Yesterday a copy of Srimad Bhagavatam Tenth Canto Part 3 was handed in to the East Melbourne Police Station. Contact the station at 226 Flinders Lane if it is yours. You will need to be able to confirm where it was lost.

# Posted by Tirthapada Dasa at 10/2/10; 8:39:31 AM to the News dept.
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Found - Srimad Bhagavatam Tenth Canto Part 3

You may have noticed the changes our web servant has made to the layout of these pages. If you haven't, then now's the time to have a closer look! Most significant in this interconnected phase of the Systems Era is the addition of a couple of social networking icons at the bottom of each News Item. If you want to repost on Facebook or Twitter, now you can.

We are planning to add Delicious and Mail This icons.

Do you have any site you'd like to post to? Please drop us a line by adding a comment and let us know if you want to see other social networking link icons that you would use?

Later on this year we are going to tidy up our blogroll and other links some of which are a bit outdated.


# Posted by Aniruddha at 26/1/10; 3:45:16 PM to the News dept.
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New Layout

Ironic indeed...

You won't find many religions "greener" than the Hare Krishnas. They are strict vegetarians, and vegetarianism is the #1 thing you can do for the environment. They embrace the Hindu concept of ahimsa, which is non-violence towards all, even animals, even wildlife. So it is truly ironic that a so-called "environmental" group would oppose them.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 20/1/10; 11:47:01 AM to the News dept.
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Residents fight Hare Krishna temple - South-West News

A great front page to the 21st December edition of the South Asia Times ePaper. Indradyumna Swami and Co. at the closing ceremony of the Parliament of World Religions. Follow the link above.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 25/12/09; 5:14:16 PM to the News dept.
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South Asia Times ePaper

Go to part 5 of the post by clicking the link above...

I want to end by sharing a small incident. The night before the release of 2 States, I was super tense. I went to the ISKCON temple in Chowpatty and met His Holiness Radhanath Swami, an American gentleman who moved to India several decades ago and devoted his life to serve God. I told him I couldn’t sleep because of the anxiety over the fact that there will be a million judgments on my work, both positive and negative, in the coming days. He told me this...

# Posted by Aniruddha at 10/11/09; 11:44:29 AM to the News dept.
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The Ocean « Chetan Bhagat

Now that we are moving into the business end of the year involving Le Carnaval Spirituel, Parliament of World Religion and the Book Marathon, we have several service obligations that have to be met. Therefore, please note the following -






The temple morning program from Monday to Sunday:

•    Guru puja & kirtan have to end no later than 7:30 AM

•    Srimad-Bhagavatam class has to end no later than 8:30 AM

•    Breakfast prasadam has to be ready by 8:30 AM

Thank you for your cooperation.



# Posted by Guna Mani Nitai dasi at 6/11/09; 4:39:42 PM to the News dept.
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Temple Timetable

Just in from Dallas. The Halloween kirtana street party. Check out the YouTube video.

about 100 Hare Krishna devotees from Dallas' temple attended the block party, which their priest later described as not "quite as debauched as the media made it out to be." As you can see from the above video, posted on the ISKCON Web site, the Hare Krishnas received a pretty good response as they moved through the crowd singing and dancing.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 5/11/09; 3:11:09 PM to the News dept.
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Hare Krishnas crash Halloween block party, lead drunken revelers ‘back to Godhead'

Gaura Vani and his travelling crew reached the temple today at 2.30am and were welcome by temple devotees who had prepared Ekadasi prasadam especially for them. Consequently, the Melbourne yatra had a full-house for the morning program. It was a jolly crowd that gathered in the courtyard for breakfast taking the opportunity of the Melbourne Cup long-weekend to attend the 24 Hr Kirtan.

More fun to come. In the meantime, here's a slideshow.


# Posted by Guna Mani Nitai dasi at 31/10/09; 7:30:30 PM to the News dept.
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Busy Saturday morning preceeding the 24HR Kirtan

Saturday 31st October 2009
4.30 – 5.00pm Vishvambhara Dasa (USA)
5.00 – 5.30pm Akincina Krishna Dasa (USA)
5.30 – 6.00pm Krishnagraja Dasa (MEL)
6.00 – 6.30pm Vraja Dhama Dasa (BNE)
6.30 – 7.00pm Krishnapada Dasa (BNE)
7.00 – 7.45pm Damodarastakam Prayers & Nrisimhadeva Prayers Aniruddha Dasa (MEL)
7.45 – 8.45pm Gaura Vani Dasa (USA)
8.45 – 9.45pm Sri Prahlada (SYD)
9.45 – 10.45pm Carmella Baynie (SYD)
10.45 – 11.30pm Krishnafest crew (MEL)
11.30 – 12.00pm Mangala Vaisnava Dasa (NZ)

Sunday 1st November 2009
12.00 – 1.00am The Kuli Crew (Brisbane/Melbourne Gurukulis)
1.00 – 2.00am Giridhara Dasa (MEL)
2.00 – 3.00am Janardan Kewin & Rohan Sheth (BNE)
3.00 – 4.00am Sita-pati Dasa (BNE)
4.00 – 4.30am Aniruddha Dasa (MEL)
4.30 – 5.00am Gurvastakam Prayers & Nrisimhadeva Prayers Aniruddha Dasa
5.00 – 5.10am Tulasi Arati Bhakta Dasa (MEL)
5.10 – 6.00am Bhakta Dasa (MEL)
6.00 – 7.00am Tina Hirani (SYD)
7.00am – 7.05am Darshan Arati / Govindam Prayers – CD
7.05am – 8.30am Damodarastakam Prayers & Guru Puja Gauravani Das & Sri Prahlada Das (USA & SYD)
8.30 – 9.00am Krishna Kishore Dasa (USA)
9.00 – 9.30am Jahnavi Dasi (UK)
9.30 – 10.00am Akincina Krishna Dasa (USA)
10.00 – 10.30am Leslie Prabhu (MEL)
11.00 – 11.30am Vraja Dhama Dasa (BNE)
11.30 – 12.00pm Akash (MEL)
12.00 – 1.00pm Sri Prahlada (SYD)
1.00 – 2.00pm Vishvambhara Dasa (USA)
2.00 – 3.00pm Carmella Baynie (SYD)
3.00 – 3.30pm Swarupa Sakti (MEL)
3.30 – 4.00pm The Kuli Crew (Brisbane/Melbourne Gurukulis)
4.00 – 5.00pm Krishna Fest Crew (MEL)
5:00 – 6:00pm World Sankirtan Party (BNE)
6.00pm – 7.00pm Krishnagraja Dasa (MEL)
7.00 – 7.30pm Damodarastakam Prayers & Nrisimhadeva Prayers Sitapati Dasa (BNE)
7.30 – 8.30pm Mayapuris (USA)
8.30 – 10.00pm Gaura Vani & As Kindred Spirits (USA)



# Posted by Guna Mani Nitai dasi at 26/10/09; 3:12:11 PM to the News dept.
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24HR Kirtan roster

Recently, this interesting article caught our attention. Indeed, Newsweek magazine boldly declared that "we are all Hindus now". Even though the article targets America, the statement applies to the majority of western countries. After all when America sneezes, the whole world catches the flu!



The article draws a comparison between the Christian conception of life and the principles that come with it as opposed to Eastern philosophy which is wide spread. Quoting the author's own findings: "...recent poll data show that conceptually, at least, we are slowly becoming more like Hindus and less like traditional Christians in the ways we think about God, our selves, each other, and eternity."

This indeed provides food for thought and is quite encouraging considering our effort to bring a global awareness of Vedic culture to facilitate the congregational chanting of the Holy names of the Lord.

Read the article here.


# Posted by Guna Mani Nitai dasi at 15/9/09; 1:30:39 PM to the News dept.
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"We are all Hindus now"

Important information for devotees who attended Bhakti Sastri 2008.

Please complete the Assessments (Exams & Essays) to get the Bhakti Sastri certificate.

3^rd Sept (Thursday)                Nectar of Instruction – Text 8
6^th Sept (Sunday)                  NOI – Text 9, 10, 11
10^th Sept (Thursday)              Revision, Final Essay Questions
13^th Sept (Sunday)                Second Revision
27^th Sept (Sunday)                Final Exam, Submit All Essays
11^th Oct (Sunday)                  Ceremony, End-of-course-Lunch

• To sit a previous Exam, please contact Gangesvara Prabhu on 0409502088.
• To submit previous Essays, please contact Jagannatha Rama Prabhu on 0437988694.
  

Previous Essay Questions available on

Module 1 Essays - http://www.iskcon.net.au/bhaktisastri/2008/05/15

Module 2 Essays  - http://www.iskcon.net.au/bhaktisastri/2008/10/16

Module 3 Essays - http://www.iskcon.net.au/bhaktisastri/2009/04/10

# Posted by Bhakti Sara Dasa at 31/8/09; 10:53:45 AM to the News dept.
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Bhakti Sastri 2008 Ending soon

As Sri Krishna Janmastami is a few days behind us we are eager to hear your feedback on this year's festival.

Please feel free to express your observations and realisations, negative and positive criticisms as well suggested improvements so that we can better serve Sri Sri Radha Vallabha and Their dear devotees for the years to come.
Please send your comments to Kundalata at iskcon dot net dot au.

We sincerely hope that it was a most pleasurable experience for you and that you had as much fun as we did!

# Posted by Guna Mani Nitai dasi at 20/8/09; 11:55:17 AM to the News dept.
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Janmastami 2009 Feedback

On June 21st., devotees from all over Fiji came to Sri-Sri Radha-Damodara Mandir in Sigatoka to offer a shanti homa. The Mandir is still under construction.


Veda Vyasa Priya Maharaja was the purohit, encouraging everyone to dive deeply into the vast river of Krishna consciousness. Maharaja accepted three new initiates: Radhikarani, Gopika and Vrinda Priya Matajis. They all attend secondary school in Sigatoka and are very dedicated sadhikas.

Sri-Sri Radha-Damodara Mandir's construction team is casting the supporting beams for the terrace-style roof. The Sigatoka devotees hope to inaugurate the temple on Nrsmha Caturadasi 2010. Everyone is invited to attend.

You can view a slide show here.


# Posted by Rasanandini at 15/7/09; 1:27:08 PM to the News dept.
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Shanti Homa at Sri-Sri Radha-Damodara Mandir, Fiji

Here is the Janmastami (July-September) edition of FOLK news: now in full colour for internet readers!

 
It's a PDF document that you can view with a free Adobe Acrobat reader.

If you recently received the printed version via Australia Post, you may have noticed that I gave you the wrong calendar for September. Sorry: it's fixed here.

You will be happy to hear that - starting from the next edition - Prabhu Das will join our publication team as proofreader!

I hope you enjoy the e-zine.




# Posted by Rasanandini at 7/7/09; 5:11:16 PM to the News dept.
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FOLK News Internet Edition: Janmastami 2009

Srimad Bhagavatam 11.7.38 - Devotees work for spiritual benefit of others despite of all difficulties.

8.2MB
# Posted by Jayendra at 8/4/09; 12:05:42 PM to the News dept.
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Daily Class - Aniruddha Prabhu

Srimad Bhagavatam 11.7.29  Rama Navami - Lord Rama's exemplary teachings

10.2MB
# Posted by Tirthapada Dasa at 4/4/09; 10:08:07 AM to the News dept.
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Daily Class - Aniruddha Prabhu

Where there's light there's hope...

"That is what brought him to Kazakhstan, a former Communist country composed mainly of Muslim, Catholics and Orthodox believers. The Kazakhstan constitution allows broad religious freedom, but amendments severely limit the activities of such non-traditional faiths as Hare Krishnas.

A few years ago, the Krishnas bought property and began building a small community of believers, which raised the ire of local residents. The courts supported the Krishnas, but officials bulldozed their homes anyway. Since then, Durham and other international observers have worked tirelessly behind the scenes to defend the Krishnas.

"We are not there to impose our American values," he says. "We just want to protect the powerless." "

# Posted by Aniruddha at 29/3/09; 1:29:21 PM to the News dept.
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The right to worship: BYU professor helps nations protect religious freedoms - Salt Lake Tribune

From Bhakta dasa:

On March 15 ISKCON - a member of the Port Phillip Inter-Faith group - was proud to participate in Harmony with our Neighbours, Harmony with the Earth. Celebrating the diversity of our Australian community, the event was a preliminary to the Parliament of the World's Religions in Melbourne in December.

Side by side with enviromental and conservation groups, religious and faith groups set up booths in Alma Park, East St Kilda.

Of course, the devotees had a book stall, placed between the Salvation Army, Beth Israel Temple and various Christian groups. We displayed Srila Prabhupada's books, information about Melbourne Temple and the welfare projects that we undertake in the region. We distributed delicious cookie and cake prasadam snacks to all the stall holders and to the general public at the festival free of charge: thanks to Vrajanari Mataji.

Speaking at the launch of the event the Mayor of Port Phillip, Frank O'Connor, especially complemented Aniruddha Prabhu for his contribution.

ISKCON then joined the many multi- cultural groups in performing on the main stage. Sri Yasoda and her group of vaisnavi kirtaneers chanted the sweet sounds of Krishna's Holy Names. They really impressed the audience.

The ISKCON devotees were also thanked for helping to produce the Multi-Faith network directory, which features three devotees on its cover. The booklet will be distributed to every household in the Port Phillip community.

All in all it was a great day: in a very significant way it allowed the general public and the community to get to know their local Hare Krishnas just a little bit better.





# Posted by Rasanandini at 27/3/09; 4:53:35 PM to the News dept.
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Harmony with our Neighbours, Harmony with the Earth

Hare Krishna Food for Life in Riga is booming...

About once a week since I first moved here, I've met a lady on or near Barona street asking for money for the Hare Krishna "Dzivibas Ediens" (Food for Life) program, which feeds the homeless and anyone else who lines up in front of the Barona street building.

And for whatever reason I once gave her a few santims or so, and she gave me some cookies and a free book. This became a habit, and she started calling me her usual customer. She then gave me a card with an address of their restaurant, which is next to the Dzivibas Ediens entry. And after a year of living in Latvia, I finally went there. And then I went again, and took my friends, and another habit was born.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 19/3/09; 4:07:14 PM to the News dept.
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Give a little. Get a lot. - baltictimes.com

A step in the right direction...

As he attempts to steer the United States through the challenges posed by economic crisis and an inherited war, President Barack Obama may very well turn to the Bhagavad-Gita for leadership advice.

The 44th president was recently gifted his own copy by an old friend whose sister is a devout Krishna devotee and hoped that Obama " known for his embrace of multiculturalism " might find the Hindu sacred text inspirational.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 1/3/09; 10:28:50 PM to the News dept.
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IndiaPost.com - ISKCON gifts Bhagvad Gita to President Obama

Unfortunately it looks like it's on again in Kaz...

The Kazakhstan Society of Krishna Consciousness must vacate its property by February 28, according to a letter sent to them by the Kazakh authorities. Society Chairwoman Galinna Glouz told RFE/RL's Kazakh Service that the government offered to relocate the group to a location she described as a "dumpsite."

Deputy Governor Serik Mukanov said the organization was offered an acceptable alternative location by officials, which it accepted and then turned down at the last minute. Last month, an American representing the Hare Krishnas was deported from Kazakhstan after landing at the Almaty airport, even though he had a valid visa.

The Kazakh government has been in conflict with the Hare Krishna community since last fall, when Almaty Oblast officials decided to demolish houses belonging to Krishna followers living on Almaty's outskirts.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 26/2/09; 12:07:00 AM to the News dept.
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Kazakh Officials Order Hare Krishnas To Leave Property - Radio Free Europe / Radio Liberty

Original story from Guna Mani Nitai Dasi.
Original photographs from Bhaktin Bernadette.

Kripa Sindhu Dasa - staunchly supported by his wife Ayodhya Rani Devi Dasi - has served as a keystone to our attempt to share Krishna consciousness with Melbourne's Indian student community. However, as his own daughter Rasika nears school age, he is unable to refuse the oppotunity to return to Ayodhya Rani's hometown of Madras. While Rasika can become educated in a devotional atmosphere, a good job awaits Kripa Sindhu.

Last Sunday, ISKCON’s Melbourne community farewelled these three special devotees with a maha-breakfast feast. Musicians chanted kirtana. Sri Gaura Prabhu worked behind the scenes as Charu Caitanya Dasa served as our master of ceremonies. Friends and well-wishers packed the prasadam hall beyond capacity. Charu invited us all to offer our obeisances to each other, accentuating the phrase ‘krpa-sindhubhya eva ca.’ He reminded us how Kripa Sindhu has indeed proved to be an ocean of mercy in his service to ISKCON Melbourne.

Yadu Srestha reminisced how Kripa Sindhu and Nityananda Priya were so eager to attend the morning program they would take a taxi from South Yarra to attend mangalarati. He remembered how - as new devotees - both always asked serious, sincere questions about Krishna consciousness. Yadu Srestha pointed out Krpa Sindhu’s first class example. Coming to Krishna consciousness as a student fresh from India, he fervently preaches to his countrymen to join the same auspicious path.

Charu Caitanya noted that - on Kripa Sindhu’s departure - we will all have to step up to the standard of care and compassion he has set in sharing devotional life with the student community.

Prabhu Dasa spoke on behalf of Aniruddha Prabhu and Acintya Mataji, who are currently serving in Mayapur. He praised Kripa Sindhu’s outstanding contribution to the temple since 1999, and blessed Krpa Sindhu’s move to Madras.

Surya Gopal Dasa was next to the microphone, recalling how Kripa Sindhu was always accompanied by two other mahajanas: Nityananda Priya Dasa and Radha Krishna Dasa. Surya Gopal underlined Kripa Sindhu’s humility and enthusiasm for devotional service, and his other skills which range from ‘computer to cooking’!

Sarva Mangala Dasi, Jnana Samudra Dasa, Tota Gopinath Dasa, Ananda Ballabha Dasa, Mahatma Dasa, Sudershan Caitanya Dasa, Muralidhara Dasa, Jagannatha Rama Dasa, Yogeshwara Govinda Dasa and Gopa Vrindesh Dasa all spoke, glorifying Kripa Sindhu Prabhu’s service.

Lila Mayi Devi Dasi - Kripa Sindhu’s sister - movingly described how her brother brought his whole family to Krishna consciousness.

Kripa Sindhu Dasa was last to speak: endlessly glorifying each of Melbourne’s devotees whom he credited with making remarkable contributions to his spiritual life, and then begging forgiveness for offences.

We join Lila Mayi in her sorrow at separation from this strong Vaisnava family, and in her hope for their speedy return.

You can see a slide show here.


# Posted by Rasanandini at 24/2/09; 5:44:44 PM to the News dept.
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Kripa Sindhu and Family Farewelled

From Bhakta Dasa

Last week the devotees of Melbourne Temple helped a community tragically affected by the Black Saturday bushfires that burnt Victoria. Hare Krishna Food For Life distributed prasadam meals to those in need in the Kinglake region.

This area was severely devastated by horrific bushfires that left many people dead and injured. People were left without accommodation or belongings as so many houses were destroyed as well as businesses, farms and livestock.

At the time of the horrific events the temple devotees as well as our congregation were eager to help these victims one way or another. Obviously the best way for us to help was to distribute Lord Krishna’s mercy in the form of prasadam.

After a meeting, it was decided that we put a plan into action and get things under way. We solicited some of our suppliers to either give produce as a donation or to supply what we needed at cost price. Their generosity was truly amazing and very gratefully received - we were soon ready to help out.

Unfortunately it was not as easy as we thought to get through to the different relief agencies that were all extremely busy organizing such a huge rescue and relief effort. They also had not previously worked with nor knew about our Food For Life program and our ability to help in such an emergency situation by providing nutritious meals to those in need.

It was only after actually going to the Whittlesea ‘refugee’ camp and speaking to the Crisis Kitchen Director that we were able to start our prasadam distribution campaign in earnest.

We were asked to supply the meals by working alongside the Australian Army, who by this stage was providing thousands of meals to the survivors of the bush fires as well as to the rescue workers who were working around the clock.

In particular, they were looking forward to us coming and assisting them because there are a high percentage of vegetarians in the Kinglake region. They really appreciated us helping them by supplying delicious and nutritious vegetarian meals.

Early on Thursday morning the devotees got to work and produced a feast of delicious rice, subji, pappadams, halavah with custard, and lassi to take up to the heart of the devastation.

After a long and agonizing drive through the fire ravaged landscape and seeing with our own eyes the extent of the damage to land and property, we arrived at the meal distribution centre – a virtual military war-zone base. The commanding officer welcomed us enthusiastically, and we set up and started our service alongside a group of inquisitive army personnel.

For about three hours we were run off our feet serving up to 300 people who were very appreciative of us being there. We received many positive comments: “ No way, the Haris are here and they have halavah and lassi! I’m in heaven.” And, “Oh, I am so glad you guys are here! Some pure vegetarian meals, finally.”

At the conclusion of mealtime, the Staff Sergeant and Corporal directing the proceedings asked us if they could distribute the prasadam that was left over for evening dinner and breakfast the following morning. Who would have ever thought that the Australian Armed Forces would join Lord Chaitanya’s sankirtan army and give out the mercy so eagerly?

Driving home, Suvarna Manjari Dasi, Bhakta Sridhara and I reflected on the incredible events that we witnessed. It was amazing that in such a time of destruction, sadness and pain how the community got together to support each other and how we had the opportunity to be part of that rebuilding. Even though our effort could be seen as minimal, the potency of prasadam distribution is spiritually amazing.

The army is now readying to withdraw their services and life in these communities will slowly get back to some sort of normality as we pray for their well-being.

Now that Hare Krishna Food for Life at Melbourne Temple has learnt lessons from this experience, in the event of any future unexpected natural disaster we hope to be more ready to lend assistance with a much quicker response. We are still seeking donations for the services rendered as the Temple needed to fund some of the infrastructure that is now ready to be utilized for future crisis response.

I would like to thank all of the devotees who volunteered their services. Thanks also to all of those individuals and companies who donated money, supplies and other products to this Hare Krishna Food For Life cause.

# Posted by Rasanandini at 24/2/09; 10:54:15 AM to the News dept.
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Food For Life Serves Prasadam To Bushfire Victims

On behalf of Hare Krishna Food for Life (HKFFL) Bhakta, Stoka Krishna and Charu Caitanya Prabhus are developing a team of devotees to serve prasadam to fire victims at the Whittlesea Bushfire Crisis Relief Centre.

If you can spare some time to help serve prasadam, or can contribute to this project in any other way, please contact the manpower co-ordinator Bhakta dasa on 0431-829-463, or Yogeshwara Govinda dasa on 0419-493-694. For donations, contact Charu dasa on 0412-696-559, or Prabhu dasa on 0424-257-507.

The first days we will serve prasadam are Thursday Feb 19 and Sunday Feb 22. With your help, the Food for Life team will offer lunch prasadam to more than 400 people per sitting. We hope Food for Life support to the Whittlesea community will continue as needed.

Bhakta dasa Prabhu - who visited Whittlesea personally to speak with the Crisis Kitchen Co-ordinator - understands that this service may continue for several weeks or a period of months until permanent recovery plans are put into place.

All donations made out to Hare Krishna Food for Life are tax deductible. Any balance of funds left over after serving the community in this crisis will stay in the HKFFL Emergency Account to enable us to assist more rapidly in a future crisis.

With your support we will support this fire-affected community in their hour of need.



# Posted by Rasanandini at 15/2/09; 1:44:00 PM to the News dept.
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Prasadam Relief to Bushfire Victims

Does Kazakhstan have a heart after all?

Kazakhstan, a key U.S. economic partner in Central Asia, has dramatically reversed legislation curtailing religious freedoms after the measure and the jailings and expulsions of two religious activists caused an international outcry.

With little explanation, the country's constitutional council announced Wednesday that amendments to a religion law were "inconsistent" with Kazakhstan's constitution.

A spokesman for the Kazakh Embassy said Thursday that the amendments did not dovetail with international human rights law and were sent back to committee.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 15/2/09; 1:24:37 PM to the News dept.
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Washington Times - Kazakhstan backs off on religion limits

And the beat goes on...

One of many examples of media intolerance is four separate newspapers publishing an identical article attacking the Jehovah's Witnesses. One of the newspapers credited the article to a named former Jehovah's Witness, one credited a different author, and two of the newspapers credited KNB secret police offices in different Kazakh regions.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 6/2/09; 5:19:57 PM to the News dept.
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KAZAKHSTAN: Media intolerance "has one source: the KNB secret police"

More fun in Kaz, only it isn't funny...

Kazakhstan has barred the Hare Krishna community's leader in Central Asia from visiting the country, Forum 18 News Service has found. Kazakh officials have claimed that US citizen Seane Hobgood (religious name Govinda Swami) was found guilty of "illegal missionary activity" by Aktobe Regional court in 2008. The alleged "illegal missionary activity" was a private talk to devotees. However, Aktobe Regional Court, Aktobe City Administrative Court and City Civil Court all confirmed to Forum 18 that they did not hear any case relating to Govinda Swami (Seane Hobgood) in 2008.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 31/1/09; 8:08:20 PM to the News dept.
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KAZAKHSTAN: The court hearing which never was?

Here's a nice piece on elephant care in Mayapur...

While I am caressing her trunk, Laksmipriya makes soft growling sounds. She makes me reflect back to the time which made me want to care for Elephants the way they deserve.

On April 1st, 2006 was a day when I promised myself I wanted to make a difference in the life of an elephant. It was the day when our temple elephant Gulab Kali died. It was a day that I will never forget.

This story resonates with me personally. I used to work at the Adelaide Zoo in the mid '70's and got to know the elephant quite well. She was very affectionate and responded in kind. If she didn't get the reciprocation she wanted then she could be quite upset to the point of dangerous. I recall sticks and branches being thrown in my direction when Samorn was upset with me.

Most of ISKCON was upset when Gulab Kali left her body. It is inspiring to hear of the care being taken of the new elephants in Mayapur.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 28/1/09; 5:25:09 PM to the News dept.
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The Loving Approach to Temple Elephant Care | mayapur.com

The temple's Folk News magazine (Feb-May 09) was recently mailed out to recipients.

In FOLK News you will find advance notice of festival programs, background stories to those festivals and Le Carnaval Spirituel, news from the farm, and more.

Your feedback and original contributions are always welcome.

If on site access proves useful to you, I can begin publishing the PDF of the next issue in colour.

Should you be unable to read the PDF file, you can download a free Acrobat reader here.


# Posted by Rasanandini at 20/1/09; 9:18:07 AM to the News dept.
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FOLK News Feb-May 2009 on site

Here's an agenda we should all have an interest in..

Efforts to promote the consumption of locally produced foods are gaining ground in counties throughout North Carolina.

A community in Stokes County hopes to expand the dialogue by focusing on those topics at a sustainability festival on the grounds of a Hare Krishna temple in Sandy Ridge. The free festival on Saturday, Jan. 17, will feature speakers, local food and music. Who should attend?

"Anyone with a mouth and a stomach," said organizer Mitra Das . "Each and everyone of us depends on food everyday."

# Posted by Aniruddha at 10/1/09; 8:56:31 PM to the News dept.
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Stokes County festival to promote local foods : News-Record.com : Greensboro, North Carolina

In depth reporting from our man on the spot...

I was there. And I never thought that there would be a time in my life, when I would spend my precious new year's eve with thousands of drunk, zapped, loud, sun burnt, lusty, scantily clad, meat loving, young rock fans. But Krishna Consciousness took me right to the middle of such a situation. During the beginning of this ordeal, I couldn't help wondering how this involvement was going to help me progress in my spiritual growth.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 9/1/09; 5:36:58 PM to the News dept.
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The Pyramid Rock Festival 2008/09 « 9 Days, 8 Nights

Ratha-yatra report from Manoj. There are some nice pictures in this report...

Luckily, I woke up early today at 2:30am ! After a nice cold shower (forgot to turn that hot water system again !!), I reported for Mangal arti by 4:20am. There were already a few devotees there and as usual we had a nice morning session. The highlight today was the return of Lord Jagannath back to the altar.

You can see Adrian's Facebook photos here and Bernadette's here.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 5/1/09; 5:22:58 AM to the News dept.
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Melbourne Ratha Yatra 09 « 9 Days, 8 Nights

A gathering in India of different religions and different people offers hope for the unity of religions.

I RECENTLY spent nearly two weeks as a vegan, interfaith explorer and peace-pilgrim at the world headquarters of ISKCON (International Society for Krishna Consciousness, more popularly known as the Hare Krishna movement) at Sri Mayapur, West Bengal, India.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 4/1/09; 9:59:08 PM to the News dept.
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Magical Mayapur - The Star Online

Sober scene … Hare Krishnas share their message among the beachgoers at Bondi.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 26/12/08; 3:26:06 PM to the News dept.
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Beach grog ban makes life a breeze for lifeguards - smh.com.au

Not much changes it seems in Kazakhstan and as the article states these are just the things we know about...

In the most recent of many known state actions against everyone's right to freedom of thought, conscience and belief, a Baptist is facing threats by the authorities to confiscate his means to support himself and his family because he led worship without state permission, the country's only Hare Krishna commune is still being pressured to accept a rubbish dump in exchange for their land, and Jehovah's Witnesses are still being denied the rights to use a private home and a Kingdom Hall they built for worship meetings. These human rights violations take place as President Nursultan Nazarbaev considers new legislation to even further restrict fundamental freedoms in the country.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 22/12/08; 10:58:37 AM to the News dept.
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KAZAKHSTAN: "We will wait until after the New Year, and then seize his property - FORUM18

Touring the Ganga! Spiritual tourism isn't such an odd idea...

In neighboring Katwa, we saw walls painted with red hammers and sickles, reminding us that the state of West Bengal currently has a Communist administration. In Mayapur, downriver, we visited the huge headquarters of the International Society of Krishna Consciousness, where a long stream of saffron-robed devotees chanting "Hare Krishna" passed by, except for one follower bizarrely dressed as Elvis Presley.

This is the second article to mention ISKCON devotees in the New York Times this week. Here's the other which includes a picture of Ramabhadra the New York TP...


# Posted by Aniruddha at 22/12/08; 10:38:14 AM to the News dept.
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Personal Journeys - Along the Banks of a River, the India of Old - NYTimes.com

From Tusti Mohan Krsna Prabhu

Dear devotees,

Dandavat pranams.

We would like to give some more information to the devotees about the actual situation of the health of our beloved spiritual master His Holiness Jayapataka Swami, who was discharged today morning from the Hinduja Hospital and was admitted at the Bhaktivedanta Hospital to continue with his healing treatments after the collapse His Holiness had 60 days ago on early morning of the 23rd of October 2008 at Juhu Temple.

As we informed you earlier, Gurumaharaja had a very blissful visit to take darshan of Their Lordships Sri Sri Radha Rasbihari, Gaura-Nitai, Sita Rama Lakshman Hanuman, Lord Narashimhadeva and Srila Prabhupada: before coming to Bhaktivedanta Hospital where He is scheduled to stay for at least 10 or 15 days for his recovery.

After the darshan we all left in 3 cars along with the ambulance in case of emergency. While on the way GM needed to have breakfast so we stopped all at Ashok Nagar - Bombay - to give breakfast to GM. That was the time I could make the first report. After that we proceeded to the Bhaktivedanta Hospital at Mira Road, which is around one hour away from Juhu, but it would take 2 hours almost in rush hour. We arrived at the hospital at 10 am, and many devotees were waiting at the main gate to welcome and have darshan of Gurumaharaja.

HG Madhavanada Prabhu was there organizing everything and welcomed GM, who then had darshan of HDG Srila Prabhupada. A garland was given to GM to be offered to His beloved divine Gurudeva. Later on GM received prasad garlands from devotees. They have written in the board 'The Bhaktivedanta Hospital welcomes HH Jayapataka Swami,' and also have made flower arrangements with Vedic symbols before the murti of Srila Prabhupada.

Gurumaharaja later was taken to the 4th floor and given a special room which is away from noises and is equipped by a very brand new special bed as it is required for his rehabilitation and due to his physical condition. Immediately after Dr Madhavananda Prabhu gave an introduction to GM about the system related to his plan of healing and recovery. Devotees also a chance to talk to GM, while others from Surat and Mayapur sought blessings from GM before leaving and traveling to Mayapur.

Later Dr. Shyamlal Prabhu - who will be in charge of GM during his stay at the hospital - came to update GM with all procedures and schedules for his recovery. HH JPS had few question for the doctor in charge (Shyamlal Prabhu) about his health, how he was feeling, and the result of the exams. GM had a low blood sugar result from the night before that came down to 65, but they said it was a good indication as it means his body is working well. The physiotherapies were making his body require less insulin, therefore they reduced the dosage.

Attention was good and devotees are very helpful. GM was very alert and inquiring about every detail. We are always impressed how he manages all these things from his fragile condition. He also remembers every detail since he regained full consciousness at Hinduja Hospital.

Basically - as doctors said - GM will be there to protect him from any infection. His WBC is not very high and he has bone marrow depression - which takes time to heal - as well as for giving him the right physiotherapies required for his recovery. Attention and rooms were also given to the main servants of our beloved Gurumaharaja.

GM was given water and then started a session of therapies for his face that took 30 minutes. In this service I had to assist Mahabaho Govinda das in translating, and helped GM to be seated and given the treatment, which I think is the only thing that makes ourselves feel useful when we do service to guru and devotees.When GM was seated and asked to follow a few exercises, as he did, Ekanath Gaura das and Mahavaraha das took care of all other services to prepare and organize the room and what is needed. Bhadra Balaram Prabhu was giving the service to look after the logistic part in general. Later HH JPS took rest and then lunch prasad.

We keep you informed, and humbly we request all devotees to keep GM in their prayers as this is most important. Things that have happened to him are a miracle by devotees' prayers, and more is always needed. This will bless the whole world with the chanting of the Mahamantra by devotees.

All glories to Srila Prabhupada and to all devotees.


# Posted by Rasanandini at 21/12/08; 10:09:28 AM to the News dept.
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Second Report on HH Jayapataka Swami Going to Bhaktivedanta Hospital

From Tusti Mohan Krsna

Dear Devotees

Dandavat pranams.

Bombay (Mumbai), 20-12-2008 morning.

It is our good fortune to inform the devotees and ISKCON FAMILY members that today morning at 7 am HH Jayapataka Swami Gurumaharaja left the Hinduja Hospital after he was admitted around 60 days ago.

Gurumaharaja is going to continue with his healing in the Bhaktivedanta Hospital, as per desires of Gurumaharaja and senior devotees. His Holiness was taken in a caravan of 3 cars accompanied by an ambulance of the Bhaktivedanta Hospital (GM said he preferred to go by car to the temple and arrangements were made). We were around 15 devotees assisting GM in his journey.

Gurumaharaja took bath in the morning and was given fruits breakfast, some medicines; and then while leaving all the patients in same wing wanted to have darshan and seek his blessings. Even when GM was entering the elevator in his wheelchair, a lady came running to seek blessings for her and for her mother who is sick at the hospital. We were all chanting Hare Krsna and Narashimha prayers. Everyone was super enthusiast and willing to render any service.

Although GM left Hinduja Hospital doesn't mean he is enough strong to do anything yet by himself but always needs assistance of devotees as healing process takes time. Down in the lobby of the hospital GM was assisted by strong devotees like Acintyanitai Prabhu and Raghubir Prabhu to sit him in the back side of the car and few devotees like Brajahari, Raghubir and Mahavaraha went with him along with HG Dr Acyutananda Prabhu and Siromani Mataji. HG Dr Madhavanada Prabhu was always calling and requesting the best service and treatment for this delicate journey from one hospital to an other,

Amazing to tell when GM reached the Juhu Temple many or all devotees were there waiting for his transcendental arrival with soft kirtans and matajies were holding big papers with the word 'welcome'. After that GM was placed in the wheelchair and taken to the temple. HG Devakinanda Prabhu was organizing this part of the visit and along with us wanted to serve GM by pulling the chair towards the temple and always taking care that everything was OK.

Upon reaching temple hall GM went to offer respects to Srila Prabhupada and offered flowers to his lotus feet. We could see how his face was affected of happiness but controlled his tears as well as when he was taken darshan from their Lordships Sri Sri Gaura-Nitai, Sri Sri Radha Rasbihari, Sri Sri Sita Ram Lakshaman Hanuman and then Lord Narasimhadeva with the song of Govinda playing on the background. Later GM was given caranamrita by Brajahari Prabhu and garlanded by HH Prabhavishnu Swami, who gave the Bhagavatam lecture this morning before going to airport to assist to Malaysian Rathayatras. Devakinanda gave a welcome speech.

Happiness and bliss was emanating from all faces. Amazing how a dear devotee of Lord Gauranga and Srila Prabhupada can make many people so happy and always pray around the world. More amazing is when GM was given a cordless mic he chanted Gauranga 2 times and Hare Krsna, and named all the Deities while devotees replyied 'jaya', and GM thanked all for their prayers willing him to become healthier soon .

While I am writing this report I am in the car at 8:45 am going with the caravan to the Bhaktivedanta Hospital. An important life member - a very rich man - offered his car to take GM to hospital, but since in his car not many attendants and doctors will fit, we preferred GM goes in the car he came in.

Thank you all for your prayers and for the help of great vaishnavas - and specially Bhaktivedanta Hospital and Chowpati Mandir devotees - for the assistance in all ways and means for the speedy recovery of our beloved His Holiness Jayapataka Swami Gurumaharaja, a great and dear servant of Srila Prabhupada. We will update you with pictures in one hour from now.

Srila Prabhupada ki jaya


# Posted by Rasanandini at 21/12/08; 9:50:37 AM to the News dept.
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His Holiness Jayapataka Swami Leaves Hinduja Hospital, 20-12-2008

Tusti Mohan Krishna Prabhu just sent these pictures of Jayapataka Maharaja arriving and then taking Darshan at Juhu Temple yesterday.

















# Posted by Rasanandini at 21/12/08; 9:35:09 AM to the News dept.
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First Pictures of His Holiness Jayapataka Swami after Leaving Hinduja Hospital

Relish Le Carnaval Spirituel in performance ‘as it is.’ Now the best of Le Carnaval’s 2007 performances in Lower Melbourne Town Hall is now available on DVD.

This multi-media presentation has been professionally filmed and recorded, then skilfully edited by Acintya Govinda Das, the founder of Gokool Productions.

His three and a half hour DVD puts you right in the front row for the magical experience of live performance: inspired artists in dialogue with a fired up audience! Special extras include an interview with His Holiness Indradumnya Maharaja, and two of the troupe’s Harinama sankirtanas: one in Melbourne, and one on the Gold Coast.

Whether you wish to revisit your ecstatic night at Le Carnaval, share it with friends - or just treat yourself - without a doubt you will taste the living character of India’s original Krishna
                                                    conscious culture in this DVD.

Discs are available from Radha-Ballabha’s temple shop, or from Luckshmi DVDs at gokulpro@gmail.com for around $25.

# Posted by Rasanandini at 15/12/08; 8:27:42 PM to the News dept.
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Le Carnaval Spirituel DVD Release

Status report by Dr Madhavananda das, Director of Bhaktivedanta Hospital, Mumbai

Maharaja was shifted to the room today, out of the ICU. The tracheotomy tube is still there which will be removed next week. It's kept for precaution. The physiotherapists commented that Maharaja's standing is getting better. Today he was also made to cycle on the stationary cycle for 10 minutes.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 13/12/08; 8:33:04 AM to the News dept.
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Jayapataka Swami update

Status report by Dr Madhavananda das, Director of Bhaktivedanta Hospital, Mumbai

Today Maharaja was able to take a few steps with lesser support than yesterday. He keeps a daily count of the number of steps he takes, noting his progress. Doctors expect to shift him out to the ward in a few days.

Please continue praying for his speedy recovery.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 12/12/08; 9:35:24 AM to the News dept.
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Jayapataka Swami update, 11-12-08

Status report by Dr Madhavananda das, Director of Bhaktivedanta Hospital, Mumbai

Today the physiotherapists made Maharaja use a walker with a lot of support. Maharaja's back muscles are still weak and he finds it difficult to support himself up while being made to walk. He's slowly getting the coordination back. After walking a few steps he was exhausted. The next session will be tomorrow.

His standing up has been improving.

The right hand (the weaker one) is becoming stronger.

Please continue praying for him.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 11/12/08; 12:05:01 PM to the News dept.
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Jayapataka Swami update, 10-12-08

I join thousands of his friends, well-wishers, admirers, and disciples all over the world who are grateful he is still with us and recovering, against all odds. We are grateful to the doctors, who have worked with such dedication and expertise. But sometimes, despite the best doctors, even a patient with only a mild ailment may die, and sometimes even a patient with no doctor may survive the most severe threat. Finally, everything is up to Krishna. So above all we are grateful to Krishna, who has so kindly intervened in Jayapataka Swami's life.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 10/12/08; 5:43:13 AM to the News dept.
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An obituary I don't have to write | Jayadvaita Swami

Status report by Dr Madhavananda das, Director of Bhaktivedanta Hospital, Mumbai

Today the physiotherapists made Maharaja take a few steps with a lot of support and effort. He uses parallel bars and 4 people support him while he tries to take some steps.

Maharaja is still unable to sit on his own without support, but is getting more strength in his back daily.

He is gradually being encouraged to become independent in his eating by using the stronger hand, the left hand for eating.

Please continue to pray.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 10/12/08; 5:42:04 AM to the News dept.
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Jayapataka Swami update, 09-12-08

Braja Bihari Prabhu makes it into the news in Kolkata...

He is a devotee of Lord Krishna, who played a mentor and charioteer of Arjun during one of the fiercest battles -- the Mahabharat.

But, he does not lead the people into battle, instead, helps people and communities resolve conflicts before they get trapped in the cumbersome legal battle.

Meet Braja Bihari Dasa or Brian Bloch, who heads Vrindaban-based Iskcon Resolve and in charge of Iskcon-run conflict resolving centres in 103 countries.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 9/12/08; 2:21:29 PM to the News dept.
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A resolve to end conflicts The Telegraph - Kolkata

Status report by Dr Madhavananda das, Director of Bhaktivedanta Hospital, Mumbai

Today Maharaja was taken to the physiotherapy department where he was made to stand with support for about 20 minutes in two sessions. He was holding on to a set of parallel bars on either side of him, with about 4 physiotherapists helping him to stand straight. Maharaja put in a lot of effort to stand up and is looking forward to his next session tomorrow. He even asked the physiotherapist about when he would be taking baby steps. The physiotherapist told him to first start standing on his own and then they would proceed to baby steps.

He was also made to do different exercises to strengthen his right arm which is weak.

Maharaja is stable otherwise.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 9/12/08; 2:03:22 PM to the News dept.
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Jayapataka Swami update, 08-12-08

Status report by Dr Madhavananada Das, Director of Bhaktivedanta Hospital, Mumbai

Maharaja is steadily recovering. His lungs are much better now. He is able to cough out mucous from his mouth on his own which is again a step towards removing the tracheotomy tube in a few days.

The physiotherapy is going on intensely and is sometimes tiring for Maharaja. But he takes rest for a short time and then continues. He has to practice sitting on the bed on his own with minimal support from his hands. Maharaja is very alert about doing these exercises daily and more than once in a day.

Maharaja's appetite is improving.

Please continue to pray intensely.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 8/12/08; 11:37:54 AM to the News dept.
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Jayapataka Swami update, 07-12-08

Status report by Dr Madhavananda Das, Director of Bhaktivedanta Hospital, Mumbai

Today the nasal-gastric feeding tube was removed and the tracheotomy tube was replaced with a smaller diameter one. This is part of the process of closing the tracheostomy gradually over the next few days.

The physiotherapy is getting intense. Today Maharaja was made to sit on the edge of the bed with his feet dangling down. He was asked to use only his hands for supporting himself. Maharaja was able to do it for sometime and then became exhausted and couldn't support himself anymore. It will take some practice but he is very determined to do it.

Maharaja's white cell counts are still low.

Please pray intensely.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 7/12/08; 12:59:44 PM to the News dept.
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Jayapataka Swami update, 06-12-08

Status report by Dr Madhavanada Das, Director of Bhaktivedanta Hospital, Mumbai

Maharaja's consciousness is normal. He is taking both soft solids and liquids orally. The physiotherapist is teaching him exercises to strengthen his muscles to help him sit without support and later stand with support. She said he is doing well in terms of physiotherapy.

Maharaja had a slight fever today. His white cell counts are low. This  may be a hurdle to his recovery. Please pray intensely for Maharaja's recovery.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 5/12/08; 11:29:32 AM to the News dept.
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Jayapataka Swami update, 04-12-08

Status report by Dr Madhavananda das, Director of Bhaktivedanta Hospital, Mumbai

Maharaja is recovering and very alert. Most likely Maharaja will be stepped down to another ICU tomorrow which is for patients without ventilator. A speech therapist also taught him exercises to improve his speech and swallowing.

Please continue praying.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 4/12/08; 8:21:33 AM to the News dept.
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Jayapataka Swami update, 03-12-08 night

Here is a preview of some of the hand-painted pots in which Lord Jagannatha's chipped rice maha-bhoga will be offered on the 26th. of this month.

We very much need the assistance of any devotee who can help to paint an offering pot for Lord Jagannatha. Please contact the temple if you can help.

Following in Srila Prabhupada's footsteps, Jayapataka Maharaja desires to see devotees relish festivals like Snana Yatra and the Panihati feast offering: so much so that he travelled here year after year to attend. Veda Priya and Anandini Prabhus (who are managing the kitchen preparations) are especially requesting Maharaja's disciples to embody his mood of service to the Deities. Without your help this wonderful festival cannot continue. Please join us in the kitchen from 5am. to help prepare the Lord's offerings.

At 2pm., after the Lords' offering is made, Their special maha-prasadam will be auctioned to the devotees attending.

I hear that this year Lords Jagannatha and Balarama will be offered golden hands to wear during Their Hati-vesha arati. Stay tuned!

# Posted by Rasanandini at 3/12/08; 2:15:34 PM to the News dept.
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Preview of Pots for Panihati Maha-bhoga Offerings

Status report by Dr Madhavananda Das, Director of Bhaktivedanta Hospital, Mumbai

Maharaja is recovering gradually. The physiotherapist is teaching him exercises to strengthen his trunk muscles so that he can sit up on his own gradually. The power in his limbs is getting better everyday. His oral feeds are going on. Blood pressure is under control with medication. Other parameters are stable.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 3/12/08; 12:13:20 PM to the News dept.
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Jayapataka Swami update, 02-12-08 night

Status report by Dr Madhavananda das, Director of Bhaktivedanta Hospital, Mumbai

Maharaja is continuing to show steady improvement. Yesterday he was made to sit on the edge of the bed with legs hanging down and support at the back. He's also made to sit on a chair(with support) daily for 4 to 5 hours during which he does hand and leg exercises. He is being fed soft solids orally.

Maharaja had fever this morning. The doctors have sent his blood and urine cultures to find the source of infection and have started him on antibiotics. By evening his fever had settled.

Please continue your prayers.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 1/12/08; 3:50:04 PM to the News dept.
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Jayapataka Swami update, 30-11-08 night

Status report by Dr Madhavananda das, Director of Bhaktivedanta Hospital, Mumbai

Maharaja's consciousness is normal. The doctors are continuing to give encouraging reports. His oral feeds have increased.

Please continue your prayers.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 30/11/08; 7:34:27 PM to the News dept.
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Jayapataka Swami update, 29-11-08 night

Fresh from their European Tour, Le Carnaval Spirituel is returning to Australia this summer to celebrate their 30th anniversary.

Established in France in 1979, this fascinating troupe of international artists have delighted audiences worldwide with their colourful performances, bringing the stage to life with their mystic blend of ancient eastern spirituality and truly contemporary theatre.

Le Carnaval’s rich tapestry of music, dance, yoga, martial arts and theatre evokes the timeless wisdom of India’s ancient Vedic culture.

Street performances will precede each of the stage shows, so the whole community will get the chance to glimpse a vibrant world – a world that has enriched and deepened the lives of millions of people for more than 50 centuries.

Here is Le Carnaval Spirituel's performance itinerary:

Friday the 16th. and Saturday the 17th. of January (7pm.): Fitzroy Town Hall, at the corner of Napier and Moor Streets Fitzroy.

Thursday the 22nd. and Friday the 23rd. of January (7pm.): St Kilda Town Hall, 99a Carlisle St. (corner of Brighton Rd.) St Kilda.

Vegetarian food is available from one hour prior to commencement of the show.

Indradyumna Maharaja's disciples are requesting local devotees to volunteer some time to assist with his preaching program for the whole period of Maharaja's visit to Melbourne with Le Carnaval Spirituel: from January 13-29th.

If you can give some time, please contact either:

• Melbourne Temple reception on 9699-5122
• Sri Krishna Chandra das on 0411-466-882
• Stoka Krishna das on 0411-550-429

# Posted by Rasanandini at 29/11/08; 7:58:03 PM to the News dept.
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Le Carnaval Spirituel Tour

Report by Dr Madhavananda das, Director of Bhaktivedanta Hospital, Mumbai

Maharaja's consciousness is the same - normal. Today the urinary catheter was removed.

The power in his limbs is gradually improving.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 29/11/08; 5:35:31 PM to the News dept.
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Jayapataka Swami update, 28-11-08

I don't know if you've noticed but we've been experiencing crippling intermittent service from our Internet service provider for the last couple of days. The problem was at the local South Melbourne exchange and it appears to have settled down now. Sorry for the inconvenience.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 27/11/08; 5:49:34 PM to the News dept.
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Server packet loss

Status report by Dr Madhavananda das, Director of Bhaktivedanta Hospital, Mumbai

Maharaja is as alert as yesterday and is recovering well. He is still off the ventilator and breathing comfortably on his own. Limb physiotherapy is going on.

The doctors expect to shift him to the ward early next week.

Please continue praying.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 27/11/08; 5:46:40 PM to the News dept.
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Jayapataka Swami update, 26-11-08 evening

A comprehensive and entertaining report from the weekend at Rye...

Once we touched the ground, both of us began to jump up and down and dance wildly with hands in the air. People began to cheer. They clapped louder. Some were standing on chairs to look at us. Adam prabhu later told us that he was so ecstatic to see us jump and dance like it was in the temple. Adam prabhu is only 18 years old but he sings so beautifully and every time I have seen him perform, people love it. And this evening was no different. Everyone could sense the pure love and devotion in his singing. The singing, dancing and cheering converted what was a silent tent into a party frenzy.

Thanks to Manoj and Bhakta and his team for arranging a successful outing.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 25/11/08; 2:36:35 PM to the News dept.
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Report on the Rye Interfaith Festival - Manoj

Status report by Dr Madhavananda das, Director of Bhaktivedanta Hospital, Mumbai

Maharaja is recovering well. He has been off the ventilator for 72 hours now. He is fully conscious and alert.

Maharaja will be shifted out of the ICU into the ward in the next few days. You may have read that he would be shifted out in the afternoon or tomorrow, but that is not the fact.

Additional note by Dr Shiromani devi dasi: In the morning, the neurologist Dr PP Ashok merely suggested shifting Maharaja out of the ICU but this news was not put out by the Bhaktivedanta doctors because the decision to shift him out of the ICU had to be made by the intensivist Dr Hegde. In the afternoon when Dr Hegde came, he did not agree to shift Maharaja out of the ICU today, but in the next few days.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 25/11/08; 2:26:26 PM to the News dept.
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Jayapataka Swami update, 24-11-08 evening

Ekanath Gaura prabhu is in the hospital today for the morning shift. Dr. PP Ashok visited Guru Maharaja and he said Guru Maharaja can move out of the ICCU today. Dr. Hegde has to decide yet.

Ekanath Gaura prabhu asked Guru Maharaja if he has any message to all the devotees and Guru Maharaja dictated the following:

Hello. Hello. Hare Krsna! 30 days I am here. I am very tired. Doctor says I am out of danger. GAURANGA!!

Ekanath Gaura prabhu passed on this message to me through the mobile so it can be immediately posted to all of you.

Your humble servant,

Ratnavali dd

# Posted by Aniruddha at 24/11/08; 7:47:33 PM to the News dept.
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Jayapataka Swami update, 24-11-08

Status report by Dr Madhavananda Das, Director of Bhaktivedanta Hospital, Mumbai

Maharaja has been off the ventilator for 48 hours now and is doing well. The reports are encouraging. His oral intake of prasadam is increasing gradually.

Please continue to pray intensely.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 23/11/08; 8:37:32 PM to the News dept.
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Jayapataka Swami update, 23-11-08 morning

An email just arrived from Jayapataka Maharaja's disciple Ratnavali Prabhavi:

Dear Devotees,...Yesterday Guru Maharaja for the first time spoke few words with great difficulty. The speech was recorded by Ekanath Gaura prabhu with his team members. HH Radhanatha Swami Maharaja, HH Bhakti Purushottam Swami Maharaja, HG Braja Hari prabhu and Ananda Tirtha Prabhu went to see Guru Maharaja. The doctors placed the speaking valve to enable him to speak...

Hearing [this] one can understand how Krsna Conscious Guru Maharaja is. He is setting the best example for all us to follow.

Note: Certain parts of the speech is not audible.

JPS: 24hrs ...I can say a few words on this contraption. I can speak a few words on this contraption...
RNS: You are making great progress!
JPS: All by your mercy.
RNS: All the doctors are amazed by the miracle how you are making progress. I think after a few days they can take all these machines off of you.
JPS: I was literally leaving and lying ...I was sleeping... it's all your good association.
RNS: I have been feeling so much of separation from your association, Maharaja.
JPS: I want to stand up. I want to try to stand up.
EGD: You want to stand up?
RNS: Maharaja, after few days you will dance, after few days you will stand up and after sometime you will be dancing.
JPS: Doctor told you? ... the other doctor.. that doctor...
EGD: Ya, doctor said you will be able to walk. Walking no problem he said.
BHD: Doctor told today to Gopal Krsna Maharaja that you will become a very, very normal person. Don't worry.
JPS: I have so much pain. I have to lie flat or I can walk?
EGD: He said you can walk.
JPS: ....
BHD: If we press do you feel much better?
BPS: Guru Maharaja, can you move your legs?
BHD: Can you move your legs Guru Maharaja, little bit? We want to see whether you can move your legs.
JPS: Leg is flat.... otherwise I can walk.
BHD: You will be alright, Guru Maharaja. Don't worry, you will be very much alright. In two days you will come to temple.
JPS: I go to Juhu. When I go to Mayapur? Am I in Juhu or in Chowpatty?
BHD: We are in the Hindhuja hospital ICU.
EGD: You are going to be very soon out of the ICU the doctor said may be in one day or a two. One or two days may be you will be out of the ICU, Guru Maharaja. Bhakti Purushottam Maharaja and Radhanath Maharaja they came to take you to Mayapur very soon.
JPS: ...I couldn't hear.
BHD: He was telling, that Bhakti Purushottam Maharaja and Radhanath Maharaja after few days they will take you to Mayapur.
JPS: I want to extend...
BHD: You want to take it off? Is it alright?
JPS: How is breathing?
RNS: Your breathing is excellent. Everything is very good. We are all happy to see that you are recovering.
BHD: Maharaja you just tell all Vrndavana things, you prayed there and the devotees.. Radhanatha Maharaja is saying something, please listen.
RNS: We were in Vrndavana for almost 3 weeks. We had 4,000 devotees from different parts of the world on our yatra and we dedicated the yatra to you.Every lecture we began by speaking about you and we had all the 4,000 devoteees praying for your recovery and for your good health.
JPS: I don't deserve it.
RNS: Every holy place that we went, we were also at Govardhan parikrama, we were all praying for you. All thousands and thousands of devotees we were in Vrndavan meditating on our love and gratitude to you and praying to Sri Radha and Krsna to help you to recover. All over the world the devotees are united in doing kirtan and praying for your good health. It was beautiful before each evening lecture all the 4,000 devotees were together and we would begin by hearing an update and the report of your health condition and then we would speak about you and then we would all take some minutes in prayer for you and kirtan for you. It is beautiful to see how much devotees love you from their heart and hearts with such deep gratitude for your compassion and a lifetime of devotional service. Even non-devotee doctors and nurses are developing faith by seeing how miraculously Krsna is healing you. Even in this condition you are preaching, uniting devotees hearts, giving people faith. There is nothing that can be done to keep you from being an empowered preacher. You're seriously affecting devotees hearts. It brings us joy to see this. Especially brings us joy to see how miraculously you are recovering.
RNS and devotees: Hare Krsna Hare Krsna Krsna Krsna Hare Hare / Hare Rama Hare Rama Rama Rama Hare Hare.
JPS: Hare Krsna. I want my walking stick.
Devotees: Walking stick. We have. We have.
JPS: I have.
EGD: I have in the temple. Tomorrow we will bring your walking stick for you.
JPS: ...I am very tired.
BHD: You can take rest now. We will go and you take rest, Guru Maharaja. We will sit outside, you take rest. You want to take rest now. Right?
JPS: I want association.
Devotees: want association.
BHD: Maharaja will be here. We are all very happy to see your progress. So nicely you are improving. Guru Maharaja, do you feel hurt... Are you feeling hurt?
Devotees: ya, little bit.
JPS: ...you sit down and I walk.
Devotees: you will walk. (laughter)
BHD: As soon as you come out of the bed you will walk. Right now you have to take rest and you will walk when you come out of the bed. It will take some time. Just wait for a day. Be patient.
RNS: .Previously they put him on a chair...
JPS: Have a lift in Mayapur?
BPS: We are preparing the lift. Construction going on there. The lift construction is going on in Mayapur.
JPS: Good to cough?
Devotees: Ya, good to cough.
BHD: Doctor said that if you are coughing it is good for you.
RNS: It is auspicious.
BHD: Sign of improvement.
RNS: It is auspicious.
BHD: Guru Maharaja here is Ananda Tirtha.
ATD: Arguments are going on. ...arguments started yesterday.
JPS: In the Higher Court?
ATD: No, in the Lower Court only, still. December 2nd week we should be getting a judgement, hopefully in our favor. Once you will be alright, you can come back.
JPS: I think it is ....
RNS: ....will come back to see you after sometime. Please rest.
ATD: So many devotees are praying for you Guru Maharaja. Because we want you back.
JPS: I heard that you're ... (unclear)
Ekanath Gaura: It's okay Guru Maharaja...We can finish this conversation later....

Special thanks to Ekanath Gaura prabhu and Acintya Nitai prabhu for having the MP3 recorder at the right moment and recording the talk; for Tirthatma Nitai prabhu who did audio editing and to provide the url link so everyone could hear the transcendental conversation; and for Braja Sevaki Mataji who assisted in the transcription.

Your humble servant,

Ratnavali dd

Visit www.jpshealth.info for regular updates on health reports of HH Jayapataka Swami Maharaja and to read the wonderful, heart moving letters from GBCs, his dear Godbrothers, disciples and well wishers.

# Posted by Rasanandini at 22/11/08; 11:30:27 PM to the News dept.
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Jayapataka Maharaja - recorded words November 21, 2008

Status report by Dr Madhavananda Das, Director of Bhaktivedanta Hospital, Mumbai...

The neurologist was happy to see Maharaja fully alert and conscious. Maharaja feels hungry and asks to be fed. He takes a few teaspoons of semisolid food 2-3 times a day.

The weaning from the ventilator is going on. Today they weaned him off the ventilatory support at 2.30 pm. We are waiting and watching for how long he can sustain respiration without the ventilatory support.

The progress he is making is very heartening to see and the neurologist and intensivist are happy with this positive outcome and feel that very soon he will be able to pull through without ventilatory support.

Maharaja is much less critical as compared to the first 10 days of his admission in ICU.

Please continue to pray intensely.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 20/11/08; 1:35:20 AM to the News dept.
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Jayapataka Swami update, 19-11-08 evening

Report by Dr Madhavananda Das, Director of Bhaktivedanta Hospital, Mumbai...

Maharaja is more alert and is able to clearly understand what is being spoken to him. He is trying to communicate using the alphabet board and through his hand movements (which are limited due to weakness). Today HH Sacinandana Maharaja and HH Candramauli Maharaja came to visit him. They had a lively interaction with him. When HH Sacinandana Maharaja told Maharaja that he had come earlier also to visit him, Maharaja showed two fingers indicating that he remembers that Sacinandana Maharaja had come twice to meet him which was accurate.

Maharaja ate a few teaspoons of khitchri today. His nutrition is still being maintained by naso gastric feeds like before.

Maharaja is still on ventilatory support. The weaning process is going on. Please continue your intense prayers for his quick recovery.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 19/11/08; 12:01:28 AM to the News dept.
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Jayapataka Swami update, 18-11-08 5 pm report

Report by Dr Madhavananda Das, Director of Bhaktivedanta Hospital, Mumbai...

HH Jayapataka Maharaja is stable in terms of consciousness. Using an alphabet chart made by the devotees, Maharaja indicated the spelling of 'Haribol'. When he was asked whether he was saying Haribol to all the devotees around the world, Maharaja emphatically nodded yes.

Dr NF Shah, the endocrinologist was quite positive today as the insulin requirements are reducing which is a good sign, a sign of gradual progressive recovery with decreasing stress levels.

However, Maharaja still requires ventilatory support.

Please continue to pray intensely.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 18/11/08; 1:35:54 AM to the News dept.
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Jayapataka Swami update, 17-11-08 afternoon

Status report by Dr Madhavananda Das, Director of Bhaktivedanta Hospital, Mumbai...

Maharaja's consciousness level is the same - he is recognizing devotees and trying to communicate. Trial oral feeds are still going on. He is able to chew and swallow a few teaspoons of semi solid food. He was again made to sit on a chair with support. The process of weaning from the ventilator is going on and will take a few days for him to be completely off it. Please continue your intense and enthusiastic prayers.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 17/11/08; 10:24:18 PM to the News dept.
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Jayapataka Swami update, 16-11-08 afternoon

Status report by Dr Madhavananda Das, Director of Bhaktivedanta Hospital, Mumbai...

Maharaja was off the ventilator support for two hours. Now he is back on the ventilatory support because he was breathless and tired. The trials for weaning him off the ventilator will continue. Other parameters are stable. Maharaja remains critical because he is still on the ventilator. Please continue to pray intensely.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 16/11/08; 1:19:26 AM to the News dept.
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Jayapataka Swami update, 15-11-08 afternoon

Status report by Dr Madhavananda Das, Director of Bhaktivedanta Hospital...

Maharaja's consciousness is the same as yesterday. The other parameters are stable. Today at 10 am, they removed the ventilatory support. We have to wait and watch to see how Maharaja responds. Please continue praying intensely.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 16/11/08; 12:29:24 AM to the News dept.
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Jayapataka Swami update, 15-11-08 morning

Work has been underway whilst we've been away. For everyone at the temple this has simply been a work in progress for the last month. For those of us who've been away these shots look great. The plumbing behind the wall in the bathroom had to be replaced since it was leaking into the theatre. The new carpet on the stairs looks inviting. The stair rods should be installed by next week. We've got more plans to fix the theatre and reception but our funds are running out so it might take a little time to manifest.

Prabhu is also looking into the installation of a grey water recycling system for watering the garden which I have been told is looking very good. If the water restrictions are increased at the end of November then this may be our only option for watering the garden. One cycle of washing uses almost 180 litres of water. If we use the correct detergent and install the system we can put this straight onto the garden. Looking after temple maintenance is a never ending job.

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# Posted by Aniruddha at 15/11/08; 3:08:49 AM to the News dept.
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Temple Renovations

Report by Dr Madhavananda das, Director of Bhaktivedanta Hospital, Mumbai...

Maharaja's consciousness level is the same as yesterday. He is still on minimal ventilatory support. The treating doctors are going to try to remove the ventilatory support tomorrow. We hope and pray that he can breathe on his own. Please continue your intense prayers.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 15/11/08; 1:04:34 AM to the News dept.
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Jayapataka Swami update, 14-11-08

ISKCON has popularised Ratha-yatra all over the world and is now criticised and effigies of Prabhupada are burnt. What is going on here...?

Followers of Lord Jagannath have taken strong exception to the proposed Rath Yatra by ISKCON being organised in Delhi on November 23, in contravention to the religious practices. Jagannath Sena denounced the untimely observance of Rath Yatra of the Trinity and warned ISKCON to desist from such a practice, failing which, the Sena would ban entry of ISKCON devotees into the Pilgrim City...

...Earlier on Tuesday, Sena activists burnt the founder of ISKCON in effigy in front of the Jagannath temple.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 14/11/08; 7:27:02 PM to the News dept.
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Jagannath Sena denounces untimely Rath Yatra

Report by Dr Madhavananda das, Director of Bhaktivedanta Hospital, Mumbai...

Maharaja is gradually being weaned off the ventilator. He is on low ventilatory support since afternoon. His consciousness level is the same. He is trying to communicate. Today he was given trial oral feeds which he accepted. He was also made to sit on a chair with support. Please continue to pray intensely as Maharaja is still in need of the ventilator.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 14/11/08; 1:57:48 PM to the News dept.
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Jayapataka Swami update, 13-11-08

Dear Maharajas, Prabhus, & Matajis,

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

This is to bring to your notice that HH Jayapataka Maharaja is in a very crucial state of recovery; but, he is not out of a critical condition. The doctors have warned us that any little infection, that he get, in this critical condition could endanger his life to the extent of being fatal.

With folded hands I beg you to not try to come and visit him because the doctors have issued a strict warning, "NO VISITORS AT ALL!" Kindly bear with me.

Please continue your prayers and chanting and that is very important for his recovery.

Hare Krishna

Your servant,

Bhakti Purusottama Swami

# Posted by Aniruddha at 12/11/08; 11:30:23 PM to the News dept.
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Message from Bhakti Purusottama Swami

Status report by Dr Madhavananda Das, Director of Bhaktivedanta Hospital, Mumbai

Maharaja remains neurologically the same. He is fully conscious, oriented and responding to all commands. He is still on low ventilatory support. He continues to remain critical as he is still in need of the ventilator. Please continue your intense prayers.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 12/11/08; 3:35:29 PM to the News dept.
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Jayapataka Swami update, 12-11-08 morning

Report by Dr Madhavananda das, Director of Bhaktivedanta Hospital, Mumbai...

Maharaja's weaning process is on. His ventilatory support is low. Please continue to pray intensely for Maharaja.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 12/11/08; 3:05:56 PM to the News dept.
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Jayapataka Swami update, 11-0-11-08 evening

Some inspirational news from Devakinandana Das, Singapore...

The following letter is written by Devakinandana Prabhu from Singapore. He is a disciple of (old) Mahavisnu Swami Maharaja. This letter was written to Kavicandra Maharaja who is at present here in Mumbai and regularly visiting Guru Maharaja to give his transcendental association.

This letter can give us great faith and inspiration to continue to pray for our Guru Maharaja. The doctors are in the process to wean the ventilator. This is a biggest hurdle for now as other parameters seem to be stable with the mercy of Sri Sri Radha Rasabihariji and the beloved Lordships of our Guru Maharaja, Sri Sri Radha Madhava and Lord Narasimhadeva.

Your humble servant,

Ratnavali dd

 

Hare Krsna Maharaja,

Please accept my dandavats at your lotus feet! All glories to Srila
Prabhupada!

I have been reading the regular updates on the transcendental progress of H.H Jayapataka Swami Maharaja in Mumbai. I wanted to inform you Maharaja that devotees have daily been offering Nrsimha kavacas in Singapore. For the public programmes, we have been chanting one round of japa together and 1 round of the Kavaca together. We have had 4 special japa sessions (once every week). We are all praying for Maharaja's recovery.

Personally, Maharaja's' present state reminded me very much of my Guru Maharaja's' condition 8-9 years ago and I wanted to share it with you Maharaja's because it gives me great faith in the Lord.

Guru Maharaja's was diagnosed with brain stem bleeding and infarction to the left side of the brain. There were at least 2 major areas of bleeding in the brain and an embolism in the left lung. Doctors were not hopeful because of his age and the very nature of the medical condition. He also could not move his limbs. They told me that even if he regains consciousness, he would either live and become a vegetable or he would not make it. The 13 hours of
flight to London was the most tortuous I had ever taken because I had no idea what to expect when I arrived in London.

When I did, and rushed into the hospital, I found Guru Maharaja's putting up both his hands high above his head and saying "Haribol". Yet skeptical doctors cautioned me not to be very pleased as the bleeding was still there, but they could not explain how Maharaja's was conscious despite the bleeding. It confounded them totally.

In the next 72 critical hours, Maharaja's got the small team of us disciples to daily do mangala arati at his bedside - and continuously chant Srimad Bhagavatam and particularly Narayana Kavaca from 6th Canto. Midway through the week, a 2nd embolism began to form in Maharaja's' lung, and the doctors got worried that this would spell trouble. Guru Maharaja's' purity got him through that to. He told us that we should never underestimate the power of devotional service - the process Srila Prabhupada has given us is complete and pure - we just have to sincerely follow it and Krsna will always protect us. He also told me that Krsna sends 2 kinds of diseases - the 1st can be
cured when we try. The 2nd no matter how we try cannot be cured  - that means the only cure to that disease is death.

Guru Maharaja suffered very much, from my material vision. The pain and numbness alternately tortured his old body, but I realised that he was transcendental to pain.

That is why Maharaja's I am very hopeful of Jayapataka Maharaja's recovery.

Just wanted to share this with you Maharaja...

Your servant

Devakinandana Das

# Posted by Aniruddha at 11/11/08; 5:50:30 PM to the News dept.
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Jayapataka Swami update, inspiration from Singapore

From Bhakti Purusottama Swami...

By now most of you must have heard about the positive health developments of health of HH Jayapataka Swami Maharaja. Maharaja has become more conscious, is moving his limbs, and attempting to talk.

But my humble request to all devotees around the world is that they kindly do not relax their prayers, chanting, and kirtans on hearing this news. The doctors are giving no medicine, as there is nothing to give and no surgery is possible. That means the only improvement we see now is due ONLY to the medicine of prayers from the devotees around the world, and the chanting of the holy names.

Every little step towards improvement that Maharaja makes is fully dependent on how seriously devotees are chanting and praying. This is the only way he will recover.

I humbly request all devotees to continue your prayers to the Lord for the recovery of our beloved Guru Maharaja, His Holiness  Jayapataka Swami.

Thank you very much.

Your humble servant

Bhakti Purusottama Swami

# Posted by Aniruddha at 11/11/08; 5:39:07 PM to the News dept.
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Jayapataka Swami update, 11-11-08

Report by Dr Madhavanada Das, Director of Bhaktivedanta Hospital, Mumbai

The doctors tried to wean Maharaja from the ventilator for 2 hours today. He is back on the ventilator now. The doctors said it will take its own time.

Maharaja's consciousness is the same as yesterday.

Please continue to pray intensely. Maharaja remains critical as he is still on the ventilator.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 11/11/08; 5:32:55 PM to the News dept.
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Jayapataka Swami update, 10-11-08 afternoon

Report by Dr Madhavananda das, Director of Bhaktivedanta Hospital, Mumbai...

Maharaja's consciousness is the same as yesterday. He is trying to communicate by writing but is weak to write at the moment. The weaning from the ventilator is going to start today. Please continue to pray intensely.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 10/11/08; 6:40:10 PM to the News dept.
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Jayapataka Swami update, 10-11-08 11.00 am

Report by Dr Madhavananda das, Director of Bhaktivedanta Hospital, Mumbai...

Maharaja's consciousness in the evening is the same as morning. He is fully conscious and trying to talk. The other parameters are also stable. Tomorrow the doctors will try to wean Maharaja off the ventilator. Please continue to pray intensely for this to be a success.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 10/11/08; 2:00:00 PM to the News dept.
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Jayapataka Swami update, evening 09-11-08

From Bhaktisiddhanta Swami...

At 10:45 am Bhakti Caru Swami, Kavicandra Swami, Braja Hari and myself went to see him and GM was awake chanting. He looked at each of us and Bhakti Caru Swami said, placing his hand on GM's chest.. "Wow you look great, just look at your fighting spirit...you really had us worried...we need you so much to guide us in service to Srila Prabhupada" Kavicandra Maharaja said "There are 24 hour kirtans going around the world for you".

GM was choked up with tears in his eyes and he tried to speak, Bhakti Caru Swami said "Don't try to exert your self please relax... And we all chanted Hare Krnsa out loud to calm him. Kavicandra at the foot of the bed yelled out "Gauranga" and then GM had to shift his attention to the end of the bed. Then BCS asked him would you like to hear from the CC?... how about the chapter "Talks between Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu and Lord Caitanya?" Gm made a slight affirmation. During the reading Kavicandra Maharaja was giving him reiki around the leg area and noticed that when the description of Mahaprabhu dancing GM's right leg gave a small kick. He then was able to feebly lift his left hand over his chest to hold Bhakti Caru Swami's hand.

For the first time he was moving his head from right to left, up and down to take in all the persons that were there...sometimes he would look over head as we spoke.

Doctor Madhavanada, the director of the Bhaktivedanta hospital arrived and GM recognized him motioning with his left hand and pointing at the ventilator system that is a plastic pipe that goes into his throat. The doctor said "that we have to keep that in for a while to help you clear the mucus...just some more days. You are doing very very well, we are very happy at your progress".

Last night the doctor had a dream and he was with GM at his hospital bed and he was pulling the ventilator pipes from his chest saying "I don't need them any more". The DM was amazed to see that he was pointing to the very pipes he pulled out in the dream. Again GM tried to talk and the doctor said you are doing fine in a few days you can write to us. A large card with the alphabet was brought over and he tried to point to a few letters but it was too strenuous...DM said don't worry you can do this later"

At the same time the local doctors had arrived and were watching, I think Doctor Ashok, the nuerologist, was there for the first time to see GM active, we were going to clear out but he motioned for us to stay saying "This is the best thing for him now".

Again we began to chant together and you could see how GM was trying to speak the mahamantra and say Gauranga...One could easily perceive that GM appeared to be restless...wanting to do more...Kavicandra jokingly quipped "He is probably thinking of an unused plane ticket that he hasn't used up yet" As we were leaving it was clear that GM, looking at Bhakti Caru Swami, silently formed the words 'Thank you'.

Out in the hall DM said things are going well, he is stable and his platelets are up to 70,000 in my opinion we should not move him until he is completely off the ventilator. Two days ago I saw him and today I am amazed to see this. Kavicandra added "I could really see he has taking the reiki...I have not seen him like this since he arrived"

In conclusion...a strong indication has been made: This is such good news but we are still in the critical stage...all of the prayers and yajnas are being felt, and now we have to only increase and not let up. Kavicandra mentioned(because today is Ekadasi) that if everyone in the movement did nirjala just think how powerful that could be? Krsna is reciprocating with the desires of his devotees...this is the most important cure. Now we have a lot of work to do to try to bring GM back to 100%...please please please continue....

Best wishes
Your servant
Bhaktisiddhanta Swami

# Posted by Aniruddha at 10/11/08; 2:09:19 AM to the News dept.
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Jayapataka Swami update, 09-11-08

by Dr Madhavananda das, Director of Bhaktivedanta Hospital...

Today mornings' Srila Jayapataka Maharaja is evidence of the power of prayers of all the devotees all over the world. By Srila Prabhupada’s and Krishna’s mercy Maharaja is completely conscious, recognizing everyone, trying to speak and chant (of course he can’t do that because of the tracheostomy tube) and moves all his limbs.  HH Bhakti Caru Maharaja, HH Kavicandra Maharaja, HH Bhaktisiddhanta Maharaja were all reading from Caitanya Caritamrta and Maharaja could understand everything.

Maharaja wants to come out of the ventilator. His blood pressure and other parameters are stable. We are hoping that very soon he will be out of the ventilator as well but that remains unpredictable even at this moment.

Maharaja is also getting acupuncture. Yesterday the first sitting of acupuncture was done and it will continue as long as the hospital authorities allow us.

Please continue to pray very sincerely and enthusiastically.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 9/11/08; 6:04:31 PM to the News dept.
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Jayapataka Swami update, 09-11-08

Tough times in Bali...

Balinese survivors and relatives of victims were expected to gather this morning at the Kuta headquarters of a local Hare Krishna group to pray, sing and dance for peace.

"After their executions, we will pray together at the Bali bombing monument at 9am," Sayoga, the executive director of the National Integration Movement, told AAP last night.

He said the aim of the prayers was to cut the bonds of hatred and anger that had consumed the bombers.

"If someone is dead, it is only their body that is dead, their spirit lives on. So the bombers' spirits are still spreading hatred, anger and violence. Our prayers are to make this anger and hatred disappear," he said.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 9/11/08; 4:02:18 PM to the News dept.
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Healing in Bali

Report by Dr Madhavananda Das, Director of Bhaktivedanta Hospital, Mumbai...

In the morning Maharaja's condition was the same as yesterday but fortunately by 12 pm, he moved all his four limbs and the intensivist was pleasantly surprised. Dr Goel, a general surgeon from USA, visited Maharaja and gave some suggestions to the doctors to help Maharaja come off the ventilator. Dr Yogeshcandra, an acupuncturist also did his therapy on Maharaj today.

Maharaja is still on the ventilator. Though improving, he remains to be critical. Please continue to pray intensely.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 9/11/08; 2:25:01 AM to the News dept.
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Jayapataka Swami update, 08-11-08

From Bhaktisiddhanta Swami...

Some progression is there with Guru Maharaja's external consciousness. While reading CC to him, Guru Maharaja was listening with open eyes, first looking straight ahead, then to the left where the speaker was, then he kept his sight on me. The nurse asked me to move away from his left side so she could do something with the tubes, so her and I changed positions. I went to the other side and the nurse said to Maharaja, "Don't worry, he has gone to the
other side." Although it was small movements, Guru Maharaja was looking around, searching (the swami had turned into a nurse....smile).

The main doctor on the floor acknowledged that Guru Maharaja looks a lot better than before: in fact everyone agrees that he looks effulgent...so different than the auras surrounding the other patients.

Bhakti Caru Swami was present at this time and noted how he moved both his legs on command. Earlier he had moved both hands...he today has moved all four limbs.

Also during his check up he actually was able to grasp Sita Rama Laksmana Prabhu's hand and give it a slight squeeze.

This is a beginning...

# Posted by Aniruddha at 9/11/08; 2:22:26 AM to the News dept.
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Jayapataka Swami update, 08-11-08 11.00 am

From Bhakti Purusottama Swami...

At present Maharaja is showing less signs of consciousness and not responding to doctors orders. The doctors say this doesn't mean there's less hope, but it is difficult to give a prognosis of how long he will remain this way.

At present there is no treatment going on for the the brain haemorrhage. The doctors are simply trying to keep his blood pressure, blood sugar, and platelet count stable.

Now devotees are reading Srila Prabhupada books Maharaja throughout the day and night, 24 hours.

The doctors will observe Maharaja's condition for the next four days; after that time it will be reviewed and a decision made as to the next step.

We request everyone to continue with their intense prayers .

Thank you very much.

Your humble servant

Bhakti Purusottama Swami

# Posted by Aniruddha at 9/11/08; 2:17:33 AM to the News dept.
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Jayapataka Swami update, 07-11-08

from Ratnavali...

Bhaktisiddhanta Swami Maharaja visited Jayapataka Maharaja and he wrote the following note:

When I saw Guru Maharaja in the morning around 11am and again at 7:00 pm he was sleeping, some coughing clearing of mucus etc, and I was a little sad to not see so much of a continuation from the previous day, however in leaving the hospital one doctor alleviated my lamentations about the fact that Guru Maharaja’s external condition has been pretty much unchanged for the last 15 days. He said that there have been some cases where patients have even been in this state for 3 to 6 months or even up to a year and they suddenly snap out of it with no memory of the time involved and recover 100%.

Of course we are not insinuating that it will take a long time for GM to recover from this state but my point is that we should not be disheartened at the apparent slow progress and that we has crossed a point of no return.

The doctors are optimistic of a recovery.

Bhanu Swami has also indicated that astrologically after Nov 14 tithis is a period that GM should come out of his present condition.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 9/11/08; 2:12:01 AM to the News dept.
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Jayapataka Swami update, 06-11-08

By Dr Madhavananda das, Director of Bhaktivedanta Hospital, Mumbai

Maharaj's consciousness level is the same. The different parameters are stable.

The doctors are saying there is more or less no active management except nursing care which is being well taken care of.

From our side, we have suggested to integrate acupuncture and acupressure along with the ongoing treatment which is to be discussed with the intensivist and acupuncturist tomorrow.

Maharaja is still on the ventilator. He, though stable, continues to be
critical. Please continue to pray intensely.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 7/11/08; 10:16:55 PM to the News dept.
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Jayapataka Swami update, 07-Nov-08

If you tried to access the Govardhana Puja slide show before reading this, you may have been locked out - like Aniruddha Prabhu, who wrote me from India.

Sorry, I've managed to change the security settings. I hope you enjoy your darshan.

# Posted by Rasanandini at 7/11/08; 6:56:06 AM to the News dept.
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Govardhana Slideshow Accessible

Dear Prabhus and Maharajas,

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

Maharaja's rate of improvement is very slow. His blood pressure, blood sugar, platelets, etc. are stable. We have consulted other neurologists and surgeons in India, from Delhi, Bhubanesvara, Tirupati, Mumbai, Bangalore, etc. Everyone is of the same opinion: the situation is very critical.

No surgery can be performed, and there is no medicine that can be given. The brain stem haemorrhage was very serious, and if the bleeding had continued there would have been no chance of survival. Fortunately Maharaja's bleeding has stopped, which is why there is hope of recovery. But there is no treatment for it: it has to heal on its own.

That means it is completely in the hands of Sri Krishna. Intense prayer to the Lord is the only hope. The doctors are simply trying to maintain Maharaja's health so he remains stable, so he may recover on his own. Nothing more can be done at this point. The current problem is the blood clot in the brain stem. It cannot be dissolved by medicine, nor operated upon. It has to dissolve on it's own.

At this point we have to simply wait, depending upon the mercy of the Lord. According to the doctors, even if everything goes OK it will be a long period of healing. The hospital has now allowed for a devotee to be with Maharaja always, reading Srila Prabhupada's book and chanting.

According to the doctors, only when Maharaja is free from danger and the ventilaion is removed will he be transferred to a separate room. Then more devotees can visit.

After some time I will try to give some more details of how things are to be handled here in Mumbai in regards to the health treatment of Maharaja.

Your servant,

Bhakti Purusottama Swami

# Posted by Aniruddha at 6/11/08; 11:03:06 PM to the News dept.
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Report from Bhakti Purushottam Maharaja, 05-Nov-08

By Dr Madhavananda das, Director of Bhaktivedanta Hospital, Mumbai

Maharaja remains stable as before. Sometimes he is unresponsive, sometimes quite alert and looking around. Doctors feel it is expected in such a condition of pontine haemorrhage.

It does not mean that he is not improving. At the same time, as long as his consciousness is fluctuating, he is not out of danger. He remains critical. Please continue to pray intensely for Maharaja.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 6/11/08; 10:56:36 PM to the News dept.
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Jayapataka Swami update, 06-Nov-08

If you celebrated Govardhana Puja with us at Mahaprabhu Mandir, you will know what a blissful festival it was.

From offering lamps to Damodara in the morning and receiving the Deities’ darshan; to circumambulating Giriraja on His hill of sweets; to honouring His special feast prasadam; offering lamps in the evening, and singing and dancing in the huge kirtana that followed – Damodara and Govardhana will certainly have touched your heart. Thank you so much for giving our celebration so much life!

You can find an extensive slide show here.








# Posted by Rasanandini at 6/11/08; 8:39:15 PM to the News dept.
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Govardhana Puja and Damodara Masa Pictures

by Dr Madhavananda das, Director of Bhaktivedanta Hospital, Mumbai

Maharaj is stable, even today. His consciousness is better. Dr PP Ashok, the neurologist was happy with Maharaj’s alertness. His blood pressure, blood sugar and other parameters are stable.

Today onwards, they are gradually taking him off the ventilator. This process is gradual.

Maharaj remains stable but critical. The prayers should continue intensely. It is the most helpful thing that can be done.

PS: Madhavananda Prabhu mentioned that the report would be sent around 3pm everyday after the main doctors come and check Guru Maharaja.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 5/11/08; 9:06:05 PM to the News dept.
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Jayapataka Swami 05-Nov-08, afternoon

Here are a few pictures from our Diwali celebrations on Friday evening.

Besides our nightly chanting of Damodarastakam prayers and offerings of lamps, the Deities were offered a candlelit arati. I took the pictures below afterwards. Many devotees also lovingly offered Sita-Rama-Laksman-Hanuman (at left) special arati trays. You can see a small slide show here.























# Posted by Rasanandini at 5/11/08; 8:43:50 PM to the News dept.
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Diwali Celebration Pictures

From Ratnavali...

Guru Maharaja consciousness level is fluctuating. The whole day yesterday Guru Maharaja was only in the sleeping state, no response until 6.15pm. At 6.15pm when a devotee was reading Caitanya Caritamrta he opened his eye and upon the instruction of the nurse when the devotee asked him to lift his left hand he slowly lifted but he couldn't move his other limbs although he was trying. Soon after that Guru Maharaja again went to the sleeping state. As per the doctor Guru Maharaja's general body conditions like BP, sugar level, pulse rate etc are stable except he has some chest pain.

At 2.30 am there was another devotee who was reciting Caitanya Caritamrta to Guru Maharaja saw him opening his eye for 10min without any movement of eyelids and also no other bodily movements.

Like this there is fluctuation of consciousness level. The different doctors are going to meet today and later we will be sending it to you their report.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 4/11/08; 6:58:42 PM to the News dept.
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Jayapataka Swami update 04-Nov-08, 9:00 am

From Ratnavali...

Yesterday around 12am (midnight) by the mercy of Sri Sri Radha Rasabihariji, Guru Maharaja opened his eyes. The nurse went and informed the servant of Guru Maharaja who is usually in the waiting room. No attendant is allowed to be inside after 11pm in the night. During the day only one attendant is allowed to be besides Guru Maharaja. The attendant is generally reading Caitanya Caritamrta to Guru Maharaja (even if conscious or not conscious) or he is chanting his japa along with Srila Prabhupada's japa which is constantly being played. So the servant rushed inside and opened the Caitanya Caritamrta and showed Srila Prabhupada's picture in the book to Guru Maharaja. Guru Maharaja looked at the picture for a while and he wanted to say something but he was unable.

The nurse wanted to test the level of consciousness of Guru Maharaja. She asked Guru Maharaja to raise the left hand and Guru Maharaja slowly lifted his left hand. When he was asked to lift the right hand because of the swelling he wasn't able to. Then she asked to lift the right and left legs. Guru Maharaja was trying but he was unable to. Since for the three days he hasn't been conscious and there were no movements so he his weak right now.

He is only 5% conscious right now. As long as Guru Maharaja is with life support and in ICCU it is very critical. The conscious level keeps fluctuating therefore we should keep praying and chanting for Guru Maharaja intensely until he comes out of the ICCU.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 3/11/08; 5:26:33 PM to the News dept.
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Jayaptaka Swami update 03-Nov-08, 7.30 am

From Ratnavali...

Dr Madhavananda Prabhu from the Bhaktivedanta hospital although in Vrindavana Yatra is always in touch with the Hinduja doctors and the doctors from America. They constantly discuss regarding Guru Maharaja's situation and the treatment to Guru Maharaja is given accordingly. Dr Madhavananda Prabhu is requesting us not to panic and just keep praying to Krishna positively.

Guru Maharaja is not an ordinary person. He is under the divine protection of Sri Gauranga Mahaprabhu. He is very dear to Srila Prabhupada and all the devotees. Let us all pray intensely for Guru Maharaja's recovery. If Krishna wants anything is possible. It is upon His sweet will.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 3/11/08; 3:05:59 AM to the News dept.
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Jayapataka Swami update

From Ratnavali...

Dr. B S Singhal was brought to the hospital this afternoon by Braja Hari Prabhu, the Temple President of ISKCON Mumbai and also a senior disciple of Jayapataka Swami Guru Maharaja. Dr. B S Singhal is the Hon Chairperson of MSSI-Mumbai. He is a renowned Neurologist at Bombay Hospital. He examined the reports and as well as Guru Maharaja's present condition.

Since Guru Maharaja is not responding to verbal commands he says it is very critical. He said that the Hinduja doctors are giving the best treatment possible. We now have to only wait and see.

# Posted by Aniruddha at 3/11/08; 2:59:42 AM to the News dept.
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Jayapataka Swami update 02-Nov-08, 1.30pm