Here are some photos of Srila Govinda Maharaj that were taken in San Jose & Santa Cruz, California in 1993 & 1994.
Archive for 2012 Photo Gallery
November 28, 2012
Sriman Gaurangasundarjiu on the altar in San Jose
On Rasapurnima day in the year 2000, the divine deity form of Sriman Gaurangasundar (Lord Chaitanya Mahaprabhu) who had already been in California many years, and was being worshiped at the Soquel Seva Ashram, was installed in what Srila Govinda Maharaj called “His own home” on St. James St. in San Jose. Srimati Kumkum Didi made all the arrangements for purchasing and remodeling the beautiful Victorian house to fulfill Srila Govinda Maharaj’s desire that there would be a temple in San Jose. These twelve years she has maintained the Ashram and the Lord’s daily worship with the dedicated help of many gentle and honorable Vaishnavas.
Here are some photographs from the lovely evening program held to commemorate and celebrate the fortunate day when Sriman Gaurangasundar arrived at the temple for the first time. That day He arrived on a palenquin in a grand parade from 17th St. with jubilant devotees chanting the Holy Name in sankirtan. Srila Govinda Maharaj personally oversaw every detail of the arrangements for the altar, the offerings, and altogether every aspect of the Lord’s worship.
Related links:
Letter by Kumkum Didi in 2000
This day in 2002
Photo report by Vrindavaneshwari Devi Dasi
Photo report from Srila Gurudev’s word tour in 2005
24 November 2007 
San Jose, USA. Talks by Srila Govinda Maharaj and Sripad Goswami Maharaj during the Anniversary Celebration of Sri Sri Guru Gauranga Sundar’s Auspicious arrival at the San Jose Sri Chaitanya Saraswat Seva Ashram.
Video captured and prepared by Vaidehi Devi Dasi:
32+ minutes, 63 MB ‘mov’ video
All glories to His Divine Grace Om Vishnupad Srila Bhakti Sundar Govinda Dev-Goswami Maharaj!
All glories to Sri Sri Guru Gaurangasundarjiu!
All glories to His Divine Grace Srila Janardan Maharaj, Sripad Yudhamanyu Prabhu Seva Vikram and Sripad Hasyapriya Prabhu (right to left)
Srila Janardan Maharaj just had just returned from Brazil
And Sripad Yudhamanyu Prabhu just returned from China
They were happy to see one another again
As well as Sripad Hasyapriya Prabhu, who just returned from India
Srila Janardan Maharaj shared news of his trip to Brazil and of Srila Trivikram Maharaj
And then news about the devotees in China
Then Janardan Maharaj told the story of Srila Govinda Maharaj's first trips to San Jose
As well as Sri Gaurangasundar's glories and the history of this Ashram in San Jose
Today was the 12th anniversary of Sri Gaurangasundar's installation in this Ashram
Here are Sita, Vidura Krishna Prabhu, Srimati Kumkum Didi, and Vimala Didi
Divyashakti Didi and Swarnangii Didi
Shatrughna Prabhu, who recently travelled with Janardan Maharaj to China, and Vrinda Didi
Braja Mohini Didi making flower garlands
With Laksmipriya Didi
Ramananda Prabhu and Shyama Gopa Prabhu
On the right: Ashok Kumar. On the left: Venkatesh Chembrolu, son of Srila Acarya Maharaj's disciples, Hanuman and Sita. We're always happy when they can come.
Lavanika and Nabh
A happy reunion for all the honorable vaishnavas returning from their travels
Swarnangii Didi and Kumkum Didi, who has made all the arrangements for this temple and Sri Gaurangasundar's service
Jairam Prabhu on the left and Premanidhi Prabhu on the right
Anukrishna Didi fortunately received Srila Janardan Maharaj's prasadam
Jairam Prabhu with Sangita Didi discuss the upcoming Kathak dance concert that they are organizing as a fundraiser for the temple
The girls
Lalita Didi and Shatrugna Prabhu
Shyama Gopa Prabhu with Jananivas
The honorable kitchen crew hard at work
Abha Didi made puff pastries
Nandarani Didi makes wonderful dahl and vegetable dishes
Sridhar Prabhu hard at work washing the Lord's pots
Lilashakti Didi, another of Sri Gaurangasundar's dedicated servitors
The devotees prepare to honor the sumptuous prasadam
Mahaprasadam ki jay!
During the month of October 2012, Srila Janardan Maharaj travelled to China to visit with Yudhamnayu Prabhu Seva Vikram and the Chinese devotees. Accompanied by Satrughna Prabhu (Shuggie), they went to Chongqing and Shenzhen, where they were warmly greeted by the Chinese devotees. Everyone was extremely happy to have Srila Janardan Maharaj’s association. Here are some pictures from that tour.
Srila Janardan Maharaj Visits Yudhamnyu Prabhu in Chongqing
Srila Janardan Maharaj in Chongqing, China
With Yudhamanyu Prabhu Seva Vikram, Satrughna Prabhu and the devotees.
Sita Devi (center) translates Srila Janardan Maharaj's talk into Chinese.
Ananda Devi offers arotik to Sri Guru and Sri Gauranga
Offering the ghee lamp...
Offering the fan...
Honoring the Vaishnavas...
Back left to right: Yudhamanyu Prabhu Seva Vikram, Srila Janardan Maharaj, Satrughna Prabhu. Front left to right: Madhumita Devi, Sita Devi, Ananda Devi.
Srila Janardan Maharaj ki jay!
Srila Janardan Maharaj leads the devotees in kirtan.
Everyone is enthusiastically chanting and clapping during the kirtan.
All the guests and the Chongqing devotees.
For Sri Radhasami, the devotees prepared a sumptuous feast and offered everything to Sri Guru and Sri Gauranga.
And a special "Happy Birthday" cake in honor of Sri Radhastami
Yudhamanyu Prabhu eagerly accepts some cake prasadam from Srila Janardan Maharaj
Srila Janardan Maharaj personally distributes a piece of cake to each guest and devotee
Satrughna Prabhu (second from right) traveled the whole trip with Janardan Maharaj.
Satrughna Prabhu ki jay! Shuggie Prabhu ki jay!
Several sincere souls asked Srila Janardan Maharaj for initiation.
Srila Sridhar Maharaj wrote: "Intitiation into the mantra means to impart real knowledge and devotional sentiment from one to another."
Kishori Devi Dasi ki jay!
Tulasi Devi Dasi ki jay!
Sita Devi & Madhumita Devi receive second initiation from Srila Janardan Maharaj.
Srila Janardan Mahraj ki jay! Sripad Yudhamanyu Prabhu Seva Vikram ki jay!
All the Chongqing devotees ki jay!
Visiting with Dr Su & his wife Mrs Hao in Chengdu…
Dr Su was instrumental in helping Yudhamnyu Prabhu become established in China. Dr Su and his wife Mrs Hao visited our Soquel Seva Ashram in the summer of 2012. They were very happy with their visit and afterwards he commented to Yudhamnyu Prabhu that everyone at the Seva Ashram was smiling from their hearts!
Yudhamanyu Prabhu, Sita Devi & Hasyapriya das took the high speed "bullet train" from Chongqing to Chengdu.
Left to right: Robert, Yudhamanyu Prabhu, Mrs Hao, Dr Su, Hasyapriya das
Left to right: Mrs Hao, Hasyapriya das, Yudhamanyu Prabhu, Dr Su, Carole & her daughter "Little Tiger"
We visited Southwest Jiaotong University, the first school Yudhamanyu Prabhu taught at when he first came to China in 2003
Sudevi Devi Dasi (left) the first initiated disciple of Srila Govinda Maharaj in China.
Robert (left) who along with his wife Carole, helped Yudhamanyu Prabhu when he first arrived in China.
Srila Acharya Maharaj’s Appearance Day
A few days before Srila Janardan Maharaj’s arrival in China, the devotees in Chongqing celebrate Srila Acharya Maharaj’s Appearance Day…
Srila Bhakti Nirmal Acharyya Maharaj ki Jay!
The painting by Urmila Devi Dasi of Sri Sri Guru Gauranga Gandharvika Girihari is worshiped by the devotees in Chongqing.
Yudhamanyu Prabhu reads from Srila Govinda Maharaj's book to the Chinese devotees and guests.
Sri Mridanga Arrives in Chongqing, China
While he was in India, Srila Janardan Maharaj purchased a mridanga drum for the devotees in Chongqing which he gave to Hasyapriya das to bring there…
Yudhamanyu Prabhu & Madhumita Devi
Rita
Sita Devi
Yudhamanyu Prabhu Seva Vikram
Srila Janardan Maharaj Visits Jayavati Devi & the other Shenzhen Devotees
After Chongqing, Srila Janardan Maharaj and Shatrugna Prabhu went on to Shenzhen where Jayavati Devi is leading the Chinese devotees at the new center established by Srila Avadut Maharaj & Srila Goswami Maharaj…
Srila Janardan Maharaj & Paramananda Prabhu. Paramananda Prabhu has been traveling and preaching in Thailand, China, Japan and other Asian counties for many years.
Jayavati Devi Dasi is the leader of the Shenzhen center.
Many devotees and guests came to get Srila Janardan Maharaj's association in Shenzhen.
Satrughna Prabhu gives a mridanga lesson to one of the Chinese devotees.
Jayavati Devi smiling and serving prasadam
Nalina Devi Dasi also lives at the center in Shenzhen
Up on the roof for the "Full Moon" festival.
Yudhamnayu Prabhu & Hasyapriya das Visit Shenzhen
A few weeks after Srila Janardan Maharaj’s visit, Yudhamanyu Prabhu Seva Vikram and Hasyapriya das also visited the devotees in Shenzhen …
Yudhamanyu Prabhu leads a kirtan
Hasyapriya das & Yudhamanyu Prabhu
Hasyapriya das speaking to Indumukhi Devi Dasi and Aravinda Prabhu
Jayavati Devi Dasi
Jayavati Devi, who is a very good preacher, explains our philosophy to the devotees and guests.
Jayavati Devi, Indumukhi Devi and a guest.
Left to right: Yudhamanyu Prabhu, Aravinda Prabhu, Hasyapriya das
Back row left to right: Indumukhi Devi, Nalina Devi and a guest.
After Saturday’s hike everyone went downtown for more nagarsankirtan on the streets of Salt Lake City. There are also photos here of the Mormon temple’s beautiful visitors’ center, and of the fire sacrifice.
Photos by Braja Mohini Devi Dasi
All glories to Sri Sri Guru Gaurachandra!
All glories to all the assembled devotees!
My dandavat pranams to all the devotees who participated and helped with the Oregon programs. I would like to especially thank Srila B.P. Janardan Maharaj who came and blessed us with his holy association and sweet mercy. He gave so much nourishment to the devotees here in Oregon, the feedback was overflowing with joy. I also would like to thank Vidura Krsna Prabhu, Deva Priya Didi, Saki Charan Prabhu, Narayana Prabhu and Ratan Krsna Prabhu. Without their help this program would have been impossible. I am hoping for many more programs like this one in the future and invite all the devotees to join. Praying for the mercy of all the devotees and hoping to get there association soon.
An aspiring servitor,
Rama Chandra Das
Editor’s note: Vidura Krishna Prabhu talked about the trip on Tuesday evening and went on to give a very nice class about embracing the Lord’s guardianship and engaging in devotional service. Listen to lecture…
Photos by Ramachandra Prabhu with captions by Ratan Krishna Prabhu:
Srila Janardan Maharaj led a program on Saturday at the house of Dayal Krishna Prabhu and Malini Didi, outside of Portland, Oregon
Ratan Krishna Prabhu, Dayita Krishna Prabhu, Sakhi Charan Prabhu, Maladhari Didi, Vidura Krishna Prabhu, Jagan Mata Didi, Narayana Prabhu, and Deva Priya Didi
Srila Janardan Maharaj started his class with stories about his time with Srila Prabhupad
Guests came from all over Oregon and even as far as Canada to hear Srila Janardan Maharaj speak
Narayana Prabhu from Venezuela impressed Janardan Maharaj with his mridanga playing
Vidya Sundar Prabhu from Canada always leads a beautiful kirtan
Prasad Seva
Prabhus Sakhi Charan, Vidura Krishna and Dayita Krishna kicking back after a sumptuous prasad
All the devotees and their guests contentedly honoring prasad
Didis Madhulekha, Amiya Kanti,Jay and Malini
Sakhi Charan Prabhu and Vidura Krishna Prabhu
Ratan Krishna Prabhu and Deva Priya Didi
Little Madhavi, daughter of Dayal Krishna Prabhu and Malini Didi
The distinguished Matajis of Sri Chaitanya Saraswat Math: Jagan Mata Didi, Krishna Kanti Didi, Deva Priya Didi, Maladhari Didi, Malini Didi, and Amiya Kanti Didi in front
Jaya to all the assembled devotees. Very special thanks to Dayal Krishna Prabhu and Malini Didi for hosting this wonderful program, and thanks to Ramachandra Prabhu, Maladhari Didi and Dayita Krishna Prabhu for organizing the event
Last weekend’s public program at Ponderosa Park in Sunnyvale, California was very nice. New guests came as well as many members of our local community. Vidura Krishna Prabhu organized the program for the second year in a row. Jai Ram Prabhu and Abha Devi Dasi also gave assistance as well as other devotees. Thanks to everyone who helped!
Srila Janardan Maharaj and Sripad Sarvabhavana Prabhu led beautiful kirtan and Srila Janardan Maharaj gave a lecture. The lecture has been posted online as an audio file that you can stream or download at your convenience: listen to lecture
Photos by: Vidura Krishna Prabhu
Srila Janardan Maharaj conversing with guests while honoring prasadam
Sripad Yudhamanyu Prabhu Seva Vikram
Abha Devi Dasi shares information about our community with a guest while her daughter Lavanika organizes the book table
Srila Janardan Maharaj with Jai Ram Prabhu and Vaidehi Devi Dasi. Ramananda Prabhu is in the background
The weekend-long festival last month in Salt Lake City was wonderful. Here are some more pictures. On Friday there was a very nice public program in the park near the temple. Although the park was not so full of people, several guests came and were very much inspired and enlivened to hear from Srila B.P. Janardan Maharaj and Srila B.K. Ashram Maharaj, and to honor prasadam with all the devotees. Saturday morning a large group gathered in the mountains for an invigorating hike. It was a great way to connect with old and new friends alike. Here are some pictures from those two outings. Part 2 of my photo gallery will be posted next weekend.
Photos by Braja Mohini Devi Dasi
Text by Sushila Devi Dasi
Srila Janardan Maharaj chants Hare Krishna as the he walks through the park
Along with Srila Ashram Maharaj and many devotees
Sripad Sudarshan Prabhu leads the way
Srila Janardan Maharaj
Brian, Sushila Devi Dasi, Divya Shakti Devi Dasi, little Sita and Kumaris Syama Mohini and Anuradha in the background
Kumari Nanda Priya and her sister Becca carried festive flags
The group made it's way back to the stage after passing out invitations
The famous kirtaniyas of Salt Lake City wrapped up the kirtan in the covered "pandal" area by the stage
Only to sit down and chant some more
Keshavananda Prabhu, Nitai Prabhu, and Bimal Krishna Prabhu
Sripad Parvat Maharaj, Srila Ashram Maharaj, and Srila Janardan Maharaj sat together on the stage
They led several vaishnava kirtans and then spoke about devotional service to Krishna
The next day a large group went for a hike in the mountains
Sushila Devi Dasi and Divya Shakti Devi Dasi
Jaya Sri Devi Dasi, Laksmipriya Devi Dasi, and Narayani Devi Dasi
That leads into the mountains
But the group turned out to be much more ambitious
Kumaris Anjana, Syama Mohini, Vinodini, and Sripd B.C. Parvat Maharaj
Jambavan Prabhu and Jananivas Prabhu
There were at least thirty people on this hike including many children and babies
Almost everyone walked all the way to a lake at the top of a steep hill
Led by Srila Ashram Maharaj and Srila Janardan Maharaj, who just kept going and going
Along the way we stopped several times
To give everyone a chance to catch up
Srila Janardan Maharaj pushes onward
Syama Sundar Prabhu, Ashram Maharaj, and Kishori Devi Dasi
Srila Janardan Maharaj
Srila Bhakti Kusum Ashram Maharaj
Brian and Ramananda Prabhu
Rai Kishori Devi Dasi exhibiting her great energy and enthusiasm
A look at the beautiful scenery
Kumaris Anuradha, Syama Mohini, Anjana, and Sita
Everyone poses for a group picture
All glories to the all the devotees!
Now everyone enjoys slices of fresh watermelon courtesy of Bimal Krishna Prabhu, Ista Devika Devi Dasi and her mother Linda Rae
Braja Mohini Devi Dasi and her daughter Syama Mohini
Braja Mohini Devi Dasi and Laksmipriya Devi Dasi
Sri Lekha Devi Dasi strolls happily down the path
Ramai Prabhu Archana Niketan tastes the watermelon
What a wonderful outing!
His Divine Grace Om Vishnupad Srila Bhakti Rakshak Sridhar Dev-Goswami Maharaj’s Holy Disappearance Day, this year in 2012, gives us all another opportunity to render even more intense service to the devotees, Deities, and the Mission of the Sri Chaitanya Saraswat Math. Through Srila Bhakti Sundar Govinda Dev-Goswami Maharaj and Srila A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Maharaj Prabhupad, we heard about the super high position Srila Guru Maharaj held in the Gaudiya Vaishnava Sampradaya. Therefore, we can try our best to say or write something in glorification of Srila Guru Maharaj and to do whatever other service that comes our way. It is a special day and as Srila Guru Maharaj said, “We can thank our lucky stars” that in this lifetime, we got such a divine connection with the spiritual realm.
Please join us to honor Srila Sridhar Maharaj on his Holy Disappearance Day
Thursday July 19th at 6pm in Santa Cruz and 5:30 pm in San Jose
View invitation…
Here are some selected references to this day on SCSMath.com: View here…
The following photo gallery was prepared by Madhupriya Devi Dasi.
Saturday and Sunday, June 23-24
The last two days of camp were a blast! On Saturday we had a bake sale, learned the history of Sri Chaitanya Saraswat Math, made puppets, and ended the day with a bonfire at the beach. Srila Bhakti Pavan Janardan Maharaj and Sripad Parvat Maharaj came to the bonfire and led everyone in chanting the Hare Krishna mahamantra.
Sunday we honored all the children at an awards ceremony during the Sunday Feast. Srila Janardan Maharaj gave each camper an award for their special skills and contributions to the camp. After the feast we headed to the archery range to shoot bows and arrows…a wonderful way to end another wonderful kids camp at the Soquel Seva Ashram.
Photos by: Bimala Devi Dasi (from Ecuador), Braja Mohini Devi Dasi, Murali Mohan Prabhu and Krsna Priya Devi Dasi
Vrinda Devi Dasi explains the origin of Sri Chaitanya Saraswat Math to the campers
Vaidehi Didi and Sushila Didi along with Damayanti Didi, Braja Mohini Didi and Paradevi Didi took the kids out for the bake sale
Here are Anjali and Shyama ready with the cookies
Nandini puts the cookies in bags
Puppets
Madhumati leads the puppet making craft project
Shyama and Anjali show off their puppets
And Naomi shows hers
Shivani enjoys a yummy s'more at the beach bonfire
Fun in the water
And fun on the beach
Braja Mohini Didi, Paradevi Didi, Madhumati Didi, Laksmipriya Didi, Narayani Didi, and Amiya Kanti Didi
Sripad Parvat Maharaj with our new friends, Ananda Moyi Didi and her husband
Nabh works on burying Shyama Mohini in the sand
Srila Janardan Maharaj leads the sankirtan at the beach
Everybody joins the chanting
Sunset at Sunny Cove beach
And the bonfire at Sunny Cove
Devaki Didi shows the kids how to make cookies
Here are the creative cookies that the campers all made
Madhav and Jahnava work on theirs
At the Sunday Feast Srila Janardan Maharaj presents an award to Lavanika
And one to Nabh
And to Om
And Shivani...all the kids earned an award
Bimala Didi and Ajita Krishna dance during arotik
Everyone cheers for the camper award ceremony
Kids camp ki jaya!
Prasadam time
Happy 7th birthday Lavanika!
Nandini practices archery
Vidyasundar and Jagannath
Shivani takes aim
Anjana
Bimala Didi
A big thanks to everyone who helped with the 2012 Soquel Seva Ashram kids camp!
All glories to Sri Guru and Sri Gauranga!
Dandabat pranam to the feet of all the vaisnavas,
Young Allie got the fortune of meeting Srimati Govinda Nandini several months ago. She was very attracted to Govinda Nandini’s enthusiastic preaching and common-sense friendship, and frequently came to the temple to talk with her and attend our programs. When Govinda Nandini moved to Salt Lake City, Allie found that she seriously missed the association and decided to attend whenever she could and also to increase her service connection. Her natural, sincere inquiries became vital to her happiness and she found herself seeking how to extend Krishna consciousness to friends and acquaintances.
Around the first of June, she wrote to Srila Bhakti Nirmal Acharya Maharaj, asking for initiation, and he accepted her as his disciple. Because of his travel, it took a while to decide on a date for the ceremony. He chanted on beads which were shipped to our temple in San Jose, and all worked out for a connection by Skype on the evening of July 4th. By the great assistance of Nimai Chandra Prabhu, Srila Acharyadev spoke to her about the significance of this change in her fortune and instructed her how to chant on her beads. He said that, on the order of Srila Govinda Maharaj, he is giving this connection to her.
Srila Acharya Maharaj said that to make quick progress, know the nama-aparadha and avoid them; when devotees wonder why they are not experiencing taste, this is what they must consider. He also was very re-assuring that we can get devotion if we want it. He gave the example of a child who is crying when his mother and father leave him and becomes happy when they give him a chocolate bar, although he could get anything from his loving parents. We mustn’t be satisfied to get material happiness from our Lord. If we pray for pure devotion, we will get it. Sri Ramananda prayed for pure devotion and Krishna gave it to him, while his brother prayed for material things and he was awarded salary, comforts, etc.
He finally told her to contact him any time, with any question; saying she is now his daughter. He said to be satisfied only with talks of Krishna, service to Krishna, and eating only Krishna prasad.
Srimati Anu Krishna Devi Dasi ki jaya!
In service,
Kumkum
All glories to Sri Sri Guru Gaurangasundar!
The beautiful altar of Sriman Gaurangasundar
Srimati Kumkum Didi
And Allie and Elise
Allie connects with Srila Bhakti Nirmal Acharya Maharaj on skype
Srila Acharyadev looks happy
He gives her beautiful instructions
About chanting the Hare Krishna mahamantra
Anu Krishna Didi ki jaya!
Anu Krishna Didi on the right, with her friend Elise
The basket of beautiful offerings that a disciple presents to the spiritual master at the time of harinam initiation
All glories to Sri Sri Guru Gaurangasundar!
All glories to Om Vishnupad Srila Bhakti Nirmal Acharya Maharaj ki jaya!
All glories to Om Vishnupad Srila Bhakti Sundar Govinda Dev-Goswami Maharaj ki jaya!
All glories to Srimati Kumkum Didi and Anu Krishna Didi!
Friday June 22
Here is the second of three photo galleries with pictures from the kids camp. The following photos are of Friday’s activities, including a discussion panel with Vidura Prabhu, Premananda Prabhu, Vaidehi Didi, and Devaki Didi, arts and crafts, tilak class with Narayani Didi and Damayanti Didi, harinam sankirtan led by Srila Janardan Maharaj on Pacific Avenue in downtown Santa Cruz, evening class led by Jairam Prabhu, and plenty of unplanned fun.
Photos by: Bimala Devi Dasi (from Ecuador), Braja Mohini Devi Dasi, Murali Mohan Prabhu and Krsna Priya Devi Dasi
All the kids asked questions about the temple and Krishna Consciousness
At a discussion panel with Vidura Krishna Prabhu, Premananda Prabhu, Devaki Didi, and Vaidehi Didi
Many eager hands waiting to be called on
And the eager audience
Shyamamohini and Shivani work on an arts and crafts project
Today's project is to make flags
One of the flags
Damayanti Didi leads a class about wearing tilak
Narayani Didi drew this diagram of where to apply tilak on one's body
Sita with her tilak craft project
Narayani Didi helped apply tilak to all the kids
Here Nabh gets some tilak
And Ajita Krishna has tilak
Everyone went downtown to Pacific Avenue for harinam sankirtan
Naomi passing out invitations to the temple
The harinam party makes its way down the street
Srila Janardan Maharaj was happy to join the harinam party
He led the group
The people in Santa Cruz were very happy to see the devotees, especially the children
Jairam Prabhu reads to the kids for the evening class
All glories to Their Lordships Sri Sri Guru Gauranga Gandharvika Giridharijiu!
The attentive class
Revati Didi and Bilmala Didi from Ecuador pose with Lalita Didi
Divyashakti Didi with Bimala Didi and Revati Didi
Vimala Didi and Paradevi Didi
Ramai Prabhu Archana Niketan leads bhoga arotik
Abha Didi and Amiyakanti Didi prepare the noon offering
Abha Didi is the chapati queen
Amiyakanti Didi with her son Jagannath
Anjali
Murali Mohan Prabhu poses with the bhoga collection
Bindu Madhava is an enthusiastic mridanga player
Damayanti Didi and Devaki Didi make garlands to offer to the deities
Jagannath
Jahnava
Jairam Prabhu and Brajeshwar Prabhu
Kumar, the friendly temple dog
Mridangas in the temple room
Naomi
Premanidhi Prabhu washed kitchen pots everyday during the camp
Prem Swarup
Ratan Krishna Prabhu and Vidura Krishna Prabhu
Shyamamohini and Radhadasi
Shyamamohini climbs the tree
Sita and Anjana
Vidyasundar Prabhu and Murali Mohan Prabhu
Cole visited with Vrinda Didi
A big thanks to everyone who helped with the 2012 Soquel kids camp!
Wednesday and Thursday June 20-21
Thanks to everyone who came to the Soquel kids camp. It was a huge success! Srila Janardan Maharaj was very happy with the program. Scroll down to the bottom of the photo gallery to see a list of thanks to everyone who helped.
This is the first of three photo galleries with pictures from the camp. The following photos are from Wednesday and Thursday. Wednesday was Gundicha Marjana so devotees came to help clean the temple as well as set up camp and Thursday was our first full day of activities.
Photos by: Bimala Devi Dasi (from Ecuador), Braja Mohini Devi Dasi, Murali Mohan Prabhu and Krsna Priya Devi Dasi
Laksmipriya Devi Dasi cleans
Ajita Krsna a.k.a. Charlie cleans
Naomi from Utah cleans
Shivani helps unload groceries
Dhanistha Didi made flautas for lunch
Srila Janardan Maharaj, Ramai Prabhu and campers at evening arotik and Tulsi parikrama
Lavanika and Nandini sing the evening kirtans
Kalindi Devi Dasi serves out prasadam
Tents are set up in the back yard
Srila Janardan Maharaj greets everyone at mangal arotik
Tulsi parikrama at six in the morning
Srila Janardan Maharaj read from Sri Chaitanya Charitamrtam every morning. During the camp he read the pastimes of Sriman Mahaprabhu at Ratha Yatra
Vidya Sundar Prabhu gave mridanga and kartals class everyday. By the end of camp children were playing along together and chanting
Bindu Madhava gets some one-on-one help
The sankirtan party
Nandini and Prem Swarup practicing
Jagannath practicing
Sita practicing
Divya Shakti Devi Dasi gave a class on temple etiquette and read from “Service Life”
The kids were very attentive during all the classes
And they asked Divyashakti Didi practical questions
Radhika Devi Dasi showed the kids how to make plum chutney
They learned how to cut the plums
And how to spice the cooked-down plums
Brajalalana and Shyama Mohini
After singing and performing bhoga arotik...
Ramai Prabhu talked about how he offers Guru puja to Srila Gurudev at the Pushpa Samadhi Mandir
The audience is attentive
The water conch
The bamboo fan
Devotees listening
The grand finale
Sushila Devi Dasi helps the children to make peacock puppets
Krishna Priya organized excellent craft projects
The kids were very happy with them
Nandini shows us her finished peacock puppet
Tulsi Devi class with Krsna Priya Devi Dasi
Diksavati Devi dasi, also know as "Rainbow the Clown" gives a magic show, makes balloon animals and does face painting to the delight of all
Rainbow the clown
Her magic book
Kalyani with her baloon animal
Anjali gets her face painted
Srila Janardan Maharaj with Sripad Parvat Maharaj
Shivani's face is painted like a butterfly
Sita is a puppy
Rainbow showed everyone a good time
Shreya has a flower
The audience is attentive once again
Tulsi puja in the evening
Sarvabhavana Prabhu reads from Sri Mahabharata
The following personalities were a great help to the Soquel Sri Chaitanya Saraswat Seva Ashram Kids Camp in 2012:
Srila Janardan Maharaj for his affectionate guidance
Sripad Parvat Maharaj for collecting bhoga from the farmers’ market
Hasyapriya Prabhu for maintaining the temple
Swaranangii Devi Dasi for helping in the kitchen
Madhumati Devi Dasi for help in organizing the bonfire, puppet making class and archery activities
Braja Mohini Devi Dasi for jumping in wherever needed and taking kids collecting
Sureshswari Devi Dasi for all the afternoon snacks
Ramai Prabhu for Guru puja class
Rajani Devi Dasi for help in the kitchen
Vidya Sundar Prabhu for mridanga and kartals class
Murali Mohan Prabhu for helping in the kitchen, collecting bhoga and photography
Sushila Devi Dasi for helping with arts and crafts and taking kids collecting
Vaidehi Devi Dasi for talking about collecting and for taking kids collecting
Devaki Devi Dasi for the discussion panel and cookie class
Premananda Prabhu for the discussion panel and helping around the temple
Damayanti (Daya) Devi Dasi for the tilak class and helping wherever needed
Narayani Devi Dasi for tilak class and helping in the kitchen
Vrinda Devi Dasi for the “Origin of Sri Chaitanya Saraswat Math” class and help in the kitchen
Divya Shakti Devi Dasi for the temple etiquette class
Diksavati Devi Dasi & “Rainbow the Clown”!
Ratan Krishna Prabhu for cooking and making the best pizza ever
Vidura Krishna Prabhu for the discussion panel
Abha Devi Dasi for rolling and cooking hundreds of chapatis
Sangita Devi Dasi for help in the kitchen
Jairam Prabhu for reading during the evening program
Sarvabhavana Prabhu for reading during the evening program
Premanidhi Prabhu for biking to the temple everyday to wash mountains of pots and pans
Nevine Krishna Prabhu for baking hundreds of cookies for collecting
Para Devi Dasi for helping Nevine and for taking kids collecting
Kalindi Devi Dasi for cooking and serving out tasty preps
Revati Devi Dasi for help in the kitchen
Bimala Devi Dasi (from Ecuador) for help in the kitchen and photography
Mallika Devi Dasi for help in the kitchen
Shatrughna Prabhu for help in the kitchen
Krsna Bushan Prabhu for help around the temple
Laksmipriya Devi Dasi for helping to clean on Gundicha Marjana
A big thanks to everyone else who helped with the 2012 Soquel kids camp!
On the day after Sri Nrsimha Chaturdasi, Lord Nrsimhadev’s Divine Appearance Day, we celebrated again and honored a second sumptuous feast. Here are photos from the daytime program.
Photos by Jivana Didi:
All glories to His Divine Grace Srila Bhakti Sundar Govinda Dev-Goswami Maharaj!
A look at the pushpa samadhi mandir of His Divine Grace
All glories to Sri Sri Guru Gauranga Gandharvika Giridharijiu!
All glories to Sri Giriraj Govardhan!
All glories to Lord Nrsimhadev and Prahlad Maharaj!
All glories to Srila Bhakti Pavan Janardan Maharaj!
Sripad Sarvabhavana Prabhu, Sripad Parvat Maharaj, and Sripad Narayan Maharaj
All glories to all the assembled devotees!
The children put on an excellent play
It was about Prahlad Maharaj and Lord Nrsimhadev
They used the space in front of the pushpa samadhi mandir
Everyone was enthralled by the good acting
The actors posed for a group photo
Srila Govinda Maharaj's pushpa samadhi mandir was packed with a happy audience
Everyone posed for a big group photo on this auspicious day
The offering prepared by Sanatani Didi and her team of experienced cooks
Vidura Krishna Prabhu and Sanatani Didi prepare to serve the feast
Sureshwari Didi and Sanatani Didi oversee every last detail
Brajamohini Didi serves prasadam to Srila Janardan Maharaj
It was a lovely warm afternoon
Anuradha Didi still has the mane of Lord Nrsimhadev as everyone finds a place to sit
The feast was wonderful and delicious
Several guests including Ashlyn from Cabrillo College and her mother, observed the festival and honored prasadam
Krishna Priya and Swarnangii Didis
Dikshavati Didi
Ready for the feast
Damodar Krishna Prabhu serving nectar
Lord Nrsimhadev and Hiranyakasipu (kumaris Anuradha and Shyama Mohini) are friends again now that the play is done.
All glories to Sri Sri Guru Gauranga Gandarvika Giridharijiu!
Srila Bhakti Pavan Janardan Maharaj ki jaya!
Srila Bhakti Nirmal Acharya Maharaj ki jaya!
Jaya Om Vishnupad Srila Bhakti Sundar Govinda Dev-Goswami Maharaj ki jaya!
Suddha Bhakti Vighna Vinasaya Sri Nrsimhadev ki jaya!
Bhakta-prabara Prahlad Maharaj ki jaya!
Sri Nrsimha Chaturdasi ki jaya!
The last few months Vidura Krishna Prabhu has been giving class on Monday evenings at the Soquel Seva Ashram. After several weeks studying the six limbs of surrender in Sri Sri Prapanna Jivanamritam and the ten offenses to the Holy Name, the class read Srila Sridhar Maharaj’s commentary on Sri Sikshastakam in The Golden Volcano of Divine Love. Sri Sikshastakam are eight verses composed by Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. Every week the class reads about one of the verses. Vidura’s practical conclusion of this class on the last verse of Sri Sikshastakam was that we all need association with devotees in order to make progress in Krishna Consciousness. The following is Srila Sridhar Maharaj’s final comment on the last verse of Sri Sikshastakam in The Golden Volcano of Divine Love:
‘sadhu sanga, sadhu sanga,’—sarva shastre kaya
lava-matra sadhu sange sarva-siddhi haya
“The conclusion has been given in the scriptures that all perfection can be attained by the help of the saints. Good association is our greatest wealth in reaching the supreme goal.”
Vidura Krishna Prabhu
Saki Prabhu and Vaidehi, Devaki, and Sureshwari Didis
Vidura Krishna Prabhu imitates Yudhamanyu Prabhu's gesture "the chop"
Everyone is happy and enlivened
Sureshwari Didi often contributes lovely stories from her many years of experience in the Krishna Consciousness movement
Devaki Didi
In the kitchen Saki Prabhu helps Rasa Rajani Didi prepare fresh spring rolls for the evening offering
Ramai Prabhu Archa Niketan and Nevine Krishna Prabhu have a good laugh–as they are prone to do
In Srimad Bhagavad Gita – The Hidden Treasure of the Sweet Absolute it is stated:
patram puspam phalam toyam – yo me bhaktya prayacchati
tad aham bhakty-upahrtam – asnami prayatatmanah
Bhagavad Gita 9:26
“If one offers Me with devotion a leaf, flower, fruit or water, I affectionately accept that offering of the clean hearted devotee.”
Jatindra Mohan Prabhu was inspired to capture the beauty around the Ashram and offers the following photos for the pleasure of Their Lordships and the devotees.
Srimati Tulasi Devi
Fuschias
California Poppy
These Rhodendrans were a gift from our realtor when we first bought the property
They are happily growing outside Srila Gurudev's house
Snapdragons
The Cecile Brunner rose has appeared at the Seva Ashram in many places
She offers herself happily for garlands and arotik flowers
These bushes were donated by Navadwip Prabhu and Tilak Devi
Lavender
The bottle brush tree overlooks the Prasadam Hall
These lovely flowers were planted by Srimati Braja Mohini Devi
With the help of Laksmipriya Devi they have planted a lovely garden.
Sushila Devi and Ratan Krishna Prabhu
Preparing the ground by adding gopher wire to protect the young plants.
Happy in seva.
Ratan Krishna and Jatindra Mohan Prabhus
Nevine Krishna Prabhu mowed the back yard.
Kumar, the Ashram dog.
"Can I have a chapati?"
Geraniums
Daisy
Euryops, Yellow Bush Daisies planted by Advaita Charan Prabhu many years ago.
Srila Gurudev would often look out of his room and comment on these flowers, how their color reminded him of Mahaprabhu.
A new spot of color on the sidewalk.
And even more Cosmos on the stairs.
Beautiful and fragrant Pink Jasmine..
This huge bush is right outside the door to Srila Janardan Maharaj's house.
Sri Sri Guru Gauranga Gandharvika Giridhari Jiu happily except the flowers offered by the devotees from their affectionate, clean hearts.
May 30, 2012
Jairam Prabhu and Abha Didi are very popular and committed members of our local community. They recently took second initiation from Srila Janardan Maharaj. There was a fire sacrifice as part of the initiation ceremony. Here are photos from this very auspicious occasion.
Abha didi and Jairam Prabhu from San Jose await to take second initiation from Srila Janardan Maharaj
Srila Janardan Maharaj explains the importance of second initiation
And how to chant the mantra
Abha didi offers flowers to the picture of Srila Gurudev
Then they offer flowers, cloth, incense and fruits
The happy family with His Holiness
Kumkum didi and Abha didi
The fire sacrifice is presided by Srila Janardan Maharaj
With some help from Rattan Krishna Prabhu
May 19-20, 2012
Devotees from the Sri Chaitanya Saraswat Seva Ashram attended the second annual Rejuvenation Festival in Santa Cruz’s San Lorenzo Park. Many friends and guests visited our lovely booth and were very happy to talk with the devotees. We met many fortunate souls who have already had a connection with Srila Govinda Maharaj or Srila Prabhupad. Bilwa Mangal Prabhu arranged for the booth and Sripad Parvat Maharaj, Vaidehi Didi, Dinabandhu Prabhu, Ratan Krishna Prabhu, Nevine Krishna Prabhu, Vidura Krishna Prabhu, Ananta Rupa Prabhu, Lila Shakti Didi, and Premanidhi Prabhu, all helped to make the program successful.
We hope that everyone who met us at the festival will make the endeavor to come visit the Seva Ashram for the Sunday Feast. Please don’t hesitate. If you can do something wonderful right away, why put it off?
The following is an excerpt from The Search for Sri Krishna: Reality the Beautiful by Srila B.R. Sridhar Dev-Goswami Maharaj. You can read a much longer excerpt on the main international website of Sri Chaitanya Saraswat Math: click here.
pravistah karna-randhrena svanam bhava-saroruham
dhunoti samalam krsnah salilasya yatha sarat
(Srimad Bhagavatam: 2.8.5)
“When Krishna enters the heart through the ear, He captures the lotus of the heart and then gradually makes all the dirt in the heart disappear. Just as when the autumn season comes, all the water everywhere becomes pure, so also, when Krishna enters our hearts, all the impurities within will gradually vanish, and only Krishna will remain forever.
Photos by Sripad B.C. Parvat Maharaj:
Premanidhi, Ratan Krishna and Nevine Krishna Prabhus
Dinabandhu Prabhu in the foreground, taking a break from his spot behind the table where Ratan Krishna poses happily
Many people were happy to see our booth
and eagerly accepted literature and prasadam
Most of the team: Vaidehi Didi, Premanidi Prabhu, Ratan Krishna Prabhu, Bilwa Mangal Prabhu, Nevine Krishna Prabhu, a guest, and Sushila Didi
This past weekend I had the great fortune to join the devotees in distributing books and prasadam at the Whole Earth Festival. Held every year at the UC Davis campus since 1969, the Whole Earth Festival (WEF) was created to promote values of peace, cooperation, care for the Earth and reverence for Spirit, values which are familiar to vaishnavas. One woman I talked with, Emmy, told me she was part of the original group of students who founded the festival, and she expressed over and over her sincere gratitude for our presence there. Emmy said we were representing the true spirit of the event, what it was ‘all about’, trying to offer people a substantial path to real inner peace.
We are told that the only dharma for this day and age is to chant the Holy Name. But what does it really mean to glorify the Lord’s Name? Srila Bhaktivinod Thakur, in his composition Ajna-tahal, says:
jive daya, krsna nama – sarva dharma sara
“To show mercy to all living beings by distributing the holy name – this is all the dharma there is.”
Not only to chant the Name by ourselves, but to share the glories of the Name far and wide. Of course, in order to properly glorify the Name, we must remember Sri Krishna Chaitanya Mahaprabhu’s instructions to remain humbler than a blade of grass, to be more tolerant than a tree, and to always give honor and respect without expectation. With this mood, the transcendental sound can descend, and we become fit as agents of the Holy Name. In distributing the Name, it is important to remember that we are servants, and that the Holy Name is not our exclusive property, but the rightful inheritance of every soul. Merely to proselytize, to have some agenda to make converts, is not the proper mood in which to share the Lord’s Name. Gentleness, meekness, and a serving attitude are required to actually represent Sri Krishna Chaitanya Mahaprabhu.
The exchange between souls sharing in the glories of the Holy Name and the path of Bhakti is so sweet and relishable. It’s a heart-to-heart transaction, where we share with one another our innermost heart’s feelings and realizations, and by such a process we work for our mutual enlightenment. Mahaprabhu’s lila is certainly still going on, through the current of our acharyya-varga. We can join in that audarya-lila, the pastimes of magnanimity and distribution, and we see that it is actually very deep, intimate and sweet.
I am indebted to all the sincere souls with whom we were able to share Mahaprabhu’s mission. We were able to open our hearts to so many and share what is most sacred and dear to us. On one level, we preach in order to distribute sukriti and engage others in some type of service. On another level, however, Krishna is showing His mercy upon us by sending someone with whom we can share the path of devotional service. So, we can say that Krishna, as Paramatma, is helping us to fulfill our service by sending souls to preach to and partake in devotional practice. So to those sincere seekers who helped us to fulfill our Gurudeva’s and Mahaprabhu’s mission, I offer my deepest gratitude and humble obeisances.
Krishna tells Arjuna:
na cha tasman manusyesu, kaschin me priya-krttamah
bhavita na cha me tasmad, anyah priyataro bhuvi
(Srimad Bhagavad-gita: 18.69)
“In the entire human society there is no one who pleases Me by his actions more than he who preaches My glories, nor will there ever be anyone in the world dearer to Me than he.”
I would like to extend thanks and appreciation to all the devotees who participated and gave their support: Srila B.P. Janardan Maharaj, Bimala Didi, Divya Shakti Didi, Bilwa Mangal Prabhu, Sushila Didi, and especially to Braja Mohini Didi, who had the inspiration and made all the arrangements to do the event.
Photos by Brajamohini Didi and captions by Sushila Didi:
Brajamohini Didi booked the booth thanks to Divyashakti Didi's inspiration. Here they pose with Bilwa Mangal Prabhu
and pose again with Krishna Sevika Didi
Many visitors asked questions about Krishna Consciousness
and happily accepted our fliers, pamphlets, and books
Bimala Didi enthusiastically met with many seekers
and Brajamohini Didi as well
She is an expert preacher
and so is Bimala Didi
A wonderful vaishnava couple from Davis was happy to meet our group
and joined us for kirtan
Bimala Didi led a vivacious kirtan
at our book table
The people passing by were happy to see us
and a gentleman named Sravan joined us
He was happy to join our group for the weekend
Bilwa Mangal Prabhu distributed Sureshwari Didi's famous banana bread
A look at the road going past our table
and the peaceful quad around which all the booths were arranged
The weather was very hot
so we were grateful for the large shade trees
The trees and our new canopy kept our booth shady and cool
Bilwa Mangal and Ratan Krishna Prabhus work our booth
The booth was about twenty feet away from the table
and faced the quad
Divyashakti Didi gathers materials for distribution
Jayanta Krishna Prabhu preaches to a sincere seeker even as he packs up the booth
The program ended with lovely kirtan
Vimala Didi and some guests in the kirtan
Divyashakti Didi
Shyama Mohini with her aunt
Everybody posed for one last photograph
It was a truly wonderful weekend
We had the good fortune of camping in a peaceful setting
Bilwa Mangal Prabhu was ready bright and early
Sushila Didi helped cut up vegetables for Ratan Krishna Prabhu
who prepared an excellent kichuri one day
And very good pasta the next day
all on one little camping stove
We were blessed to stay in such a peaceful place
and to have the good fortune of sharing our appreciation for Krishna Consciousness, however meager it may be, with hundreds of sweet people
UC Davis Whole Earth Festival Sankirtan Program ki jaya!
Monday, April 23, 2012
In honor of Srila Ashram Maharaj’s visit to California, Jayanta Krishna Prabhu and Brajamohini Didi hosted a namahatta on a warm spring evening. All Brajamohini’s fragrant roses were in full bloom and many children were playing happily with a litter of kittens in the back yard when Srila Janardan Maharaj and Srila Ashram Maharaj arrived.
This namahatta had a theme; it was a pizza party to inaugurate the authentic brick pizza oven that Madhavananda and Jayanta Krishna Prabhus have constructed in the garden.
Srila Janardan Maharaj and Srila Ashram Maharaj led a wonderful kirtan including all the songs that are sung every evening in all the temples, and spoke words of encouragement and inspiration. Everyone gathered with them in the front temple room except the cooks (who were preparing a wonderful springtime feast). The lecture from that evening has already been posted (click here). When the program was over everyone enjoyed slice after slice of delicious hot pizza fresh from the oven along with fresh salads and special dishes prepared by the ladies.
Srila Bhakti Pavan Janardan Maharaj with Ratan Krishna and Jatindra Mohan Prabhus sit for a minute when they first arrive
then go outside to the backyard, where Brajamohini Didi greets them
Sripad Bhakti Kusum Ashram Maharaj talks with Adeshwar Didi and her husband Stefan
along with Kumkum Didi, the manager of the San Jose Sri Chaitanya Saraswat Seva Ashram
It is a warm San Jose evening
perfect for catching up with friends outside
Divyashakti Didi just returned from India and Bilwa Mangal Prabhu is happy to come for the first time to this historic house
Vimala Didi is happy as ever and Brajamohini Didi prepares the offering
Jayanta Krishna Prabhu shows Srila Janardan Maharaj his new pizza oven
Varsabhanavi Didi has fun with one of the rabbits
Jayanta Krishna Prabhu's Italian neighbor came for the occasion...
inaugurating the authentic brick pizza oven
Dinartihara Prabhu is the pizza chef tonight
He started making dough and sauce after the morning Chaitanya Charitamrita class in Soquel around 9 am
Shyama Mohini and Bali play on the big fig tree
which has now entertained two generations of devotee children
Kalindi Didi meets with the Italian neighbor in the splendid sunlight as it sets
and with Vimala Didi as well, who is herself Italian
Vimala Didi, Sushila Didi, and Bilwa Mangal Prabhu
Vimala Didi has been serving in San Jose since this 17th Street temple first opened in 1991
Srila Janardan Maharaj and Srila Ashram Maharaj sit down
in the lovely temple room to lead the sankirtan of Vaishnava songs
and Srila Janardan Maharaj starts telling stories
some of which are characteristically humorous
He describes some of the history of the 17th Street house
Which was the temple for many years and then the women’s ashram
Ashram Maharaj speaks as well
and everyone is happy to hear from him
The devotees sat in the two front room to listen
to the excellent talk
Divyashakti Didi smiles happily with Jatindra Mohan Prabhu in the background
Krishna Madhuri Didi, who also attended the morning Chaitanya Charitamrita class today
Jivan Krishna Prabhu and Varsabhanavi Didi visiting from Virginia to take advantage of Srila Ashram Maharaj's association
(left to right) Lavanika, Jairam Prabhu and Sridhar Prabhu
Damodar Prabhu, Krishna Madhuri, Kalindi, and Laksmipriya Didis prepare a succulent salad
in the sun filled kitchen
Vimala Didi is happy to see Ratan Krishna Prabhu
so they pose together for a photo
Brajamohini Didi, the hostess working hard
along with Jivana Didi and Abha Didi
Abha Didi and Jairam Prabhu's daughter Lavanika sings a song after honoring several pieces of pizza
Srila Ashram Maharaj and Srila Janardan Maharaj are served prasadam in the sitting room
and after the veritable feast devotees gather around them
to hear more stories
Srila Janardan Maharaj also told some of very wonderful stories about Sripad Vaishnav Maharaj
Everyone was eager to hear these stories
which made everyone happy...
finally people gathered again outside
and said their goodbyes
as the warm lovely evening passed into night
Dinartihara made about 30 pizzas tonight
each one a little different from the last
but all very delicious with thin crusts and plenty of sauce and toppings
Devotees kept lining up for more
So that they would get a slice that was still piping hot
Even after the sun had set the night was warm
and the mood was very jolly
Damodar Prabhu prepared the pizza dough
and Narayani put the toppings on
Balls of dough, the cheese, and some pepper slices
Taking a turn in the oven
and finally in their finished state
Shyama Mohini climbed to the top of the fig tree
All glories to Sri Sri Guru Gaurangasundar Mahaprabhu!
All glories to Srila Bhakti Pavan Janardan Maharaj!
All glories to Srila Bhakti Kusum Ashram Maharaj!
All glories to all the San Jose and Soquel devotees!
All glories to Jayanta Krishna Prabhu and Brajamohini Didi’s namahatta!
Gaura Premanande!
On May 22, 2012 we will celebrate the 16th anniversary of the installation of our beloved Deities Sri Sri Guru Gauranga Gandharvika Giridhari Jiu here in Soquel. We are most blessed by Srila Gurudev to have such beautiful manifestations of His mercy here.
They are served by our large family of devotees who come throughout the week to offer seva in the forms of cooking, collections, cleaning, flower garlands, classes, puja, gardening, maintaining the property and of course honoring Prasadam.
In honor of this auspicious occasion we are offering the following pictures of Their Lordships in a selection of Their many outfits we had the fortune to make over the years. Many, many devotees have helped with their generous devotional energy giving donations of their time, money, cloth, jewelry and even going shopping for me. I am indebted to all of them for their help in this seva. I must give special appreciation to my husband who has helped with the finances for every single outfit allowing me to maintain this service. Credit must also be given to Sripad Parvat Maharaj who took the majority of these images.
In Service,
Swarnangii Devi Dasi
