New Vrindaban Brijabasi Spirit

Video of Madhava dasa leading New Vrindaban’s 24 Hour Kirtan – June 15th, 2013.

From GEETA to ECOV and Beyond

Interview with Chaitanya Mangala dasa of the ECO-Vrindaban Board

Lilasuka (LS): Hare Krishna, Chaits.  We hear that some exciting changes are going on with GEETA/ECOV. Can you tell us what this is about?

Chaitanya Mangala (CM):  I’d be happy to. First of all, let’s start with some basics, ISKCON New Vrindaban is a 501C3 non-profit religious entity founded in 1968, and recognized by the IRS as a church. Thirty years later, in 1998, GEETA was formed, when ISKCON New Vrindaban was re-organizing and establishing several new entities. This re-grouping was done as New Vrindaban was realigning with the broader ISKCON and looking for ways to move closer to Srila Prabhupada’s vision for the community. There’s been a lot of talk about clarifying and understanding Srila Prabhupada’s Vision for N.V. lately, right?

LS:  There sure has!  We spent a lot of time the past couple of years researching and discussing this vision, which includes five main aspects, all centered, of course, around the main goal of loving Krishna. The four supporting themes are holy pilgrimage, spiritual education, self-sufficiency and cow protection.

CM: Right. So the mission of GEETA (an acronym for “Gorakshya-seva and Environmental Education Trust of America, Inc.”, by the way) is to educate the public on the benefits of the sustainable agricultural and cow protection aspects of Srila Prabhupada’s vision.

View of ECOV’s main Valley Barn

LS: You talk about GEETA and ECOV. What is the difference?

CM:  It’s simple. In September 2013, GEETA legally changed its name to ECO-Vrindaban. Our acronym, “ECOV” stands for Earth, Cows, Opportunities & Vrindaban Villages. At the same time, we applied with the IRS to become an integrated auxiliary of ISKCON New Vrindaban. An issue arose when we realized that most of our income would soon come from gas royalties. We found out that unless we obtained an integrated auxiliary status, similar to that of a church, the IRS would reclassify our organization as a private foundation and we would have to pay annual tax to the IRS on royalty and investment income.

LS: So there’s not really any vital difference between GEETA and ECOV?

CM: Correct.  For all day-to-day operations, there is no difference between GEETA and ECOV.  It is the same organization, continuing to perform the same services it has for the last 15 years. The difference is a technical shifting of the code by which the IRS recognizes our non-profit status.

LS: So is this change complete and official?

CM: Not totally.  ECOV applied for the new IRS status the first week of October, 2013.  It will take approximately one year for the IRS to process the application. In the meanwhile, we are allowed to act as if the request was accepted as we wait to hear a response from them.

LS:  Do you think this is a good thing?

CM: Definitely. This change of ECOV into an integrated auxiliary of ISKCON New Vrindaban is clearly bringing the two organizations closer together in our combined efforts to serve Srila Prabhupada’s grand vision for New Vrindaban.

LS: Thanks very much for the clarification, Chaits!  Hare Krishna.

CM: My pleasure. Thank you, Lilasuka, for the opportunity to share this with you and the New Vrindaban residents and well-wishers.

Gardening at New Vrindaban

• Leave a comment...

Srila Prabhupada at the Bahulaban Temple.

Srila Prabhupada Visits New Vrindaban – July 2nd, 1976.

Excerpt from Hari Sauri’s Trancendental Diary.

Prabhupada didn’t take his walk, but he did give a final class on Srimad-Bhagavatam 7.6.19, a beautiful verse which indicates the natural bond between the Supreme Lord and the living beings.

“My dear sons of demons, the Supreme Personality of Godhead, Narayana is the original Supersoul, the father of all living entities. Consequently there are no impediments to pleasing Him or worshiping Him under any conditions, whether one be a child or an old man. The relationship between the living entities and the Supreme Personality of Godhead is always a fact, and therefore there is no difficulty in pleasing the Lord.”

Srila Prabhupada stated that our relationship with the Lord is the most natural thing. Even though it may appear that we are separated from Him, he said, actually we are not; He is so kind He is residing within our hearts, just waiting for the moment when we will turn to Him. Prabhupada described the ease with which we can worship Krsna and develop our relationship with Him through the simple process of hearing.

“Just like the children, they are also hearing about Krsna. Don’t think it is going in vain. Because they are hearing, it will have some effect. They are human child. Even the mosquitoes or small germs who are within this boundary of temple, because they are hearing Hare Krsna mantra, it will never go in vain. It is so nice.”

Prabhupada said that although our hearts are filled with the dirt of material desires, Krsna within can cleanse away the contamination. We only have to perform some simple service. “Just like maha-prasadam, not eating — the exact term is seva. Krsna has sent him maha-prasadam. So by taking it, it is seva, it is service to Krsna. Krsna likes it, that you take the prasadam. Therefore it is seva. The service begins from the tongue. Not with the hand but with the tongue. If you simply chant Hare Krsna, this is seva, and if you take prasadam, then your business begins immediately. And if you simply continue this seva, then Krsna will reveal Himself and gradually He will give you intelligence how you can make advance to go back to home, back to Godhead.”

He cited the example of Yamunacarya who realized the prone position of the soul in the material world. “He’s praying, ‘My dear Lord, I am loitering in this material world without any guardian. So when the time will come that I shall be jolly always that ‘There is my guardian, Krsna.’ Everyone in this material world, is anatha — means without any protection. We are thinking, ‘My family, my wife, my children, my society men, my nation will give me protection.’ No. Nobody can give you protection. It is false hope. Just like the birds, when they fly in the sky, everyone has to take his own care. Nobody can help anyone. One can help only in Krsna consciousness. Not in the material way. Nobody can help. This is called destiny. I have given that example that in our country Mahatma Gandhi, he was a big man, he was in the meeting. In your country also, President Kennedy. So nobody could help him when he was killed. So this is the position. What is destined, it must happen. Nobody can help us. That’s a fact.

“Therefore our real business is: do not be bothered about things which are destined. Let us take advantage of this human form of life, to endeavor for making Krsna consciousness fulfilled.”

He said that we simply have to surrender. No one is a master, we are all servants, but now we are serving our lusty desires. “Lusty desires are so strong, I do not want to do it but it is forcing. In this way, we are being forced to serve the senses. So one who is in Krsna consciousness, he understands that ‘I have become servant of my senses. Unfortunately, these senses are not satisfied. I am still servant. So there is no profit. So why not become Krsna’s servant.’ This is good intelligence. Simply change the position. Instead of becoming servant of the senses, agree to become servant of Krsna.”

It was pointless, he said, to serve anyone other than Krsna, because no one will be grateful. “We have got the experience that Mahatma Gandhi, he served whole life. Still, he was killed by his countrymen. So you may go on giving service in the material world, but nobody will be satisfied. So this service is useless. Turn to the service of Krsna immediately. If I am trained up to become a faithful servant, just become a faithful servant of Krsna, then your business is complete. There is no question of learning, much endeavor. We are already accustomed to give service. Simply turn it toward Krsna and your life is successful. Thank you very much.”

The devotees held one last rousing kirtana, the gurukula boys dancing with delight in front, and Srila Prabhupada gave everyone the opportunity to render some more service by passing out cookies.

* * *

After a quiet day Srila Prabhupada was driven in the late afternoon to the Pittsburgh airport to embark on the next stage of his tour. Before we left we brought Vana dasa, the owner of the house, in for a very brief darsana with Srila Prabhupada. To his credit, he was reluctant to come before his spiritual master because he has not been following the principles for quite some time. Prabhupada appreciated his embarrassment and also his willingness to make his house available for his stay. He thanked him and gave him a garland and a few words of encouragement.

The devotees gave Prabhupada a worthy send off, not at the house, but outside the temple. They gathered in the middle of the road and showered flowers as the car slowed to a halt. One stepped forward and offered him a beautiful cake and another devotee presented him with a check. Kirtanananda Swami, who did not travel with us, gave him several thousand dollars daksi’a. Then to loud cries of “Jaya Prabhupada!” we pulled away to drive to Pittsburgh.

• Leave a comment...

Group photo of New Vrindaban’s GBC, INV & ECOV board members and guests.

Minutes of the Semi-Annual Meeting of the Joint Boards Of New Vrindaban – November 8, 2013

Day 1 of 3

ISKCON New Vrindaban (INV) Vision Statement: Founded in 1968, Srila Prabhupada boldly envisions New Vrindaban as a sacred place known worldwide for Cow Protection, Self-Sufficiency, Holy Pilgrimage, Spiritual Education, and, above all, Loving Krishna.

ECO-Vrindaban Mission Statement: ECOV (Earth, Cows, Opportunities & Vrindaban Villages) is dedicated to cow protection, sustainable agriculture, self-sufficiency and simple living — all centered around loving service to Sri Krishna, as envisioned by the ISKCON New Vrindaban Founder-Acharya, His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada.

Board Members of INV: Jaya Krsna, Gopisa, Dayavira, Tamohara, Chaitanya Mangala, Ranaka

Board Members of ECOV: Madhava Gosh, Kripamaya, Anuttama, Ranaka, Chaitanya Mangala

GBC: Tamohara, Anuttama, Malati

Department Heads: Vrindavana, Jayadevi, Vasudeva, Nityodita, Gaura Nataraj, Abhinanda, Bhaktin Leslie, Hari Bhakti, Tripad, Lilasuka, Vyapi

Recording Secretary: Laxmi Honest

The meeting began with kirtan followed by Dayavira Prabhu reading a letter from Srila Prabhupada regarding his vision for New Vrindaban.

Jaya Krsna Prabhu gave a presentation about the process of transformation for the community.  This was followed by presentations by each of the department heads discussing the accomplishments of each department in 2013and goals for 2014.

Lilasuka Prabhu shared information regarding devotee care, devotee relations and communications.  Many articles are being published to the web and also posted in the temple.  Articles have been published in local newspapers as well.  A new email list is under development to better inform all devotees of events and community information.  She is also involved in training new devotees, counseling young couples, providing health care assistance and sponsoring Vishvadhika, our homeopathic doctor.  She hopes to improve these services in the next year by publishing more articles, arranging seminars and improving our websites.

Madhava Gosh suggested that department heads write articles for the Brijabasi Spirit, which he noted posts to the New Vrindaban Facebook page as well.

Jayadevi Prabhu reported on the pujari department mentioning that Abhinanda Prabhu has encouraged a friendlier mood among the pujaris.  She noted that Their Lordships seem pleased with this new mood.  She reported that three new pujaris are coming to New Vrindaban and will be trained in service to Sri Sri Radha Vrindaban Chandra.  In the coming year it is hoped that a higher standard in cooking for the Deities may be developed and increased punctuality among the pujaris is a goal along with increased sadhana.   The department also would like to see specific duties assigned to the pujaris such as jewelry, outfits, cleaning, etc.  There are needed improvements to the pujari room such as new cabinets, cleaning and repair of the ceiling, covers for the dressing drawers and air conditioning for their Lordships.  Also it is important to make improvements in the Deity kitchen.

Tamohara Prabhu complimented the pujaris on a job well done.  Madhava Gosh suggested the creation of a jewelry department and a sewing department.  Jaya Krsna remarked that shops for these departments could be created at Bahulaban.  Gopisa noted that a new washing machine had been installed for the Deities.

Vasudeva Prabhu gave a report on the Palace Lodge.  The second floor has been renovated and a new welcome center created.  The Lodge exceeded financial projections for the season and met expectations for cleanliness and guest services.  He would like to see improvements in the Lodge appearance and introduce green cleaning products.  He sees a need to upgrade the cabins as well as the temple guest rooms.  He would like to acquire staff uniforms with name tags to better serve the guests.  He also suggested a welcome package for guests with maps, schedules and perhaps a Bhagavad Gita.  Updated signage would be helpful as well as a Lodge logo for vehicles.  He mentioned the outside Lodge appearance needs work. More renovation is needed in the reception area and a more efficient accounting system.  Jaya Krsna commented that department heads desire improvements; however they need budgets and funding. Madhava Gosh mentioned that ECOV has been helping with landscaping.  Jaya Krsna noted that the Lodge would need approximately $30,000 for non-structural improvements, such as new furniture for temple guest rooms and cabins, fresh paint, etc.

Nityodita Prabhu gave a report on Govinda’s restaurant.  The facility has been completely made over with an updated dining room and kitchen and a new walk in cooler.  The electricity has been brought up to code and a new freezer room added along with more storage areas.  They have added some western food options for guests and all breads are made in house.  They have created a new logo and sign.  Restaurant staff wear T-shirts with the new logo.  In addition to regularly serving guests the restaurant has also hosted a wedding, birthday parties, bus groups and college groups.  In addition temple devotees were served an evening meal daily throughout the season.  Receipts were substantially greater in 2013 increasing by about 25% over the prior year.

In the way of improvements he would like to finalize the concept they have begun by adding lighting, a more organized seating plan and finishing the décor.  An order and serve system similar to Panera Bread is considered practical.  Addition of central air conditioning and a sound system would make guests more comfortable.  A display in each booth as well as increased advertising locally would be helpful as well as an increase in bus tours.  Again the matter of funding is an issue.

Malati thanked the restaurant staff for their breads and the evening meals.  Anuttama pointed out that having businesses that employ devotees is in line with our plan for self sufficiency.  Vrindavana mentioned that there were many compliments from guests.

Gopisa Prabhu gave a report on the community facilities.  He discussed the renovations to the Lodge and the expanded Lodge laundry.  Drains were upgraded along with the renovation of the restaurant and the welcome center.  The ashram bathrooms were finished and the temple offices remodeled.  City water has been brought to Srila Prabhupada’s Palace and to Apartment Building #1.  There is also a back- up system for the entire Palace/Temple Complex area. The water hook up has been improved for the Festival of Inspiration and the retention tank repaired at the water treatment plant. Lighting has been improved around both the Temple and the Lodge. New lighting has been installed on Lord Jagannath’s altar.  New lighting is also planned for the main altar.  Installation of back- up generators for the Temple & Lodge is in progress and filter systems have been installed on all drinking fountains and in the Prasadam room and devotee kitchen.  A new transformer was installed at Srila Prabhupada’s Palace.

As improvement suggestions he listed that he needs to be more conservative in the number of projects progressing at the same time.  He pointed out that he needs better management of materials and should coordinate better with other departments.  He believes he should schedule projects with a timeline and exercise stricter budget control.  Adding personnel to the planning department could help in these regards.  A stable maintenance team would be ideal.

New projects would include improvements to the playground and the bathrooms nearest the play area.  The Swan Boat House needs work as well as the roofs on the cabins.  The Temple room floor is in need of repair and the construction of a Tulasi house is desired.  There needs to be better parking for buses at Srila Prabhupada’s Palace and work on the window and doors of the Temple ground floor.  It is planned to construct a pole barn at the Garden of 7 Gates and there is much to be done at the old Vrindaban farmhouse.  Signage is an ongoing need and there is a plan for new apartments.

Nityodita enquired as to the timeline for installation of the generators.  Gopisa informed the board members that it should be done before the end of the year.  He is currently seeking a sub contractor to do the installation.  The generators are already purchased. Jayadevi expressed hope that the temple room floor might be repaired over the winter. Gopisa agreed that it is a priority, but cited budget issues.  Malati suggested getting a sponsor for the temple room floor project.  Nityodita proposed a priority for the Deity kitchen.

Vrindavana Prabhu reported on the main festivals hosted this year, which are Festival of Inspiration, Festival of Colors and the 24 Hour Kirtan.  The Festival of Inspiration was attended by approximately 500 devotees.  It created a very positive impression of New Vrindaban along with a new awareness of what INV represents.  In the near future it is hoped that attendance will be closer to 700 devotees and that it will be promoted through ISKCON worldwide, attracting more key speakers.  He suggested that the festival schedule could be improved as well as the quality of the prasadam.

The Festival of Colors attracted three times the number of participants as last year.  It was written up in numerous newspapers and publications and created good media coverage for the Palace.  We distributed over 200 books and the festival was an excellent preaching opportunity.

In 2014 he hopes to attract twice as many attendees as in 2013.  He is working with local business for sponsorship and with the local tourism board for promotion.   He intends to expand promotion to more cities such as Morgantown, Columbus and Pittsburgh.  He is considering inviting local politicians to participate as well.

The 24 Hour Kirtan is now held twice a year.  There has been enthusiastic participation and positive feedback.  In 2014 it is hoped to increase participation in both the spring and fall events.

Varsana Maharaj was unable to attend the meeting but sent a report regarding land management.  He set up a new shop and restored much equipment.   A Parakram path for guests and devotees has been built and a road has been built on Kadhiraban property to access the properties for sale.  The pink building at Bahulaban has been taken down and the rubble used for fill and to complete the Old Vrindaban road dam.  Asphalt has been installed at the propane tank and a clean-up of the parking lot was completed.  Manure has been hauled to the Garden of Seven Gates and the original road from Bahulaban to Old Vrindaban and on to the barn has been restored.  A culvert was installed along the way.

The transport of tools and equipment needs improving and better coordination of projects would be helpful.  He also needs an assistant in this department or perhaps a project manager. Gopisa mentioned that the asphalt used by Varsana Maharaj was from gas company road work.  Also we received a substantial amount of fill dirt from the water line installation.

Bhaktin Leslie gave a report on the improvements in the accounting department.  New systems have been put in place to properly credit income, especially from credit cards, to the proper departments.  Also a new system has been established for disbursements, whether by check or cash. This helps to streamline the accounting process and allows for better reporting to department heads and management.

In 2014 she hopes to revise the chart of accounts and institute month end closings to submit accurate monthly profit and loss statements to management.

Jaya Krsna reported on behalf of Tripad Prabhu in relation to Srila Prabhupada’s Palace.  He reported that promotions have improved with increased TV spots.  There has been an increase in the number of visitors and an increase in the gardens.  There were three young, enthusiastic tour guides this summer and that was a great help and appreciated by guests. Prasadam distribution has been initiated thanks to Malati Prabhu. A new wheelchair ramp has been installed which brings guests to the top level. Previously, ramps only went up to the 2^nd level, leaving several steps to the entrance area.

A contract with Soma for work on the main stairs is ready and should be finalized by March. In the next year it is hoped that all the stair work can be completed and a new roof put on the old ghee factory building.  It would also be good to hire more young tour guides.

Hari Bhakti Prabhu reported on the ladies ashram.  There are now 7 residents who plan to stay long term.  A Bhakta program has been introduced and enthusiastically accepted.   The rooms and bathrooms have been renovated and repairs were made to the back stairs.

In 2014 they would like to institute a mentorship program and improve current standards.  Two new ladies will be arriving soon.

Gaura Nataraja Prabhu reported for the Congregational Development department.  He reported that income has increased 30%.  He credited Bhakta Josef Prabhu with creating an atmosphere of better cooperation, more effective meetings and improved pilgrim care.  The Parikram program instituted by Bhakta Josef has been a great success.  Guests enjoy the tour and are very inspired.  There has also been improved sadhana for all members.

In 2014 there is a goal to raise funds for further improvement of the Lodge and cabins.  They aspire to better manage information and have more productive outreach.  There is a new call center in Mumbai which has been effective and they plan to institute a donor “insurance” program.  There are plans to begin a child camp and a youth camp.  Telephone classes on Srila Prabhupada’s books are on-going and well received.

Nityodita Prabhu discussed the New Vrindaban Protected Dairy Initiative.  Currently Ananda Vidya, Lalita Gopi and Caitanya Bhagavat are working with the cows in an effort to supply our own milk products to the kitchens.  They are milking twice daily and making butter.  The goal is to have both the Deity kitchen and the devotee kitchen using only dairy products from our own cows.  It was mentioned that there is some disconnect between the program and the cooks as far as using only our products.  Jaya Krsna stated that Vasudeva Prabhu will begin kitchen management as soon as he returns from travels and will make an effort to institute a system of using only dairy from our own cows.

Vyapi Prabhu reported on the apartment complex and improvements that have taken place there. He presented needed improvements for the near future: a new roof on apartment block 1 and new steps to the upper level. The parking lot needs better lighting. A new contract for tenants is planned which includes regular service, program attendance and keeping quiet hours. The basketball court and picnic area are in need of repair. The parking lot should be paved.

Following lunch prasadam reports were given by representatives of other non-profits in New Vrindaban.

Ruci Prabhu spoke regarding Gopal’s Garden.  This is the 7^th year for the school in this incarnation.  There are currently four students all at different teaching levels.  Sukavaha Prabhu is doing a weekly class on compassionate communication and Krsna Bhava Prabhu teaches a weekly art class for the students.  Sankirtan Prabhu is teaching a poetry/writing class.  Overall things are going well with the school but there is a problem with the internet not working there.  Chaitanya Mangala asked about plans for next year and Ruci explained that it is difficult to plan before August as it is never assured how many students will be attending.  Jaya Krsna mentioned that new families are coming who have children who will likely attend our school.  M. Ruci gave a tour of the classroom and the members were impressed with the high standard that is being met there.

Chaitanya Mangala gave the ECO-Vrindaban report.  ECOV is now an “Integrated Auxiliary“ of ISKCON New Vrindaban, Inc. This affords ECOV the same tax benefits as INV, which is critical with royalty income while maintaining its corporate independence.  ECOV has adjusted it bylaws to allow INV control of one seat on the Board of Directors of ECOV.  Also, ECOV will report annually to INV regarding finance and operations. So far in 2013, ECOV has contributed $148K to projects around the community.

Ananga Manjari Prabhu represented Dham Seva and reported that Varsana Swami is very hopeful for the projects at hand.  He feels that communications have improved and relationships are better.  He is doing some writing at this time and the Dham Seva board has agreed to the proposed land deal to transfer the property title to INV.

Devotees are looking for a place for him to live year round, perhaps a small cabin. It was suggested that INV could build him a cabin perhaps in exchange for the land.  Jaya Krsna reported that there should be funding for such a project in February so construction could begin next year.

A request for the formation of an advisory committee was discussed. It was agreed that structured well this could be a good way to increase communication and cooperation between community residents and INV management. Members of the group will bring concerns to Jaya Krsna, as the Community President, and together they will address the issues. Jaya Krsna would bring to the board any concerns that may require board attention.

• Leave a comment...

On Monday Dec. 2, there will be a representative from the local Dept of Health and Human Resources coming to New Vrindaban to give a presentation on how each of us can  enroll in the health plans through the Health Insurance Marketplace’s Affordable Care Act.

An open presentation will be given at the school building in New Vrindaban on Mon. Dec. 2 sometime in the afternoon.

Exact time to be announced.

Please contact Lilasuka for more information at lilasooka@msn.com  or 304 843 1600 xt 106.

Thanksgiving Weekend Schedule

Fri. Nov. 29

5:00 AM Mangal Artika
5:45 AM Japa
7:00 AM Milking Cows at Goshala
7:30 AM Sringar Darshan
7:40 AM Gurupuja
8:00 AM Srimad Bhagavatam Class

9:00 AM Breakfast
12:30 PM Rajbhog Artika

1:30 PM LUNCH

4:30 PM Dhoop Artika
5:45 PM Swing Festival
6:15 PM Sacred Storytelling with Sankirtan Prabhu
6:45 PM Tulasi Puja
7:00 PM Gaura Artika
7:30 PM Bhagavad Gita Class
8:30 PM Shayan Artika and Bhajan

Sat. Nov. 30

5:00 AM Mangal Artika
5:45 AM Japa
7:00 AM Milking Cows at Goshala
7:30 AM Sringar Darshan
7:40 AM Gurupuja
8:00 AM Srimad Bhagavatam Class
9:00 AM Breakfast

10:00 AM Govardhan Parikrama12:30 PM \
12:30 Rajbhog Artika
1:00 PM Bhagavad Gita Class
1:30 PM LUNCH

2:30 PM Movie in Temple Room
4:30 PM Dhoop Artika
6:00 PM Go-Puja at Goshala
7:00 PM Gaura Artika
7:30 PM Bhagavad Gita Quiz for Adults & Kids
8:30 PM Shayan Artika and Bhajan

Sun. Dec. 1

5:00 AM Mangal Artika
5:45 AM Japa
7:00 AM Milking Cows at Goshala
7:30 AM Sringar Darshan
7:40 AM Gurupuja
8:00 AM Srimad Bhagavatam Class

9:00 AM Breakfast

10:00 AM Govardhan Parikrama
11:30 AM Workshop: “How to Worship At Home”
12:30 PM Rajbhog Artika
1:00 PM Bhagavad Gita Class

1:30 PM LUNCH

2:30 PM Movie in Temple Room
4:30 PM Dhoop Artika
6:00 PM Go-Puja at Goshala
7:00 PM Gaura Artika
7:30 PM Workshop: “Importance of Protecting Cows”
8:30 PM Shayan Artika and Bhajan

• Leave a comment...

By Lilasuka dasi  Nov. 2013

We welcome two new cows to the Holy Dhama!  Srila Prabhupada’s vision for New Vrindaban includes cow protection as one of the five main aspects of the dhama. The other four aspects are self-sufficiency, spiritual education, a place of holy pilgrimage, and keeping the main focus on loving Krishna.

Laxmi and Anjani, 2 new pregnant heifers.

On Nov. 8, two Brown Swiss cows on a farm south of Harrisburg PA found themselves being saved from an ordinary, and possibly tragic life that would most likely end in a slaughterhouse.  By the grace of a donation from two of our donors, Ranaka, New Vrindaban’s main cowherd boy, bought Laxmi and Anjani, two pregnant heifers from that Pennsylvania farm.  He will be keeping them down at the big barn until they are due to come fresh sometime in mid-March, 2014. Then they will go up to the milking barn near the temple.

It is rare for a living entity to have the opportunity to live in a holy dhama. In Kali Yuga, it is tragic for a cow, in particular, to miss such an opportunity.  We can understand that gomatas Laxmi and Anjali must be very special souls to be able to spend the rest of their lives in New Vrindaban, and to be afforded the opportunity to have their milk serve Their Lordships Sri Sri Radha Vrindaban Chandra.

Getting used to their new, protected home.

• Leave a comment...

Video of Krishna Prasad dasa leading New Vrindaban’s 24 Hour Kirtan – June 15th, 2013.

by Madhava Smullen

Board Members and others at Prabhupada’s Palace

New Vrindaban, established in 1968 by ISKCON Founder Srila Prabhupada as his society’s first rural community, is continuing its transition into an exciting new phase.

After a series of pioneering attempts in the early years, the community struggled for decades with a dedicated core crew.

But since spring 2011, a renewed effort has been made to revitalize New Vrindaban and refocus on becoming the exemplary self-sufficient, Krishna conscious community that Srila Prabhupada envisioned.

Brought in to assist with the transition was new community president Jaya Krsna Das, formerly the administrative director for Bhaktivedanta College, Belgium.

Other key personnel were also introduced and department staff rearranged, creating an atmosphere of freshness and rebirth.

A dozen devotees discussed some of the resulting developments at the Bi-Annual New Vrindaban Board Meetings, held in Gopal’s Garden Day School from November 8th through 10th this fall.

ISKCON Governing Body Commissioners Anuttama Das, Malati Dasi and Tamohara Das joined board members from non-profits ISKCON New Vrindaban and ECO-Vrindaban, which focuses on the community’s self sufficiency efforts.

The meetings began at 10:00am on Friday, with a team of thirteen department heads all delivering reports for 2013.

“Although 2013 is a transitional year, the reports were mostly positive,” says board member Chaitanya Mangala Das. “Last year, the departments were mostly understaffed and devotees overworked, tired and burnt out. This year was still a tough one, but with the new people and energy, everyone felt the enthusiasm growing.”

One of the most consistently understaffed and overworked departments over the years has been the Pujari (Priest) Department. But this year, head Abhinandana Das put in a lot of time to help the pujaris develop good working relationships amongst each other. And three new priests have come on board, offering relief to the core team.

Also benefitting from new leadership was the congregational development department. With twenty years of professional experience in the field, department head Bhakta Josef has garnered praise for making the service easier and more organized, and for improving the relationships of devotees working within it.

Meanwhile Vasudeva Das, who oversees New Vrindaban’s Palace Lodge for visitors, reported a complete renovation of the entire second floor. Devotees replaced the old wooden panelling with sheetrock, painted the walls, and installed new floors. They also replaced all the lighting fixtures and electric sockets and equipped rooms with new beds, tables, dressers and closets, creating modern motel-level accommodations.

Since the changes, Vasudeva reported, guests have repeatedly commented on how much more pleasant and comfortable their stays have been.

Govinda’s Restaurant has also been fully renovated under Nityodita Das’s leadership. The new management, crew and menus excited community members and guests.

Renovations have begun too at Srila Prabhupada’s Palace, one of only three Samadhis (memorials) for the ISKCON Founder Acharya in the world. The front steps of the Palace are being rebuilt with granite instead of concrete, and plans are underway to renovate the outside wall, the four corner chattras and the entrance walkway for ISKCON’s 50^th anniversary in 2016. The developments had Tripad Das, Palace caretaker since 1985, enthusing that he felt more enlivened than he had in many years.

The most important part of a community is, of course, the people, and in its transition New Vrindaban is also making an effort to focus on devotee care. In the last year, the head of this department Lilasuka Dasi acted as a liaison between community president Jaya Krsna and other devotees; helped devotees get health care; facilitated visits by homeopathic doctor Visvadhika Dasi; and provided young couples with the training to work together and support each other.

Department Heads for Communications, Facilities, Festivals, Land Management, Accounting, and the Ladies’ Ashram also provided reports detailing their achievements in the past year.

Following these, Friday afternoon was spent hearing reports from the various non-profit entities operating in and around New Vrindaban.

Gopal’s Garden representative Ruci Dasi reported that the homeschool co-op is now in its seventh year. This year four students, aged five to eleven, attended and were taught a standard public school curriculum with Krishna conscious elements.

The school is largely funded by the ISKCON New Vrindaban and Eco-Vrindaban boards, who firmly believe that although it is small now, a functioning school is one of the most important elements to a community and the most surefire way of attracting young families.

Next, Ananga Manjari reported on the progress of Dham Seva. Headed by Varshana Swami, this group focuses on realizing Srila Prabhupada’s plan to build replicas of at least seven of the major temples of Vrindavana, India in New Vrindaban.

The first temple, Sri Sri Radha Gopinath Mandir, is currently under construction by expert designer and sculptor Soma Das. The finished project will cover 400 square feet, and with the inclusion of its dome and kalasha will reach fifty feet in height.

“Dham Seva has also developed a parikrama or pilgrimage path similar to those in Vrindavana, India,” says Chaitanya Mangala. “Every Saturday and Sunday, members of the congregational development department take devotees and guests on an extremely popular Govardhan tour to the under-construction Mandir and Radha Kunda and Shyama Kunda ponds.”

Next, Chaitanya Mangala presented a report on Eco-Vrindaban. Originally called  GEETA, the cow protection and self-sufficiency project recently changed its name when it became an integrated auxiliary of ISKCON New Vrindaban.

“We’re now five months into our Deity Dairy Initiative, which started over the summer,” says Chaitanya Mangala, reporting on one of the many ECOV projects. “For that time most of the dairy used in cooking for the Deities — milk, cream, butter, and ghee — came from New Vrindaban cows. There’s now talk of expanding the initiative, in a careful and deliberate way, to provide most of the dairy for temple residents as well during the winter.”

The meetings wrapped up on Friday evening with a community pizza party at Govinda’s restaurant, where GBC, board members and community residents dined in a relaxed “meet and greet” atmosphere.

The meetings continued on Saturday morning, when board members took a tour of three old buildings in New Vrindaban, inviting community devotees along to help decide what could be done with them.

Board members and N.V. well-wishers return from hiking trail to original Vrindaban farmhouse.

At Bahulaban, the second property that ISKCON New Vrindaban acquired in 1971, they viewed a pleasant open space where an unsightly half-burnt building had been recently demolished. The board members also saw a utility building, on which they decided to carry out minimal repairs until they could afford a full renovation. And they made plans for next year to demolish a cow barn — the first construction built by New Vrindaban in the early 1970s – as, after decades of neglect, it had become a liability hazard and an accident waiting to happen.

Next, the group visited the original Vrindaban farmhouse where Srila Prabhupada stayed for two months in 1969. Although it needs lots of work, this building is in decent condition, and will be preserved, with plans to start an Eco-Village around it. Finally, all the board members visited Srila Prabhupada at his Palace to pay their respects.

On Saturday afternoon, the discussion shifted to the importance of focusing on devotee care and relationships. Although New Vrindaban has been very successful in outreach in recent years, with its Festival of Inspiration, 24 Hour Kirtan, and Festival of Colors, board members felt more emphasis needed to be put on “inreach.”

“That’s something we’re going to put lots of energy into, because ultimately happy devotees mean devotees that stay,” Chaitanya says. “And that means better service for the guests, a better environment and better relationships for everybody.” He adds that for 2014, New Vrindaban management wants to choose two festivals during which to focus on local residents.

After Govardhana Puja celebrations at the Radha-Vrindaban Chandra Temple on Saturday evening, Sunday morning was reserved for Eco-Vrindaban’s financial and operational report to ISKCON New Vrindaban. As ECOV is now an integrated auxiliary of ISKCON New Vrindaban, there is strong cooperation between the two entities.

After the traditional Sunday temple program, a community dialogue was held that evening in which the board shared what they had discussed with the New Vrindaban community, and opened the floor up to questions. This transparency and solidarity is now a staple of bi-annual board meetings, and bodes well for a good relationship between leaders and resident devotees.

“The mood of cooperation and sharing information amongst the department heads, board members and New Vrindaban residents showed that a huge amount of progress has been made this past year,” says Chaitanya Mangala.

Jaya Krsna’s plan for “The Transformation of a Spiritual Community” has six phases —  analysis, change, transition, stabilization, deepening relationships, and strong community spirit and unity — that last seven years altogether. And New Vrindaban is currently only in the third phase. So there is a long way to go. But major positive steps have been made in 2013, and the board members hope to continue the upward trajectory next year.

“Things are looking good,” Jaya Krsna said at the meetings’ conclusion. “With the blessings of the Brijabasis, Srila Prabhupada and Sri Sri Radha Vrindaban Chandra we will be able to continue. I see a bright light at the end of the tunnel. I think we just have to keep heading towards it.”

Everyone is invited!

Thursday Nov. 28 is the “real” Thanksgiving Day for the U.S.A. and there will be a sumptuous  Thanksgiving feast for everyone who comes that day.

In addition, we will have a full, three day Thanksgiving program the weekend following Thanksgiving Day, namely Fri. Nov 29, Sat. Nov 30 and Sun. Dec. 1. SCHEDULE BELOW.

There will be such features as a swing festival for Their Lordships Sri Sri Radha Vrindaban Chandra, and sacred storytelling with our long-time resident, professional storyteller, Sankirtan das, as well as  a seminar about worshiping Lord Krsna in your home.

Hare Krsna!

THANKSGIVING UPDATED SCHEDULE 2013

• Leave a comment...