Ghee Wick Making Transformed
Here is Mother Jayasri prabhu making ghee wicks for all the pujas using a machine designed and prototyped by Rupanuga prabhu.
It is a spindle rotating at a high RPM. She shreds cotton off a roll and applies it. The spindle “grabs” the cotton and winds it tightly. She adds more at the bottom than the top and shapes it as she goes. A ghee wick is formed almost instantaneously.
Rupanuga started with a foot pedal operated motor from a sewing machine and worked from there. He went through different versions, ending up with a prototype model, the spindle fixed in a small box.
It was given to Bhakta Joe, who works as a machinist, and he used first class metal to make the final spindle.
He then gave it to Gopish prabhu who is also a machinist and has a well equipped shop. He built the current sturdy metal box with a butcher block top. This exceeded specs, but he wanted it to look nice because it was for Sri Sri Radha Vrindaban Candra.
Jayasri uses a moistening sponge as it helps to keep her finger slightly moist during the process — less “fuzzies” form.
The pujaris like the wicks as they stand up well and burn for a long time.
It is a common sight to see Jayasri making ghee wicks during Srimad Bhagavatam class.
Hari Bol; is this not cool or what! It can be amazing just how clever and industrious the devotees can be in their service to Krishna. Looks like it may be appreciated in cold climates, pujaris with arthritis, overworked pujaris, ghee-making-klutzs…, etc.. Please tell Jayasri Prabhu I said hi and hope all is well.
ys, shanti