Devotees swimming at Kusum Sarovara in Vrindavan in a break from Parikrama during the Mayapur Vrindavan Festival of 1974
Videos by Gopati das. Created using audio recordings and photos to give a glimpse into temple life in the 1970s.
Step back into a vibrant chapter of Bhakti history with this latest archival release from Prasad.Life. This video, compiled from the rare recordings and photographs of Gopati das, preserves the sights and sounds of the Cleveland, Ohio, temple during its most formative years.
From 1972 to 1976, the Cleveland temple was housed in a magnificent Greek Revival mansion in East Cleveland. Reputedly built by the daughter of John D. Rockefeller, the home sat just down the hill from the legendary oil tycoon’s own estate.
Before the devotees arrived, the grand structure had served for many years as a boarding house. The devotees transformed this historic space into a stunning temple and a vibrant home for the community, a transformation captured in the rare photos of the temple grounds and interior included in this video. While this historic building no longer exists today, its spirit as a sanctuary of devotion remains immortalized in these frames.
The heart of the Cleveland community was Sri Sri Radha Muralidhara, who arrived and were installed in 1974. The video offers an intimate look at:
The Installation: Rare photos from 1974 documenting the arrival of the Deities.
The Altar: Pictures of the beautifully decorated altar and the Deities from 1973 to 1975.
The Greeting: Experience a transcendental "Deity Greeting" kirtan led by the then-temple president, Batu Gopal das, accompanied by the masterful mridanga playing of Prabhanu das.
Note: Following their time in Cleveland, Sri Sri Radha Muralidhara eventually moved to their current home at The Bhakti Center in lower Manhattan, NYC.
The devotion of the Cleveland temple extended far beyond its walls. This video compilation features footage of major festivals where the Cleveland devotees joined their godbrothers and godsisters to celebrate Krishna.
Detroit Ratha-yatra (1973): Witness the early days of Chariot Festivals in the Midwest.
Chicago Ratha-yatra (1974): Historic footage of Srila Prabhupada participating in the festival.
Govardhana Puja: Community celebrations honoring the sacred hill.
At Prasad.Life, we are dedicated to sharing these "Historic Kirtans" to inspire a new generation of practitioners. This video is a testament to the hard work and love of the early pioneers who turned a Rockefeller-era mansion into a powerhouse of Krishna consciousness.
Take a step back in time to the dust and devotion of 1970s Vrindavan. At Prasad.Life, we are honored to present a precious archival recording from the Krishna Balaram Mandir, captured during its inaugural years. This session is a profound journey into the heart of Bhakti, featuring the voice and vision of His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada.
The recording begins with Srila Prabhupada leading the traditional morning meditation, Jaya Radha Madhava. His voice, resonant and steady, invites the listener into the intimate pastimes of Vrindavan before the morning’s Srimad-Bhagavatam class begins. This isn't just a song; it is a deep spiritual invocation that sets the stage for transcendental knowledge.
In this historic lecture, Srila Prabhupada discusses the challenges of modern life—what the Vedas call Kali-yuga. He speaks candidly about the "unwanted things" (anarthas) that clutter our consciousness and the frantic pace of modern civilization.
The Problem: Prabhupada describes a "heart disease" known as hrd-roga-kamam, or lusty material desires, which cover our original pure consciousness.
The Solution: He emphasizes that the most powerful cure is simply hearing (sravanam). By listening to the Srimad-Bhagavatam and the Hare Krishna mantra, the heart is purified just as a mirror is cleaned of dust.
A New Education: He introduces the visionary concept of a "Varnasrama College," a place where people can be trained in their natural vocational qualities while advancing spiritually.
"Your consciousness is Krishna consciousness. Your consciousness means to understand that I am very much intimately connected with Krishna as part and parcel." — Srila Prabhupada, April 25, 1975
This post is brought to life through a curated selection of rare photographs by Gopati das. These images capture the Krishna Balaram Mandir and its surroundings during the mid-70s, offering a rare glimpse into the early days of this international spiritual hub.
As the class concludes, the energy shifts. The audio continues with an ecstatic, high-energy kirtan led by Hansadutta das
Sacidananda Das Solo Bhajans Vrndavan 1977
Sacidananda das was a celebrated bhajan singer in 1970s ISKCON. He made studio recordings distributed all over the world, but what he was mostly known for were his bhajans performed as Krsna Balaram Mandinr in the holy land of Vrndavan, India.
Prabhas Das became a good friend of mine in 1975 during the Krsna Balaram temple installation. He was close to Anand Prabhu (Maharaj), Srila Prabhupada’s godbrother who assisted us in the Deity kitchen. Prabhas often translated. It was through Prabhas, that I came to meet another Bengali devotee Sacidananda Das. Before the 24 hour kirtans took hold, Sacidananda Prabhu would sing bhajans for many hours every day. For many of us, his sweet bhajans were the soundtrack of Vrndavan ISKCON. In March 1977, I brought a semi-professional Nakamichi recording deck with a 3 Mic system to India and recorded Sacidananda Prabhu singing solo bhajans as he did every day for the pleasure of their Lordships Sri Sri Krsna Balarama. This was early in 1977, the same year that Srila Prabhupada transitioned from this earthly plane. In his final days, Srila Prabhupada requested that Sacidananda Das sing bhajans.
These bhajans are presented simply and unadorned, without drums and karatals as they were sung this way most often in the temple, and in Srila Prabhupada’s quarters. Sacidananda das’ sweet devotional voice transports the listener to Vrndavan of the late 1970s.
Images of Sacidananda das singing are intertwined with photos of Vrndavan. In the latter part of the video, photos of Srila Prabhupada and his disciples during the 1975 Krsna Balaram Mandir installation are featured.
~Gopati das
Akincina Krishna Das Babaji Mayapur 1970
It was the late 1980s, and our culinary team was deep in the rush of dinner prep. Among us was Cal—a wandering soul and Aikido expert who had joined our crew just a week prior. In the middle of peeling carrots, he looked up and casually asked if I knew who Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati was. Before I could even find an answer, he followed up by asking if I knew of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu.
Startled but intrigued, I warmly responded that I did, asking how he had come to know them. Cal told me of his travels through Bengal, specifically a stay at the Yogapitha in Mayapur during the Gaura Purnima season of 1970. He had kept only one souvenir from that time: a tape he had recorded of old *babajis* chanting. Since the tape was beginning to wear out, he asked if I could make a copy for him.
My curiosity piqued, I immediately agreed. Later, when I finally listened to the recording, I was overwhelmed with joy. There, unmistakable and sweet, was the *kirtan* of Krishna Das Babaji Maharaj—the close friend and confidant of Srila Prabhupada.
Cal stayed with us for another month or so, but he was a restless spirit, not quite suited for the intensity of a restaurant doing two hundred covers a night. Over the years, I shared this recording with only a few people. Somehow, this gem landed in my care, and I feel it is finally time to share it with the greater Vaishnava community.
The audio quality is rough, and the degradation of the tape is evident, but the beauty remains untouched. *Akincana* means "one who possesses nothing but the Lord." This is shared so that everyone may hear what a true *Akincana* sounds like.
~Gopati das
Who is Krishna Das Babaji?
Krishna Das Babaji (often referred to as Akincana Krishna Das Babaji Maharaj) was one of the most revered figures in the 20th-century Gaudiya Vaishnava tradition. Known for his profound humility and relentless devotion, he is remembered primarily for his mastery of kirtan and his deep attachment to the holy names of Radha and Krishna.
Here is a look at his life and legacy:
Relationship with Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati
He was a prominent disciple of Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati Thakur, the founder of the Gaudiya Math. While many of his godbrothers became influential leaders and established large institutions, Krishna Das Babaji just chanted the Holy Names.
Recognition of Spirit: It is said that Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati recognized his deep spiritual taste (rasa) early on.
The "Niscin" Spirit: He embodied the internal, meditative side of his Guru's mission, focusing on the constant chanting of the Mahamantra.
The King of Kirtan
In Vrindavan, he became a legend for his singing. His style wasn't about musical performance or entertainment; it was a visceral, emotional outpouring of devotion.
24-Hour Kirtan: He was a central figure in the Akhanda Mahamantra Kirtan (continuous chanting).
The Style: His voice was often described as thin but incredibly piercing, frequently breaking with emotion. He would often chant for hours on end, seemingly oblivious to the physical world around him.
Instruments: He was almost always seen with his kartals (cymbals), leading groups through the streets of Vrindavan or in the courtyards of ancient temples.
Life in Vrindavan and Navadvipa
Though he traveled to support his godbrothers, he spent much of his later life in the holy lands of Vrindavan and Mayapur.
Humility: He was famous for his "natural" humility. He refused any honors or positions, often sitting in the back of rooms or sleeping on the floor of temple verandas. He treated everyone—from high-ranking scholars to simple street sweepers—with equal respect.\
Relationship with A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada
One of the most touching aspects of his later life was his deep friendship with Srila Prabhupada, the founder of ISKCON.
Spiritual Confidants: Despite their different roles (Prabhupada as the global preacher and Babaji Maharaj as the internal recluse), they had immense mutual respect.
The Final Days: Krishna Das Babaji was one of the few people Srila Prabhupada requested to have by his side during his final days in Vrindavan in 1977, specifically asking him to lead kirtan.
"He was the only person who could make Srila Prabhupada laugh during those final, solemn months." — Biographical accounts of ISKCON devotees.
In the early days of our movement, we were all students in every sense of the word. While we were learning the philosophy of Krishna Consciousness, we were also "flavor hunting"—not just for spices and traditional recipes in the kitchen, but for the authentic sounds of the Vedic tradition.
The 1976 Mayapur-Vrindavan Festival was a vibrant time of cultural exchange. Living at the Fogla Ashram, we didn't have easy access to the internet or global archives. Our "world wide web" was the simple act of connecting two tape decks together with a patch cord.
I remember meeting Rksaraj das in his room. He had recently returned from traveling through South India with Yasodanandan Swami and Acyutananda Swami. They were pioneers in bringing the Brahma-samhita to the forefront of our festivals, often singing those verses to inaugurate their programs. Rksaraj wasn't just a kirtan leader; he was the consumate Vaishnava musician and connossieur of transcendental sound.
While visiting Udupi—one of the most sacred seats of the Madhva line—Rksaraj recorded the Shivalli Madhva Brahmans chanting sacred vedic texts. This group is known for their strict adherence to tradition and their powerful, resonant style of chanting.
For the devotees back then, hearing a recording like this was a revelation. It provided a glimpse into the roots of the culture we were adopting. Just as a cook wants to know the traditional way to temper spices, we wanted to hear the traditional way to vibrate these ancient mantras.
Audio Contents of the Video
The Morning Awakening (Udupi, 1975)
00:00 – Sri Venkateswara Suprabhatam (Traditional Dawn Prayers)
14:50 – Sri Venkateswara Stotram (Glorification of the Lord's Form)
21:20 – Sri Venkateswara Prapatti (Prayers of Surrender)
26:10 – Sri Venkateswara Mangalasasanam (Auspicious Concluding Verses)
33:45 – Shanti Mantra: Saha Nau Vavatu (Vedic Peace Prayer)
Upanishads, Brahma Samhita, and Gita
45:00 – Taittiriya Upanishad: Bhrigu Valli (Dialogue on the Nature of Brahman)
1:02:15 – Sri Brahma-samhita: Verse 1 (Govindam Adi-Purusham)
1:04:30 – Sri Brahma-samhita: Verses 29–32
1:08:45 – Narayana Upanishad (Glorification of the Supreme Source)
1:16:20 – Kali-Santarana Upanishad (The Hare Krishna Maha-Mantra)
1:22:10 – Bhagavad Gita: Chapter 2, Verses 1–30 (Traditional Vedic Recitation)
Photos in the Video: A Tour of South India
Many of the photos shown in some of these videos are taken by Stephen Knapp (Sri Nandanandana dasa, a disciple of His Divine Grace Srila A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada) during his many tours across India. Since 1987, Stephen has traveled through every state of India except Meghalaya, Tripura and Mizoram, assembling a collection of over 18,000 slides and images of temples, historical and holy sites, festivals, people, and the culture wherever he has traveled. Many Indians tell him that he has seen more of India than most Indians. But he has done so due to his respect for the culture and his curiosity to experience the spiritual nature of the many sacred places this country has to offer, and his desire to share the sacred nature of India's Vedic culture with others who may be similarly interested. For all of his work, besides writing over 50 books on the Vedic spirituality of India, he has been granted some prestigious awards, such as the Padma Shri award in 2025, which is India's fourth highest civilian award given by the government of India for distinguished service to the country. More information about him and his writings and projects can be seen at his website: http://www.stephen-knapp.com
~ Gopati das ACBSP
Birds of Raman Reti 1977
Step back in time to the serene, mystical atmosphere of Raman Reti, Vrindavan. This video features a rare high-fidelity audio recording captured on March 12, 1977, at 7:00 am by Gopati dasa, a disciple of Srila Prabhupada.
Using a semi-professional Nakamichi recording deck and a three-condenser microphone system, Gopati dasa preserved the unique acoustic fingerprint of this sacred land. For decades, copies of this recording have circulated through temples worldwide, often serving as a peaceful background for Japa meditation.
In this recording, you will hear:
Nature’s Chorus: The vibrant calls of peacocks, parrots, and other local birds that have called this forest home for millennia.
Spiritual Resonance: The distant, rhythmic hum of morning Aroti ceremonies being performed in local temples.
The Sounds of Pilgrimage: The soft footsteps and presence of occasional Saddhus passing through the forest.
A Lost Solitude
Raman Reti is the sacred site where Sri Sri Krishna and Balaram once played with Their cowherd friends. While the area has since transformed into a thriving spiritual hub centered around the majestic ISKCON Krsna Balaram Mandir, this audio allows us to experience the solitude and untouched beauty of the forest as it existed decades ago.
Close your eyes and let the sounds of Raman Reti transport you to the heart of Braj.
Historic Photos are from a 1987 visit by Sri Nandanandana Das at https://www.stephen-knapp.com/ Modern photos are current images of Krishna and Balaram Deities from the Krsna Balaram Mandir, courstesy of ISKCON
More About Raman Reti:
The ISKCON Krishna Balaram Mandir is situated in the Raman Reti area of Vrindavan. The name "Raman" means "divine play" or "pleasure," and "Reti" means "sand."
The Original Forest: In ancient times, this area was a dense forest of Kadamba and Tamala trees, characterized by soft, white sands. It was here that Krishna and Balaram would bring their cows to graze and engage in "Raman" (pastimes) with their cowherd friends.
The Sand: Devotees believe the sand of Raman Reti is transcendental because it was once touched by the lotus feet of Krishna and Balaram. Even today, the ground in this part of Vrindavan is noticeably sandier than the rest of the town.
The Temple: When Srila Prabhupada (the founder of ISKCON) chose this spot for the Krishna Balaram Mandir in the 1970s, it was still a relatively quiet, sandy outskirts of town. He intentionally chose this location because it was the site where the two brothers played together, making it the perfect place to worship Them on the same altar.
The Call of the Holy Dhama: The 1975 Yoga Pitha Parikrama
In the spring of 1975, a momentous event took place in the heart of West Bengal. Over 800 devotees from across the globe descended upon the sacred village of Mayapur to celebrate Gaura Purnima with Srila Prabhupada. This gathering was more than a festival; it was the physical fulfillment of a prophecy made decades earlier by Srila Bhaktivinode Thakur, who foresaw a day when international devotees would join together to chant the names of Lord Chaitanya.
The Miracle of Discovery: Finding Yoga Pitha
The 1975 parikrama led by Acyutananda Swami was a journey to a site that had once been lost to history. In the late 19th century, Srila Bhaktivinode Thakur used old maps and scripts to locate the true birthplace of Lord Chaitanya.
To confirm his research, in 1893, he brought his guru, the venerable Srila Jagannath Das Babaji, to the site. Though over 140 years old and unable to walk, the Babaji Maharaja miraculously leapt into the air upon reaching the spot, shouting, "Ei-to Nimai-janma-sthan!"—confirming it was indeed the holy birthplace.
When the ground was later broken to build the temple, the authenticity of the site was further proven by the discovery of ancient deities, including Adhoksaja Vishnu and Jagannath Misra, buried beneath the earth.
The Significance of Gaura Purnima
As the 1975 parikrama party moved through the holy streets, the devotees were meditating on the profound mercy of Lord Chaitanya’s appearance. Srila Prabhupada often explained that Lord Chaitanya’s advent was like the rising of a spotless moon meant to dissipate the darkness of the Kali-yuga. In his purports, he emphasized that Lord Chaitanya did not just appear in a specific village in Bengal, but He appeared to initiate a movement that would eventually reach every town and village across the globe.
Seeing the international crowd in 1975—devotees from America, Europe, and Japan walking side-by-side with local Vaisnavas—was the living proof of Prabhupada's statement: “He distributes the love of Godhead to everyone without consideration.”
Srila Prabhupada on the Appearance of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu
"Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu appeared... for the benefit of the entire world. He is the most munificent incarnation of Godhead because He distributes the love of Godhead to everyone without any consideration of who is fit and who is not fit. In this age of Kali, everyone is suffering, but by the mercy of Lord Caitanya, by the chanting of the Hare Krishna maha-mantra, one can be immediately relieved from all material anxieties."
— Teachings of Lord Kapila, Chapter 13
Mayapur in 1975: A Mission in Bloom
This video captures the ISKCON Mayapur Chandrodaya Mandir at a pivotal stage of development:
The Monumental Gate: The entrance to the city of devotion was nearly complete.
The Prasadam Hall: A massive facility serving 10,000 people daily was fully operational.
The Goshala and Ghat: Progress was visible everywhere, including the construction of a bathing ghat at the very location where the Temple of the Vedic Planetarium (TOVP) stands today.
Watch the Journey
The archival audio and photography transport us back to the dust of Mayapur during this ecstatic era. From the intimate moments of darshan at Yoga Pith to the massive parikrama parties winding through the Bengali countryside, this video is a bridge to our spiritual roots.
Key Moments in the Video
Arrival at Yoga Pitha: Standing at the birthplace of Nimai.
Darshan of the Deities: Seeing the forms of Lord Nrsimhadeva and Gaura Gadadhara.
The Ecstatic Kirtan: Witnessing the "frenzy" of devotion fueled by Srila Prabhupada ringing the temple bell.
The Fulfillment: Seeing the diverse faces of the international devotee community fulfilling the Thakur's vision.
March 15, 1976, featuring Jayapataka Swami leading a parikrama through Yoga Pitha.
Speaker: Jayapataka Swami
Location: Yoga Pitha, Mayapur (Birthplace of Lord Chaitanya)
Below is the word-for-word transcript of the recording from March 15, 1976, featuring Jayapataka Swami leading a parikrama through the Yoga Pitha and Srivasa Angan temple complex.
Speaker: Jayapataka Swami
[00:01] "Just to the right of this temple, over to the right, you'll see that there is a type of vine awning. This is the place where Lord Chaitanya had His nocturnal kirtan. Here all the devotees would assemble, do the sankirtan."
[00:18] "The idea at that time was, there were many envious people. There were so many envious people that it was difficult for Mahaprabhu to do the kirtan at that time. So to keep out envious people who were simply mocking them, they kept the doors closed. Later on, Mahaprabhu started that in every house all over Navadvipa the kirtan would start. But in the beginning, it started behind closed doors here."
[00:44] "So from this place now, we'll be singing Kiba Jaya Jaya to commemorate that holy time when Lord Chaitanya exhibited His transcendental form to all His devotees. Hoping that we may also get similar blessing and one day be able to see always within our heart the form of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu and His beloved associates."
[01:10] "We will circumambulate the temple thereafter, stopping for a short kirtan in the Srivas Angan. Then we'll go over nearby to the house of Advaita Acharya where He's worshipping Lord Chaitanya, and by His side is living Gadadhara Prabhu. And thereafter, taking darshan of those residences and murti, then we'll go over to the birthplace temple."
[01:35] [Crowd interaction/background noises]
[01:54] "Now this is the deity of Srivasa Thakura, which was worshipped by Srila Bhaktivinode Thakura. And as we circumambulate, on our left as we come round on the left, there's a deity of Gaura-Gadadhara. They were also worshipped by Srila Bhaktivinode Thakura. Now we'll circumambulate counter-clockwise, yeah?"
[02:15] "Then we'll come round this temple and out again into the outside courtyard and we'll come to the birthplace of Lord Chaitanya Mahaprabhu where we'll all... this is the deity of Lord Nrsimhadeva, Lord Nrsimha deity, which was worshipped by Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati, and Gaura-Gadadhara deity."
[02:45] "Sitting on Lord Nrsimhadeva's lap is Lakshmi. Nitai Gaura Haribol! Haribol! Haribol! Haribol!"
[03:00] [Kirtan: Jaya Sachinandana]
[04:59] "Here on the night of Phalguna Purnima, when the full moon was eclipsed, the spotless moon of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu made His appearance. Haribol! Haribol! Amidst the loud chanting of Hare Krishna maha-mantra. Due to the eclipse, it is enjoined that one spend the time in doing some auspicious activity like bathing in the Ganges and vibrating the Holy Name."
[05:23] "So the whole Navadvipa, which was at that time very greatly populated with scholars and pandits, was all at the Ganges roaring the names of 'Jai Hari Haribol!' And even the Yavanas, Mohammedans, they were imitating the Hindus and chanting 'Hare Krishna'. Somehow or other they were all chanting 'Hare Krishna'."
[05:44] "And the thieves thought they would take the opportunity—everyone is out of their house, so we can steal from them. But when they heard 'Hare Krishna' everywhere, their hearts melted also and they started chanting 'Hare Krishna'. Jai Haribol!"
[05:58] "Then Chaitanya Mahaprabhu's appearance... previous to that, Sachi Devi, when Chaitanya Mahaprabhu was still in her womb, was visited by all the demigods. And the mother of the demigods, Aditi, also came and bestowed blessings on her. But she could not understand what was happening. So Jagannath Misra told her some great Mahapurusha, great personality, is going to be born."
[06:23] "Then after the appearance day, after His birthday of Phalguna Purnima, there was great celebrations and musicians, and all the local Brahmin ladies and gentlemen came to offer their gifts and blessings. And disguised as the wives of the Brahmins were the wives of demigods who also came in with their celestial gifts to Lord Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. And touched the lotus feet of Sachi Devi and went off in their aerial cars unseen by the locals. Haribol!"
[06:57] "Do not take off any neem leaves from the tree. We will only circumambulate. Everything here is original. Well, it picks up life from another—that is called 'Siddha'. When a tree always lives, it picks up another branch and continues living. This is the original tree."
[07:16] [Kirtan resumes]
[08:52] [Srila Prabhupada's Pranama Mantra and Jai sounds]
[09:00] "We will return to Sri Mayapur Chandrodaya Mandir in kirtan. Those who wish will come to Ganges for bath, japa, reading, and classes."
[09:30] "Srila Prabhupada stresses to us the importance of the birthplace. The birthplace, of course, is eternally sacred. But He stresses even more important is... this is called the Janma-sthan. Janma-sthan means the birthplace where the Lord takes birth. As He says in the Gita: janma karma ca me divyam. If one can understand the birth and activities of the Supreme Lord, because they are all divyam, transcendental, then he can be freed from punar-janma, from repeated birth and death."
[10:15] "Simply by understanding the transcendental activities, the transcendental birth of the Lord. But more important, Prabhupada stresses, than birth, is the activities of the Lord. He gave the example that for instance, Lord Chaitanya was born here in Navadvipa—but can you hear me?"
[10:35] "Lord Chaitanya was born here at Sri Mayapur, but later on He went all over India—to Puri, to South India, to Vrindavan for preaching. That means that He didn't stay at His birthplace; He went all over India, all over the world, for preaching. So that proves that the activities are more important than the birthplace."
[10:59] "That's why presently the Sri Mayapur Chandrodaya Mandir, Prabhupada declares, is actually the Karma-sthana of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. The workplace, the lila-place. Janma karma ca me divyam—both My birth and My activities are transcendental. So Mayapur Chandrodaya Mandir is the place of the Lord's activities. Therefore, it is more important than the birthplace. Jai Haribol!"
[11:30] "All these buildings have been constructed by Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura by his own preaching and effort. Now we could understand that the activities of Lord Chaitanya have shifted from here to Sri Mayapur Chandrodaya Mandir. We can always see activity going on there all year round, and we see all the devotees coming from all over the world just as Mahaprabhu predicted."
[12:05] "So we want to keep both the Karma-sthana—the activities of the Lord active—and the Janma-sthan. We don't simply want to say 'Oh, this is the birthplace' then we'll sit back and take it easy. No, we want to do the actual preaching work, the Sankirtan of Mahaprabhu. Jai Haribol!"
[12:30] "Now this place is very important place... there's some controversy which Bhaktivinode Thakura and Bhaktisiddhanta have conclusively proved that this is actually the birthplace of Lord Chaitanya. However, there's some anti-parties who've got some business interests who want to prove otherwise."
[12:50] "Actually the Chand Kazi, as you know, he tried to stop the Sankirtan of Lord Chaitanya. The Chand Kazi's house is very nearby, about a mile down the road. So he used to hear Lord Chaitanya's nocturnal kirtan, which disturbed him. Therefore, he came and broke up the kirtan one night, which later on caused to his gaining liberation."
[13:14] "At this place, by calculating the distance from the Chand Kazi and also by Bhaktivinode Thakura actually found this exact location. As you probably was explained the very first day when we went to Bhaktivinode Thakura's house, that Bhaktivinode Thakura was in meditation in his room one night when he saw in his vision light coming from this birthplace."
[13:39] "Seeing that light, he knew that the birthplace was in this location. He took his guru, Jagannath Das Babaji, who at that time was about 113 years old and he couldn't walk because he was tied up with rheumatism and other ailments, so he had to be carried on a basket. Bhaktivinode Thakura carried him on his head on a basket trying to find out... finally they came to one place which was covered with Tulsi. Tulsi was growing thick, a big Tulsi forest."
[14:10] "When they came to that location, entered into the Tulsi forest, immediately Jagannath Das Babaji, filled with ecstasy, he jumped up—113 years old—from his basket high in the sky: 'Haribol! Haribol! Haribol!'"
[14:27] "So they could understand that this was the exact location of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu's birthplace. From that time, Bhaktivinode Thakura established a small temple here. That temple has since been changed, but that temple has been here in this exact location for about a hundred years."
[14:48] "Then Bhaktivinode Thakura personally went through Calcutta, every door, begging people to just give one rupee or less, just some donation. He would never accept more than a rupee, and he constructed this red building here. This is the first structure."
[15:11] "So Prabhupada, during the appearance day celebration of Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura here at Mayapur, he started his lecture by saying that Bhaktivinode Thakura, he did something to develop Sri Mayapur. It was his desire to develop Sri Mayapur, the birthplace of Lord Chaitanya. Then Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura, he also developed Sri Mayapur. He built this birthplace temple, he built the other temples, he did so much preaching."
[15:45] "Now Prabhupada said 'I also, I also wanted to do something in following in the disciplic succession in the footsteps, I want to do something also to develop Sri Mayapur. And on that very birthplace, we are building the Sri Mayapur Chandrodaya Mandir, and the biggest temple in the world for Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. Haribol! Haribol!'"
[16:08] "In this temple is the place where baby Lord Chaitanya, on the lap of Sachi Mata, and by the side is Jagannath Misra. In this temple, when they excavated this temple, they found the deity murti under the ground of Adhoksaja Vishnu. As you may recall from reading Chaitanya-charitamrta, Adhoksaja Vishnu was the family deity of Jagannath Misra. When you see in the center deity just at the lotus feet of Mahaprabhu, there's a deity—that deity is of Adhoksaja Vishnu."
[16:47] "The deities in the big Mandir: on the right-hand side is Jagannath and the Panca-tattva. In the center is Mahaprabhu with Lakshmipriya and Vishnupriya Devis. And on the left is Radha Govinda and Mahaprabhu."
[17:03] "This temple was constructed by one businessman whose name was Sakhi Babu Rai. He gave everything he had to Bhaktisiddhanta, every last paisa. His samadhi mandir is at the gateway."
[17:21] "But this Mandir here on the left is the temple of Bhaktivinode Thakura. Srila Prabhupada objects to this temple as being out of etiquette, asiddhanta. Bhaktivinode Thakura is our param-gurudeva, he is to be respected with all just honor. But they have put the param-gurudeva at the gateway. He is not a doorkeeper. He should have been given place in this house here or some other internal place with a big temple, not at the doorway. Therefore, none of the disciples of Srila Prabhupada should enter into that temple."
[18:03] "Jai Sachinandana! Jai Sachinandana! Haribol! Haribol!"
The Nocturnal Kirtan: The kirtan at Srivas Angan was originally conducted behind closed doors to prevent mockers and envious people from disturbing the devotees.
The Eclipse Miracle: Lord Chaitanya appeared during a lunar eclipse when the entire population was already chanting the Holy Name. The spiritual potency was so high that even thieves and non-believers were moved to join the chanting.
The Original Neem Tree: The tree at the birthplace is considered original (Siddha), having continued its life through successive branches over centuries.
Janma-sthan vs. Karma-sthan: While the birthplace (Janma-sthan) is sacred, Srila Prabhupada emphasized that the place of activities (Karma-sthana)—represented by the ISKCON Mayapur Chandrodaya Mandir—is even more important because it carries forward the Lord's mission of preaching.
Discovery of Adhoksaja Vishnu: During the excavation of the temple, a small stone murti of Adhoksaja Vishnu was found, which was the family deity of Jagannath Misra, providing physical proof of the site's authenticity.
Srivasa Angan is the courtyard of Srivasa Thakura’s house, located adjacent to the Yoga Pitha temple. It holds immense historical significance as the place where Lord Chaitanya began His nocturnal kirtan. In the early days of the Sankirtan movement, the doors were kept closed during these assemblies to prevent mockers and envious people from disturbing the devotees. It was here that Lord Chaitanya revealed His transcendental form to His most intimate associates.
In the 1976 parikrama recording, Jayapataka Swami explains the historical and philosophical context behind why the early kirtans at Srivasa Angan were held behind closed doors:
Protection from Envy: During the early stages of the Sankirtan movement, there were many envious people who would mock the devotees. The doors were kept closed specifically to prevent these "envious people who were simply mocking them" from disturbing the assembly.
Intimate Association: By closing the doors, Lord Chaitanya created a space where His most intimate associates could assemble and perform sankirtan without outside interference.
The "Nocturnal" Nature: These sessions are described as "nocturnal kirtans," suggesting a time of private, intense devotion before the mission was expanded into a public movement.
Evolution of the Movement: Jayapataka Swami notes that while the movement began behind closed doors at Srivasa Angan, it was a temporary stage. Lord Chaitanya eventually shifted the paradigm, starting the kirtan "in every house all over Navadvipa" to make the Holy Name accessible to everyone.
Spiritual Revelation: The closed-door setting was the environment in which Lord Chaitanya "exhibited His transcendental form to all His devotees". The swami expresses the hope that by commemorating this, modern devotees can also "see always within our heart the form of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu".
Yoga Pitha is the sacred birthplace of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, located in Antardvipa, Mayapur.
Discovery: The site was lost to history until Srila Bhaktivinode Thakur used ancient maps and texts to relocate it in the late 19th century.
Confirmation: The location was spiritually confirmed by Srila Jagannath Das Babaji, who, despite being over 140 years old and unable to walk, miraculously leapt into the air upon reaching the spot, proclaiming it the true birthsite.
Authenticity: When the ground was excavated to build the temple, an ancient deity of Adhoksaja Vishnu was discovered. This deity was the family worshipable Lord of Jagannath Misra (Lord Chaitanya’s father), providing physical proof of the site’s identity.
The Neem Tree: The temple grounds house an original neem tree. It is under this tree that Nimai (Lord Chaitanya) took His birth on the night of a lunar eclipse on Phalguna Purnima.
Jayapataka Swami is a senior disciple of Srila Prabhupada and a prominent leader within ISKCON who took Srila Prabhupada’s instruction to "develop Mayapur" as his life's mission. While Yoga Pitha is the Janma-sthan (birthplace), Jayapataka Swami helped manifest the Karma-sthana (place of activities) at the ISKCON Mayapur Chandrodaya Mandir. Following Prabhupada’s emphasis that preaching activities are more important than the birthplace alone, Jayapataka Swami spearheaded the development of the international community, the massive prasadam halls, and the parikramas that bring thousands of devotees from all over the world to Mayapur. His leadership fulfilled the prophecy of Bhaktivinode Thakur, ensuring that devotees from every nation now gather in Mayapur to celebrate Lord Chaitanya’s appearance.
Drink The Holy Name--Akincina Krishna Das Babaji
Gaura Purnima March 5, 1977
Srila Bhaktisddhanta Saraswati’s Samadhi
Sri Chaitanya Math, Mayapur
A Rare Historical Recording of Akincana Krsna Das Babaji Maharaj
Location: Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati Thakur's Samadhi, Sri Chaitanya Math, Mayapur
Date of Recording: Gaura Purnima Night, March 5, 1977
Recorded by: Gopati das (ACBSP) using a Nakamichi 550 audiophile recording deck with three mic system.
This rare audio captures the Divine Kirtan of Akincana Krsna Das Babaji Maharaj, an intimate friend of Srila Prabhupada, leading a spontaneous and deeply soulful kirtan on Gaura Purnima 1977 in front of his Guru Maharaj Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati Thakur's samadhi.
The Story Behind the Recording
Two nights before Gaura Purnima, Krsna Das Babaji was sitting next to Srila Prabhupada watch a play at Mayapur Chandrodaya Mandir. Uttamsloka das (ACBSP) approached Babaji Maharaj and requested to have kirtan together as they had done the previous year. Babaji Maharaj said yes, but wait a couple of days until his voice was better.
As recounted in discussion between Uttamasloka das and Gopati das, it took some time and effort to locate Babaji Maharaj on Gaura Purnima , but the efforts finally came to fruition.
The night was defined by a moment of profound spiritual instruction. When Uttamasloka expressed he was thirsty, Babaji Maharaj tapped his bead bag and told him: "Drink the Holy Name."
"It was just pure Vaisnavism with Godbrothers of Prabhupada, and we got to share that essence without any kind of unwanted taint... the only thing was to chant Hare Krishna." — Gopati das
Babaji Maharaj is joined by Mohini Mohan Das (the personal pujari of Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati Thakur). The recording began with Babaji Maharaja chanting Sri Siksastakam Prayers (https://iskcondesiretree.com/profiles/blogs/sri-siksastakam-the-eight-instructions-of-sri-chaitanya-mahaprabh)
After a some minutes, a mridanga was handed to Babaji Maharaj by a passing party after they performed aatri for Sri Sri Gandharvika Giridhari Deities.
For the full story and transcript of the discussion between Uttamasloka das and Gopati das and links to remasted bhajans of Nacre Amar Mon and Ohe Vaishnava Thakur go to Gopati das' Prasad.Life blog: https://www.prasad.life/historic-videos
Highlights:
Introductory Prayers
Hare Krishna Mahamantra (A cappella into Mrdanga accompaniment)
Nacre Amar Mon (Featuring Mohini Mohan Das)
Ohe Vaishnava Thakur (Featuring Mohini Mohan Das)
About Akincana Krsna Das Babaji:
A prominent disciple of Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati Thakur, Babaji Maharaj was renowned for his natural humility and his detachment from all material honors. He was one of the few individuals Srila Prabhupada specifically requested to have by his side to lead kirtan during his final days in Vrndavan.
This is the complete and accurate presentation of "Doyāl Nitāi Caitanya" as found in Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakura’s Gitavali (Sri Nama-kirtana, Song 2). This version is particularly famous for its cakit (parenthetical) lines—those emotional interjections that Babaji Maharaj and the pujaris of the Gaudiya Math often sang with deep feeling.
Doyāl Nitāi Caitanya Nacre Amar Mon
Link to Remastered Version of this Recording by Uttamasloka Das (ACBSP):
This is the complete and accurate presentation of "Doyāl Nitāi Caitanya" as found in Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakura’s Gitavali (Sri Nama-kirtana, Song 2). This version is particularly famous for its cakit (parenthetical) lines—those emotional interjections that Mohini Mohan and Babaji Maharaj sang with deep feeling.
Author: Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakura
Source: Gitavali (Sri Nama-kirtana, Song 2)
(1)
`doyāl nitāi caitanya’ bole’ nāc re āmār man
nāc re āmār man, nāc re āmāra man
(2)
(emon doyāl to nāi he, mār kheye prema dey)
(ore) aparādha dūre jābe, pābe prema-dhan
(o nāme aparādha-vicāra to nāi he)
(takhon) kṛṣṇa-nāme ruci ha’be, ghucibe bandhan
(3)
(kṛṣṇa-nāme anurāga to ha’be he)
(takhon) anāyāse saphal ha’be jīvera jīvan
(kṛṣṇa-rati vinā jīvan to miche he)
(ese) bṛndābane rādhā-śyāmer pā’be daraśan
(gaura-kṛpā ha’le he)
1) Chanting the holy names “Doyal Nitai Caitanya!”—Oh my mind dances! Oh my mind dances! Oh my mind dances!
2) Oh! Such a merciful personality as Nityananda Prabhu is not to be found anywhere! He suffers a beating [from Jagai and Madhai] and still gives them love of God! Oh! When your offenses are vanquished, you will obtain the treasure of love of God! But in these names of Caitanya and Nitai, there is no consideration of offenses! Once you have a taste for the holy name of Krishna, bondage to this world will come to an end.
3) Oh! When there is attachment to the holy name of Krishna, then very easily the life of a living being becomes successful! Oh! Without affection for Krishna, life is simply useless! At the end of life, you will obtain the beautiful vision of Radha and Syama in Vrindavana—if the mercy of Lord Gaura is received!
In the interview, Uttamasloka das and Gopati das mention the specific mood of the night at the Samadhi. This song is the perfect "soundtrack" for that moment for several reasons:
No Consideration of Offenses: The lyrics emphasize that the names of Nitai and Gaura do not consider offenses. For the young Western devotees present, who felt they had no standing or qualification, this message was their "gate" into the spiritual world.
The Transformation of the Mind: As they sat with Akincana Krsna Das Babaji, their minds were literally "dancing" with the realization that they were in the presence of a soul who truly had "taste" (ruci) for the name.
The Vision of Radha-Syama: The song concludes with the promise that by Gaura’s mercy, one reaches Vrindavana. This mirrored the life of Babaji Maharaj, who split his time between Navadvipa and Vrindavana, embodying the mercy that connects the two.
Ohe Vaishnava Thakur
Link to Remastered Version of this Recording by Uttamasloka Das (ACBSP):
Ohe Vaiṣṇava Ṭhākura is a deeply poignant bhajan written by Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakura (from his collection Saraṇāgati). It is a song of "Vijnapti"—a prayer of spiritual appeal. In the context of the 1977 recording, hearing this sung by Mohini Mohan Das while Akincana Krsna Das Babaji played the mridanga is incredibly significant, as the song is a plea for the mercy of a pure devotee.
Below is the verse-by-verse translation, capturing the mood of humility that Babaji Maharaj himself personified.
Author: Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakura
Language: Bengali
ohe vaiṣṇava ṭhākura, doyāra sāgara,
e dāse koruṇā kori’
diya pada-chāyā, śodho he āmāya,
tomāra caraṇa dhori
Translation:
O venerable Vaishnava, O ocean of mercy, please be compassionate toward this servant. Purify me by giving me the shade of your lotus feet; I am world-weary and take hold of your feet.
chaya bega dami’, chaya doṣa śodhi’,
chaya guṇa deho’ dāse
chaya sat-saṅga, deho’ he āmāre,
boshechi saṅgera āśe
Translation:
Please help me subdue the six urges, purify my six faults, and grant this servant the six divine qualities. Please give me the six kinds of holy association; I have sat down here in hopes of gaining your company.
ekākī āmāra, nāhi pāre bola,
hari-nāma-saṅkīrtane
tumi kṛpā kori’, śraddhā-bindu diyā,
deho’ kṛṣṇa-nāma-dhane
Translation:
Alone, I have no strength to perform the congregational chanting of the Holy Name of Hari. Please be merciful and, by giving me a drop of faith, grant me the great treasure of the Holy Name of Krishna.
kṛṣṇa se tomāra, kṛṣṇa dite pāro,
tomāra śakati āche
āmi to’ kāṅgāla, ‘kṛṣṇa’ ‘kṛṣṇa’ boli’,
dhāi tava pāche pāche
Translation:
Krishna is yours; you are able to give Krishna to others. You have that power. I am but a beggar, crying "Krishna! Krishna!" as I run behind you.
When Uttamasloka and Gopati sat there on Gaur Purnima night, they were essentially living out the lyrics of this song. They had "run behind" Babaji Maharaj through the streets of Mayapur, recognizing that as an akincana (one who possesses only Krishna), he had the "power to give Krishna."
Discussion Transcript
The Power of the Moment
When Uttamasloka and Gopati sat there on Gaura Purnima night, they were essentially living out the lyrics of this song. They had "run behind" Babaji Maharaj through the streets of Mayapur, recognizing that as an akincana (one who possesses only Krishna), he had the "power to give Krishna."
The 1977 recording captures more than just music; it captures the moment a beggar (the seeker) meets the treasurer (the pure devotee) at the doorstep of the Great Master (Srila Bhaktisiddhanta).
Special thanks to Uttamasloka das for sharing the story of these priceless memories.
Uttamasloka: Yeah. And then ’77 as you say, this is what happened. We had the big Mayapur festival then. There was a big play, and Prabhupada was sitting on a big dais looking at the stage and Krishna dasa was sitting next to him on the vyasasana. And then Krishna dasa left early, but I followed him. This was two days before Gaura Purnima, so tens of thousands of people everywhere. So I got through the crowd, I finally caught up to him and I go, “Maharaja, Maharaja, it’s me.” He goes, “Ah!” He recognized me. I go, “Can we go chant somewhere?” He goes, “My voice isn’t very good. I can’t chant now. Maybe in a few days.” I go, “OK. How will I find out?” Good luck.
So fast forward. On the eve of Gaura Purnima, you and me and Nandikesvara, and maybe one or two other guys, I go, “Let’s go find Krishna dasa Babaji. You’ve got your recorder. Let’s go find him.” So we jumped in a couple of rickshaws, we went to Bhaktisiddhantas house and they go, “Where’s Krishna dasa Babaji?”
Uttamasloka: First we went to Bhaktisiddhanta’s house and we said, “How can we find Krishna dasa Babaji?” and they said, “He’s at Yoga Pitha.” So we went back to Yoga Pitha and we walked up the walkway, and when they saw us they said, “Come up on stage.” So they pulled us up on stage, you remember. They pulled us up on stage, put garlands on us, sandalwood paste, and we’re standing up there in front of a crowd of five thousand people while there’s a big kirtan going on out there. And I look across the stage and there’s Krishna dasa, and I go like this and he goes like that, he saw me, he recognized me. So I’m looking at him. I’m not even looking at the Deities, I’m looking at him. About 10 minutes later he ducks down the stairs on the other side. I go, “Let’s go,” so we all leave too. And I catch him on the way out. He goes, “What’s your program?” I go, “My program is to chant with you nonstop 24 hours. I want to chant with you.” “OK, come with me.” We go out to the road. He goes and talks to a rickshaw driver, and the rickshaw driver is giving him a hard time, wants to charge three times as much and they’re arguing. He goes, “Ah, forget it.” So we start walking. The rickshaw driver drives up slowly, he goes, “Get in.” So we get in and we all go there and we set up, but there’s no mridanga. I said, “We need a mridanga.” He goes, “Just a minute.” He goes to the temple area where they’re having arati. He goes, “When the arati is finished, they’ll bring a mridanga.” I said, “OK. I’m very thirsty. Is there some water somewhere?” He taps my bead bag and he goes, “Drink the Holy Name.” So then we sat down and you set everything up, and he did a cappella and started chanting all those mantras a cappella.
Gopati: He started off with Siksastaka, and the mic’s weren’t set up so the recording doesn’t capture that. At the end of the prayer he starts chanting. And then there’s this kirtan group that’s coming around, they had just finished the arati for Srila Bhaktiddhanta’s Deities, Sri Sri Gandharkiva Giridhari and offered the mrdanga for Babaji Maharaj to use.
Uttamasloka: Those are the ones coming from the arati. They do a little circumambulation.
Gopati: So you hear that in the background, and then the leader of the kirtan came over and gave him the mrdanga.
Uttamasloka: Gives him the drum, and that’s when that started. Then he did his thing, and then Mohini Mohan Das, Srila Bhaktisiddhanta’s Pujari joined us singing Nacre Amar Mon and Ohe Vaishnava Thakur while Krsna Das Babaji played mrdanga. What a night. It’s so fantastic to be able to remember these with you, that we did these things together. It’s such a powerful, meaningful thing to me. It’s so beautiful to reminisce and realize that what we experienced then, it was what we thought. It was that powerful. It was that beautiful. It was that impactful. It was that important for us.
Gopati: So being there on Gaura Purnima night in front of Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati Maharaja and his servants, it was what we had learned from Srila Prabhupada, it was a confirmation and a gift of the vision of where it could go and how to do it. And it was all based on hearing and chanting, nothing else. The mrdanga, the kartals, the musical part of it. It’s like putting a garland on Krishna and the Deity. It all goes together beautifully. I think that for myself, that experience was such a deep learning experience and association. The only similar experience we had up to that point was with Srila Prabhupada.
Uttamasloka: And here’s an important point in that context. Typically there was the mood, “Don’t associate with Prabhupada’s godbrothers. Don’t associate with the Gaudiya Matha. They’re all this, they’re all that,” blah blah blah. But we did, and we got the best of what it was. There was nothing tainted about it. It was just pure Vaisnavism with other devotees, Godbrothers of Prabhupada, and we got to share that essence without any kind of unwanted taint or negative thing associated with it. As you say, a big learning experience for us.
Gopati: Without any agenda. The only thing was to chant Hare Krishna, that was it.
Uttamasloka: And because of that, we were rewarded as such. Krishna said, “You’ve got the right mood, you’ve got the right attitude. I’m going to give you a little boost, and it’s going to stay with you for the rest of your life.” Talk about a powerful Samskara.
Gopati: It’s been so many years since we’ve had these experiences. Like you explained, we talk about them, we remember them, it’s just like being there. And sharing this with other devotees, hopefully we’re able to share a little taste of that gift by talking about it and hearing the recording. But then again, we’ve been through a lot in the last 30, 40 years, and this has carried with us and affected everything we do, everything we decide, and how we view things and how we keep things sacred in our heart and even when we’re in the middle of all sorts of external events. So maybe just talk a little bit about that and how this kirtan stays with you like that. Maybe it’s going a little too deep because it’s very personal.
Uttamasloka: Well, I haven’t been able to have kirtans in my life the way we did then. So I’m riding on powerful energy from that, from the results of that. My kirtan now has morphed into discussions, and so it’s become more of that type of kirtan than the other type. But there’s no question that those kirtans became the foundational basis for me to be able to do what I’m doing now.
Otherwise, I wouldn’t have the adhikara. So they contributed to me making progress and developing and refining my adhikara because of the profound nature of those experiences. Every single day we were on, day after day after night after night, three, four times a day. No one could sustain that. Most temples, “Oh, we had a good kirtan last week.” “Oh, we had a good kirtan the other day.” We had five good kirtans every single day, mind-blowing every day. So you can’t go through that and not be impacted in a powerful way.
I can’t forget those times. I see them in my mind. I see the Chicago temple. I see that Bhaktisiddhanta Samadhi with all of us there. The vision is in my mind. Sometimes you remember things. Sometimes you remember with the visual as well and the visual adds to the remembrance, and I have those visuals that accompany these remembrances. That’s how strong they are. In retrospect, as you say, looking back, I see now even more how powerful they were, how meaningful they were, how influential they were and important as building the foundation, the blocks of the foundation upon which... You need strength to get through all the challenges that we face in our day-to-day life. You can’t escape those unless you go and get kutir and sign out, but we’re not going to do that. So we have to face those challenges and we need strength to do that and we need armor, and our armor was being developed back then and our strength.
Gopati: And one of the things about that time with Krishna dasa Babaji and Mohini Mohan and the entire experience was that we weren’t going there just to learn from somebody else besides Srila Prabhupada. We were going there as disciples of Srila Prabhupada, as representatives of Srila Prabhupada, and knowing full well that the relationship between these Godbrothers was very close. And this beautiful experience was a confirmation of what Srila Prabhupada had taught us. We understood that we could honor Srila Prabhupada by participating.