mantra sheets into their right ear. Also, I am accepting Robert Hamilton (Sthayibhava das), and Joseph Hall (Mahamantra das) as my disciples. You can hold fire sacrifice and their beads may be chanted upon by Kirtanananda Swami.
Letter to Revatinandana -- Honolulu 20 May, 1976:
Also on your recommendation I am accepting Padmagarbha das and Papharini devi dasi for second initiation as brahmanas. After the fire sacrifice you should play the gayatri mantra into the right ear of the initiates. Enclosed please find one brahmana thread and copy of the gayatri mantra.
Letter to Nandevara -- Honolulu 23 May, 1976:
I am in due receipt of your telephone message from my secretary and on your recommendation I am accepting Allan (spiritual name Taraksa das) for first initiation, and the following devotees for second initiation: Dyapaka das, Jitarati das, Dayalaji das, Gauranga das, and Jaganmatha devi dasi.
Letter to Nityananda -- Honolulu 23 May, 1976:
On your recommendation I am accepting Danny Miller and Michael McKinly for first initiation into Hare Krishna chanting. You can have sannyasis chant on their beads, and give them their spiritual names and beads at the fire sacrifice. They must abide by the regulative principles; no illicit-sex, no intoxication, no gambling, and no meat-eating, and chanting minimum of 16 rounds daily. Then there will be steady and sure progress. Their spiritual names are:
Danny—Kalaksara das
Michael—Gunavasa das
Letter to Narayana -- Los Angeles 4 June, 1976:
On your recommendation, I am accepting Bhaktin Shanna Wollerman for first initiation. Her spiritual name is Nilacala dasi. Also, I am accepting Saurani dasi for second initiation. Those who take initiation must vow to refrain from illicit sex life, intoxication, gambling, and meat-eating, and to chant minimum of 16 rounds japa daily. The brahmanas must practice cleanliness internally and externally. Externally by bathing regularly, and internally by always chanting the Mahamantra.
Letter to Lokanatha -- Detroit 12 June, 1976:
On your recommendation I am accepting the following devotees for initiation:
1st initiation: Bhakta Adhira whose spiritual name is Abhayasraya-dasa
2nd initiation: Dharanidhara das Brahmacari, Vrajesvara das Brahmacari,
Enclosed please find a copy of gayatri initiation and two brahmana threads.
Letter to Riddha -- Detroit 15 June, 1976:
On your recommendation, I am accepting the following devotees for first initiation:
Bhakta Warrick—Caitanya-carana dasa
Bhakta Peter—Krsnasraya dasa
Bhakta Mike—Ādi Purusa dasa
Nadira—Syamasundari dasi
Letter to Ramesvara -- New Vrindaban 24 June, 1976:
On your recommendation, I am accepting the following devotees for brahminical initiation:
Vamanajana das Adhikari,
Dayalanitai das Adhikari,
Gopavrndesa das brahmacari,
Bahulavana das Adhikari,
Brahmakarika dasi,
Jaganmayi dasi,
Rukmavati dasi,
Viharini dasi,
Jalasayi dasi,
Khandita dasi,
Darmada dasi,
Anavijnani dasi,
Srila dasi,
Hold a fire sacrifice and for the male initiates you can give them sacred thread. The gayatri mantra should be played for them into the right ear and the brahmanas should practice the principles of cleanliness both outside and internally. Outside by bathing regularly, and inside by always chanting the Hare Krishna Mahamantra.
Letter to Nityananda -- Washington D.C. 5 July, 1976:
On your recommendation I am accepting Jvarajit das Brahmacari for second initiation. Hold a fire sacrifice and after the fire sacrifice a tape recording of the gayatri mantra should be played into his right ear. Enclosed is one brahmana thread and gayatri mantra sheet. Brahmin must practice cleanliness both externally and internally. Externally he must bathe regularly, and internally he must chant Hare Krishna.
Letter to Radha Sarana -- Washington D.C. 5 July, 1976:
On your recommendation I am accepting the following for first and second initiation:
First Initiation:
Bhakta Carlos—Karunamaya dasa
Bhakta Lalo—Lalitagovinda dasa
Bhakta Jonathan—Jyotsna dasa
Bhakta Willo—Visvadeva dasa
Second Initiation:
Minaksi dasa Brahmacari
Letter to Nityananda:
On your recommendation I am accepting the following disciples for first and second initiation:
First Initiation:
Michael Hyldahl—Vamsimohana dasa
Rodolfo Rios—Rasa-Vilasa dasa
James Lanclos—Jnana-natha dasa
Willie Butch McCord—Vaninatha Raya dasa
Second Initiation:
Jitamitra das brahmacary
Letter to Ramesvara , Radhavallabha -- Bombay 14 August, 1976:
The report of the book printing is both encouraging and surprising. Every time I see this I remember the words of my Guru Maharaja when he told me that wherever there was money it should be used to print books, not that we shall have big big temples and then fight in the court. He asked me to do this and I am trying my little bit, that's all. It is all by his blessings for without his blessings this wonderful thing would not have happened. He said personally to me, "If I could sell this Gaudiya Matha building, that would have been better." He predicted that there would be fire within these walls. So I took it, "O, His Divine Grace wants some books." So I accepted it, "Yes, I shall do it." It is all by his blessings. Mukam karoti vacalam pangum langhayate girim, by his mercy a dumb man can speak and a lame man can cross a mountain.
Letter to Ajita -- Hyderabad 20 August, 1976:
Please accept my blessings. As per your letter of request, I am accepting on your recommendation the following for first and second initiation,
First Initiation
Patricia Taylor—Papsudani dasi
Diane Zimmerman—Dinadaya dasi
Second Initiation
Maharudra das
The names and beads duly chanted upon by your local GBC man, may be given at a fire yajna.
Letter to Bhakta dasa -- New Delhi 26 August, 1976:
On your recommendation I am accepting the following boys and girls as my duly initiated disciples.
John—Jnanagati dasa
Spencer—Saktipati dasa
Orlando—Pranavananda dasa
Mark—Mitrasena dasa
Nadine—Nada dasi
Carol—Karuna dasi
All initiates of mine must strictly follow the four principles of no meat, fish or egg, eating; no gambling; no intoxication of any kind; and no illicit sex. They must chant 16 rounds a day minimum with attention, clearly chanting the mantra, and listening very carefully. This is the recommended process for purifying the heart in this sinful age of Kali.
Letter to Vegavan:
On your recommendation I am accepting the following disciples for first and second initiation:
First Initiation:
Bhakta Anders—Atma-nivedana dasa
Bhakta John—Yogindra dasa
Karen Johnstone—Kama-gayatri devi dasi
Second Initiation:
Turiya das brahmacari
Jamadagni das brahmacari
Radhanatha das brahmacari
Paragati das brahmacari
Letter to David B. Richeter Hughes -- Vrndavana 8 September, 1976:
Thank you very much for your kind offer to have me as your Permanent Acarya and Honorary Chairman. I will accept this if your organization and members are agreed to follow the four regulative principles which discriminate animal life from human life, i.e. no eating of meat fish or eggs; no illicit sex life outside of marriage and then only for the begetting of God conscious children; no intoxicants, including coffee, tea, or cigarettes; no gambling, not even bingo. Unless one follows these principles, spiritual life is not possible.
Letter to Hamsaduta -- Vrindaban 11 September, 1976:
On your recommendation I am accepting David Davidson as my first initiated disciple. His name shall be Visnudutta das. Also on your recommendation I am accepting Parajnana das brahmacari as my second initiated disciple and the thread is found enclosed. He may see me for the mantra and both may have fire sacrifice as you may find convenient.
Letter to Revatinandana -- Vrndavana 11 September, 1976:
On your recommendation I am accepting Simhesvara das brahmacari as brahmana and his thread is enclosed within. The name of Tyaga dasa may be given to Terry Gardner and the name Sarana devi dasa may be given to Sandra Joaquim.
Letter to Sukadeva -- Vrindaban 11 September, 1976:
On your recommendation I am accepting the following devotees for initiation:
First Initiation
William Jerald Leonard—Vidyagati dasa
Steven Edward Kulakowski—Svatantra dasa
Laura Ellan—Krsnalaulya dasi
Second Initiation
Piyuskanti das brahmacari
Sarva Satya das brahmacari
Letter to Cittahari -- Vrindaban 12 September, 1976:
On your recommendation I am accepting Usapati das for brahminical initiation and Kedara dasa shall be the spiritual name for Bhakta Kevin. Please hold a fire sacrifice and present the name at that time. Your local GBC man may chant on the beads.
Letter to Acyuta -- Vrindaban 20 September, 1976:
On your recommendation I am accepting the following disciples for first and second initiation.
First Initiation
Bhakta Ivan—Indrasena dasa
Bhaktin Dora—Dharma-patni dasi
Bhakta Manuel—Madhupati dasa
Bhakta Mozart—Madhava-priya dasa
Bhakta Ramacandra—Rangapuri dasa
Bhakta Luchie—Lilasuka dasa
Bhakta Paulo—Ananta-padmanabha dasa
Second Initiation
Paravyoma das brahmacari
Durasada dasa brahmacari
Mahayogisvara devi dasi
Madhusvara devi dasi
Letter to Pancadravida -- Vrindaban 20 September, 1976:
On your recommendation I am accepting the following as my duly initiated disciples.
First Initiation
Bhakta Gustavo—Gunesvara dasa
Bhakta Damian—Deva-srestha dasa
Bhakta Marceline—Mathura-mandala dasa
Bhakta Javier—Japananda dasa
Bhakta Kique—Kasi Misra dasa
Bhakta Osvaldo—Agnipati dasa
Bhakta Juan—Sacisuta dasa
Second Initiation
Caitanya Svarupa das brahmacari
Nitya Tripta das brahmacari
Letter to Vicitravirya -- Vrindaban 30 September, 1976:
With reference to your letter to Harikesa dated 14th inst., on your recommendation I am accepting the following disciples for first initiation.
Radha Krishna Pillay—Rama-Sarana Dasa
Gordon McMillan—Gaura-Nitai Dasa
Brian Daulby—Bhajanananda Dasa
Eamon Morton—Atmatma Dasa
Benedict Bygott-Webb—Bhagavad-bhakta Dasa
Gabriel Zajac—Giri-Govardhana Dasa
Tony Smullen—Tulasi-priya Dasa
Janet Pillay—Janaki Devi Dasi
Laureanne Mcmillan—Lal Gopala Devi Dasi
Letter to Sriman Bajaji -- Chandigarh 14 October, 1976:
I thank you very much for your letter dated October 4, 1976, I have noted the contents carefully. I accept your invitation. I will advise Giriraja, my secretary in Bombay to see you in this connection. I wish to take with me my sankirtana party whether you would like to accommodate them. If not then only my personal secretaries, all together five, will go with me, so you have to arrange accommodation for them.
Letter to Kuladri -- Vrindaban 22 October, 1976:
Upon your recommendation I will accept the following devotees as my initiated disciples. Please be sure that they know and follow the four regulative principles and that they always chant at least 16 rounds daily trying to avoid the 10 offenses. Hold a fire ceremony and have Kirtanananda Maharaja chant on their beads. Their new names are as follows:
Charles Vogler—Cakrapani dasa
Bernald Ely—Vallabha Caitanya dasa
Mary Tepas—Manasvini dasi
Theresa Pericola—Tilakaini dasi
Brenda Moffit—Bhaktinistha dasi
Pat Lawrence—Prema-manjari dasi
Letter to Bala Krsna -- Vrindaban 23 October, 1976:
Upon your recommendation I will accept as my duly initiated disciples the following devotees. Make sure that they strictly follow the regulative principles and always chant a minimum of 16 rounds, avoiding the 10 offenses. Hold a fire sacrifice and have Ramesvara Maharaja chant on their beads. I also enclose one sacred thread and gayatri mantra sheets for the devotees you have recommended. They should also participate in the fire ceremony. Their new names are as follows:
Ken Reilly—Krsnacandra dasa
Curt Halberstadt—Kunja-bihari dasa
Bryan Baxter—Varaharupa dasa
Craig Escalante—Kurma-rupa dasa
Debbie Escalante—Dasarathi dasi
Sheila Halvie—Syama-priya dasi
Letter to Narahari -- Vrindaban 24 October, 1976:
Upon your recommendation I accept the devotees you have requested initiation for. Robin Teter's initiated name is Rama Gopala dasa. I am enclosing 2 gayatri mantra sheets and one sacred thread duly chanted on by me.
Letter to Radha-sarana -- Vrindaban 24 October, 1976:
According to your recommendation I am accepting for second initiation Amala-harinama das Brahmacari and Viraja dasi. Now hold a fire ceremony for attendance of devotees only. You must be sure that these devotees are very strictly following the regulative principles and chanting a minimum of sixteen rounds daily. They must be fully engaged in devotional service, 24 hours per day. Please find enclosed two gayatri mantra sheets and one sacred thread. After the fire sacrifice, play the tape of me reciting the gayatri mantra into the right ear of these initiates and show them how to count on their fingers.
Letter to Bahudak -- Vrindaban 27 October, 1976:
Upon your recommendation I will accept the following devotees for first initiation, as well as the ones you have recommended for second initiation. Hold a fire ceremony and instruct the devotees to follow the regulative principles and to chant a minimum of 16 rounds every day. Play the tape of me chanting gayatri into the right ear of the second initiates. Their beads may be chanted on by Ramesvara Maharaja. The names of the new initiates are:
Mark L.—Madhu Pandita dasa
Marilyn—Madhava-priya dasi
John B.—Janapati dasa
James H.—Jaya Hari dasa
Letter to Rupanuga -- Vrindaban 11 November, 1976:
Upon your recommendation I will accept the devotees whose names appear below for first initiation and also the one you have recommended for second initiation. Please hold a fire sacrifice and instruct the new initiates to follow the four regulative principles and chanting sixteen rounds daily avoiding the ten offenses. You may chant on their beads. Play the tape of me chanting Gayatri mantra in the right ear of the second initiate and teach him how to count on his fingers.
Bhakta Andy—Ananta dasa
Bhakta Randy—Raghunatha Bhatta dasa
Bhaktin Gayle—Gopamatrka Dasi (from Baltimore)
Letter to Visvakarma -- Vrindaban 19 November, 1976:
Yes, I will accept these devotees as you have recommended; Jita Kandarpa das and Subuddhi dasi for second initiation and Bhakta Clem for first initiation. His new name is Karatieya dasa. Hold a fire sacrifice. Instruct Karatieya to always follow very strictly the four regulative principles and chant a minimum of 16 rounds daily avoiding the ten offenses.
Letter to Giriraja -- Vrindaban 24 November, 1976:
Yes, I accept your invitation to attend your Hare Krishna festival. I can come for either date, so you can arrange according to the convenience of the Mayor.
Letter to Vrikodara -- Hyderabad 2 December, 1976:
Upon your recommendation I will accept the devotees you have recommended as my duly initiated disciples. Now hold a fire sacrifice. Instruct them on the offenses to be avoided while chanting the Holy Names. They must promise to always chant a minimum of 16 rounds and strictly follow the four regulative principles. Balavanta may chant on their beads. Their new names are; Victor—Vedanta Krt dasa, Albert—Ananda dasa, Paul—Paramatma dasa.
Letter to Vrikodara -- Bombay 24 December, 1976:
Upon your recommendation I will accept these boys for second initiation. Now, hold a fire ceremony for devotees only. Let them hear the tape of me chanting Gayatri mantra in their right ears. Teach them how to chant on their finger divisions.
1977 Correspondence
Letter to Vegavan -- West Bengal 13 February, 1977:
On your recommendation, I have accepted the two devotees for first initiation, and their spiritual names are as follows:
Ryno Svensson———Raivata Dasa
Helga Svensson——-Hiranyangi Dasi
I have also accepted Yogendra Das Brahmacari for second initiation. Enclosed find one sanctified thread and the gayatri mantra. Have him hear the recording of me in the right ear. You may hold a fire yajna for the first initiations.
Letter to Caru -- Mayapur February 28, 1977:
I have accepted Mother Debbie for first initiation and her spiritual name is Divyadrsti dasi.
Letter to Bhagavat Asraya -- Mayapur 13 March, 1977:
On your recommendation, I accept Sriman Rabindranatha Dasa, Sriman Mahabhuj Dasa, and Matachandra Libha for second initiation. The sacred threads for the men duly chanted on by me are enclosed. I also accept Bhakta Richard for first initiation and his name is now Ripughna dasa.
Letter to Laksmi Narayana -- Bombay 26 March, 1977:
As you are recommending these devotees for initiation, I am accepting them. Their initiated names are:
John—Jaya Jagannatha dasa
Lisa—Lalita Krsna dasi
No you must hold a fire sacrifice and they should vow to abide by the four regulative principles and chanting minimum sixteen rounds daily.
Letter to Nityananda -- Bombay 12 April, 1977:
As you have recommended them, I am accepting for first initiation Kiki Laureen Cogan and David Hughes. Their initiated names are Krsna Kripa dasi and Dasanu dasa.
Letter to Radha-sarana -- Juhu, Bombay 17 April, 1977:
Just because there are no men is not a good reason to make someone a brahmana. This policy is not good. First have devotees. Then we should consider to open a center. Not that we open centers and have no devotees to manage them and therefore we create brahmanas. However, because this is a special case, I accept the two devotees, Sriman Jyotsna dasa brahmacari and Sriman Lalita-Govinda dasa brahmacari for second initiation.
Letter to Radha Krsna -- Bombay 27 April, 1977:
As you have recommended them, I accept all six devotees for second initiation. This is the success of our movement—that our devotees are becoming brahmanas. To be a brahmana means to be clean, internally by always chanting Hare Krsna mantra, and externally by bathing regularly.
Letter to Kuladri -- Bombay 28 April, 1977:
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 Hari-sauri -- Bombay 1 May, 1977:
As you have recommended them I accept Michael Pepper and Jackie as my duly initiated disciples. Their new spiritual names are;
Michael Pepper—Sikhipiccha-dhari Dasa
Jackie—Venu-dhara Dasi
Letter to Hari-sauri -- Vrndavana 18 May, 1977:
As you have recommended him, I accept Clayton as my duly initiated disciple. His spiritual name is Karsna-Dasa. You should hold a fire sacrifice and he must vow to chant minimum 16 rounds daily and follow the four regulative principles faithfully.
| Page Title: | I accept (Letters) |
| Compiler: | Rishab |
| Created: | 25 of Nov, 2010 |
| Totals by Section: | BG=0, SB=0, CC=0, OB=0, Lec=0, Con=0, Let=268 |
| No. of Quotes: | 268 |