Jagadguru Shree Kripaluji Maharaj

Happy Guru Poornima 2017

2017-07-09T17:32:00.000+05:30

Happy Guru Poornima glimpse of Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj

Happy Guru Poornima 2017 from Shree Kripaluji Maharaj Blogspot, a Fan Blog. If you received this by email, it's due to having subscribed to http://shree-kripaluji-maharaj.blogspot.com

Happy Guru Poornima

Guru Poornima is the most important occasion for the devotees. It signifies the eternal relationship of a soul to the supreme power of Grace called ‘guru tattva.’ Radha Krishna Who are the absolute supreme guru tattva are always Gracing the souls. But the souls have to recognize Their Gracious kindness in order to experience the sweetness of Their Divine love.

A typical scene that we witnessed during Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj's life was that in the morning Shree Maharajji would lead all the devotees for parikrama around the Satsang Bhavan originally in Barsana and later in Managarh. In the evening he would give a discourse explaining the significance of guru tattva. The Satsang Hall would be filled with thousands and thousands of devotees. A special prasad dinner was always prepared for all the devotees. Everyone would enjoy chanting Guru pads and kirtans describing the greatness of the Spiritual Master. Being in Shree Maharajji’s satsang on Guru Poornima was an incredible Grace. It was an unparalleled opportunity to enter into higher states of divine-love-consciousness and experience the close loving presence of Radha Krishna and Shree Maharajji.

That tradition continues today in Mangarh in exactly same way, having the same intensity of the experience of divine-love-consciousness. Today, the Great Divine Personality Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj is no longer seen in only one place, but rather has infinitely expanded himself and his mercy, to be experienced everywhere. All restrictions of time and space have ended, as the entirety of his birthplace Managarh is the veritable form of Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj, as He pervades every atom of the universe, existing in his Divine personal form for one who looks with the eyes of the mind, and with a heart overflowing with the warmth of divine love.

Jagadguru Kripalu Parishat (JKP) have shared some magnificent glimpses of their 2017 Guru Poornima intensive and festival via their Facebook page. They also have posted inspiring messages from JKP Presidents. I encourage all the sadhaks and serious spiritual aspirants to take a look and be inspired to visit there soon. Check out: https://www.facebook.com/JKPIndia/

Mr. Narendra Modi, President of India, expressed his sentiments as follows (Source: Arise! Awake! Issue 2 (JKP e-Magazine)):

"The great national identity and Saint of the highest order, Shri Kripalu Ji Maharaj was a universal teacher who performed welfare not only of the nation, but the entire universe. He was an exponent of universal brotherhood and inspired all towards the devotion of God without discrimination. He exhorted all for universal peace through his transcendental discourses. He worked continuously for the provision of improved services in the area of health, education, and spirituality for the masses, wherever it was necessary. He devoted his entire life and personal wealth for the betterment of people..."

There's no Holi like Mangarh Holi at Jagadguru Kripalu Ji Maharaj's Ashram

2016-02-03T04:09:00.002+05:30

Latest post from Jagadguru Kripaluji Maharaj Blogspot, the unofficial fan blog dedicated to Jagadguru Kripalu Ji Maharaj

If you want to experience the real meaning of Holi, go to Holi 2016 in Mangarh. It was one holi in Mangarh when I first started to experience the true charm of Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj's Divine personality. His walking, his talking, his everything appeared phenomenally Divine and although I had met him many times in other Holy places and ashrams, his Mangarh form seemed ever more charming and gracious and I felt his personality seeping inside my being.

On the actual Holi day itself, it was raining with unfettered bliss even before the Holi play began, as we congregated around a large stage on a pleasing sunny day. We were waiting for the Divine arrival of Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj and Amma ji and their associates. When the Holi play started, we were drenched from head to heals with bliss. The crowd was gathered so tightly it swayed as one, like a sea of desiring souls hoping to reach the eternal shore; to get ever closer to the Divine darshan on stage.

Later in the hall we were graced even more with showers of flowers of multiple fragrances by Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj and scented water. Although the times have changed and Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj is not physically present, but the legacy lives on in this blessed place, and you feel it even when attending Mangarh holi today.

If you have not experienced Mangarh Holi Sadhana Shivir yet, consider planning your trip to attend Mangarh Holi Sadhana Shivir 2016.

Holi Sadhana Shivir 2016

Venue: Shri Bhakti Dham, Mangarh

Dates: 15 March-24 March 2016

Mangarh and New York get ready for a sparkling Diwali 2015

2015-11-07T22:35:00.000+05:30

Satsangees of Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj in Mangarh and New York

Devotees from all over the world continue to descend on the Bhakti Dham ashram of Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj to participate in the riveting Sadhana Shvivir which continues until November 25th 2015. The satsangs, parikramas, festivals and the divinity of Bhakti Dham have become firmly etched in the consciousness of Radha Krishna devotees who attended in the past, and the present, and the crowds continue to swell with each passing year. So much so, that Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj inaugurated the Bhakti Bhavan, a massive dome-shaped temple which accommodates 10,000 devotees at once.

One devotee recently blogged:

Devotees of Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj in parikrama

"...Those misty early morning parikramas in Mangarh, where one's body mind and soul fills up and overflows with indescribable divine peace and bliss by singing the Lord's Name. Although massively cold and one can't see what's ten steps ahead, it didn't matter as it just made it more mystically magical"

Diwali will be celebrated at the Bhakti Dham Mangarh ashram of Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj on November 11th and Govardhan Pooja on the 12th.

Mangarh and New York: Cities worlds apart; united by the thread of Divine Love, Devotion and Grace

Meanwhile, similar opportunities are available in New York. Radha Govind Dham New York, a recently established temple inspired by Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj is for many a microcosm of Bhakti Dham and Prem Mandir in the city. Radha Govind Dham is hosting a number of electrifying devotional programs and festivals these days. They will host a number of festivals over the coming week, including satsang until midnight on Nov 7th, Diwali on Nov 11th and Govardhan Pooja on Nov 12th. Before I get to those, let me summarize some of the amazing recent developments from this temple.

Janmashtami 2015 at Radha Govind Dham New York

Queens New York was rocked by Radha Govind Dham's epic 2nd Janmashtami block party which attracted an unprecedented 3000+ attendees. During the occasion, Nassau County awarded Radha Govind Dham New York and Swami Nikhilanand Ji a citation for selfless commitment to community service. The event attracted the world media, from New York to Gujarat - press clippings available at their website. A few pictures to illustrate what words couldn't:

An International Destination

Perhaps unintentionally, the temple is not only a hub of the New York Indian community. The New York Hindu Temple is becoming an international destination too. During my visit earlier this year, I caught up with Priya who was visiting all the way from Trinidad. Last month, an internationally renowned Irish classical guitarist gave a satsang concert at the temple, in which he sang and played kirtans by Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj with classical arrangements, before his blazing performance at Carnegie Hall. In addition, the mandir volunteers had a pilot run of a Global Satsang which live streamed on Youtube. From time to time, there may be similar events - latest details will be posted on their Facebook page or Youtube page.

"Electrifying" satsangs, picnics, house visits

Swami Nikhilanand Ji's satsangs at Radha Govind Dham are becoming the gold standard of satsangs in the city. A recent satsang was described as "an electrifying evening" by one visitor, but that is not unusual (clip below - or see on Facebook if viewing by email).

Lecture Series'

Lecture series on the Gita, Bhagwatam and important devotional topics by internationally acclaimed preachers such as Swami Maheshvaranand Ji, Sushree Siddheswari Didi, Sushree Diwakari Didi and Swami Nikhilanand Ji have become regular calendar markings by many of New York community. See a clip of Swami Nikhilanand Ji describing the true meaning of Karva Chauth (view on Facebook if unavailable). Pictured above: Lecture by Swami Maheshvaranand Ji, a preacher of Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj.

New Dhol

Not to be overlooked is the new dhol which is sure to bring the excitement of festivals like Diwali and Govardhan Pooja to a new level. The dhol made it's debut during Sharat Poornima, just a few weeks ago. Here is a demo by Jas, one of the mandir musicians. (View on Facebook if unavailable)

Kids

Along with a host of attractions for the for whole family and those who don't have families, kids take a prominent role many of the events. The mandir's Shiksha school holds classes in many different subjects including: - Classical Dholak - Bengali - Leela Performance - Hindustani Vocal & Harmonium - Tabla - Satsang Dholak - Folk & Semi-Classical Dance - Hindi - Mandir Seva - Kirtan Class - Dance class (Kathak, Bharatnatyam and Kuchipudi). Learn more about Shiksha via their website www.RGDNY.org/ShikshaNY

In addition, kids have the opportunity to put their learnings into practice during the major events held by the mandir, including dance and leela performances during the festivals; singing and playing musical instruments during the satsangs. Watch a clip of "Hare Ram, Hare Krishna" led by one of the mandir kids below (see on Facebook if unavailable):

Membership Opportunities

Radha Govind Dham New York has made membership available. Each new member is greeted by Swami Nikhilanand Ji with a Radhey Shyami shawl and receives many other benefits too. Membership details are available on their website at http://rgdny.org/annual-membership/

The mandir is expanding and many new and exciting features are planned for the future, including a larger builder. I encourage all blog readers to lend their support by getting membership or even joining their Facebook page and promoting all their events. Contact the mandir for any support you can lend, including donations or physical support.

Medical Camps and Community Outreach

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There has been wide attention in the media about the mandir's medical camps in which free vaccines and other treatments are provided to the community free of cost. Pictured above: A host of distinguished doctors at the mandir.

Diwali and Govardhan Pooja 2015 in New York

In a stroke of fortune, Swami Nikhilanand Ji, a preacher of Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj, will be in residence during the Diwali 2015 celebration. Swami Nikhilanand recently posted about Diwali 2015 via his Facebook page. Guests are invited to bring their own diyas or candles for an sparkling and illuminating event in the moonlight outside the mandir. For Govardhan Pooja on the 12th, guests can bring bhog to offer to Giridhar Maharaj.

Why Do We Celebrate Diwali (Deepavali)? - By Swami Nikhilanand, preacher of Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj

If we remember the origin of Diwali, then we will understand the true meaning of this most popular of Hindu festivals, the Festival of Lights.

In treta yug Bhagwan Ram took avatar in the city of Ayodhya. As a youth, He had gone away to the forest for 14 years, but on the occasion of the November New Moon, He was now returning home. The happiness of the residents of Ayodhya knew no bounds as they cleaned every corner of their homes and decorated every building in the entire city with diyas (lights) in anticipation of Ram’s return. They wanted to welcome Him back with all their hearts.

When Shree Ram was entering the city, all the citizens wished to meet Him first. Seeing their desire, He multiplied Himself into as many forms as there were people and met them all simultaneously. Each person felt that Ram had come to them first. This was the scene as Ram returned to Ayodhya, and it is to commemorate this event that we decorate with lights on Diwali. We are meant to feel that we are decorating in anticipation of Ram’s arrival in our home and in our heart.

The use of lights on Diwali carries a deep philosophical meaning. Light (prakash) symbolizes God, goodness and knowledge - whereas darkness (tam) symbolizes evil, ignorance and maya. The more we bring God into our heart, the more His Divine prakash shines within us, relieving us from the effects of the darkness of maya, revealing spiritual knowledge, and filling our life with true joy.

When Radha and Krishna were on the earth planet, They also celebrated Diwali in a special way. They went to Mansi Ganga (a large holy pond near Govardhan hill) and placed floating diyas on the water from opposite sides of the pond. Then They, along with all the Gopis and Gwalbals, created waves with their hands, causing the diyas to converge in the center, and cover the entire pond.

Let's go to Bhakti Dham Mangarh again! (Sadhana Shivir 2015)

2015-10-18T05:37:00.003+05:30

Let's go to Sharat Poornima Sadhana Shivir 2015

Let's go to Bhakti Dham again! A poem to inspire all of the readers of this blog to attend the Sharat Poornima Sadhana Shivir 2015 which begins next week. Please visit the official JKP Page for details on Sadhana Shivir 2015 at the Mangarh ashram of Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj. I encourage all my blog readers and visitors who haven't been to the ashram of Jagadguru Shree Kripaluji Maharaj recently or at all, should come to experience the bliss of Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj's satsang, for whatever amount of time they can come.

My heart quickens and my head feels light,
Butterflies in my stomach have taken flight,
My chest rises, then I laugh with delight,
I lie in my bed but can't sleep at night,
I can't concentrate, I can't read or write,
But ever so soon I will be all right,
Let's go to Bhakti Dham again!

I feel excited, awake and alive!
Senses and emotions are in overdrive,
I must remain focused, now I must strive
To contain myself so that I can survive
The remaining weeks before I arrive
On that cold parikrama, where I will revive,
Let's go to Bhakti Dham again.

I remember the first time I touched that place,
When I walked that Parikrama at the Master's pace,
With tears in my eyes, a breeze on my face,
I tasted the sweet nectar of Guru's Grace,
And though I lost all sense of Time and Space,
I felt at home, for I had touched base,
Now, let's go to Bhakti Dham again.

The sound of the music, the shade of the light
Permeate the heart so the soul shines bright,
If you dip down deep, you will reach the height,
Then the flame of love's passion you will ignite,
Let's go to Bhakti Dham again.

Let's join in a humble prayer,
That Maharaj ji will protect us while we're there,
That all will be well and under His care
While we are apart, between here and there,
And let each one who goes carry the prayer
Of those who remain here, while we are there,
Let's go to Bhakti Dham again.

What is Sharat Poornima Sadhana Shivir at Bhakti Dham, the Mangarh ashram of Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj?

Mangarh village in Pratapgarh district of Uttar Pradesh, India, is the appearance place of Jagadguru Shree Kripaluji Maharaj. Sadhana program is for one month.

It starts from Dashahra which falls in October. A few days after Dashahra, Sharat Poornima comes. It is the most auspicious day for the devotee of Radha Krishna because, on that particular night (about 5,000 years ago), the maharas leela had happened. On that same night Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj has appeared.

Arti of Radha Krishna during Sadhana Shivir at Bhakti Dham Mangarh

Every October thousands of devotees travel from throughout India and around the world to Mangarh to participate in the excelling birthday celebrations of Shree Maharajji and the annual sadhana program. This devotional intensive is an exceptional opportunity to experience higher states of Radha Krishna love. Devotees remember how during these precious weeks Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj would constantly Grace the souls with His Divine association, His unparalleled knowledge and His Divinely dynamic chantings of the names of Radha Krishna. Fortunate devotees who have attended these sadhana programs feel the enhanced closeness of Their Beloved Radha Krishna and an increased longing for Their Divine vision and love.

Throughout the sadhana program ecstatic chanting programs are scheduled in the satsang hall from morning to evening and Shree Maharajji tells the leelas of Radha Krishna (via video) and expounds the deepest devotional theory and practical aspects of devotion through his Divine discourses. Devotees also have the golden chance to do seva (devotional service) in the ashram during the sadhana program.

Magnificent celebrations are organized for the auspicious occasions of Sharat Poornima, Diwali and Govardhan Pooja. On these festival days huge crowds of thousands of devotees dance and chant, drowned in the love of Shyama Shyam and Shree Maharajji. Generous donations of clothing, utensils and blankets are distributed to the needy villagers with the Blessings of Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj, who is renowned for his kindness and compassion.

Attending the sadhana program in Mangarh is a priceless Divine gift. It is an opportunity to fully immerse oneself in continuous devotion and service. Having Shree Maharajji’s satsang for an extended period of time elevates the consciousness of the devotees and establishes their mind in Radha Krishna love. The Mangarh sadhana program leaves an indelible imprint of love and devotion in the heart of the sincere devotees.

New York gears up for second annual Krishna Janmashtami 2015

2015-08-31T00:12:00.002+05:30

NY gears up for second annual Krishna Janmashtami Block Party 2015 at New York
Hindu Temple, Radha Govind Dham, inspired by Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj

Glen Oaks, New York: This September 5th 2015, New York's newest mandir is gearing up for it's second Krishna Janmashtami celebration. The one-of-a-kind event has quickly become a biggest and most anticipated Indian event in the region. Last year's Krishna Janmashtami Block Party attracted a sizable 1300 festival-goers. With the outpouring of excitement on social media the crowd is expected to be much bigger this year.

Radha Govind Dham is the newest mandir on the New York skyline. It is inspired by the great Saints of Vrindavan like Jeev Goswami, Haridas Ji, Hit Harivansh Ji, Vallabhacharya Ji and our beloved Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj. In it's short history Radha Govind Dham has become a thriving center of devotion, spiritual knowledge and peace. It is quickly becoming a hub of the community.

The Janmashtami Block Party is an opportunity for the New York community to learn the real meaning of Krishna's Birthday and say happy Birthday to the Lord, along with

- Experiencing favorite Indian foods

- Delicious drinks like roohafza milkshake and authentic hot chai,

- Lively and colorful dance performances on the outdoor stage

- Taking part in Dandia / Garba
- Listening to live Janmashtami bhajans by well-known preachers and artists

- The much anticipated Best Dressed Krishna Contest
- A raffle with cool prizes

- Hearing from pracharaks of Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj

The block adjacent to Radha Govind Dham is closed off to traffic especially for the big event. Help put Radha Govind Dham on the map by notifying friends in New York to not miss out on the festivities. What greater gift can we give to friends than inviting them to the Lord's Birthday Party! There is something for everyone.

With just a few days to go, take a moment to make some calls, send some emails, and invite your Facebook friends to RSVP via the official event page: https://www.facebook.com/events/1457088884613230/

The outdoor Block Party takes place from 3pm till 6.30pm. Afterwards, there is an indoor program from 7pm till midnight which includes a celebratory feast. Outdoor food booths open from 3pm. Everything is FREE!

Full event schedule, details and timings are available on the Facebook event page.

NY gears up for second annual Krishna Janmashtami Block Party 2015 at New York
Hindu Temple, Radha Govind Dham, inspired by Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj

Jagadguru Kripalu Parishat Honoured for Women Empowerment

2015-08-10T19:06:00.000+05:30

Award presented to JKP,
founded by Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj

Award presented to JKP, founded by Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj

On 10 August, 2015, Jagadguru Kripalu Parishat (JKP) President (Badi Didi) was honoured for her constant efforts in Empowering Women through her free, charitable schools and college.

Zee Sangam recognized Badi Didi's hard work and dedication and presented her with an award.

Congratulations Badi Didi!

Kripaluji Maharaj's Dream Project Becomes a Reality

2015-08-07T04:38:00.002+05:30

Jagadguru Shree KripaluJi Maharaj's dream project has become a reality as Jagadguru Kripalu Parishat's new hospital in Vrindavan has been built and will be inaugurated on September 18th 2015. The name of the hospital is Jagadguru Kripalu Chikitsalaya.

The hospital, established by Jagadguru Shree KripaluJi Maharaj will provide 100% free, unconditional, selfless, quality medical care to the impoverished society in the land of Braj. This is an expression of Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj's grace and compassion upon the souls of the world.

The inauguration will be held in the Divine presence of Shyama Shyam and Jagadguru Shree KripaluJi Maharaj under the auspicious of our revered Didis, presidents of Jagadguru Kripalu Parishat.

This is a movement by Jagadguru Kripalu Parishat to bring a smile to thousands.

Jagadguru Remembered on Guru Purnima 2015

2015-08-01T06:01:00.001+05:30

Thousands of devotees pay respects to Jagadguru Kripalu Ji
Maharaj on Guru Poornima 2015

Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj remembered on Guru Poornima 2015

Combined Report from Yahoo News and Aaj Ki Khabar

Thousands of devotees gathered on Friday to remember and pay their respects to renowned spiritual leader Jagadguru Kripaluji Maharaj on Guru Poornima 2015 at the Bhakti Dham ashram in this Uttar Pradesh village, which is also his birth place.

The devotees participated in a five-day Sadhna Shivir, or contemplation camp, organised on the occasion by the daughters of the late spiritual guru, Vishakha Tripathi, Krishna Tripathi and Sushri Shyama Tripathi.

The event also saw the release of "Radha Govind Geeth Granth", a collection of the devotional verses written by the spiritual leader. It was released in MP3 format by the president of JKP Vishakha Tripathi.

Jagadguru Kripalu Parishat receives universal praise for spiritual and social activities

Thousands visited Bhakti Dham, Mangarh to pay respects
to Jagadguru Kripalu Ji Maharaj on Guru Poornima 2015

While thousands of devotees from across the world visited Bhakti Dham, Mangarh on the occasion of Guru Poornima, political leaders were not far behind. State President of Bhartiya Janta Party, Dr. Laxmi Kant Bajpai visited the temple premises and paid his respects to Jagadguru Kripalu ji Maharaj. Bajpai praised the efforts made by Jagadguru Kripalu Parishat both in the spiritual and social welfare sectors. “ The unique combination of spiritual freedom and humanitarian works adopted by JKP is unparalleled and shows that Jagadguru Kripaluji Maharaj worked relentlessly for welfare of mankind”, said Bajpai. He praised the daughters of the Kripaluji Maharaj for relentless social and philanthropic works undertaken by JKP.

Senior functionary Ram Puri said that the JKP as an organisation was fulfilling the vision of the jagadguru, with guidance from its president. "Educational institutions run by JKP are giving free modern education to over 5,000 girls in the rural areas with all the amenities."

State President of Bharatiya Janata Party, Laxmi Kant Bajpai, and former Member of Parliament belonging to the Bahujan Samaj Party Brijesh Pathak also visited the premises and praised the organisation's efforts both as a spiritual and social welfare institution.

On this occasion former Member of Parliament of BSP Brijesh Pathak also visited Bhakti Dham and praised the efforts of Jagadguru Kripalu Parishat. “ The way JKP, which is run by the divine inspiration of Kripaluji Maharaj, has extended help to the nation during natural calamities is commendable” he said.

Sea of Divine Seekers Attend Guru Poornima 2015 Meditation Program

2015-07-28T22:28:00.001+05:30

Crowd attends largest Guru Poornima 2015 program to
pay respects to Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj

Paying respects to supreme Guru Kripalu Ji Maharaj

Mangarh, August 2015: A sea of Divine seekers have come to Bhakti Dham Mangarh to attend one of largest Guru Poornima 2015 meditation programs so far and pay their respects to supreme Guru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj. Absorbed in the bliss of devotion, everyone is enjoying early morning aarti, parikramas, mandir Darshan and ecstatic sankirtan which continues throughout the day.

Bhakti Bhavan - Constructed by Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji
Maharaj in Mangarh

10,000 meditate at once, in the beatific atmosphere of Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj's ashram

Most of the Guru Poornima 2015 programs are being held in Bhakti Bhavan, a recently built satsang hall in Mangarh. With an area of 90,000 square feet, the 270 foot wide and 135 foot high dome-shaped temple was constructed by Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj to enable up to 10,000 to meditate together at one time.

The weeklong program continues until August 1st. Visit the official JKP Facebook for more info and pictures

Kripalu Ji Maharaj has not initiated anyone

2015-07-27T23:39:00.000+05:30

Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj only Graces

You will be surprised to hear that Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj, who has unparalleled spiritual knowledge and who is always absorbed in the Divine love of God, has neither initiated anyone nor given a 'mantra' in anyone's ears. He only Graces.

Process of becoming a disciple of Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj

Anyone desiring to attain Radha Krishna in this life is qualified to follow the path of bhakti as taught by Shree Kripaluji Maharaj; this includes householders. However, Jagadguru Kripaluji Maharaj does not formally initiate devotees. He is willing to Grace anyone who accepts him in their heart. It all happens internally: you accept him as your Guru, and start following the path according to his teachings, and he will Grace you and help you to proceed.

There is no formality required. If you accept him, he has already accepted you, even if you have never physically met him. Now all that is left is to proceed on the path with the faith that he is already Gracing you. When, through the path of bhakti, your heart is fully purified, then he could Grace you with God realization. This is the true or final initiation which takes place once a devotee has become qualified (by completing his heart purification). This is how Kripaluji Maharaj has described the Guru-disciple relationship and the process of initiation.

Happy Guru Poornima 2015 to Jagadguru Kripalu Ji Maharaj

2015-07-27T02:57:00.000+05:30

Happy Guru Poornima 2015 to Jagadguru Kripalu Ji Maharaj

Guru Poornima is the most important occasion for the devotees. It signifies the eternal relationship of a soul to the supreme power of Grace called ‘guru tattva.’ Radha Krishna Who are the absolute supreme guru tattva are always Gracing the souls. But the souls have to recognize Their Gracious kindness in order to experience the sweetness of Their Divine love.

At the 5 ashrams of Jagadguru Kripalu Parishat and their affiliate centers around the world, we come together and pay our obeisance to our beloved Guru Jagadguru Kripalu ji Maharaj and sing the glories in his sweet remembrance.

Students learning about Jagadguru Kripalu Ji Maharaj

2015-07-25T18:54:00.001+05:30

Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj featured in a prominent encyclopedia

The most authoritative and widely used Encyclopedia on religion has a section about Maharaj ji. It is used as a reference in colleges and universities throughout America.

Students learning about Jagadguru Kripalu Ji Maharaj

Encyclopedia of American Religions, renamed Melton's Encyclopedia of American Religions in the eighth edition, is a reference book by J. Gordon Melton first published in 1978, by Consortium Books, A McGrath publishing company. It is currently in its eighth edition and has become a standard reference work in the study of religion in the United States.

Here is the entry relating to Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj:

The Divine Love Mission grew out of the work of the devotion inspired by Jagadguru Shri Kripalu Ji Maharaj (born in 1922 as Ram Kripalu Tripathi, near Allahabad, India). After completing his formal education, at the age of 16 he found his way to Vrindavan and the next year emerged as a Guru known as Shri Maharaj ji. He is remembered for leading devotees on a 6-month continuous chanting of the Hare Krishna maha mantra when he was just 17 years old. He was 34 years old when given the title "Jagadguru" (world-teacher) by the Kashi Vidvat Parishad, a group of Hindu scholars. As such, he is seen by his followers to stand in the lineage that includes Jagadguru Shankaracharya, Jagadguru Nimbarkacharya, Jagadguru Nimbarkacharya, Jagadguru Ramanujacharya, and Jagadguru Madhavacharya (all well-known figures from Hindu history).

Shri Maharaj ji has taught The essence of all doctrines is to love Lord Krishna, the Supreme Master, and to meditate on His Divine form with an increasing desire to serve Him. This is the true ultimate knowledge." He has summarized the tradition in his book of poems, Bhakti Shatak: Hundred Gems of Divine Love. He has also authored a number of books, English translation of which are being published by the mission.

California gears up for 2 week-long Bhagwad Gita Classes in Fremont and Pasadena!

2015-06-03T20:18:00.002+05:30

Swami Nikhilanand, disciple of Jagadguru Kripalu Ji Maharaj leading Bhagwad Gita
Class in Fremont and Pasadena

Parents and kids in Fremont and Pasadena are gearing up for week-long Bhagwad Gita Classes over the Summer Holidays, led by Swami Nikhilanand, sanyasi disciple of Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj and preacher at Jagadguru Kripalu Parishat Radha Madhav Dham.

Family Bhagwad Gita Class in Fremont California

Venue:
Vedic Dharma Samaj,
Freemont Hindu Temple,
3676 Delaware Dr.,
Fremont, CA 94538
Phone: (510) 659-0655

Dates:
June 14 - 20, 2015. FREE Program

Family Bhagwad Gita Class in Pasadena California

Venue:
676 South Rosemead Boulevard,

Pasadena,

California 91107

Dates:
June 22 - 25, 2015

Register for FREE, and/or change someone else's life by encouraging him/her to register at www.FamilyGitaClass.org. Send an email or make a call to some of your family and friends in California to let them know about Family Bhagwad Gita Class

This Summer Holidays, Swami Nikhilanand, a disciple of Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj, will present unique and transformative 7-day courses in Fremont and Pasadena, California. The fun and interactive format will allow the whole family to learn the most important topics of the Gita one chapter at a time. The course, held daily in the evenings from 7:00 to 8:30 pm, is unique because it allows adults and children (age 6 & up) to learn the philosophy of the Bhagwad Gita together in the same class. This is possible due to the innovative format which encourages questions and allows the interest of the students to drive the direction of the class.

Kids get to have their long-standing questions about Hinduism answered, and clear doubts and confusions about Hindu philosophy. This helps them to grow pride in Hinduism and feel comfortable being Hindu. It is facsinating for adults to watch how quickly youth and kids are able to grasp the concepts of the Gita. Although adults freely participate in question and answer sessions and discussions with Swami Nikhilanand, they are particularily inspired by the childrens' insightful questions.

Swami Nikhilanand, who resides at the largest Hindu ashram in North America, Radha Madhav Dham in Austin, Texas, has developed his series of Family Gita Classes over the last decade of teaching in Hindu Mandirs across the U.S., in cities like New York, Washington, D.C., Houston, Dallas and Los Angeles. He has refined the format to appeal to both young and old by focusing on the highlights of each chapter of the Gita (one chapter is covered each day) with emphasis on how to live the philosophy in your daily life. Worksheets are provided for those who wish to have a summary in note form of the day's topics. Each day also includes tips on meditation for all ages, a quiz on the day's material in the form of a friendly game of Jeopardy, arti, and dinner prasad. Asked

what the most impressive thing about the classes is, Swami Nikhilanand replied, "It's the way the kids want to come back day after day. They are the ones pulling their parents to get there on time so they don't miss anything. Just bring them for one day and you'll see. That is my challenge to parents."

Family Gita Class is a free program and will be held at the Vedic Dharma Samaj (Freemont Hindu Temple) from June 14 - 20, 2015 and Pasadena Hindu Temple from June 22 - 25 2015.

For more information and to register for FREE, visit the website at www.FamilyGitaClass.org

California gears up for 2 week-long Bhagwad Gita Classes in Fremont and Pasadena,
led by Swami Nikhilanand, disciple of Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj

Call to Action: Use your skills to upskill other devotees

2015-05-17T19:26:00.004+05:30

Opportunity for knowledge transfer by
devotees of Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj

Radhey Radhey (Message from Blog Webmaster)

I'd like to welcome people to sign up for being an online teacher in their subject area, by sending a message to Jagadguru Kripaluji Maharaj Satsang Facebook page, a fanpage associated with this blog. From my experience, there is a need for an effective platform for devotee knowledge transfer, whereby devotees can share their skills to others in order to improve their CV, advance their careers or use those skills to get involved in seva opportunities related to Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj's mission.

The idea began with my upcoming FREE Java classes, which will begin May 23rd (RSVP here) and I want to grow the service to have a common platform where all teachers can improve their skills by teaching others. In addition to improving your teaching skills, you also become more skilled in a subject by teaching it, and you'd also have the satisfaction of helping others to upskill and advance their careers. Anyone can start, and when there are enough classes taking place, we'll coordinate our efforts through a central website.

Things that are needed for this project to begin

1. Knowledgeable people in all subject areas who want to donate some of their time to upskill others

2. A skilled web designer to create an online portal where new users can register, browse classes and sign up for classes and learn how to access the classes via online conferencing classes

3. People to help with marketing and branding this revolutionary service

4. Social media team to develop a presence of this service online

5. A team of grassroots net-workers who will network with others and inform them about the service

Possible subject areas:

1. Web development

2. Programming languages

3. Cyber security

4. Actual languages, e.g. Hindi, Sanskrit

5. Graphic Design

6. Audio mixing

7. Marketing/Branding

8. CV/Career development

The FREE service will be highly useful to all devotees of Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj who want to upskill and advance their careers, students who want to improve their skillset, and those who want to share their skills, but it will be a free public service to begin with. Your students can endorse you on Linkedin for the skill you transfer to them.

To get involved with this proposed project, or collaborate on this project, send a message to the facebook page associated with this blog.

David Mc C.

Special Message for Sharad Poornima and Jagadgurutam Jayanti 2014

2014-10-07T21:12:00.000+05:30

Auspicious birthday of Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj 2014 and Sharad Poornima

The auspicious birthday of Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj, which falls on Sharad Poornima, is being celebrated as Jagadguruttam Jayanti on 7th October, 2014.

Special Message for Sharad Poornima 2014 and the Divine appearance day of Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj by Swami Nikhilanand Ji

Happy Sharad Poornima! Sharad Poornima is one of the most important days of the year for the devotees of Radha Krishna. It is the full moon on which They performed the maharaas leela. In the maharaas leela uncountable gopis participate and Shree Krishna, multiplying Himself into as many forms as there are gopis, dances with each gopi individually in concentric rings. Radha and Krishna are in the very center and lead the maharaas. Raas is defined as the accumulated sweetness of all the forms of Divine Blissfullness combined into one leela. And maharaas is the ultimate revelation of raas. Its greatness can be guessed by the fact that even God Shiv and Goddess Lakshmi desired to join and experience it.

Radha Krishna revealed that maharaas ras on our earth 5,000 years ago at midnight of Sharad Poornima. Shree Krishna's yogmaya shakti stopped the normal movement of time during maharaas; thus the maharaas leela lasted for a whole kalp, even though the people of the world felt that a normal night had past. The amazing thing is that even though maharaas is the highest Bliss of the Divine world, yet it is attainable by any soul who worships Radha Krishna with samartha rati madhurya bhav (as the gopis did).

It was at midnight was on this same Sharad Poornima night in 1922 that Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj appeared in this world. For many decades, until his departure from this world on November 15th, 2013, he taught the path of raganuga bhakti and inspired souls to worship Radha Krishna in the same style as the gopis. Those who do bhakti according to his teachings are progressing towards the attainment of that ultimate Bliss of maharaas.

Prem Mandir Vrindavan Janmashtami 2014 date has been revised

2014-08-12T01:45:00.000+05:30

Janmashtami at Prem Mandir, founded by Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj

The world prepares for Krishna Janmashtami 2014 at Prem Mandir, founded by Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj

Note: Prem Mandir Janmashtami 2014 date has been revised and will now take place on August 18th. Sadhana Shivir will take place August 14th, 15th, 16th and 17th. Check JKP Official Facebook and JKP Website for accurate updates

The Vrindavan Times News: The world waits on the edges of their seats as Vrindavan readies for one of the grandest and spectacular festivals of the year: Krishna Janmashtami 2014. Krishna Janmashtami, also known as Krishna Jayanti, is the appearance day of Lord Krishna. Upwards of a million devotees will visit Prem Mandir during Krishna Janmashtami period and witness the largest Krishna Janmashtami 2014 in the world.

Lord Krishna appeared at midnight of the eighth waning moon which falls in August/September. Krishna Janmashtami is one of the greatest celebrations of the Hindu community worldwide which is observed throughout India, at Prem Mandir Vrindavan which has been established by Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj, and around the world as far as Austin, New York and Singapore.

In the Temples on Krishna Janmashtami, devotees sing and chant the glories and the leelas of Krishna up to midnight. Then they do arti of Krishna and distribute prasad. In Vrindavan there are a number of professional groups who enact the leelas of Radha Krishn on the open stage.

Mass meditation program and Krishna Janmashtami 2014

This year on Krishna Janmashtami, a sadhana shivir (mass meditation program) will be held on 14th, 15th and 16th of August 2014 at Shyama Shyam Dham, Vrindavan, one of the ashrams of Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj. The Krishna Janmashtami celebration itself will be celebrated in all the temples, ancient and contemporary, in Vrindavan and all over Braj. Prem Mandir Janmashtami date has been revised and will now take place on August 18th. Sadhana Shivir will take place August 14th, 15th, 16th and 17th. Janmashtami will take place in the presence of many saints and dignitaries.

To mark the occasion, areas of Prem Mandir Vrindavan are specially displayed with the childhood events of Krishna and great crowds come to have its darshan. At Shyama Shyam Dham Vrindavan, a lovely cradle of baby Krishna is placed in the Satsang Hall on this day, and people will come from all over for the opportunity to have darshan and swing the Divine child on His Birthday.

Throughout the day and up to midnight, devotional programs will be arranged in Vrindavan which include one act plays and dances related to Radha Krishna leelas. Chanting of Krishna Janmashtami leelas and the songs of His appearance, special arti of baby Krishna and Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj‘s speech, explaining the importance of Krishna Janmashtmi in a devotee’s life, highlight the celebration.

In other news, Radha Govind Dham New York has posted a special Krishna Janmashtami 2014 message by Swami Nikhilanand Ji, pracharak of Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj. Swami Nikhilanand Ji will be in attendance during the first ever Krishna Janmashtami Block Party and Best-Dressed Krishna Contest at Radha Govind Dham mandir in Glen Oaks next Sunday, August 17th 2014. Swami Nikhilanand Ji will give a Krishna Janmashtami 2014 address during the celebration which will also include live bhajans, food, dandiya, dances and much more. Parents are encouraged to bring their kids in costume! Click here to read Swami Nikhilanand's Janmashtami message.

Austin kids preparing for Krishna Janmashtami 2014 at Kripalu Ji Maharaj's ashram

2014-08-06T23:03:00.000+05:30

Krishna Janmashtami 2014 at Jagadguru Kripalu Ji Maharaj's
ashram, Radha Madhav Dham

Krishna Janmashtami 2014 will take place at Radha Madhav Dham Austin, the USA Ashram of Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj, on Sat, Aug 16, 2014 from 5pm – midnight

Austin, Texas (The Vrindavan Times News): The excitement is building up in Austin Texas as kids and their parents from all over Austin are finalizing their costume ideas for Krishna Janmashtami 2014. Austin Texas is renowned as it will be hosting one of the largest Krishna Janmashtami 2014 events in America, which is held at Radha Madhav Dham. Indeed, Krishna Janmashatmi 2014 at Radha Madhav Dham in Austin has even been featured in a number of books, and author Mark Busby writes in The Southwest, part of The Greenwood Encyclopedia of American Regional Cultures series of books,

Just outside Austin, the [Radha Madhav Dham] Hindu Temple is now home to one of the biggest Janmashtami celebrations in North America

Krishna Janmashtami 2014 costume contest creating a stir in Austin at Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj's ashram creating a stir in Austin

Krishna Janmashtami 2014 at Jagadguru Kripalu Ji Maharaj's
ashram, Radha Madhav Dham

One of the innovative and creative features of the Krishna Janmashtami 2014 at Radha Madhav Dham, the USA Ashram of Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj, is the Krishna Janmashtami 2014 Kids Costume Contest. Kids can dress up in any character from Lord Krishna’s descension period of 125 years -

…from Baby Krishna’s period in Braj where he did so many loving pastimes

…from the period when Krishna went to Mathura to free his parents from King Kans

…or, from the time when Krishna ruled as the King of Dwarika during the period of Mahabharat

Kids are invited to be as creative as they like… be Radha, Krishna, be a Gopi, or dress up as a cow, flute, peacock feather. The idea for the contest came from the aim to get kids in Austin into the spirit of Krishna Janmashtami 2014 and give them devotional memories of this special day. All participating kids will win prizes; but there will also be special prizes for the contest winners. Another exciting feature of the Krishna Janmashtami 2014 celebration in Austin is that kids will “meet” Saints & Gods from Krishna Avatar who will relay inspiring stories of Krishna.

Something for everyone at Krishna Janmashtami 2014 in Austin Texas

Krishna Janmashtami 2014 at Jagadguru Kripalu Ji Maharaj's
ashram, Radha Madhav Dham

The Krishna Janmashtami 2014 costume contest is just one small part of an exciting lineup of devotional programs throughout the evening. There is something for everyone at an event which is a year shy of one quarter century in the running. A highlight is the abhishek and jhulan (swinging) ceremony of baby Krishna where everyone will get a chance to push baby Krishna on a beautiful, and lavishly decorated swing during his birthday celebration 2014. There will also be ecstatic chanting of Krishna Janmashtami kirtans and bhajans during the Krishna Janmashtami 2014 kirtan program inside the beautiful Radha Madhav Dham temple. Another highlight for many is a special arti to baby Krishna at midnight. An out-of-this world sumptuous vegetarian feast will be served to all during the program. The full lineup of events according to Radha Madhav Dham website and the official Krishna Janmashtami 2014 RSVP page is as follows:

Outdoors program

5:00pm – Mahaprasad served in the Dining hall
5:30pm – Kids Activity and Food Booths Open
7:00pm – Special Kids Program on Outdoor Stage
(Kids will meet Saints & Gods from Krishna Avatar to hear stories of Krishna)
7:30pm – Kids Costume Contest begins – see below for more information
(Prizes for all participating kids and special prizes for the contest winners)
8:15pm – Kids Outdoor Program concludes

Indoors Program

6:00pm: Chanting inside temple begins
7:15pm: Special discourse on Krishna Janmashtmi 2014
7:45pm: Abhishek & Swinging of Lord Krishna
8:15pm: Bal Krishna themed dances & leela performances
9:30pm: Chanting inside prayer hall continues
12:00am: Sing Arti to Baby Krishna at Midnight

Krishna Janmashtami at Radha Madhav Dham, the USA Ashram of Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj, is especially well-liked for bringing out the original devotional mood of the occasion, similar to Braj-style Janmashtami celebrations; and also being fun for everyone, while giving everyone the chance to also learn the philosophy and real meaning of Krishna Janmashtami from a preacher who has studied the Hindu scriptures in depth.

Everyone who is planning to attend Krishna Janmashtami 2014 in Austin is request to JOIN the official Krishna Janmashtami 2014 RSVP page on facebook and invite others, and not to forget to bring your kids is costume!

The most important part of Krishna Janmashtami 2014, according to one Radha Madhav Dham spokesperson, a disciple of Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj, is to make it your own, and create your own memories with Krishna that will last a lifetime.

Krishna Janmashtami 2014 at Jagadguru Kripalu Ji Maharaj's
ashram, Radha Madhav Dham

Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj is different than a Guru...

2014-08-04T22:22:00.001+05:30

Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj is different than a Guru

Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj is different than a guru. A guru takes you by the hand and walks you along the path. Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj stands behind you and pushes, forcing you along, arranging your life such that there is only one possible direction to go in.

Philosophy of Friendship day & Tulsidas Jayanti 2014: Teachings of Kripaluji Maharaj

2014-08-04T00:28:00.000+05:30

Philosophy of Tulsidas Jayanti 2014 and Friendship Day
2014 according to Jagadguru Kripalu Ji Maharaj

Vrindavan, August 3rd 2014 (The Vrindavan Times News): Friendship Day takes place in India the first Sunday of every August. In the time honored tradition, friends all over India have been exchanging gifts and cards today; tagging each other on facebook in cute pictures with quotes; blowing up each others’ phones with whatsapp messages. But for the braj-ras Rasiks and devotees, Friendship Day has a special significance, which will be illustrated further down.

Tulsidas Jayanti 2014
story by Kripalu Ji Maharaj

Another important celebration which has been taking place today is Tulsidas Jayanti 2014, the birthday of Saint Tulsidas. A great Saint and poet, Saint Tulsidas is an important figure who rejuvenates and gave life to Hindu Philosophy. Tulsidasji was a dedicated devotee of Shree Ram and the writer of ‘Shree Ramcharitmanas,’ a great Hindu scripture. He was born on Shravan Shukla Saptami of 1498 AD in Rajpur, Chitrakoot district and was a Sarayuparina Brahmin by birth. Tulsidasji intensely loved his wife Buddhimati and she enlightened him by saying that if he loved Lord Ram half as much as her he would attain eternal bliss. Thereafter Tulsidas became an ascetic. He got a vision of Lord Ram through Hanumanji and began composing the Shree Ramcharitmanas.

There is a famous story of Saint Tulsidasji’s visit to Vrindavan, which is very dear to the hearts of the residents of Vrindavan. Tulsidas traveled to Vrindavan, where he visited a temple. When he began bowing down to the murti of Shree Krishna, the Mahant of the temple named Parshuram decided to test Tulsidas. He told Tulsidas that he who bows down to any deity except their Ishta Devata (cherished form of divinity) is a fool, as Tulsidas’ Ishta Devata was Ram. In response, Tulsidas recited the following extemporaneously composed doha (couplet)

काह कहौं छबि आजुकि भले बने हो नाथ ।

।तुलसी मस्तक तब नवै धरो धनुष शर हाथ ॥

O Lord, how shall I describe today’s splendour, for you appear auspicious.

Tulsidas will bow down his head when you take the bow and the arrow in your hands.

When Tulsidas recited this couplet, the murti of Shree Krishna holding the flute and stick in hands changed to the murti of Shree Ram holding the bow and arrow in hands.

Tulsidas Jayanti 2014 at Prem Mandir founded by Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj

Sita Ram and Radha Krishna darshan at Prem Mandir,
founded by Kripalu Ji Maharaj

On Tulsidas Jayanti 2014 one must read or hear the Ramcharitmanas, visit shrines of Lord Ram as well as Hanumanji. In Vrindavan, all the Ram bhaktas have been coming for Sita Ram darshan at Prem Mandir, which has beautiful life size, effulgent and realistic appearance in the main shrine on the ground floor of the temple.

Story of Tulsidas ji as narrated by Jagadguru Kripalu Ji Maharaj in his final words

Story of Tulsidas was narrated
by Jagadguru Kripalu Ji Maharaj

The amazing story of Tulsidas ji having initially being extremely attached to his wife and later meeting Ram in His personal form is also significant as being narrated by Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj in his parting speech to the world on November 11th 2013. Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj said: (Full video lecture, subtitles and English transcript available here) -

…Shree Krishna had told Arjun,

Abhyasena tu Kaunteya Vairagyena cha grihyate

Bhagavad Gita 6.35

Through repeated practice, the yogis perform great feats. They achieve great powers through disciplined practice. And they do it using the same mind you have. Their mind is not imported from somewhere else. The very same fickly and impure mind that we possess right now, they also possessed at one point. Even Saints such as Tulsidas, Surdas, Meera, Shankaracharya, Nimbarkacharya or any other Saint.

In comparison to Tulsidas, there is no one who could be as shameful, in my opinion. Why? Think for a moment. He had gone to his in-laws to meet his wife. He was so anxious to meet her, that in attempt to climb into her house he mistook a snake for a rope. First of all, didn’t Tulsidas know that if there is a house, there must also be a door? You won’t find any house without doors. And secondly, he went to meet his own wife. He should have knocked at the door. He could have shouted, “Open the door!” It is not a crime to meet one’s wife, nor is it considered immoral. Tulsidas, so obsessed with his wife abandoned his desires when she said to him, “If you had this much love for God, you would have met Him by now.” These words opened his eyes. He immediately turned away from the world. Not half-heartedly. He turned completely towards God. And he indeed met Lord Ram in that very life. In my opinion, there is no one in the entire world who could be obsessed with his wife as Tulsidas was.

So, through practice, everything becomes possible. All of you sitting here have also done great practice in the past just to come to this point. Otherwise, no one has even a moment to spare… (Full video lecture and transcript available here)

Dohas (couplets) composed by Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj on Friendship Day

Friendship day 2014 couplets (doha)
by Jagadguru Kripalu Ji Maharaj

Being Friendship Day, today is the day to specially remember the true friends, Hari Guru (God and Guru). Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj composed the following doha especially for Friendship Day. His Radha Govind Geet initially had 11,111 doha (couplets) describing every possible aspect of the Divine field, and later thousands more doha were added. But here are a selection which one could meditate on today:

आज है फ्रेंडशिप डे , गोविन्द राधे !
साँचो फ्रेंड हरि गुरु, बस दो हैं बता दे !!

Today is Friendship Day.
Only God and Guru are our real (eternal) friends.

आज फ्रेंडशिप डे पे हे गोविन्द राधे !
मेरी मति धृति को अपना बना दे !!

On this day of Friendship day, O Govind Radhey!
Make my mind and intellect Yours.

तेरी मेरी यारी यार , गोविन्द राधे !
चोरी चोरी कब तक चलेगी बता दे !!

Our Friendship (Yours and mine), O Govind Radhey!
Till when will it continue in hiding?

तेरी मेरी लुका छिपी, गोविन्द राधे !
मेरे साथ कब तक चलेगी बता दे !!

Yours and mine (this game of) hide and seek, O Govind Radhey!
Till when will it continue with me, please tell me.

तेरी मेरी यारी यार, गोविन्द राधे !
कबहूँ न छूटे टूटे , चाहे जोर लगा दे !!

Our Friendship (Yours and mine), O Govind Radhey!
Will never break or can be taken away, however hard one may try.

तेरे मेरे बीच में हे गोविन्द राधे !
जो भी आये वाको तू आँख दिखा दे !!

Whoever comes in between us, O Govind Radhey!
Please show him an eye (in anger).

A kirtan composed by Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj for Friendship Day goes as follows

Friendship day 2014 kirtan by
Jagadguru Kripalu Ji Maharaj

तेरी यारी पै बिहारी मै तो वारु तन मन !

तू ही मेरो प्राण धन तू ही मेरो है जीवन !!

On your Friendship, O lord Krishna (Bihari), I sacrifice my body and mind.

You alone are my soul’s treasure, You alone are my life.

Jagadguru Kripalu Parishat to conduct Sadhana Shivir in Hyderabad from today!

2014-08-02T04:01:00.000+05:30

With the grace of Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj, JKP presidents
will lead sadhana shivir in Hyderabad

With the blessings of Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj, Jagadguru Kripalu Parishat is conducting a Sadhana Shivir (Devotional Intensive) in the presence of JKP Presidents in Hyderabad from today.

Dates: 2nd to 7th August, 2014

Venue: Ghanshyam Bhawan - Gujrati Pragati Samaj,
near Nrupatunga School,
Kachiguda,
Hyderabad.

Contact: Parikshit - 9848087632/ Shivani Gupta - 9652227312 (India phone numbers).

Family Gita Class a huge success in Pasadena and upcoming programs in New York

2014-07-31T21:33:00.000+05:30

From Swami Nikhilanand Blog and Vrindavan Times News

The Family Gita Class led by Swami Nikhilanand Ji, sanyasi disciple of Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj, was a huge success in Pasadena California.

Here are some more upcoming events with Swamiji:

August 3 - 16, New York: The significance of Radha Krishna devotion in Kaliyug(Radha Govind Dham New York)
Aug 18 - 24, New York The Bhagwad Gita for Families (Radha Govind Dham New York)
17 August, New York: 1ST ever Krishna Janmashatmi block party!
August 31st, New York: Radha Govind Dham New York Picnic & Satsang in Sands Point Preserve

Swami Nikhilanand, disciple of Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj, leads Family Gita Class at Pasada Hindu Temple

Each day of the Family Gita Class with Swami Nikhilanand Ji at Pasaden Hindu Temple, children and their parents received the wealth of true Hinduism through the Gita.Namsankirtan began every evening at 7:00pm. Then Swami Nikhilanand delivered fun, interactive talks on the Gita where kids and parents had the opportunity to ask questions. Following the lesson, devotional Jeopardy was played every day; kids vs. parents! Finally, arti was performed at the end of every evening.

Before the devotional Jeopardy game on the last day, each kid received a beautiful picture of Radha Krishna from Swamiji, to help with their devotional remembrance. Overall, children and adults discovered their heritage, gained understanding of practical concepts for daily living, and had lots of fun! Dinner Prasad was served daily around 6:30

Here are some quotes from the children about Gita Family Class with Swami Nikhilanand Ji at Pasaden Hindu Temple

An older kid: "The cool thing is, he presents his messages and lessons in a way which the younger generation especially can connect to...and it's very easy to understand and we can relate to them ourselves. So, coming here, it's eye-opening to all of us and it's a great way to be connected to our culture in this busy American society."

A younger kid: "We got to learn new things by also interacting with Swamijji, asking him questions, and I had fun that way! Usually kids in America don't get an opportunity to learn about things like the Gita, and I'm very glad that we got to have the opportunity. I would also recommend this class to your friend, because, they would learn a lot about their religion. ...You couldn't actually Goggle it out, that much information."

Universality of Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj (Original Article)

2014-07-28T20:45:00.000+05:30

[An original Vrindavan Times article describing just some of the many aspects of the Universality of Jagadguru Kripalu and His teachings. The contents expressed herein are the opinion and experience of the author, an Irish Catholic]

Kripalum Vande Jagadgurum - All glories to supreme master Jagadguru Kripalu Ji Maharaj

July 28th 2014 - (The Vrindavan Times): As the Jagadguru, Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj revealed himself as the foremost Saint of all the religions, not only for the Hindus.

Muhammad Rūmī

In the line of Sufi Islamic Saints, his transcendental love poetry far surpassed that of even the great historical Sufi Islamic masters of Persia, Iran, India and Pakistan like Jalāl ad-Dīn Muhammad Rūmī. As with Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj, Rumi's importance is considered to transcend national and ethnic borders. Iranians, Turks, Afghans, Tajiks, and other Central Asian Muslims as well as the Muslims of South Asia have greatly appreciated his spiritual legacy in the past seven centuries and he has been described as the "most popular poet in America" and the "best selling poet in the US".

In His Radha Govind Geet too, Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj has revealed some doha directly in Persian language, a language he had never studied.

Qawalli, mehfil in the courtyard of Jagadguru Kripalu Ji Maharaj

Grand, stately and lively mehfil sessions would be held daily in the courtyard of the Jagadguru, where Shree Maharaj ji would astound, entertain, amuse and inspire his devotees and guests with the most eloquent and potent spiritual poetic expositions ever uttered. The mehfil sessions originally took place outdoors in the old courtyard and were some of the most precious, nectar filled memories in the lives of many. Later, they were held inside the palace courtyard and also replicated wherever and whenever Shree Maharaj ji travelled.

It was a tradition in these sher-o-shayari sessions that guests would also recite their self-composed poetry to Shree Maharaj ji, a perfect opportunity to convey their true, inner feelings to the Lord. Often, Shree Maharaj ji and a devotee would engage in a playful tête-à-tête, each challenging the other in a poetic debate of love. On winning the debate, Shree Maharaj ji would give a sweet signal of victory in the form of shābāsh. During the mehfil sessions, a feast of sumptuous food, sweets and sweet chai was served to every guest.

Devotees would also sing heart-felt ghazals, thumri or old film songs which Maharaj ji would enjoy a lot. Maharaj ji would regularly tease the devotees’ singing style or make fun of the singer in some way. One foreign boy started singing “Ehsaan tera hoga mujh par…”, to which Maharaj ji interrupted (in Hindi) with a serious face, “What’s wrong? Did you not get enough to eat?” which made the assemblage and the singer burst out laughing. Other times, he would tell someone else to start singing while another person was in the middle of their song; encouraging each of them to sing louder and louder, to outdo the other one.

A sample of some of Shree Maharaj ji’s sher-o-shayari is given below:

Mere dil mein rehta hai, to phir kyon jalaata hai?
Aray dushman akal ke, Apna Bhi Koi Ghar Jalaata Hai?

Meri Aakhon Mein rehta hai, to phir kyon rulaata hai?
Aray dushman akal ke, apna bhi koi ghar dubaata hai?

You live in my heart, then why are you burning it in the fire of separation? Are you crazy? Does anyone burn their own house?

You live in my eyes, then why are you making me cry? Are your crazy? Does anyone drown their own house?

Teri tasveer mein tujhse bhi ek baat nirali hai.

Kitna bhi chiptao na shokhi hai.. Na gali hai

There is some thing special in your photo as compared to you.

However, and upto whatever extent I hug it.. It doesn't resist or blame.

He has adopted the qawwali style for many of his kirtan compositions, some of which are most beloved of many devotees. Sample below for illustrative purposes:

Ik nazar unko dekha gazab ho gaya,

hale dil ab to mera ajab ho gaya.

A devotee says, “I looked at Krishna once and a sweet, loving disaster happened. I lost my heart to Him with that glance. Now my heart and mind are acting very strangely.”

Deeno duniya ki daulat sanjoi thee jo,

lut gayi pal mein ya rab gazab ho gaya.

“One more strange thing has happened. The effects of whatever actions I performed and whatever worldly attachments I had all vanished in one moment.”

Tan gaya man gaya akla hairan hai,

darde dil badh raha hai gazab ho gaya.

“My brain is perplexed because my body and mind are no longer under my control. Another disaster is that the pain of my separation from Krishna is always increasing.”

Ve taras bhi na khaye mere hal par,

phir na aye dubara gazab ho gaya.

“But Krishna had no sympathy for my pitiable condition. He did not give me His vision a second time. This is like a calamity for me”.

Darde dil mein magar aisa paya maja,

ab kahenge ‘Kripalu’ gazab ho gaya.

Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj says in the words of a devotee, “In spite of all this, the pain of separation from Krishna is so sweet that now I will tell everyone about my condition and that something wonderfully unusual has happened to me.”

Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj explains the world religions

Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj would regularly quote Islamic Sufi Saints in his lectures, as well as give discourses on the real meaning of celebrations such as the real meaning of Eid. An excerpt is given below for illustrative purposes:

There are two types of Eid. One is idulphitar and the other is idul jaha. Idulphitar is what is celebrated in the month of ramadan. There is a story behind idul jaha. There was one paigambar (prophet) named Hazrat Ibrahim, like Prophet Mohammed. Haztrat Ibrahim was a great saint. Paigambar (prophet) means the saints who have been sent by God. God decided to test Ibrahim and so God sent a message to Ibrahim in his dream and said that now you leave your wife and son in a dessert where water will also not be available to them. Ibrahim took their wife and small child Ijrael to the dessert. But God serves those who completely surrender to him. Hence, God had made all the arrangements for the upbringing of the child.

Then again God came in Ibrahim’s dream and said that now you sacrifice your son to me by cutting his head and offering it to me. Then Ibrahim inquired about where his son is and found him. Ibrahim told his son that God has told me to sacrifice you, so will you follow my advice? His son said that if this is the wish of God then why wouldn’t I support it? So Ibrahim now prepared himself to cut the head of his son. Ibrahim covered his eyes with a cloth because if his eyes were open then he would not be able to cut the head of his own son. So Ibrahim covered his eyes and sacrificed and cut the head of his son. When Ibrahim opened his eyes he saw a sheep was there which had been sacrificed. God saved his child, and Ibrahim cleared the test of God.

This is the real meaning of Eid, to sacrifice yourself completely to God or in other words surrender yourself to God, but due to ignorance, people are doing violence and slaughtering sheep in the name of religion and naming it “Bakri Eid”.

The Real Significance of Eid is:

Idurjaha hai aaj Govind Radhey,
Dil ke gunaho se tauba kara de.
La illahi lilillaha Govind Radhe,
Mohamaddarsul allah dil me bitha de.

Revelations of Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj in English

Jagadguru Kripalu Ji Maharaj leads kirtan in Bhakti
Bhavan, Mangarh

Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj also revealed a kirtan in English, such that even English-speakers may find a place in his world.

Once Shree Maharajji led singing of the following devotional lines in English and soon the entire Bhakti Bhavan resounded in singing of these sacred words:

Give me Divine Love,
My dear Krishna
Give me Divine Love,
O my dear Krishna
Take my life Krishna,
You are welcome.

Religion of Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj adoptable by all

Although thousands of people of all religions have adopted the philosophy of Shree Maharaj ji, yet no one has ever claimed, or thought of himself, as a convert. Shree Maharaj ji, having adopted many of the traditions such as qawwali, mehfil, sher-o-shayari and having reconciled various philosophies has shown a religion which is virtually indistinguishable from mystical Islam. Indeed, the mood of his philosophy is indistinguishable from the mystical streams of all the world religions as revealed by the original masters of those religions. Furthermore, anyone of any religion, or branch of a religion, can see their own religion in a perfected, more beautiful, more understandable, more practical and more relevant form. A Catholic may come across the religion of Shree Maharaj ji and see their own religion reframed in a new light, then adopt that religion. Yet, it never seems to anyone that they have adopted anything new; just a more perfected form of their original belief. Same for Muslims, Christians, Hindus etc.

What to speak of followers of the world religions, when even avowed atheists have found their truth in him. Acclaimed writer and Padma Vibhushan awardee Khushwant Singh once famously declared:

Of the two dozen men and women who appear regularly on TV channels to give discourses on spiritual matters I find what Kripaluji has to say makes more sense to a non-believer like me. All of them have the gift of the gab but he is more forthright, logical, lucid and gives chapter and verse of the sacred texts he quotes from…

In this way, Shree Maharaj ji became known for revealing the true path to God adoptable by anyone in the world. For this reason, he was awarded the title Nikhildarshansamanvayacharya by the Kashi Vidvat Parishat. There are literally thousands of lectures or devotional songs which reveal the Divine aspect of all the worlds’ holy days and celebrations of all religions. In his inimitable way, Shree Maharaj ji even revealed the following doha for Saint Patrick’s Day, a day in honour of the 5th-century Irish Catholic Saint (Green is the traditional colour of Ireland and associated with Saint Patrick):

आज संत पैट्रिक डे है गोविन्द राधे
इस दिल के मरुस्थल को प्रेम से हरा बना दे ।

Today is Saint Patrick’s Day.
Make the desert of my heart green with Divine Love.

Religion of Divine Love

To quote Rumi:

ملت عشق از همه دین‌ها جداست — عاشقان را ملت و مذهب خداست

The nation of Love has a different religion of all religions — For lovers, God alone is their religion.

Thus, the Religion of Love is the religion of Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj, which is the same Religion as the Master's of all the world religions. To this end, Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj has established the very embodiment of Divine Love, Prem Mandir, in Vrindavan.

Rumi and Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj revealed many universal Divine truths via their writings and poetry, but the glaring difference is that the reach of Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj's revelations were on a much larger scale, while also revealing the practical aspect of the spiritual path (sadhana) so that others could know exactly what to do, with no equivocation, follow the instructions, and reach the Divine.

Radha Govind Dham New York prepares for special Guru Poornima 2014 satsang and 'The Divine Flute' lectures

2014-07-13T01:35:00.000+05:30

Radha Govind Dham New York prepares for special
Guru Poornima 2014 satsang and 'The Divine Flute' lectures by
preacher of Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj

Note: As this event is a last minute grace of Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj, please inform all your contacts in New York and request them to attend this special satsang and lecture series.

Queens, New York - (The Vrindavan Times News): Queens New York is gearing up for Guest International Speaker, H.H. Gopeshwari Devi who is coming to Radha Govind Dham New York, the New York Hindu Temple, for a special Guru Poornima 2014 satsang tomorrow evening, Sunday July 13th. The special Guru Poornima 2014 satsang will be followed by a week of inspirational lectures on the subject of Bhagwan Shankar ‘The Divine Flute’.

Times: Sunday 13th July 2014 – 5PM to 7PM

Monday 14th to Thursday 17th July 2014: 7PM – 8:30PM

Venue: Radha Govind Dham New York,

260-01 Hillside Avenue,

Glen Oaks,

New York 11004

www.RGDNY.org www.facebook.com/RGDNY

The Significance and Incarnation of Shree Krishna’s divine flute will be explained by special guest instructor Gopeshwari Devi (Didiji), an inspirational and motivational spiritual speaker and leader.

Preacher of Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj at New York Hindu Temple, Radha Govind Dham

H.H. Gopeshwari Devi is an eminent preacher of India’s most revered Saint, His Divine Excellency Bhakti-Yog-Rasavatar Shree 1008 Jagadguru Shree Kripaluji Maharaj. Having spent her formative years in New Zealand, Didi Ji graduated in India with a BA, LLB and MA. A vibrant and passionate speaker, Didi Ji combines deep knowledge of the Holy texts with simple analogies and humorous anecdote, bringing clarity and understanding to the most extraordinary of subjects.

Contact: Jyoti / Vikesh on 1-917-362-3548

A Guru Poornima Tale for 2014 - Meeting Kripalu Ji Maharaj in Mussoorie

2014-07-11T16:29:00.002+05:30

Happy Guru Poornima 2014 to all devotees of Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj

A Guru Poornima Tale - Meeting Jagadguru Kripalu Ji Maharaj in Mussoorie

It was a last minute decision in Summer 2008. I was in a heartbroken state for several months, and needed a break from life, so I thought "Why not go to Musoorie!" For some completely unknown reason, I made no plans, told no one I was coming, had no idea where Mussoorie was or how I would make it. All I did was book a flight to Delhi airport and had no idea what was happening beyond that. I arrived at Delhi airport as planned, but after that, all my dreams turned into a nightmare, but looking back, it all seems like a divine dream.

By coincidence, an Indian devotee of Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj from USA happened to be on the same flight as me and when he saw me at Delhi airport, he recommended me to get a bus to Mussoorie. I was slightly apprehensive, but he assured me that Indian tourist buses were very comfortable and brought me to a Taxi, asked the Taxi driver to take me to an upmarket bus stop, and even gave him extra money to wait until I got on the bus. But, instead of doing that, the taxi driver brought me to a India tour company and tried to pressure me to buy a package tour to South India! I told their staff that I just wanted to go to Mussoorie. After much argument, the taxi driver got in a huff and I knew he didn't have good intentions. He proceeded to drive me away, throw me out at the side of the road next to some common bus stop, and drove away! I had no idea about the bus schedule or where I was or what to do. Some ruffian looking boys started ganging around me, making jokes and pulling at me. After a few hours, a bus arrived and it was the worst possible bus I could have ever imagined. It was the kind with metal bars instead of glass and and people crowded on the roof. I learned it was going to Dehradun. The next 20 or 30 hour journey, with many stops, was hell itself. I was baking alive the entire journey.

Eventually I reached Dehradun, in the middle of the night, not knowing where to go or what to do. I found some taxis but they wouldn't drive to Mussoorie so late at night. Then I started going to all the hotels, to see if they could get someone to drive me to Mussoorie and fortunately one of them did.

Next stop was Mussoorie. I had only seen Seva Kunj Ashram in pictures, and when I saw it, I knew it was the place. It is built into the side of a mountain with many steps. But, I had no idea where the entrance was. The driver drove off into the distance, and my only guess was to begin the monumental task of climbing the steps and hope it led somewhere. Eventually I arrived at a door. I made my presence known with thunderous knocks but there was no response.

Afterwards, I just lay on the ground. There was a beautiful thunder and lightening storm echoing through the valley. It was the most peaceful moment of my entire life, just laying there on the cold concrete. There was some warmth coming from the lightening, and I was shaking with a combination of excitement, relief, happiness and anticipation. Somehow I drifted off to sleep.

After some time, I heard a deep, divine familiar voice and my eyes began to wake from the morning rays. I heard the sound of the door open - the door I had been trying to enter. When I looked up, I saw devotees and Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj standing there. A devotee of Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj came over and picked me up off the ground and brought me to Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj. It so happened that my mother had been calling incessantly and bawling on the phone, as I had phoned her from the bus stop at the side of the road, and my phone cut off just as I was explaining the situation. Devotees told Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj about her calling.

Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj came over to me, and threw his arms around me and said "I am so so sorry!". He asked "How did your head not get sore from lying on the ground?" I said, "Maharajji, I used a t-shirt as a pillow" and he started laughing.

For the entire few months I was there, leading up to Guru Poornima and afterwards, ashram devotees treated me like a son, in every possible way. When I got sick, they made all arrangements for me. They did the same for all the foreigners who were there - fed us, looked after everything, told us how to act, when to wash. Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj also treated us like his family. It was a divine dream in every possible way and those who saw that aspect of Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj are the luckiest! Happy Guru Poornima 2014!

Radha Madhav Dham Intensive 2014 Enthralls Devotees (Days 1 - 4)

2014-07-02T04:25:00.000+05:30

Blissful kirtan at Radha Madhav Dham, US ashram of Jagadguru Kripaluji Maharaj during Intensive 2014

[This is article 2 in the series of the Radha Madhav Dham Intensive 2014. Read part 1 here: Worldwide attention drawn to Radha Madhav Dham intensive]

(VRINDAVAN TIMES NEWS): And so, the Radha Madhav Dham intensive continued throughout the evening of the June 28th, the first day of the intensive. Every day throughout the intensive, various preachers of Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj's worldwide mission give lectures on Prem Ras Madira, a series of 1008 devotional songs revealed by Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj.

Sushree Gopeshwari Didi, disciple of Kripalu Ji Maharaj, leading kirtan at Radha Madhav Dham

The first night, the assemblage sat in rapt attention as Sushree Gopeshwari Didi’s gave a very divinely touching lecture on the pad sankirtan, Jaun Guru Kamal Balihar. She said that all we have to do is take the form of Guru’s lotus feet that we saw in reality or in a picture, in our consciousness, in our mind, in our heart, not our brain area – the effect of the lotus feet will manifest. Even if we just take them with respect, with no love, they will do their own work in our mind. We just have to bring them into our mind. So, the lotus feet of the Guru are everything for a devotee. Afterwards, Swami Nikhilanand Ji gave a brief overview, and set the tone of the intensive. A presiding tone of this intensive is ‘vow of silence’ (maun), which he emphasized over and over again. Before the day was up, one of the youth exclaimed: “Wow, Radha Madhav Dham has the aura of Mangarh [the worldwide center of the bhakti movement today]. This is amazing!”

The second day of the intensive began with early morning 5am yoga postures in the satsang hall. Everyone felt refreshed after the 45 minute gentle stretches. Afterwards, everyone performed a rousing arti. It was amazing to see so many people from all over the world under one roof, clad in orange Radhey Shyamis, offering their hearts and minds to Radha Krishna. After arti, Sushree Siddheshvari Didi led a slow, spell-binding chanting expressing humility of a devotee and describing the greatness of the lotus feet of Radha Rani. When the kirtan session was over, hundreds of devotees made their way out the temple doors, receiving a handful of prasad of nuts and raisins on their way, making their way to the front of the temple to begin parikrama.

Chanting and dancing in front of the deities at US ashram of Kripalu Ji Maharaj during Intensive 2014

Parikrama at US ashram of Kripalu Ji Maharaj during Intensive 2014

Devotees sang Radhey Radhey Govind with great feeling and enthusiasm, to the sounds of ecstatically played drums and cymbals, as they processioned with raised hands towards Govardhan Hill. On circumambulating the hill, the parikrama continued back to the temple. Back at the temple, devotees danced and danced in joy in front of the deities, singing ever louder and louder and more enthusiastically. It was a beautiful scene, but it had to end as breakfast was being served. Back at the dining hall, everyone was served a sumptuous variety of cereals and fruits. Keeping in mind Swami Nikhilanand’s instructions on maintaining silence from the night before, many devotees chose to maintain maun (vow of silence) during breakfast and instead of chatting, foster the feelings from morning satsang.

A special part of the intensive is ashram seva, which takes place every morning from 8:30 – 9:30 am. Seva is not considered to be a job to be done, but an offering of selfless surrender to Radha Krishna. Another special part of the Radha Madhav Dham Intensive 2014 is devotional picnics, where video clips of lighter moments with Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj are played. Tasty snacks are distributed and Sushree Siddheshvari Didi translates Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj’s casual talks with devotees.

In the evening of the second day of the intensive, Swami Nikhilanand Ji gave his discourse on Prem Ras Madira. Everyone was laughing as Swami Nikhilanand described how Shree Krishna rathers the taunts of the gopis rather than homages paid by Indra etc. Quoting Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj, he said its like if you eat sweets all day, you want something salty. So He gets bored of listening to his praises being sung and wants some masala, i.e. gopis’ taunts.

Evening lecture of Swami Mukundananda, disciple of Kripalu Ji Maharaj, during Radha Madhav Dham Intensive 2014

Day 3 of the Radha Madhav Dham Intensive 2014 brought the arrival of Swami Mukundananda Ji. Earlier in the day, Chirag Bhaiya led chanting of most mellifluous shlokas and kirtans which roused the hearts and souls of all the devotees in the excitement of devotion.

Morning Arti session at Radha Madhav Dham US ashram of Kripalu Ji Maharaj

The mood for the night program was set during Swami Mukundananda’s stirring lecture on Aho Hari! Kaba Laum Rahihau Duri. “Oh Hari! How much longer will You stay away from me?” Afterwards, Swami Nikhilanand reminded everyone about the importance of vow of silence (maun) during the intensive. He acknowledged that many had taken his call to action seriously, and encouraged everyone to follow along in that vow as it was paramount in gaining maximum benefit during an intensive like this. He also noted that the youth camp participants were following the adults’ lead and were very disciplined during the camp. Swami Nikhilanand announced that there would be a special 2-hour night-time satsang at Govardhan Hill followed by a conference call for all intensive participants with the presidents of JKP, Ms. Vishaka Tripathi, Ms. Shyama Tripathi and Ms. Krishna Tripathi.

Picnic sessions during Intensive at Jagadguru Kripalu Ji Maharaj's US ashram

Night-time satsang at Govardhan Hill during Radha Madhav Dham Intensive 2014

The satsang at Govardhan Hill was absolutely magical! Hundreds of devotees sat spell-bound, under the darkness of night, pierced to the quick in thoughts of Hari. A mild wind swept by throughout the whole program. For the first hour, Sushree Rameshwari Didi and other chanters led the assemblage in chanting of Bolo Gaur Hari and Hari Hari Bol, Bol Hari Bol. By the time the next hour began, devotees had already lost their senses in chanting the holy names. Swaying, clapping, dancing, drumming, tamborining, cybaling… were what were seen on the outside. The fire of devotion in the hearts of the devotees could be known only to them.

Satsang at Govardhan Hill, during the Intensive at Jagadguru Kripalu Ji Maharaj's US ashram

As hour two began, Swami Nikhilanand Ji took the lead with necterean chanting of Bhajo Giridhar Govind Gopala. At one point, he stopped and uttered some beautiful instructions to everyone to do roop dhyan (meditation) of Shree Krishna in His full-bloom youthful form of 16 years of age, standing right in front of you, and cry out for His vision – as he continued to lead Hare Ram Hare Krishna mahamantra.

The mood of morning satsang of the 4th day was quiet and reflective to begin with, then got lively and ecstatic later. Swami Maheshvaranand Ji led chanting of Dharu Nandanandana Ko Dhyan Re from Prem Ras Madira. Before the kirtan began, he softly implored devotees to take the meaning to heart and with full attention. Afterwards, he picked up the pace with Hare Ram kirtan which thrilled everyone, as he occasionally verbalized “Hari Bol!” or “Radheeey!”.

After morning arti and kirtan, everyone proceeded to the front of the temple, as every morning, whence Sushree Siddheshvari Didi led the parikrama to Govardhan Hill. The thunderous procession of chanting, drumming and cymbaling was quite a scene, and even peacocks began dancing with full open feathers when the procession reached the maharas shrine.

In the afternoon, Sushree Diwakari Didi, the vice-president of Radha Madhav Dham, gave her discourse on Prem Ras Madira. The theme of her lecture was that humility is the most valuable asset of a devotee. She said that although it is true what God says in the scriptures, that he has neither friend or enemy, but in reality, he does have one friend and one enemy – humility is His friend, and pride is His only enemy. She discussed verse 4 of Shikchastak of Shree Chaitanya Mahaprabhu which instructs that a devotee must be more humble than a blade of grass and more forbearing than a tree:

Trinad api sunichena
Taror api sahishnuna
Amanina manadena
Kirtaniyah sada harih

Later in the lecture, she began her explanation of a song of humbleness of Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj. Although she had gone over her time, everyone wished for Didiji to continue until the end. Tears streamed from the eyes of some devotees as Didiji narrated a beautiful story about a low caste man who had gone to the temple to offer bananas to Shree Krishna. The temple priest readily took them, but when he saw who had given them, he threw them on the ground and scolded the man for being such a low class person and having the audacity to make such an offering. The man left and went home pained, not because of the insults he had received, but because he was unable to give any offerings to Shree Krishna. He couldn’t sleep at night due to his distress. When the temple priests had laid Krishna to bed and went home, Krishna also couldn’t sleep and went to that man’s house to get the bananas. Krishna told the man that it wasn’t him who threw the bananas away and that he would love to have some bananas. Krishna ate some of the bananas and also took some to Rukmini. In the morning, the temple priests saw banana peels strewn all over the shrine – banana peels which looked the same as those offered by the man. They got annoyed, went to his house, and beat him up. When they returned to the mandir, Shree Krishna locked the door from the inside and wouldn’t let them in. It was an example of how Shree Krishna is deen bandhu and also protector of the devotees. Quoting a line of Jagadguru Shree Kripalu Ji Maharaj’s pad sankirtan, Didiji said (in the words of a devotee) that I feel relieved when I hear the Your title as Deen Bandhu, as I am the most fallen person; but I become afraid at your title of uplifter of devotees, as I don’t consider myself to be a true devotee, and hence unworthy to benefit from the aspect of Your personality

Loud kirtan continues to reverberate throughout Radha Madhav Dham and who knows what spiritual surprises are in store for the evening program and the rest of the Radha Madhav Dham Intensive 2014. Concurrent youth classes continue in a whole variety of subject areas, which will be discussed in the next article, but here are a few glimpses:

Youth Camp at Radha Madhav Dham 2014

All are cordially invited to attend the Grand Radha Rani Rath Yatra 2014 – RSVP via the official facebook event page.