04/05/05, Update from the caregivers of HH Bhakti Tirtha Maharaj
cos...@gmail.com
Please accept our humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
All glories to H.H. Bhakti-tirtha Swami Maharaja.
Once again, Gurudeva asked to be driven to the Temple last Sunday
because of the possibility of rain. Last Sunday, as in previous weeks,
Godsiblings, disciples, and well-wishers from across the country come
to hear from Bhakti-tirtha Maharaja, many of whom he had not seen in
several years. Many of these devotees lined up outside of the Temple to
greet Gurudeva, eagerly awaiting a chance to carry him up the Temple
steps in his wheelchair.
Guru Maharaja began the class enthusiastically chanting, "Jaya Jaya
Radhe Jaya Jaya Shyama Jaya Jaya Sri Vrindavana Dhama and Jaya Jaya
Radhe Jaya Jaya Shyama Jaya Jaya Sri Gita-nagari DhamaI" Devotees were
shocked by the energy with which he sang and spoke. It was a powerful
lecture; Gurudeva read his prayer, "We Bid Each Other Farewell to Go
Deeper" and gave a full length class (including time for questions) to
a full Temple room of devotees. His voice was strong; however, his body
was and still is extremely weak and causing great discomfort.
Gurudeva spends each day chanting, listening to parikrama lectures, and
answering a few emails from Godbrothers/sisters; occasionally, someone
may get the opportunity to read to him. Even though Gurudeva is not so
available to meet with devotees, a few guests including H.H. Guru
Prasad Maharaja and H.H. Jaya Advaita Maharaja visited Gita-nagari,
enlivening residents and guests with their association and with Srimad
Bhagavatam Class.
Additionally, Sangita Mataji, Gurudeva's godsister and a hospice nurse,
visited for two days and gave the caregivers tips and advice on caring
for Maharaja's physical needs. Her wealth of knowledge and experience
is extremely valuable. We are most grateful to her for coming and for
her continued availability and care.
On a scale from one to ten, Gurudeva's bodily discomfort is about nine;
the tumors are increasing in size and spreading to various parts of the
body and thus, he is unable to walk, sit or lie for any long period of
time. Ekavira. Dhruva, and Brahma Muhurta Prabhus reposition Gurudeva
sometimes every hour throughout the night to minimize bedsores and
breaking of the skin.
Although this may be difficult for many of us, Gurudeva is requesting
devotees to assist with his departure by understanding that Srila
Prabhupada is calling him and that he is also ready to join Srila
Prabhupada. Additionally, Maharaja is requesting us to cultivate a
deeper relationship with his vani (instructions) instead of holding on
to his vapu (form). He requests that devotees please stop praying for
him to remain in this world.
Thank you all for your continued support. We will do our best to keep
you informed.
Hare Krishna.
Your indebted servants,
Caregivers of H.H. Bhakti-tirtha Swami
*************************
My path is very difficult. I am blind, and my feet are slipping again
and again. Therefore, may the saints help me by granting me the stick
of their mercy as my support.
- Srila Krishnadasa Kaviraja Gosvami
kirti...@gmail.com
Tirtha Swami in one thread (topic) to keep the group in order. Do not
start new topic but reply on it. And it is easier to monitor it in such
a way. --- ys
sol .
cos...@gmail.com
are
now in the gallery. The class will be coming soon. There is also a new
letter, this is the final letter that HH Bhakti Tirtha Swami is going
to
write.
To see the pictures use this link:
http://www.btswami.com/images/gallery/index.php?dir=./Photos%20from%20The%20Beggar%20classes/10%20-%20May%208th
To read the letter use this link:
http://www.btswami.com/archive.php?id=52
cos...@gmail.com
Dear Beloved Devotees:
Please accept our humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
All glories to H.H. Bhakti-tirtha Swami Maharaja.
The arrival of H.H. Jaya Pataka Maharaja marked the beginning of a
festive week in Gita-nagari Dhama. Maharaja spent a few hours with
Gurudeva in his room, and read to Guru Maharaja from Caitanya
Caritamrita. In the evening, H.H. Jaya Pataka Maharaja gave an
inspiring class on "vani seva" at the Temple and at the end of the
program, Maharaja enlivened devotees by spontaneously distributing cake
(it was the birthday of Hari Kirtana d. and Krishna Shakti d.d.) and
maha oil from Lord Narasimhadeva in Mayapur. Afterwards, Maharaja
extended himself even more by granting devotees darshan until very late
at night. The next morning (Mother's Day), Maharaja gave a class from
the Caitanya Caritamrita on Motherhood. Maharaja left for Atlanta
immediately after the class. We were all so grateful for Maharaja's
time, association, and for his visiting our beloved Gurudeva.
A few hours later an initiation yajna was held in the Temple Room for
Gurudeva's new initiates, who watched Gurudeva's Vyasa Puja initiation
lecture from earlier this year.
That evening, H.H. Radhanatha Maharaja, H.H. Candramauli Maharaja, H.H.
Candrashekara Maharaja, H.H. Bhakti Marg Maharaja, several of Srila
Prabhupada's disciples, and many other devotees arrived for the Sunday
afternoon class from the "Festival of Inspiration" in New Vrindavana
and elsewhere; over two hundred devotees attended the program. Gurudeva
gave a heart wrenching class on gratitude and he also had everyone
laughing when he shared a few of the tricks he used to win all the
sports events at the yearly Gita-nagari picnic. Gurudeva demonstrated
incredible strength and power while speaking and was so happy to be
with all the devotees who came from so many places to be with him.
After speaking, Gurudeva returned to his room and his Godbrothers and
Godsisters kept the program going by sharing pastimes about our beloved
Gurudeva. Guru Maharaja invited all of his Godbrothers and Godsisters
to take prasadam at the House; after honoring prasada, they all met
with Gurudeva for almost an hour. We are always in awe of Gurudeva's
availability in spite of his feeling so weak.
With the arrival of so many great souls, Gita-nagari's festive mood and
activities increased and the environment became surcharged with
enthusiasm, care, and affection. The festive atmosphere still remains,
even though many of the guests have left Gita Nagari. We are most
fortunate to still have H.H. Radanatha Maharaja here with us, who is
staying to assist the devotees. Gurudeva is gradually turning inwards
and bringing closure to all aspects of his incredible life. One
significant example of this shift is Gurudeva recent decision to stop
all email correspondence.
Very soon, Mother Vrajalila and Ekavira will send out a letter
regarding detailed arrangements for Gurudeva's departure.
Once again, we are so grateful to each and every one of you, who
dedicate yourself to Gurudeva's mission in so many different ways and
places.
Your servants with love,
Cargivers of H.H. Bhakti-tirtha Swami
cos...@gmail.com
Please accept our humble obeisance. All glories to Srila Bhakti-tirtha
Swami Maharaja. All glories to ISKCON Founder Acharya Srila Prabhupada.
Please forgive us for missing last week's update. In this message, we
will attempt to bring you up to date.
Since our last update, Gurudeva has been very much present in his body,
and is still experiencing a lot of discomfort, especially because he is
unable to sleep and he has to change his sleeping position
approximately every hour to avoid bed sores.
Last Saturday, Gurudeva agreed to allow devotees to perform soft kirtan
both morning and evening, just outside of his room. The kirtans have
been very, very sweet.
Gurudeva continues to request various specific meals including
barbequed curd, macaroni and cheese, pizza, lasagna, and of course pies
(made with spelt flour and only stevia or a little agave as
sweeteners), cooked by a few of his favorite devoted cooks. We
especially want to thank those cooks that traveled from as far as
California, Columbus, Cleveland, Alachua, and New York to visit and
cook Gurudeva's favorite preps.
Last Sunday, Gurudeva and his guests (H.H Radanatha Swami, H.H. Varsana
Maharaja, and H.H. Bhakti Visvambara Madhava Maharaja) graced all the
devotees with their presence at the Temple for the Sunday evening
class. Prior to the class, several visiting disciples performed a
lively presentation of "The Kidnapping of Rukmini." When H.H. Bhakti
Marg Swami visited Gurudeva the previous week, he inspired the devotees
to dedicate their performance to Gurudeva at the Temple Sunday program.
Although Gurudeva had informed the actors and actresses that he would
not be able to sit through the drama, the devotees were delighted when
he arrived to see the last half of the presentation.
Directly after the play, Gurudeva broke into the same kirtan he led two
weekends before, "Jaya Jaya Radhe, Jaya Jaya Shyama." He cried while he
chanted and throughout the class. Gurudeva spoke on `Departure' he
narrated different aspects of the lives of great Saints and Acaryas who
have departed. Later, he read his last prayers from his Beggar IV book,
"I Died on August 4th 2004." Although this was the first prayer he
wrote when he learned he had Melanoma, the prayer had a lasting impact
on everyone in the Temple room, especially since this was the last
prayer he would be reading and sharing from his "Beggar series".
In the last week and a half, H.H Romapada Swami, H.H Bhakti Vaibhava
Swami, and H.H Trivikrama Swami, all came to spend some time with our
dearmost Gurumaharaja. H.H Radanatha Swami is one of the caregivers,
and will remain with us until after the departure ceremony. The classes
and kirtans given by these wonderful and dedicated disciples of Srila
Prabhupada has been most enlivening for all the devotees.
Another esteemed guest, H.G. Sangita Mataji returned to Gita-nagari
once again to further advise and assist Gurudeva and the direct
caregivers. We are both grateful and indebted to Gurudeva's godfamily
for their blessings, care, presence and example at this crucial time.
A few days before Narasimha Caturdasi, Gurudeva sent a message to many
of our second generation devotees (including three gurukula graduates
from Mayapur) to organize another drama about Lord Narasimhadeva. The
devotees were so happy to hear Gurudeva's request.
On Sunday, May 22nd (Narasimha Caturdasi), Gurudeva once again returned
to the Temple for class. The temple devotees organized a wonderful
program for this most auspicious occasion, including an abhiseka for
Gurudeva's Narasimha deity. After the abhiseka, children and adults
performed several bharatanatyam dances (choreographed by Vrndavanesvari
d.d.), which were followed by a thrilling drama (directed by
Vrndavanesvari d.d.) that created a joyful atmosphere among the many
devotees in the Temple.
When Gurumaharaja was wheeled into the Temple, he smiled radiantly and
sang, "Jaya Radhe Jaya Radhe Radhe. Jaya Radhe, Jaya Sri Radhe" He was
most affectionate with his sannyasi godbrothers, (H.H. Trivikrama
Swami, H.H. Radhanath Swami, and H.H. Bhakti-vaibhava Swami) and
glorified them for their dedication and commitment to Srila
Prabhupada's mission. Gurudeva also spoke about the power of prayer in
relation to the pastime of Prahlad and Lord Narasimha. After the class,
Gurudeva invited all of Srila Prabhupada's disciples to the House for a
brief meeting and for Lord Narasimhadeva's feast.
We want to thank the devotees from Potomac Temple, the Maryland
devotees and all the Gita nagari devotees again for all their support.
cos...@gmail.com
Please accept our most humble obeisance
All glories to our beloved Spiritual Master
All glories to ISKCON Founder Acharya Srila Prabhupada
For the last 8 years with maybe one exception, we would celebrate our
"Samscara Festival" this weekend in Gita Nagari. Gurumaharaja would be
present in all the activities, devotees would come from over the world
to attend this festival. This year it is somewhat quiet on the farm,
there are many devotees here from many places in the world, however the
mood is definitely more subdued.
Although Gurumaharaja is quite weak and he is experiencing more pain in
his legs than usual, he will be making his last physical appearance in
the Temple this Sunday at the evening program scheduled for 4:00pm.
This past week Ekavira and Dhruva Prabhus have been focusing on keeping
Gurudeva comfortable, keeping him dry from his night sweats, assisting
him in and out of the bathroom for showers etc., massaging him, and
chaning his lying and sitting positions.
Mother Sangita made a few suggestions to asist Gurudeva with sleeping
and his bladder challenge. He agreed to her suggestions and the last
couple nights he is experiencing a little more comfort.
Today Gurudeva came out of his rrom for the first time since last
Sunday, he sat in a chair and looked at a DVD of "Govardhana
Parikrama". A few of the caregivers got a chance to sit with their
Spiritual Master for one of those rare moments. Even though there are 7
caregivers on a daily basis, it is rare that everyone get to see
Gurudeva at the same time. Actually some of the caregivers may not see
Gurudeva for days at a time even though we are all in the same house.
Haribol Prabhus!! We will write again after Sunday.
Your servant
With Love
Vrajalila
cos...@gmail.com
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
Yesterday afternoon in Gita Nagari Dhama, H. H. Bhakti Tirtha Swami
made his final public appearance. He was joined by H. H. Radhanatha
Swami, H. H. Gunagrahi Swami, H. H. Bhaktivaibhava Swami, H. H. Bhakti
Visvambhara Madhava Swami and H. H. Candramauli Swami. Bhakti Tirtha
Swami spoke with great love and compassion to the devotees as he
embarked on sixty minutes of honest and open sharing, explaining why
this would be his last public appearance. "The time has now come to
enter into nirjana bhajana," Maharaja revealed, sharing his decision
to focus on his internal life by engaging in mana-seva (service in the
mind). His desire now is only to speak, hear and think about Krsna.
Maharaja went on to say that although a devotee is traditionally not
meant to reveal his or her internal bhajana, it is also important at
this time to consider priti, which involves revealing the mind in
confidence and hearing others reveal their minds. In this mood,
Maharaja desired to share some of his experiences involving the
separation of the body, mind and soul that devotees undergo when they
leave their bodies.
He went on to say that his perception of dying on the battlefield was
to leave this world like Grandfather Bhismadeva, to preach until his
very last breath. At the same time, he realizes that his service to
Srila Prabhupada in this body, plane and institution is now over. As a
result of his prayer in the mood of Vasudeva Dutta, Maharaja has opened
himself up to being used as a puppet by Srila Prabhupada, publicly
undergoing the death experience in such a way that he can share it with
us, leaving his example as a legacy to assist in preparing us when we,
too, one day must leave the body. So in many ways he is still dying on
the battlefield.
Maharaja acknowledged that his service to Srila Prabhupada was
unorthodox, and that this was both a blessing and a curse. A large part
of his preaching involved being attentive to secular happenings on the
planet, requiring him to acquire information through which he could
relate to people involved in corporate leadership and politics. This
was his sacrifice. By extending himself to preach, he fortunately
received many blessings, but at the same time, immersing himself in
secular subject matter did not supply the deep nourishment necessary
for his soul. Now it was time for him to give his complete attention to
the pastimes of Lord Krsna in Vraja.
>From now on, Bhakti Tirtha Swami explained, the only devotees who would
be seeing him personally would be his caregivers and H. H. Radhanatha
Swami, who will be staying in Gita Nagari until Bhakti Tirtha Swami
departs. Bhakti Tirtha Swami expressed his deep thanks to Radhanatha
Swami, whom he views as a very special caregiver sent by Srila
Prabhupada to assist him with the transition. If anyone else gets to
see him, Maharaja said, it would be as a result of their services - as
they bring something into his room, or read krsna katha to him. Only
hearing, speaking and thinking of Krsna and Vrndavana from now on,
Maharaja cautioned devotees that he would more than likely not respond
if any other topic is brought up in his presence. The twice daily
kirtana outside his room will continue: although the devotees who come
to sing for him may not see Maharaja in person, they should know that
he really appreciates their services.
Before closing with three quotes regarding nirjana bhajana, Bhakti
Tirtha Swami emphasised the need for us to understand this process
properly. Under no circumstances should it be undertaken prematurely.
'While Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu thus resided at Jagannatha Puri
(Nilacala), he was continuously overwhelmed, night and day, by
separation from Krsna. Day and night He tasted transcendental blissful
songs and verses with two associates, namely Svarupa Damodara and
Ramananda Raya. He relished the symptoms of various transcendental
emotions such as jubilation, lamentation, anger, humility, anxiety,
grief, eagerness and satisfaction. He would recite His own verses,
expressing their meanings and emotions, and thus enjoy tasting them
with these two friends. Sometimes the Lord would be absorbed in a
particular emotion and would stay awake all night reciting verses and
relishing their taste.'
(CC. Antya 20.3 - 7)
Thus Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakur advocated that every devotee,
under the guidance of an expert spiritual master, preach the bhakti
cult, Krsna consciousness, all over the world. Only when one is mature
can he sit in a solitary place and retire from preaching all over the
world. Following this example, the devotees of the International
Society for Krsna Consciousness now render service as preachers in
various parts of the world. Now they can allow the spiritual master to
retire from active preaching work. In the last stage of the spiritual
master's life, the devotees of the spiritual master should take the
preaching activities into their own hands. In this way the spiritual
master can sit down in a solitary place and render nirjana-bhajana.'
(Srila Prabhupada - SB 4.28.33)
'In 1977 A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, at the age of 82,
suffered illness repeatedly and became in a physically weakened state.
He decided to discontinue his travelling around the world and take
shelter of Vrndavana dhama, the sacred place of Lord Krsna's
pastimes. He listened and chanted Hare Krsna and meditated on the
transcendental pastimes of Krsna, throughout the day and night.
However, Srila Prabhupada remained in the association of his loving
disciples, who assisted him during his final pastime by chanting, very
softly and sweetly, the Hare Krsna mantra 24 hours a day. Srila
Prabhupada said that this was his 'nirjana-bhajana', and that his
sannyasi disciples, including the translator of this work, had to take
over the responsibility of travelling and preaching all over the world,
as he would not be able to travel anymore. This great spiritual master
had taken shelter of Lord Krsna in Vrndavana during the last days of
this life.
(H. H. Jayapataka Swami - Commentary on Srila Bhaktisiddhanta's
Vaisnava Ke?, Verse 19)
After answering some questions from gurukulis, Bhakti Tirtha Swami had
to leave the programme due to intense bodily discomfort. The remaining
sannyasis continued to take further questions. We invite you to listen
to the entire class, available on www.btswami.com or www.ifast.net
Your aspiring servant,
Citi-Sakti Devi Dasi
cos...@gmail.com
Please accept our most humble obeisance
All glories to our beloved Spiritual Master
All glories to ISKCON Founder Acharya Srila Prabhupada
Recently a letter was posted by Citisakti informing everyone of
Gurumaharaja's present decision to enter into 'nirjana bhajan'. We will
continue to update you on his daily activities during this most
important time of his transition.
This past Sunday was Gurudeva's last class. He was joined by a few
Sannyasi godbrothers, and Vrkesvara Pandit Prabhu.
This was the first time H.H Gunagrani Maharaja had come to Gita Nagari
in years, Gurudeva was especially happy to see him, when Gurudeva
introduced Maharaja to all the devotees he shared a few pizza pastimes
with him and H.H. Gunagrani Maharaja in Argentina.
This last class was really intense, please go to BTSwami.com to read
the entire class.
Back at the Institute, after the Temple program, Gurudeva had his last
meeting with his sannyasi godbrothers that came to Gita Nagari to be in
his association.
H.H. Gunagrani Maharaja got really inspired and agreed to prepare his
special pizza for all his godbrothers the next day. This was such a
sweet exchange, while waiting to serve his godbrothers hot pizza,
Maharaja joined the bhajan team outside Gurudeva's room and played his
drum. The next morning Maharaja and Vrkesvara Pandit Prabhu had H.H
Bhaktivaibhava Maharaja and all the devotees in the Temple dancing
ecstatically, before he gave a short Bhagavatam class.
After Sunday, Gurudeva has become much more internal, he has fixed his
consciousness on meditating mostly on japa, bhajans, pastimes and more
pastimes.
He is sleeping a little longer now, for 3 to 4 hours at a time, however
the cancer is causing him much more pain in his leg and back, two days
ago we had to increase his pain medications. He is still honoring some
prasadam, however each day it is less and longer periods in between
meals.
Most importantly though, Gurudeva is absorbed in constanly hearing and
viewing activities of Krsna in Vraja. He is anxiously waiting to exit
his body, looking forward to Srila Prabhupada escorting him to his
final destination. He is happy.
This is a wonderful time for all his disciples to join Gurudeva in his
meditations. Perhaps for us before we sleep or if we get some time in
the day we can either read, listen to a tape, or view a video of Krsna
in Vraja so that we can also transport our consciousness for those
moments to Vraja. Remember when we were all praying for Gurudeva when
we learned he had cancer, when he got his leg amputated, how connected
we all were internally and externally with our focus on Guru and Krsna
at that time. Perhaps in that same mood we can meditate on Krsna's
pastimes more intensely.
H.H Holiness Radanatha Maharaja spends a few hours with Gurumaharaja
every day, these hours are extremely precious for our Gurumaharaja, and
also for all the caregivers. We feel so fortunate to have this
wonderful opportunity to prepare lunch for Maharaja each day and for
him to extend his mercy to us by making himself easily available.
Maharaja has also been inspiring all the devotees with his
instructional classes, and his sweet bhajans.
We were all sad that H.H. Bhativaibhava Maharaja had to leave, he gave
the most wonderful classes, and the devotees were all eager to serve
him. Maharaja is so humble, he gave the devotees his association in
ways that we will never forget him. We were most fortunate to have him
in Gita Nagari with us during this time.
We will send another update soon.
Your servants
The caregivers
cos...@gmail.com
Please accept our most humble obeisance
All glories to our beloved Gurumaharaja
All glories to ISKCON Founder Acharya Srila Pabhupada
It is almost one week since Gurudeva announced that he was retiring to
enter into 'nirjana bhajan.'
His body has started experiencing more pain, however Sangita mataji and
the local hospice nurse are assisting Ekavira Prabhu with the proper
administation of pills for pain management. Gurudeva is also adjusting
to his sleep patterns, last night he was fully awake at 11.00pm, so at
that time Brahma Muhurta Das read to him, and Dhruva faned him (he was
sweating profusely) until almost 4.00am when he fell asleep for 1 hour
intervals until around noon. His eating patterns are also changing,
this morning he had some fruits and he did not have a desire to eat
again until almost 10.00pm.
The last few nights the men have been bringing Gurudeva out of his room
into the sitting room for a few hours to get a change of scenery.
Usually he chants, or watches a dvd on the holy tirthas in Vrindavana.
Most importantly, Gurudeva is completely absorbed in chanting and
hearing. Each day he seems more happy about the prospects of returning
home. The devotees around him are also endevouring to become more
absorbed in focusing our consciousness on hearing and chanting. Even
though we know that we will grieve deeply when our Gurumaharaja leaves
this world, there is a sweetness in the enviornment, knowing that he
will most likely soon move out of his deteriating body.
Gurudeva is definitely not answering any phone calls, and not having
anymore visitors. We would like to thank all of you for honoring
Gurudeva's request to be more internal at this crucial time of making
his transition.
Your servants
With Love
The Caregivers
cos...@gmail.com
Please accept our most humble obeisance
All glories to our beloved Gurumaharaja
All glories to ISKCON Founder Acharya Srila Prabhupada
This week has been much more quiet than usual. All of the visiting
Sanyassa and Gurus have left, except of course H.H. Radhanatha Maharaja
who spends many hours of his day with Guru maharaja.
Gurudeva's body is getting weaker, and the cancer is spreading. The
body is showing more signs that it is under stress. Even though the
body is breaking down rapidly, Gurudeva's voice is still as strong as
ever, and although he continues to loose weight, he is quite effulgent.
He shared with us how much of a relief it is to actually rest and sleep
now, because for so many years as a travelling preacher he never placed
much priority on sleeping.
This past Sunday Srila Radhanatha Swami, Gadadhara dasa (his servant)
and Brahma Muhurta Dasa went for a few hours to Potomac Temple to
participate in the wedding of Kripa Devi and Bhakti Prabhu. Srila
Radanatha Swami knew Bhakti Das as a child in New Vrindavana.
Immediately after the wedding, Maharaja and the devotees returned to
Gita Nagari, where he was scheduled to give the evening class in the
Temple. Maharaja enlivened all the devotees with the most ecstatic
bhajans that brought everyone to their feet dancing and chanting. After
the devotees had danced to their hearts content, Maharaja then absorbed
all the devotees in listening to the nectarine pastime of Lord Caitanya
and Jagadanada Pandit prabhu. This wonderful evening ended with the
scrumptious Sunday Feast prepared by a team of devotees headed by
Anasuya and Padma devi Dasi.
Although Gurudeva is not eating so much, he still has an appetite to
honour the foods that he likes. Today, Guru Maharaja, Srila Radhanatha
Swami and the caregivers had a special treat from Radha Valabha Das,
(disciple of Srila Radhanatha swami). He came from New York especially
to prepare his delicious pizza for everyone. Brahma Muhurta managed to
get a few shots of Gurudeva and Srila Radhanatha Maharaja honouring
pizza together. Gurudeva personally thanked Radha Vallabha for his
sweet offering. The evening ended with Srila Radhanatha Swami
personally serving all the caregivers pizza. Actually as I sat here
typing this update, Maharaja came into the office and served two
caregivers pizza. It was really embarrassing to be served by Maharaja.
We sincerely want to thank the devotees in the D.C. Maryland, New
Jersey and New York for their loving support. We are most appreciative
for all the bhoga and flowers that you bring each week.
Your servants
With love
The caregivers
cos...@gmail.com
Please accept my humble obeisances, all glories to Gurumaharaja, all
glories to ISKCON founder-acarya Srila Prabhupada!!!
Last night and early this morning Gurumaharajs vital signs were very
low. This means his blood pressure was very low, his pulse was high and
his tempurature high. This vital level could not maintain a physical
body for very long, and is usually a sign that the body is shutting
down. As the day progressed, Gurumaharaj's vitals improved, and are
currently stable. He is weak and has eaten very little (which is common
these days). Still, he ate his tofu-ice cream.
Gurumaharaj has been joking a lot. His mood is peaceful and happy, as
he remarked today "I am waiting for my chariot to come".
The sweet Krsna magic came forth in such a special way today, with the
unexpected appearnace of some very unique and exalted Braja basis. This
group of devotees is from Varsana, the birth place of Srimati
Radharani, and HH Radhanatha Swami has known them from his time in
Vraja before he joined ISKCON. Of all the possible places in the world
and all the possible times, these rare devotees happened to be in
Harisburg PA (:45 minutes away from Gurumaharaj)!! Somehow HH Radhantah
Swami found out a couple of days ago of their presence locally, and
arranged for them to come to the Institue House to chant for
Gurumaharaj. HH Radhanath Swami has such a deep relationship with these
devotees. They are all so genuine, humble, loving - adorned with all
the sweet and serene qualities of a real Krsna-bhakta. As they were
taken in HH Radhanatha Swamis Van, spontaneously Maharaj began
discussing with them such a vivid description of Akrura taking Krsna
from Vrndavana.
With Maharaj these Vraja basis came into Gurudevas quarters. They began
to chant Braj basi bhajans about Srimati Radharani. There was one flute
player. As soon as Maharaj heard the flute he began crying, and
continued for around 20 minutes. They chanted mostly bhajans about
Srimati Radharani. Gurumaharaj was so please and exstatic. He said -
"today Vrndavana came to me".
There are so many special instances were the spiritual world becomes
more overt in the Institute house. The other day Gurumaharaj was
requesting more picture of Vrndavan and of the Vraj-basis. In their
thoughtfullness of catering to Gurudevas wishes, the care givers became
prayerful of coming upon a way to cover up the large book shelf that
offers a somewhat blank glare at Gurudeva throughout the day. Several
days latter our Godborther Isana Gaura comes with a large canvas
picture of Radha and Krsna, just big enough to cover the bookshelf
We will be sending out daily reports now.
We hope everyone is blissfully "dying" on their battlefiled, as
Gurumaharaj is dying on His. May we all die before we die.
Your servant,
Purusa-sukta das
cos...@gmail.com
Please accept my humble obeisances, all glories to His Holiness
Bhakti-tirtha Swami, all glories to ISKCON founder-acarya Srila
Prabhupada!
Last night Gurudeva slept well, 6 hrs straight. His vital signs are
stable, while some bodily functions are slowing down. He took a lot of
fluids today.
Basically everyday Gurumaharaj is in anticipation to return home.
It is taking him a much longer time to chant his rounds. Radhanatha
Maharaj extolled Gurudeva as a modern day example of Hari Das Thakur.
And at the end of the day Ekavira Prabhu remarked "for me the thing
that stuck out the most today was his example, his chanting of his
rounds. He is doing it for us, to set an example. He is not just sick,
he is dying. Yet in this condition he is chanting his prescribed rounds
just to set and example for us." Up until recently Gurudeva was
chanting 20 rounds daily, in addition to continuous hearing of lila. He
is continuing with 16 rounds.
Today a 24 hr kirtana at the Institute house began. In the living room
select bhajaneers, usually duets, chanted very softly for Gurudeva
throughout the day and into the night, a short distance from his
bedroom
In general Gurudeva was, as Vrajalila described, more grounded in his
body. In the morning and afternoon he was encountering a good deal of
discomfort.
Gurumaharaj hardly ate anything until HH Radhanath Swami came around
4:30pm. Gurudeva was feeling very fatigued. Usually Maharaj will meet
with Gurudeva and then take prasadam separately, however today Gurudeva
requested that Maharaj take prasadam with him in his room. At his usual
moderate pace Radhanath Swami eventually finished honoring prasadam to
find Gurudeva had a long ways to go. As Maharaj walked back to his
vehicle he remarked to his servant "that was amazing, Bhakti-tirtha
Maharaj was so fatigued when I went in there, he was eating so slow,
but once we started getting into some topics (about Krsna), he became
filled with energy, and sat up enlivened and got right into it." Among
other things, Radhantha Swami chanted one song by Narotama das thakur,
and they read the translation together
Yesterday a similar incident took place when Gurudevas vital signs went
so low. His speech became slurred, his hands were cold. Then, all of a
sudden he sat up and started directing the devotees on how the room
should be arranged for his departure. He directed things with vigor
until everything was in the proper harmony. Then Varajalila remarked to
Gurudeva "your life air has come back", Gurumaharaj then sighed with
disappointment
As Gurudeva retired for the evening he said that from a scale from 1-10
his pain is a 2 or a 3. He is situated nicely. He remarked to Vraja
Lila "So do not worry, it is all in Krsna's time." He was smiling.
Afterward some of the care takers were relishing a video made by Isana
Gaura Prabhu. This is a slide show on DVD, with images of Gurudeva
along with Srila Prabhupada and Their Lordships. They are going through
such a deep personal service. They are not just with Gurudeva
physically, they are following along spiritually. May we also follow in
their footsteps.
May we all die before we die
Your servant,
Purusa-sukta das
cos...@gmail.com
Please accept my humble obeisance, all glories to ISKCON founder-acarya
Srila Prabhupada, all glories to His Holiness Bhakti-tirtha Swami.
Last night (Friday night) Gurumaharaj was graced with a good nights
rest. He slept a full 8hrs! He also slept a little more, latter in the
morning. His bodily functions are continuing to slow down. His vital
signs were the same as yesterday (stable).
Before taking rest Friday night Brahma-mahurta Prabhu read the
Govardhana Lila to Gurudeva, and as Gurumaharaj slept the narration
continued. This particular narration (not informed to me) details the
loving interactions Lord Sri Krsna had with the myriad devotees
accompanying Him under Govardhana. The 24 hr kirtan, implemented that
day, also accompanied Gurudeva into his rest. He praised the sweetness
of the kirtan and its soothing voices.
After rising Saturday Gurudeva absorbed himself in chanting japa, which
continued for quite sometime. Then he met with HH Radhanatha Swami
around 5:15pm. Again they took prasadam together. This is a very
special time of Gurumaharaja's day, his relationship with Maharaj being
so unique; such a deep and intimate friendship. They passed their meal
with many sweet humorous exchanges - transcendental joking. Gurumaharaj
ate a full meal. HH Radhanath Swami spent nearly two hours with
Gurudeva, having katha. They were reading and discussing from one song
book (not informed to me).
Gurumaharaj was in anticipation for the special event to take place in
the evening. After their meeting, Radhanatha Swami was to go into the
living room and sing bhajans with all the local devotees for Gurudeva,
as he rested in his room. The caregivers arranged for this only earlier
in the day. Still it was nicely organized, and so many devotees
attended. Gopal Prabhu decorated the living room with Large Krsna art
paintings from the temple room, and Devavati Prabhu made many beautiful
flower arrangements. All the devotees who attended were able to sit
comfortably and immerse themselves in the bhajan. As I scanned the room
from the front, to see how the devotees were enjoying the kirtana, I
came to the conclusion that Vraja Lila Prabhu was relishing it the
most. At one point she got up and lightly danced. She was all the way
in the very back. It is said that the further down the transcendental
chain one goes (das das das anudas...) one derives a greater extent of
spiritual pleasure. Vraja Lila was certainly in a mood of pleasing all
of the devotees there.
It is so nice to see such unity and Vaisnava seva happening at this
time. How pleasing this must be to Gurumaharaj. May it only increase!
May we all become immersed in the nectar ocean of Vaisnava seva.
We hope everyone is blissfully "dying" on their battlefield, as
cos...@gmail.com
6/11-6/12 Saturday evening and Sunday morning.
Gurumaharaj had another good nights rest. He slept 8 hours and then
another 1 hour and 15 minutes. His vitals are stable. As soon as he
woke immediately he began chanting.
Last night after the bhajans Gurumaharaj expressed his appreciation of
the devotees for their presence and their chanting. He was deeply
relishing the chanting of the Srila Radhanatha Swami and the devotees.
When Radhantha Swami began to chant, in the privacy of his room
Gurumaharaj closed his eyes, sat back, and began to rock back and forth
along with kirtana. Shortly after Maharaja’s kirtana, the 24hr
kirtana continued with Advaita Acarya and Gopal, and Gurumaharaj
continued to relish the Holy names. At this time he was settled down
for his evening rest. As he lay and listened to serene chanting of
Advaita Acarya he commented that it was like a lullaby of the Holy
Names. Brahma-mahurta Prabhu narrated Krsna-lila to Gurudeva as his
body went to rest.
I will try to update the devotees daily between 10am and noon, about
that morning and previous night and day beginning tomorrow.
May we all die before we die.
Your servant,
On behalf of the caregivers of HH Bhakti-tirtha Swami
Purusa-sukta das
cos...@gmail.com
Sunday 6/12 (Morning) Monday 6/13 (Morning)
After Gurumaharaj woke yesterday he engaged in chanting japa and
hearing readings of Krsna-lila until 4pm. As it was Sunday, Gurumaharaj
asked the devotees normally scheduled to carry on the 24hr kirtana to
attend the Sunday class, given by HH Radhanatha Swami. In their place
Gurudeva asked the caregivers to fill-in. They did so with great
delight, chanting from 4pm until around 6pm. Afterwards they went into
Gurudeva's room to find him peacefully asleep (something uncommon at
this time of day). Shortly thereafter Gurumaharaj awoke, smiling and
effulgent. He was very happy.
At 7pm Gurudeva met with Srila Radhnatha Swami. This meeting began with
their new custom of eating together. As usual, the mood during prasadam
started with joy and humor and, as usual, faded into an enthralling and
serious discussion. Gurudeva ate only a little.
Gurudeva took rest at 10pm and woke at 11:30pm. After rising he engaged
in japa, with the other caregivers in his room, until 3:30am.
Gurumaharaj slept again until 6:30am. and then again from
7:30am-9:30am. Throughout the night he was in more pain than usual. The
caregivers plan to monitor the pain even more closely and may increase
the pain medication.
Normally Gurudeva has a concentrated 2hr period for his japa, and then
continues for some hours interspersing japa with Krsna-lila readings
(parikrama recordings or readings by the caregivers from literature by
our acaryas describing Krsna-lila ). Gurudeva likes that each day some
caregivers join him for japa during this concentrated period, usually
10:30am -12:30pm. The caregivers continue to be amazed by Gurudeva's
effort to set an example of dedication to japa - dedication to ones
vows. HH Radhanatha Swami also commented that this is an attribute of
Gurudeva's magnificent and simple love for Srila Prabhupada " his
persistence with his vow to Srila Prabhupada to chant a minimum of 16
rounds, despite being so physically challenged in the process.
The Sunday class given by Srila Radhanatha Swami was very special and
very important for all of us to hear and understand. Maharaj spoke
about the spiritual perspective of a great souls suffering and death.
He mainly drew from the lila of Srila Haridas Thakur willfully
departing form this world. He focused on how these lilas illustrate the
deep love between the Lord and his pure devotee. There has been
additional dialog with Maharaj on these points, and we will send out a
summary in the next day or so.
May we all die before we die.
All glories to the magnificent closing pastimes of His Holiness
Bhakti-tirtha Swami Maharaj. May these lessons always stay with us.
On behalf of the caregivers of HH Bhakti-tirtha Swami,
Your servant,
Purusa-sukta das
On Monday Gurudeva was in more pain than he has been in the past few
weeks. This morning, Tuesday, the pain came under control by the
caregivers administering additional pain medication. Gurumaharaja's
vitals are stable, he rested 7hrs.
Ironically the height of Gurumaharaja's pain was when he went out to
see Lord Jagannatha yesterday. Those of us who were in Gurumaharaja's
presence would have to be told this information, for his appearance
outwardly gave no indication of it, being so serene and blissful.
What a wonderful pastime this was! At one point Srila Radhanatha Swami
said to Gurudeva, you missed Ratha Yatra this year, so Lord Jaganatha
has come to you - and you had your own Ratha Yatra!!!
Can you imagine it? Gurudeva leading kirtana, playing the kartals and
chanting for nearly ten minutes! His mood was so special. With such a
genuine, simple yet rich love, Gurudeva immersed himself in the
Lord's Darsana, and from time to time slowly rotated his head to
carefully view the devotees on one side of him, and then gently brought
himself to view the devotees on the other side. He had such a sweet and
simple appreciation for all the devotees there. It was so sweet. As
Lord Jaganatha views the needy masses out of His love for them,
infusing them with hope, Gurumaharaj sweetly looked upon us with such
genuine love and appreciation, infusing us all with great hope.
Gurudeva did speak to us briefly, and the full transcription has been
attached to this message. Below are his closing remarks to us. This
talk is monumental. We should all meditate on it deeply. Bear in mind
that this address was given when Gurudeva was at the peak of his pain.
When the pain led Gurudeva to decide to take his leave, rather than run
back inside away from the scorching heat, with deep care and attention
Gurudeva carefully arranged for prasadam to be distributed to all the
devotees, and then personally distributed the prasadam to everyone with
his own hands. He did this with radiant happiness. Eventually the
caregivers prompted Gurudeva to be taken to the porch. There he
continued to distribute the prasdam to everyone. He distributed it with
such genuine humility, care and attention. Several times he asked if
everyone had received prasdam. He waited so patiently until everyone
had received, and then when he finished the distribution he gave
another short address which I have listed here:
Gurudeva: "Thank you all. Be happy huh. My tears in the last few
weeks or so have been mainly tears of joy, tears of happiness, tears of
satisfaction. Krishna has given us such a wonderful family under
Prabhupada, under the Saraswata family... and that we have wonderful
chance to take advantage of this life, and we have wonderful chance to
be part and we have chance to be victorious. We come into this world as
a school and now we have chance to graduate with the highest
certificate.
So as we say we are blessed by the best and we won't settle for
nothing less, so all of us we do have our individual tests. So be ready
to pass your tests, because you will have your tests. And it will be
glorious if you can just depend on Krsna and recognize that He controls
everything. I'm working on that myself, trying to accept and
understand how Krsna’s controlling everything. And so I'll
pray for you and you pray for me in the same way. And we'll pray to
Prabhupada that we will not disappoint him - so we'll be his
spiritual warriors. So many nice sadhus and gurus that Prabhupada has
made available for all of you. So please take advantage of them and be
like Savitri. Be greedy (laughter), be greedy for the mercy. Never wait
for mercy to descend on you. It doesn’t happen that way. You
have to have GREED. Now don't you knock anybody else over (laughter).
But you definitely got to position yourself to make sure that you get
the mercy.
So I thank you all very much. Nsringhadeva Bhagavan ki! Jaya! Sri Sri
Radha Damodara ki! Jaya! Vaisnava Thakura ki! Jaya!!!
We love you all (We love you Gurudeva!). Our love will constantly
increase, and that is the beauty,that the material relationships, all
the lust that comes and goes and turns into anxiety, but where there is
love, it unfolds and it radiates and it becomes something sweeter and
sweeter. Jaya! (Jaya Gurudeva!!!)"
As Gurudeva was taken inside, Advaita Acarya led an ecstatic
Nsringhadeva kirtan before Lord Jagannatha.
So please take advantage of the full transcription attached to this
message. For those reading this on the web site, this should be
available as a separate file somewhere.
May we all die before we die.
May the sacrifice and wisdom imparted to us by His Holiness
Bhakti-tirtha Swami become an active part of our life!
On behalf of the caregivers of HH Bhakti-tirtha Swami Your servant,
Purusa-sukta das
The transcription from BT Swami's darshan with Jagannatha:
cos...@gmail.com
Tuesday 6/14 through Wednesday morning 6/15.
This morning Gurudeva was experiencing additional pain. The caregivers
have made further arrangements for a suitable increase in pain
medication. It is becoming a little more difficult to move Gurudeva
around, as he is so fragile. Gurudeva's vitals are normal. He slept a
total of 8hrs last night, in several segments of time.
Yesterday Gurumaharaj went through his normal routine of nirjana
bhajan: Chanting, hearing Krsna-lila, and meeting with Srila Radhanatha
Swami. The Kirtana continues to go on and Gurumaharaj very much
appreciates this. The other day he commented how he takes note of each
kirtana and can sense the unique quality of love expressed by the
chanters.
Despite his pain Gurumaharaj continues to be absorbed in the bliss of
Krsna consciousness. It is not that he is indifferent to the pain, or
stoic, as a yogi might be in their tapasya, rather his response to
physical pain is always of a deep devotional nature. Soon I will send
out the discussion that Srila Radhantha Swami gave recently on a great
souls response to pain and death, which illuminates this topic
wonderfully.
May we all die before we die.
On behalf of the caregivers of His Holiness Bhakti-tirtha Swami,
Your servant,
Purusa-sukta das
cos...@gmail.com
http://www.btswami.com/images/gallery/index.php?dir=./1
don't miss it, it's real nectar and maybe the last photos of him we can
see...
ys bh mira
cos...@gmail.com
Wednesday 6/15 through Thursday morning 6/16.
The increased pain we reported Gurudeva having yesterday morning
persisted for sometime. Towards the end of yesterday the additional
medication subdued the pain. Gurudeva's voice was weaker. He was able
to rest well, 8 hours in two intervals. This morning Gurudeva was in a
stable condition, the pain was lessened and controlled. His voice was
stronger.
Yesterday Gurudeva honored prasadam early in the afternoon, thereafter
he met with Srila Radhanatha Swami. After this, 6pm or so, two
caregivers alternated reading to Gurudeva until 10pm. Latter, while
Gurudeva was apparently in deep sleep, the 24 hour kirtana held outside
of his room stopped, and to the surprise of the caregiver in the room
Gurudeva softly commented "why have they stopped chanting?"
Yesterday Gurudeva spontaneously gave a darsan to the caregivers. He
shared some things about understanding his illness from a physical,
subtle and spiritual point of view. He left some time for questions and
answers. Vraja Lila Prabhu latter commented that she feels Gurudeva was
trying to bring the caregivers closer together. She sees that Gurudeva
frequently finds ways of doing this. Without question Gurudeva is the
lead caregiver.
Another lead caregiver is Radhanatha Swami. The other day Maharaj staid
up until 2am with Ekavira and Vrajalila, giving his association to them
for over 3 hours straight. Maharaj continues to make himself so
available to support especially the caregivers, as well as all the
devotees visiting or residing at Gita Nagari. Gurudeva refers to
Maharaj as the "special caregiver".
May we all die before we die. May the timeless import of these pastimes
protect us for all time to come.
On behalf of the caregivers of His Holiness Bhakti-tirtha Swami
Maharaj,
Your servant,
Purusa-sukta das
cos...@gmail.com
Thursday June 16th, Friday morning June 17th.
The increased pain that recently came upon Gurudeva fluctuated
yesterday. Gurudeva's breathing has been irregular, and the rate of
irregularity is increasing. This is a sign that his departure will
occur in the near future. Gurudeva's appetite over the past few days
continues to diminish. His vitals fluctuated a little early this
morning, but as of latter morning were stable. His pain is under
control, and he slept well last night.
Yesterday all seven of the brahmacaris from the Bhaktivedanta Asrama in
Mahanhattan, led by Yajna Purusa Prabhu, along with Govinda Prabhu from
the Chowpatty BA, came for a daylong stay. Their mission was twofold,
1) to offer another transcendental pizza feast for the spiritual
fulfillment of Gurudeva and the caregivers, and 2) offering an
extensive presence in the 24 kirtana. Unfortunately Gurudeva was able
to only eat one and a half slices of Radhavallabha Prabhu's famous
pizza. (Radhavalabha Prabhu made 16 pies of pizza!). The New York
devotees offered kirtana from 5pm-7pm and 9pm until 3am! World famous
bhajaneer Keshavacarya, formerly from Switzerland, was the featured
chanter. At one point the caretakers went in to find Gurudeva with his
eyes shut, swinging his head back and forth as he absorbed himself in
the kirtan.
The caregivers noted how reflective Gurudeva is about the mercy and
blessings of Srila Prabhupada, and how Lord Krsna facilitates
everything we have to experience. He takes his life one day at a time,
considering each day to be his last. Gurudeva is concerned about the
devotees. He wants that the devotees are ready for his departure, which
could occur any day now.
Though his body and health are steadily digressing, upon awakening this
morning Gurudeva said that he was fired up, and in eagerness to engage
in japa he immediately asked for his beads and to be taken to the
living room to chant japa.
Both by rising and by setting, the sun decreases the duration of life
of everyone, except one who utilizes the time by discussing topics of
the all-good Personality of Godhead, and chanting His holy names. (SB
2.3.17)
May we all die before we die
May the final pastimes of His Holines Bhakti-tirtha Swami always be
remembered.
On behalf of the caregivers of HH Bhakti-tirtha Swami,
Your servant,
Purusa-sukta das
cos...@gmail.com
Nagari farm concerning how great devotees leave this planet at:
ys bh mira
cos...@gmail.com
The caregivers report that Gurudeva's increased pain is coming under
control. They are still working with it, slightly increasing the pain
medication yesterday. For brunch Gurudeva ate 3 pieces of pizza, some
non-dairy ice cream and cookies (Jai!). In the evening he ate very
little. He woke at 4:15 this morning, after plenty of rest. As of
9:00am his vitals are stable.
In the late morning His Holiness Radhanatha Swami came over. Maharaj
was stopping by to get permission from Gurudeva to go to a program he
was scheduled to do in Potomac (Washington D.C.), scheduled now since 3
months. This program was arranged by Gauravani Prabhu and his wife
Vrndarani Prabhu, for other Gurukulis to join with them in honoring
prasadam and extensively relishing the holy name with Maharaj. The
program was to take place in the comfort of Gauravani and Vrndarani
Prabhu's large and scenic back yard. Maharaj was considering that
Gurudeva's health may be too poor them to be separated for a whole
day. When he asked if he should go, Gurudeva immediately replied with
hearty conviction, You must go! You must go and represent us both!.
Before Maharaj departed, Gurudeva again remarked, I am so grateful that
you can go and represent me also.
Gurudeva is still focused on chanting the holy names and hearing
Krsna's pastimes, and everyday he expresses appreciation for the
devotees chanting in the 24 kirtana. Yesterday afternoon he viewed a
production by Bhurijan Prabhu of Gurukuli children chanting bhajan and
reciting Prabhupada lila from the condensed Lilamrta. When Gurudeva
heard these Gurukulis chanting he received so much pleasure. A broad
smile came upon his face and he remarked 'the kids kirtana is so
amazing.'
For maybe the first time in his devotional life Gurudeva slept during
the day yesterday. As expected, fatigue comes with the dying process.
Still Gurudeva was always so adamant to not waste his any of his time
in Srila Prabhupada's service (not sleeping during the day, not even
a snap!). During his bout with cancer and his process of dying he has
always fought the tendency to sleep during the day, with great
determination. Yesterday afternoon however, he could not avoid resting
his body, and slept for nearly five hours. Upon wakening Gurudeva
looked at his watch, which read 8:00. It was still daylight out, much
like it is in the morning time. So upon reading his watch Gurudeva
remarked 'Ok, good I can get up and start chanting.' In response
Ekavira Prabhu said 'Ok Gurudeva, but its not 8am - its 8PM!" To
this Gurudeva's eyes widened and he smiled, he was doubtful,
'You're kidding?! Don't play with me!" "We are serious
Gurudeva" Ekavira replied. With some amazement and disbelief Gurudeva
questioned, "You guys! Are you serious!?" This exchange went on for
a good 15-20 minutes, Gurudeva was in a rather humors and innocent
state of disbelief. With his smile and wide eyes he kept looking around
lightly expressing his disbelief to the caregivers present. Finally
when Gurudeva saw that the sun was in motion to set for the evening he
accepted the caregivers notion of time.
The caregivers are noting that Gurudeva's smile, which was always so
brilliant and empowering, is much deeper and animated these days. When
he smiles nowadays his eyes light up so brightly, and his eyebrows
often dance.
May we all die before we die May the life and wisdom of His Holiness
Bhakti-tirtha Swami always comfort us.
On behalf of the caregivers of HH Bhakti-tirtha Swami,
Your servant,
Purusa-sukta das
cos...@gmail.com
06/12/05 given on Gita Nagari:
Lord Caitanya Gladdens Haridasa Thakura
http://www.btswami.com/audio/transcriptions.php?id=18
cos...@gmail.com
suffering and death of great souls at:
cos...@gmail.com
This morning, 10am, Gurudeva was still resting since about 5:15am, so
there is no report of his vitals as of today. Yesterday evening his
vitals were stable. Gurudeva slept a lot. From last night and early
evening, in two segments, Gurudeva slept for nearly 10 ½ hours. We may
be relived to know that when Gurudeva is lying down he does not
experience much pain. His motor functions continue to slow down and his
appetite continues to decrease. Gurudeva's condition is more delicate
now, and the caregivers are ensuring that sufficient assistance is
available at all times. The caregivers are sensitive to not
unnecessarily prompt Gurudeva to eat, as this can cause excessive gas.
They are careful to ensure that Gurudeva takes plenty of fluids.
Even though physically very weak, Gurudeva is still quite playful. Last
night Srila Radhanatha Swami had to lean over him to hear his faint
voice. While they were talking in this way one caregiver came into the
room to find something in the corridor closet and while searching made
a bit too much noise (way too much noise). Radhantha Swami was
straining to hear Gurudeva. All of a sudden Gurudeva asked, "Who is
that?" Another caregiver replied ( to be considerate we will say)
'Krsna das' (not a real caregivers name). Then Gurudeva manifested a
strong voice, colored with playfulness, and remarked: "Hey Krsna das,
do you think you could make any more noise?" Radhanatha Swami and some
others in the room chuckled at this, and this particular caregiver,
quite humbled, immediately came out and offered obeisances.
Yesterday Rukmini and Anuttama Prabhus (God siblings of Gurudeva) made
arrangements to come to chant for Gurudeva, outside of his room. They
chanted in the evening and morning with such genuine enthusiasm. They
also were able to give their time to the caregivers. In particular they
have a close relationship with Vraja Lila and Ekavira. Everyone was
delighted by their presence.
Another sweet exchange, that will be uplifting for many of us, occurred
yesterday. One of Gurudeva's senior brahmacari disciples from
Argentina, Mahajan Prabhu, has been serving as Gurdeva's 'laundry wala'
(laundry man) for several months now. Each day he cleans and irons
Gurudeva's clothes and linen, and later personally delivers it to him.
He also assists in any way he is asked. Overall Mahajan Prabhu has not
received much personal association with or personal service to
Gurudeva, before he came here in April. Yesterday when Mahajan Prabhu
came up to perform his daily duty, when Gurudeva saw him, he remarked,
"he has developed into a very loyal devotee." Then Ekavira Prabhu asked
"What do you mean by that Gurudeva?" "Whatever service he does, he does
as an offering to the Spiritual Master, regardless of whether he likes
it or not, he does it as a personal offering - even though he hasn't
had much personal contact with me."
How nice it is, at this time, to see such an example drawn out for us
of what the Guru connection is really about.
May we all die before we die
May the wisdom and legacy of His Holiness Bhakti-tirtha Swami always be
remembered!
On behalf of the caregivers of HH Bhakti-tirtha Swami,
Your servant,
Purusa-sukta das
cos...@gmail.com
Currently, as he was this morning, Gurudeva is in a stable condition.
By noontime yesterday Gurudeva had slept 14 hrs since resting the
previous night. This is part of the dying process, increased fatigue.
Gurudeva's pain is still persisting. The caregivers are doing their
best to address it, with all the needed professional help. As
Gurumaharaj desires, they are especially careful to offer pain relief
with the minimum effect of drozziness or other cognitive disadvantages.
Gurudeva's increased fatigue is due partly to the increased pain
medication. Otherwise it is just an aspect of the dying process.
Gurudeva has more congestion in his lungs. There has been a change in
his energy level. He is very weak. His voice for the first time is
consistently weak. His heart however is extremely strong.
Something very special happened yesterday; another sweet manifestation
of the Lord's great affection for his beloved devotee. Gurudeva has had
a special connection with Tamal Krsna Goswami since the time of Srila
Prabhupada. Maharaj, as Srila Prabhupada's secretary would read and
reply to Gurudeva's famous preaching reports, the ones Srila Prabhupada
would have read repatedly to himself and others. Maharaj arranged for
Gurudeva to meet with Srila Prabhupada at the famous darsan in London,
where Srila Prabhupada embraced Gurudeva. Since the Cancer set in, many
times, especially recently, when Gurudeva felt we that might leave, he
felt the presence of Tamal Krsna Goswami. He would often have dreams of
Maharaj, as would some of the caregivers. In a recent dream Gurudeva
saw Tamal Krsna Maharaj coming to him with tears in his eyes he was
saying to Gurudeva "Srila Prabhupada is waiting for you."
Yesterday at noon Ekavira Prabhu was given a message from Vrakesvara
Pandit that the Dallas devotees had come to present to Gurudeva the
Darsan of Sri Sri Radha Damodar, Srila Tamal Krsna Maharaja's personal
Radha Krsna Deities from Dallas. These Deities appeared mystically to
Maharaj around 1980. On a morning walk in Juhu Maharaj saw a shiny
object in the ocean. He sent his servant to retrieve for him, and came
to see that a small deity Krsna had appeared for him. The murti wala he
consulted stated that it was at least 500 years old. Hearing of this
the Queen of Jaipur had a special Radharani made just for this Deity,
out of pure Gold. Maharaj originally named them Radha Gopinatha, but
latter, out of great separation from his beloved traveling Radha
Damodar, he gave them that name.
The pujari who is currently caring for them recently felt a tremendous
compulsion to bring the Deities to Gurudeva. This feeling would
overcome her every time she would dress and worship them. Even though
it what a practical impossibility, as she and her husband had
absolutely no extra money, this inspiration was so compelling that that
finally her husband agreed to use the money set aside for this months
bills to finance their Lordships travel to see Gurudeva. Hours after
the decision was made they were on a plane to Pittsburg.
Shortly before noontime yesterday Gurudeva woke up. Seeing that he had
wakened Ekavira Prabhu told Gurudeva "I have a surprise for you this
morning Gurudeva" Gurudeva asked "What is it?" "Radha Damodara are
here ". "Radha Damodara?" Gurudeva questioned. "Yes, but not the
Gita Nagari Deities, these are Tamal Krsna Maharaja's Deities.
Maharaj's Deities have come to see you." At this point Gurudeva
motioned down from his seated position in bed to lay down. As he
reclined back he remarked, "This is amazing, this is so amazing. Krsna
is so merciful, Krsna is so merciful." Immediately Gurudeva arranged to
go out to the living room to greet their Lordships, seeing them as the
most honorable guests in his residence.
After coming out to view their Lordships, Gurudeva participated in the
chanting that was led by the Dallas devotees. (A more detailed account
of this will follow this letter) Gurudeva was in tremendous bliss;
smiling, chanting, crying and laughing simultaneously. He spoke for 15
minutes. One point reiterated was that Krsna responds to our prayers,
but He responds based upon the mood in the heart. Gurudeva kept
emphasizing this point - Krsna responds based upon what is in the
heart.
Please take advantage of the additional report of this coming forth by
Citi-sakti Prabhu.
Afterwards Radhanatha Swami remarked to Gurudeva pointing out that he
had recently had his own private Ratha Yatra, and now Radha Damdara
have come from all across the country to see him. This, he commented,
is the nature of the Lord's reciprocation with his beloved devotee,
However, "I am afraid that you are taking so long to return to Him,
that now He is coming to see you."
Sunday, the day that Radha Damodara came, was the Panihati festival.
Gurudeva had expressed that it was "a very merciful day". During the
Sunday class Srila Radhanath Swami spoke about the Panhiati festival
and on the recent appearance of Sri Sri Radha Damodar in Gita Nagari.
This is another one of those must-hear classes. The transcription and
Mp3 file should be posted soon. One theme that Maharaj delivered was
how our line is that of Lord Nityanada "bhaja Krsna bolo Krsna koro
Krsna siksa" ; taking straw between the teeth, and humbly begging the
common people to worship Krsna, chant His holy names and follow His
instructions. Radhanath Swami emphasized that this was the mood of
Srila Prabhupada, and was so magnificently carried out in the life of
Srila Bhakti-tirtha Swami. Please listen to this class fully.
There is more to share. Much more. I will try to send more out latter
tonight.
May we all die before we die
May the Final pastimes of His Holiness Bhakti-tirtha Swami continue to
radiate divine inspiration in all of us.
On behalf of the caregivers of His Holiness Bhakti-tirtha Swami
Your servant,
Purusa-sukta das
cos...@gmail.com
June 20 - 21 morning.
Today was a very special day.
Yesterday evening Gurudeva rested about 6 hrs. He woke at 4:10am and
could not sleep anymore. He was in pain. He had perspired a lot up
until evening, and had symptoms of dehydration. The caregivers
carefully sat Gurudeva up and provided ice chips and water for him. His
vitals had fluctuated, and latter stabilized. He was enduring severe
pain, and spoke of it increasing to quite a high level. The caregivers
provided the suitable medication, but it didn't subside. At 8am
Gurudeva expressed that he wanted to talk to the devotees.
Despite being in such acute and intense pain physically, at this point
his main concern was meeting with the devotees. To ensure that this
meeting would be of the best quality, in extreme pain, Gurudeva decided
not to take his scheduled pain medication, lest it interfere with his
outward cognition. He also expressed a concern about the devotees being
overly affected in seeing his marked physical deterioration. Ekavira
Prabhu reassured Gurudeva "by speaking to the devotees they would be
greatful."
A message had been sent out to the community in Gita Nagari that around
8:30am Gurudeva would be holding an Istagosthi at the Institute House
at 9:30am. All the devotees assembled. Nanda Sunu Prabhu, Gurudeva's
former secretary and one of his beloved Gurukuli disciples from England
was leading a very sweet bhajan. As Gurudeva was getting ready to go
out, Vraja lila Prabhu said "Go for it Gurudeva, go for it!"
Gurudeva shook his head, like an innocent child.
Gurudeva entered the assembly of devotees carried on his chair. In the
time since devotees saw him last week his physical appearance had
deteriorated. He physically appears so frail and weak. Upon sitting,
Gurudeva's face revealed his great appreciation for all the devotees
present physically, and those present otherwise. He spent sometime
catching his breath, all the while simply appreciating all the devotees
with simple, sweet and charming glances. He took care to see that
Radhanatha Swami was situated comfortably, and then he spoke.
Gurudeva's voice was very faint, and his cadence was in concert with
his breath; slow and uneven. He said "I do not have much breath left.
that is beautiful". Some moments went by. "Krsna is letting us know
that our time is over. How wonderful this is, how glorious this is, how
fortunate we are.." He expressed deep appreciation for the devotees.
He shared that his chariot is waiting for him.
Gurudeva was perspiring due to fever, and Ekavira and Druva Prabhu were
periodically wiping his face. He asked them to fan him, and joked
"don't think they are worshiping me". He said this a few times.
"Don't think they are worshiping me ¦.. because pretty soon all of
you will be in this hot seat". One devotee then fanned Gurudeva with
the peacock fan, but it was a little too intense. Gurudeva then asked
"maybe use the camara fan". Then he made a joking comment that this
was good because the camara is a little less prestigious than the
peacock fan.
In his talk Gurudeva tried to explain his situation to the devotees.
This talk was another very special and unique mood. Gurudvea has been
so weak, and now, in the climax of his pain and from a seated position
(the most painful of all positions for Gurudeva), he was giving himself
to connect with and help the devotees and the world. He expressed that
in his humble opinion, the pain was too much for him to bear, and from
there he shared his concern for the pain of others. He remarked how he
was aware of the pain and suffering of humanity and the devotees, and
prayed to be used to help others deal with their pain. He said, "So
many people are in pain, so many, and they don't have anyone to care
for them, they don't have a support system". He was crying. For
sometime he spoke of his concern for the suffering and pain of others,
and how his current affliction is something that has come forth to help
others.
At this the devotees became emotional, so touched by this fathomless
love and compassion exuding from Gurudeva. This compassion was known to
everyone there, but it never ceases to be amazing. And to see it
expressed again in this condition, where Gurudeva had every bit of
reason to be concerned with himself â€" was deeply moving for
everyone present.
Gurudeva did not want the devotees to become sad. Shortly after the
emotions of the devotees came forth, Gurudeva decided to return to his
room. He said he did not know when exactly he would leave, but it was
sometime soon. Today, tomorrow, a few days"
The full transcription of this darsan will come out by this evening.
Upon Gurudeva's exit, Vrakesvara Pandit Prabhu, who Gurudeva has
expressed such heartfelt appreciation for throughout his several months
of staying here, solaced everyone with the holy names.
Meanwhile, Gurudeva was situated in his room, and he and Radhanatha
Swami had a very sweet exchange. Maharaj told Gurudeva "Today is the
most auspicious day, the chariot has already arrived". Then Gurudeva
confided, "I am like Druva Maharaj, I don't want to go back without
my friend". Then one devotee commented "Gurudeva there will be so
many friends there with you". Then Gurudeva said "No I want to go
with my big friend, my Maha friend". Radhanatha Swami assured that
Gurudeva could take him in his heart.
(there is no certainty that Gurudeva will leave today. Up until now he
is stable. We will keep you posted)
May we all die before we die May the final pastimes of His Holiness
Bhakti-tirtha Swami always be remembered.
On behalf of the care givers of His Holiness Bhakti-tirtha Swami,
Your servant,
Purusa-sukta das
cos...@gmail.com
Tuesday June 22 - Wednesday June 23rd.
This morning Gurudeva was stable. His resting patterns have changed.
Even though taking pain medication (which causes drossiness) and
sleeping pills he slept lightly, 1 ½ hrs at a time. He has not eaten
in two days. He drank 16oz of water on Monday and 32 oz of water on
Tuesday. It is very difficult for Gurudeva to even drink water, as his
esophagus is gradually collapsing. Yesterday he told Radhanatha Swami
that tomorrow they will honor prasadam together.
Gurudeva has expressed that he doesn't know how much longer he can
sustain the pain, at the same time he requests less pain medication
each day. The caregivers see that Krsna is protecting him.
In the early afternoon Srila Radhanatha Swami went in to meet with
Gurudeva. They were talking for some time. Maharaj spoke to Gurudeva
about the auspiciousness of the day, as yesterday was Snana yatra, a
full moon and the disappearance of Mukunda datta. Radhanatha Swami went
on to describe the beautiful kirtana pastimes of Mukunda datta, which
always melted the hearts of the devotees present. Maharaj then
mentioned that Mukunda datta was the brother of Vasudeva datta, and
hearing this Gurudeva raised his hand to Maharaj's head and pulled it
to his heart. Keeping Maharaj's head pressed to his heart Gurudeva
started to weep, and as he continued to weep and hold Maharajs head to
his heart, he trembled and repeated the name of Vasudeva Datta many
times. After this they continued to speak for a little longer. Then
Maharaj left briefly, and when he was called back Gurudeva took his
hand and said "I want to leave today, it is an auspicious day". Hearing
this, the devotees present made arrangements in the room to prepare for
an imminent departure. Kirtana began in his room. All of this happened
so quickly.
Initially the kirtana was led by Bhava bhakti Mathaji from South
Africa. She led kirtana singing many of the tunes that Gurudeva likes.
She was singing with great devotion and enthusiasm and in response
Gurudeva began to dance in his bed. As far as possible he did his "jig"
- circling his hand in time, like a cowboy swinging a lasso, and moving
his head to the beat. The devotees were deeply charmed. Bhava Bhakti
stopped sometime into the kirtana to let another devotee chant and then
Gurudeva said "no, tell whoever was leading to continue to lead". She
kept going. Eventually she handed it over to Mahajan Prabhu., who also
led a very sweet and devotional kirtana. Then the devotees were asked
to leave the room. When Gurudeva called the devotees back in he began
to speak to them.
Gurudeva spoke about the auspiciousness of the day how it was the
disappearance of Vasudeva Datta's brother and Snana Yatra He had
Radhanatha Swami comment about Snan Yatra. To this Maharaj mentioned
that Snana Yatra is the day when Lord Jaganatha is taken out in the
temple courtyard and bathed with many sacred scented waters. He said
that today this festival is being celebrated throughout the whole
world.. Hearing how Lord Jaganath was currently being bathed throughout
the world Gurudeva was overjoyed and took great delight in extolling
the glory of this among the devotees there. After this Gurudeva
expressed that he doesn't feel that Krsna wants him to leave today, and
that maybe he will go tomorrow, or that maybe he will be cured (after
mentioning this, he then commented that "that is unlikely". Then he
said "but my passing or your passing is not important, rather how we
live on and what we are becoming - that is the important thing." He
said that if we remember him, he will live on through us and we can
live on together. He spoke of the importance of keeping our vows, how
our love will be expressed in how we maintain our vows. He mentioned
that we will all be challenged, and that his disciples will have to
prove themselves. He said "you just have to become more Krsna
conscious". He praised the diversity of the devotees, and told us not
to get caught up in homogeneity. He said we should love each other and
serve each other. The mood was very intimate and sweet.
It was very difficult to hear what Gurudeva was saying. Somehow the two
recording devices employed there did not function properly, so none of
it is recorded. We are currently working to document what was spoken by
compiling the testimonies of the devotees who were present. This will
take a day or so and we will update you as soon as we can.
This is all for now. I will try to send out more this evening.
May we all die before we die. May the final pastimes of Srila
Bhakti-tirtha Swami always be remembered.
On behalf of the caregivers of HH Bhakti-tirtha Swami,
Your servant,
Purusa-sukta das
cos...@gmail.com
Gurudeva slept until 3am this morning. Soon after that he asked to be
moved from the bed to his chair. Throughout the morning he switched
from his bed and chair several times. He is being closely monitored in
this process. He is in pain. His vitals are stable.
This morning Gurudeva asked to drink water and to have something to
eat. Vraja lila prepared some soup and Ekavira fed it to Gurudeva.
Initially Ekavira just fed him the broth, but Gurudeva asked to eat the
vegetables and so Ekavira fed him that as well. This is the first time
Gurudeva ate in 3 days.
Yesterday Gurudeva slept for most of the day. The highlight of the day
was an istagosthi held by the caregivers. Srila Radhanatha Swami was
also in attendance and gave a short talk. The points of the entire
meeting are relevant for all of us. I have summarized them below.
1) Encourage strong channels of communication between the caregivers
and the greater communities of devotees
2) Departure ceremony update.
1) Communication
***The caregivers expressed that, as Gurudeva has taught us,
communication is really a part of loving relationships. They hoped that
this meeting could help engender that.
*Discerning the imminent departure. The caregivers always have to watch
closely to see when there are clear signs that Gurudeva's departure is
imminent (1-16hrs) . When this is clear, the caregivers will see that
devotees are notified. What follows are some points on how the
caregivers will discern when the departure appears imminent.
-The caregivers are meditating on how to best serve the devotees by
giving the best possible communication concerning Gurudeva's imminent
departure.
-Discerning the imminent departure is very difficult, especially with
someone situated on the transcendental platform.
-Four caregivers are responsible to make this decision collectively, in
consultation with other doctors. Only when they have confidence that an
imminent departure is likely will they notify devotees.
-Anything is possible. If a notice is given Gurudeva could stay, and
Gurudeva could leave without any warning.
*Communicating the imminent departure and departure
-Imminent departure: outside of the Gita Nagari area, through the
BTswami list, a phone tree has been proposed. Those who are not on the
BTswami list can find an update on the phone tree on BTswami.com .
-Departure: when Gurudeva departs there will be an automated message
sent out to the whole world
-The various aspects of the departure ceremony will be promptly
communicated via BTswami.com. We plan to update the list with
descriptions and photographs at least 7 times during the whole
ceremony.
-After the departure a ceremony will immediately begin. The initial
non-public Samadhi samskara rituals (performed in Gurudeva's room) will
take at least 3 hours and possibly longer. This will give devotees time
to drive to Gita Nagari.
*Expressing your concerns about care, communication and anything else
related to the departure.
-The caregivers selected me as the contact person, liaison. If you have
anything to express in this regard please contact me via Email, or call
Gita Nagari 717-527-4101. Please do not hesitate to express something
you feel is of value.
2) Departure ceremony
When Gurudeva leaves, his body will be bathed, dressed, and samadhi
mantras will be placed on his chest; H.H Radhanatha Maharaja and a few
other devotees will perform this rite.
During the bathing and dressing rites, devotees will chant soft bhajans
at Gurudeva's house.
Next, Gurudeva will be carried on a palanquin through the woods to the
Temple, accompanied by a procession of devotees performing kirtan.
When the devotees arrive at the Temple, Gurudeva's body will be brought
before Srila Prabhupada and offered Srila Prabhupada's maha garland and
candan.
Next, Gurudeva's body he will be brought before Sri Sri Radha Damodara,
where the pujari wlll place a maha garland on Gurudeva.
The palanquin and Guru Maharaja's body will then be placed on a
specially made bed in front of the Deities.
Simple puja will then be performed, followed by puspanjali and
maha-arati; during maha-arati, Gurvastikam, and Guruvandanam, devotees
can offer garlands and flowers to Gurudeva's body; after the arati is
completed, devotees may circumambulate Gurudeva's body.
**Please bring flower garlands and flowers with you to be offered to
Guru Maharaja.**
Flower garlands will be removed from Guru Maharaja's body before being
taken to the crematorium; the flower garlands will be saved for the
puspa samadhi. Three devotees will accompany Gurudeva's body to the
crematorium.
**Please note that for every event, procedure, etc.. there are devotees
who have been selected to perform such.
*Radhanatha Swami's talk
Radhanatha Maharaja began the meeting with a short introduction. He
remembered how yesterday he spoke to Gurudeva about the glories of
Mukunda Datta. When he mentioned that Mukunda was the younger brother
of Vasudeva Datta, Gurudeva pressed Maharaja's head to his chest and
began weeping and crying repeating, "Vasudeva Datta, Vasudeva Datta,"
and thinking of the compassion of this great associate of Lord
Caitanya.
Radhanatha Maharaja revealed the principle that Gurudeva has dedicated
his life to-to be an instrument of the compassion of Srila Prabhupada
and the previous acaryas. Gurudeva has always tried to inspire this
compassion in the hearts of all he meets.
Maharaja went on to explain that to be a disciple means to understand
and imbibe the mood of the spiritual master. The disciples of Bhakti
Tirtha Maharaja should seek to embrace the spirit of being instruments
of compassion and to assist in making Srila Prabhupada's movement what
he wanted it to be.
Radhanatha Maharaja then spoke about our internal connection with guru.
The mission that the spiritual master gives us is eternal and one who
takes this mission in one's heart lives with the spiritual master
eternally. From a spiritual perspective, there is no difference between
direct and indirect service to guru. Most disciples render indirect
service, but Gurudeva very much feels our love and reciprocates with
the intentions of our hearts.
Maharaja concluded by expressing his deep gratitude to the caregivers
and all devotees in Gita Nagari for their sincere service.
May we all die before we die May the Final pastimes of Srila
Bhakti-tirhta Swami always be remembered.
On behalf of the caregivers of HH Bhakti-tirtha Swami
Your servant,
Purusa-sukta das
cos...@gmail.com
Yesterday the 24 hour kirtana was taken into Gurudeva's room. Nanada
Sunu and Bhuta Bhavan Prabhu chanted for Gurudeva, very near to his
bed.
That morning Srila Radhanatha Swami happened to come early, to see how
Gurudeva was doing. Then a special opportunity came up, for the
caregivers happened to arrange for devotees to chant inside
Gurudeva's room, thus changing the normal schedule, leaving an open
space in the next kirtana time slot. Hearing this, Srila Radhanatha
Swami expressed that he would like to chant. He came in and joined
Bhuta Bhavana and Nanda Sunu in front of Gurudeva. He would come in and
out of Gurudeva's room, and near the end of their time Maharaj took
over the kirtana. Bhuta Bhavana and Nanda Sunu decided to stay. Maharaj
took the mrdanga and began singing from the songs of the Vaisnava
Acaryas song book. He would sing one bhajan and then continue to next
one. In this way, over the next three hours he proceeded through
practically the entire song book. Maharaj's Mrdnaga playing was
artful, impressing all those who could hear. Bhuta Bhavana Prabhu and
Nanada Sunu stayed the whole time, which means they chanted for 6 hrs
straight without a break (without eating or drinking yet that day).
Maharaj said. "I went in there to relieve them, and they just kept
chanting."
Earlier that day Gurudeva discussed with the caregivers different
possibilities of remaining active throughout the day. As Gurudeva?s
body is so frail and pained it is important that he be repositioned
regularly, lest he develop sores. One option came up of going outside
into the living room, where Gurudeva could be situated on a daybed.
Gurudeva liked this idea and agreed to it. The caregivers arranged for
Bali Maharaj and a few other devotees to have the daybed brought
upstairs and prepared for Gurudeva to use in the early afternoon.
Sometime passed in the absorption of kirtan, and then Radhanatha Swami
invited Gurudeva to proceed outside. As the caregivers were making the
arrangements Gurudeva asked that Maharaj come outside to do kirtana
there. "No Maharaj, we will stay here to lead you on processiona",
Radhanatha Swami replied. Then Maharaj played the Mrdanga in a very
robust and festival mood. Gurudeva entered the living room, amidst a
crowd of ten or so devotees. Uncomfortable with lying down in bed in
the company of so many devotees, Gurudeva asked to remain seated.
In the company of the devotees Gurudeva personally acknowledged each
devotee, gradually looking to each of them. He was noticeably weaker
then even a few days ago, having hardly eaten or drank in three days.
He could hardly talk. The Kirtana continued, lead by Nanda Sunu.
Gurudeva relished this kirtana, closing his eyes and moving his head
from side to side. Around 3:45 Gurudeva stopped the kirtana and
attempted to speak:
Very faintly Gurudeva said: "So, just now Krsna has given me a house".
Radhanatha Swami replied softly "Wow, did you hear that? Krsna just
gave Maharaj a house. Yes, house also means home. Go back home Maharaj,
back to Godhead. Krsna is there, and the cowherd boys and the forests,
and Srila Prabhupada is holding the door for you!" Then Gurudeva's
Godbrother Lokavaranam Prabhu came in and sat down close to Gurudeva.
Lokavaranam has been very supportive of Gurudeva's preaching in West
Africa. Sitting there he began to cry. Then Gurudeva said "Lokavaranam
says I must stay". Radhanath Swami then said "Go through the door
Maharaj" Gurudeva replied "That?s true, I must go through that door".
It was very difficult for the devotees to understand what Gurudeva was
saying as he could hardy move his mouth. Gurudeva was straining to
vocalize. Maharaj was holding Gurudeva?s hand. Spontaneously Radhanatha
Swami began to chant Hare Krsna in a pace for unison japa. Soon all the
devotees present joined him. The collective consciousness was so
focused. Already Gurdueva?s compelling presence had captured the minds
of everything in the room, and now that focus was placed on the Maha
Mantra. The atmosphere was electrified by the holy names. After ten
minutes the unison chanting stopped and Gurudeva commented, "Nice
chanting". Then Radhantha Swami asked "Would you like us to chant
kirtna for you?" Gurudeva replied with childlike eagerness, "Please".
Then Radhanatha Maharaja began singing Yasomati Nandana, all the while
holding Gurudeva's hand. Latter Gurudeva remarked that "All that
needs to be said has been said".
Gurudeva has not taken food, and pracitcally no water since yesterday
morning. He just receives a soaked spounge to moisturize his mouth
throughout the day (naturally he drinks some of that water). He was in
a lot of pain this morning, so the caregivers repositioned him
frequently. His vitals are stable, though they have fluctuated here and
there.
May we all die before we die
remembered!
On behalf of the caregivers of His Holiness Bhakti-tirhta Swami,
Your servant,
Purusa-sukta das
P.S. Many thanks to all the devotees who are helping me with their
notes and testimonies! It's a team effort here!!
You can view photos from the darshan here
cos...@gmail.com
June 24-25 morning.
On a physical level Gurudeva is in great pain and his body is breaking
down. He is much less responsive to things happening in his external
surroundings; he can hardly speak, and is very weak. At the same time
his vitals are practically normal.
Over the past few days much more than ever before the caregivers have
to frequently reposition Gurudeva to help alleviate some of his pain.
Yesterday the pain just persisted despite all possible solutions
attempted. The caretakers were mulling over different ideas of how to
lessen his pain, and then the idea of a full body bath came up.
Gurudeva was hesitant to do this, but then Mahajan Prabhu shared that
his father happened to die from a similar cancer condition, and in the
advanced stages the only way he could relieve some of the pain was to
submerge himself in warm bathwater. Hearing this Gurudeva agreed to
give the bath a try.
Four of the male caregivers, Druva, Ekavira, Kalpavrksa and Mahajan,
took responsibility to devise a plan to successfully transport and
secure Gurudeva in the tub. It was quite a physical feat, but by
Krsna's grace everything went smoothly; Gurudeva was secure in the tub.
The caregivers surrounded Gurudeva in the Jacuzzi tub and bathed him
like a pujari would bathe a deity, pouring water gently over his body
and massaging him. Then Ekavira Prabhu requested Kalpavrksa Prabhu to
read the Caitanya Caritamrta to Gurudeva as he was being bathed. He
specifically selected the chapter "The Devotion of Madhavendra Puri".
This chapter contains the famous verse by Srimati Radharani which
Madhavendra Puri would meditate on, especially in his final days. Our
acaryas explain that this verse is the seed of the ecstatic love of
Lord Caintya.
"O My Lord! O most merciful master! O master of Mathurä! When shall I
see You again? Because of My not seeing You, My agitated heart has
become unsteady. O most beloved one, what shall I do now?" (Cc. Madhya
4.197)
When Kalpavrksa's reading came to this verse, Ekavira asked Kalpavrksa
to repeat it several times. After this he asked him to read the verse
in call and response with the other caregivers and Gurudeva. Kalpavrksa
proceeded phrase by phrase through the verse eight times, as the other
caregivers continued to bathe and massage Gurudeva. Gurudeva was very
meditative. This verse was a favorite of Radhanatha Swami and Gurudeva.
They would recite it together in their meetings over the past weeks,
often repeatedly, often bringing them to tears.
When the bath was complete, Gurudeva was transported back to his bed.
The caregivers were still on edge as they carried Gurudeva back, as
this transport and the recent bath had followed such a long and
agonizing bout with addressing Gurudeva's pain. Did it succeed? To
their delight as Gurudeva reached his bed he lightly remarked "Yeah
that's it, I got a free ride". This light heartedness was the greatest
reward for the caregivers. Their anxiety was somewhat relived.
In the afternoon the issue of transporting Gurudeva continued. He
needed to get up. Srila Radhanatha Swami was there, and suggested that
Gurudeva be put on a cart (sometimes used to transport Gurudeva from
the bedroom to bathroom). As he spoke an idea came, "You know what we
can do, we can have a Govardhana Parikrama!!! This was one of Srila
Prabhupada's last desires, to be taken on a cart pulled by Oxen around
Govardhana! Yes, this push cart can be the cart, and Ekavira can be the
Ox (smile). We can put Giriaj out, Tulasi devi and then walk Maharja
around in circumambulation!" "Would you like to go on a Govardhana
Parikrama Maharaj?" "Yes, Yes" Gurumaharaj promptly replied.
First they thought to have the Parikrama in Gurudeva's room, but then
saw it was too small. Instead they decided to take Gurudeva into the
living room. Maharaj had the devotees place Giriraj and Tulasi in the
middle of the living room and began chanting the Vrndavana Mahimamrta
"Jaya Radhe, Jaya Krsna, Jaya Vrndavan"; two large and beautiful
Govardhana Silas presided. With Ekavaira's Ox power the procession
began.
In his deep Vrndavan consciousness and enthusiasm to serve Gurudeva and
the devotees Srila Radhantha Swami transposed the mood of Govardhana to
Gurudeva's living room. Gurudeva and the small group of devotees
present circumambulated around ten times. Then Gurudeva was brought
before Giriraj and Tulasi, and Radhanatha Swami was there to purify
Gurudeva's hand and assist him in watering Tulasi. Maharaj brought
Tulasi nearer to Gurudeva, and Druva put the spoon in his hand and
helped him lift the spoon to water her. Gurudeva then returned to his
room, escorted by Kirtana. For a while bhajan continued in Gurudeva's
room, he was put to bed and Rahdanatha Swami stayed until Gurudeva went
to sleep.
The caregiver's service to Gurudeva has become much more intimate.
Gurudeva is always in tremendous pain, which calls for the caregivers
to give there all in serving and giving care. They have made
modification in the medication, which should help manage the pain. But,
as Gurudeva himself described "My body is a hostile environment".
Although all efforts to comfort and care for Gurudeva are being taken,
he is dying, and we are all hopeful that Gurudeva will make his
transition out of this condition as soon as possible. Please join us in
prayer that, If Srila Prabhupada and Krsna desire, to please take
Gurudeva back home, away from his diseased body. As Mahajan Prabhu said
last night. "You can go now Gurudeva, we will be your body."
May we all die before we die May the lessons and inspiration of His
Holiness Bhakti-tirhta Swami's Final Pastimes be imbibed by all of us.
On Behalf of the caregivers of HH Bhakti-tirtha Swami,
Your servant,
Purusa-sukta das
back
Eze .
This update COVERS UP UNTIL THIS MORNING . OBVIOUSLY THINGS HAVE
CHANGED UP UNTIL NOW (7:15 PM) , we will update you this evening. We
will be updating more frequently during the active dying process, and
especially during the departure ceremony, rapid updates will come out
on BTswami.com. We hope this satisfy all of you.
Your servant,
Purusa-sukta das
The Journal of the Final Pastimes of His Holiness Bhakti-tirtha Swami.
June 25-26 morning
This morning Gurudeva was resting. He had taken rest around 6am. He
was up for most of the night, his pain persisting. He had been
sustaining a fever for sometime, this morning it was 103 f. As the
pain persisted yesterday Gurudeva had to be transported back and forth
from his bed to chair. The hospice nurse came to administer a
subcutaneous (under his tissue) tube for Gurudeva's pain medication to
be fed through. This tube is located on Gurudeva's chest. This
simplifies the process of giving the pain medication, allowing
Gurudeva to continue to rest and avoid using his throat.
Yesterday Gurudeva did have a significant change in his vital signs.
His temperature and rate of breathing rose. When his vitals changed,
there were some additional changes made in Gurudeva's room. Now the
picture of Srila Prabhupada that Gurudeva cherishes so much is right
in front of him.
The Kirtana continues, mostly in Gurudeva's room. The ambiance there
contains such a contrast in moods; Gurudeva's physical pain with his
profound devotion, the concern of the devotees with the sweetness of
their love and care. All the while Krsna's holy names pervade
everything, bringing forth the enchanting atmosphere of Vrndavan –
"Tirthi kurvanti tirthani", with the presence of a pure devotee, what
might appear as a hospice room becomes a place of pilgrimage.
More and more, all we have is our love for Gurudeva and each other,
and the holy Names We are seeing how Krsna is offering His protection
in these ways. Yesterday during the peak of Gurudeva's pain Srila
Radhantha Swami happened to come in, earlier than normal. Maharaj then
chanted for Gurudeva. Latter Gauavani Prabhu came in, and with some
other Gurukulis, offered kirtana to Gurudeva. Gurudeva smiled upon
seeing Gauravani. Gurudeva's pain and rapid deterioration is
intensifying the atmosphere. Gurudeva hardly talks or responds to his
external surroundings. The devotees are more reflective, and come
together more and more in service and kirtana. It is the best of times
and the worst of times.
We all pray that, if Srila Prabhupada and Krsna desire, Gurudeva
return home, departing from this final trial, at the nearest moment of
grace.
With Gurudeva's munificent presence central in Gita Nagari, all
varieties of devotional service are expanding throughout the
community. The devotees do kirtana in Gurudeva's room and outside of
his room. The caregivers are always chanting for Gurudeva. Many
devotees perform special services at the temple. More devotees
congregate at the temple during arati to perform kirtana. The whole
temple was recently repainted, and now the temple alter is being
repainted. The grounds continues to be landscaped, a maha-cleaning is
going on throughout the temple facilities. The vegetable garden is
flourishing. This morning Mother Kaulini sat outside on the lawn of
the institute house reciting Gopa Kumara's return to Goloka Vrndavan.
We pray that the increase in service and devotional life currently
inspired by Gurudeva's departure, continue to expand throughout the
world.
May we all die before we die May the lessons of the departure of
Bhakti-tirtha Swami be deeply imbibed by us all.
On behalf of the caregivers of His Holiness Bhakti-tirtha Swami,
Your servant,
Purusa-sukta das
* Special Report about BT Swami *
Hare Krsna Prabhus:
We have been informed by the Doctor and hospice nurse that Gurudeva
has entered the active dying process. They have said that Gurudeva's
departure will occur between 24 and 72 hrs. The nurse and doctor will
inform us when it becomes clear that Gurudeva has 10hrs remaining.
Gurudeva could leave later than estimated or sooner, it is in Krsna's
hands. We are reporting what the hospice nurse and doctor are
indicating. We will put another update on the website as soon as we
receive further information.
On behalf of the caretakers of Bhakti Tirtha Swami
Your servant
Purusa-sukta Dasa
June 26 2005, Second Update on BT Swami - June 26th
The Journal of the Final Pastimes of His Holiness Bhakti-tirtha Swami. June 26th
Gurudeva had a rough night last night (Saturday). With high fever and
pain. Early this afternoon mother Sangita came. Sangita Prabhu is the
director of Vaisnavas CARE, a hospice ministry for departing devotees.
By her care, Gurudeva's fever went down and his pain subsided to some
extent. Gurudeva has been resting the whole day. This is partly due to
his lessened pain, and also it is a part of the dying process.
As reported Gurudeva is exhibiting one of the six symptoms of the
dying process, namely his eyes do not shut. And this indicates that
Gurudeva has, from the time diagnosed (more or less noon Sunday) he
has 24-72 hrs of life expectancy. There are other symptoms that
indicate even a shorter span of life expectancy. When they become
clear we will update the list and web site immediately. Currently, as
of this evening 9pm, Gurudeva's condition is more or less the same as
the early afternoon.
Throughout the day devotees have been chanting for Gurudeva, in his
room and at the temple. The chanting in his room has become more
intimate There is very minimal instrumentation. It is a kind of choral
bhajan. The devotees harmonize and unite in their offering kirtan to
Gurudeva. The mood is very serene and peaceful. Very reflective, very
intimate, and very sweet, bitter sweet.
The caregivers are very busy trying to serve all the guests. They
express that they are doing their best to try and organize and engage
everyone, to try and please everyone. In this way they demonstrate
that they are definitely the healthiest members of the community.
Having been through such stress and personal sacrifice, as things wind
down, their main concern is that all the guests are happy.
Srila Radhanatha Swami came to give a brief talk this evening. The
talk recently was sent out. Afterwards he led a wonderful kirtana,
requesting us all to chant and dance in way that would please
Gurudeva. What a wonderful kirtana it was. The whole room was vibrant
in joyous glorification of this special Vaisnava saint who has
transformed our lives, and is moving toward a most glorious closure to
this chapter of his service.
As Gurudeva remarked in his final formal darsan a few days ago, in
making a successful transition, one is able to fully step away from
the illusion and embrace what is fully true and real. To varying
degrees we ourselves are dying with Gurudeva, and in the process are
coming to depend more and more on what is true and real - The Holy
names and service to Guru and the vaisnavas.
May we all die before we die May the glorious departure of His
Holiness Bhakti-tirhta Swami always be remembered.
On behalf of the caregivers of His Holiness Bhakti-tirtha Swami
Your servant,
Purusa-sukta das
Eze .
June 27th 9:00 AM
Hare Krsna Prabhus,
The hospice nurse and medical doctor have informed that Gurudeva has
entered the advanced stage of active dying. This indicates that, from
a medical perspective, he has a 24hr life expectancy. When Gurudeva
enters the final stage, which gives a 6-10hr life expectancy we will
again update the devotees.
Gurudeva appears peaceful and comfortable. He was bathed this morning
and is wearing a fresh maha garland from Sri Damodar. Last night he
was only roused once, appearing to be in some pain. Additional pain
medication was given, which appeared to relieve Gurudeva.
Throughout the night Srila Prabhupada's bhajans were played for
Gurudeva in his room, and two attendants were actively present at his
side, one fanning him and the other watching to monitor his health.
Two caregivers were also in the room, asleep and ready to assist.
Mother Sangita and Madhvacarya (a senior BTswami disciple from MD)
have become fulltime caregivers.
Just this morning the bhajan was invited back into Gurudevas room,
with Adviat acarya leading. The bhajan continues without instruments.
It is simple and soulful. We will keep you updated.
On behalf of the caregivers of HH Bhakti-tirtha Swami,
Your servant,
Purusa-sukta das