Although material existence and the material body are not comfortable, why does the living entity not want to leave? As soon as one gets a material body, he has to work very hard to maintain it. He may engage in different fields of activity, but whatever the case, everyone has to work very hard to maintain the material body.

Unfortunately, society has no information of the soul’s transmigration. Because the living entity does not hope to enter the spiritual kingdom of eternal life, bliss and knowledge, he wants to stick to his present body, even though it may be useless.

Srimad Bhagavatam  4.28.10

Today’s Bhagavad Gita verse for your contemplation.

https://vedabase.io/en/library/bg/18/65/

This morning’s Bhagavad Gita class with Srila Prabhupada.

https://youtu.be/_n_j3bnXfX4?si=vJsJR09F3hQrgJaM

https://youtu.be/4d6zmOwUB94

Navadvipa and Koladvipa, Part 1- ENGLISH

Mar 17, 1994

Sripad Bhakti Caru Maharaja along with ISKCON Parikrama in Devananda Gaudiya Matha, Navadvipa

To be Continued in Part 2

In a world ruled by food-like products and nutritional confusion, the simple advice to "eat food, not too much, mostly plants" resonates deeply. This concept, articulated by Michael Pollan in his article "Unhappy Meals," presents a holistic approach to nutrition that aligns with the teachings of various spiritual figures, including Jesus, Krishna, and Prabhupada. Let's take a moment to explore how these teachings relate to the way we eat today. By doing so; we can appreciate just how important our food choices are and how they impact both our health and the environment.

The belief that Jesus was a vegetarian, as suggested in the Aquarian Gospel of Jesus the Christ by Levi H. Dowling, highlights the spiritual significance of dietary choices. Although this text is not part of the canonical Bible, it reflects a broader understanding of the sacredness of food. In the Bible, God provides "every seed-bearing plant" and "every tree that has fruit with seed in it" as sustenance for humans and animals (Genesis 1:29-30). This emphasis on plant-based foods aligns with the teachings of Krishna, who is also known to have been a vegetarian. Prabhupada, the founder of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), emphasized the importance of respecting cows and 'simple living, high thinking' while engaging in deep contemplation. He stated, "To systematically propagate spiritual knowledge to society at large and to educate all people in the techniques of spiritual life in order to check the imbalance of values in life and to achieve real unity and peace in the world" (International Society for Krishna Consciousness). This mission resonates with Pollan's critique of the modern food industry, which often prioritizes profit over the well-being of individuals and the planet.

Pollan's insights into the 'Age of Nutritionism' reveal how focusing on individual nutrients has led to widespread confusion and disinformation about what constitutes a healthy diet. The shift from whole foods to a focus on particular nutrients has increased food-like products that often lack the nutritional integrity of real food. This approach overlooks how whole foods and diets interact, potentially leading to misleading scientific conclusions arising from excessive breakdown of food components. For instance, the promotion of low-fat diets in the 1970s and 80s coincided with rising obesity and diabetes rates, as Americans turned to carbohydrates without reducing their fat intake. Pollan's assertion that "depending on your evolutionary heritage, you may or may not be able to digest the lactose in milk" highlights the importance of considering individual dietary needs and backgrounds (Pollan). This perspective aligns with Prabhupada's teachings, which emphasize the need for a compassionate and respectful approach to all living beings, including understanding and respecting individual dietary needs.

The part about not being aware of whether or not omega fish oil is beneficial reminds me of what my Japanese Ayurvedic doctor, Yoshiko, taught me about the importance of being mindful of the sacredness of the plants we use as medicine. We should not think that something will work simply by consuming it. Pollan's reference to our evolutionary past, stating that we "came down from the trees," reflects a scientific belief that we evolved from primates. However, this perspective can limit our understanding of our relationship with food. It seems contradictory to accept that we evolved from monkeys while simultaneously rejecting the scientific process that has led to using food-like products rather than real food. It is scientism that has caused this issue in the first place.

Pollan's critique of the Western diet reveals the limitations of nutritionism in addressing the root causes of chronic diseases. The focus on individual nutrients has obscured the qualitative distinctions between whole, minimally processed foods and highly processed products. He notes, "If you eat a lot of meat, you're probably not eating a lot of vegetables," emphasizing the interconnectedness of our dietary choices. This interconnectedness is further complicated because many people have been conditioned to believe that grapes are purple, bananas are yellow, and oranges are orange despite thousands of varieties of these plants. This limited exposure to diverse plant varieties restricts our access to vital nutrient biodiversity, making us more aware of our responsibility for our dietary choices.

Moreover, Pollan points out that scientists say one thing one moment, and the next, they say another. This inconsistency in nutritional science can lead to confusion and mistrust among the public. He highlights a feedback loop of data, where the people being studied often eat according to fads and trends, skewing the results. This is particularly relevant when considering the systemic issues associated with the Western diet, characterized by highly processed foods and an overabundance of meat and added sugars. The unfair and almost evil capitalistic business practices have deceived millions into consuming more, especially meat, often promoting the idea that it's "manly" to eat meat through relentless advertising.

Prabhupada's assertion that "war starts on the dinner plate" underscores the ethical dimensions of our dietary decisions. This view is especially relevant in light of the systemic issues associated with the Western diet, characterized by highly processed foods and an overabundance of meat and added sugars. The systemic problems are compounded by the fact that many people are unaware of the racial implications of dietary recommendations. Promoting dairy products to populations with high lactose intolerance raises ethical questions about the appropriateness of the Standard American Diet (SAD) for diverse communities. Pollan's observation that "the health of the individual is inextricably linked to the health of the entire system—from the soil to the meal" highlights a more holistic method of nutrition that considers the food quality, not just nutrient content (Pollan). This ecological perspective reminds us that our and the planet's health are interconnected, making us more conscious and considerate in our dietary decisions.

The teachings of spiritual leaders and the insights of journalists like Pollan are potent reminders of the significance of our food choices. Pollan's assertion that "people worried about their health needn't wait for scientists to settle this question before deciding that it might be wise to eat more plants and less meat" encourages us to take proactive steps toward healthier eating habits (Pollan). This concept aligns with the principles of mindful eating, which advocate for a deeper connection with our food, honoring the environment and enhancing our overall well-being. We can feel harmonious in our food choices by emphasizing the importance of mindful eating.

Furthermore, the ritualistic consumption of food without any relationship to it can have consequences that science cannot yet explain. Nutritionism, as an extension of scientism, often fails to account for the individual experience of the scientist and the subjective nature of dietary choices. For example, Pollan points out the inconsistencies in how people relay information about food, particularly regarding "food combining," where various foods and ingredients are mixed together. This subjectivity complicates the nutritional picture and highlights the need for a more nuanced understanding of dietary practices.

Pollan also critiques the industrial simplification of food, which mirrors the concept of taking the path of least resistance, especially among privileged groups that do not see how they are marginalizing others. The irony is that while we have unlimited access to prepared food and ingredients, such as flour, without having to labor to produce them personally, we lose a harmonious relationship with those ingredients. Sugar serves as a prime example of this disconnect; the food industry has historically promoted sugar while demonizing fat, leading to a distorted understanding of what constitutes a healthy diet.

In drawing parallels between the Bhagavad Gita and modern dietary studies, we can see how ancient wisdom aligns with contemporary research. For example, Bhagavad Gita 17.8 states, "Foods dear to those in the mode of goodness increase the duration of life, purify one's existence, and give strength, health, happiness, and satisfaction" (Vedabase.io). This idea resonates with the Women's Health Initiative findings, which indicate that not all fats are detrimental to health, particularly those in plant-based foods. The approach of nutritional science needs to account for the differences in human biology and the complex relationships between foods within a diet.

To restore our relationship with food, we must go beyond the simplistic nature of nutritionism and develop a more ecological and ethical perspective on our diet. Pollan's guiding principles, advocating for real food consumption, avoiding highly processed products, and drawing inspiration from traditional food cultures, can help us achieve this. By embracing these principles, we can promote a relationship with food that is in harmony with our health and the environment.

Returning to the fundamentals of mindful eating can cultivate a deeper connection with our food, honor the environment, and enhance our overall well-being. These teachings encourage us to know where our food comes from, how it is produced, and its impact on our bodies and the planet. Embracing these principles can lead to healthier lifestyles and a more sustainable future, cultivating a sense of unity between our dietary choices and the broader ecological system in which we exist.

The intersection of spiritual teachings and modern nutritional science offers a rich framework for understanding the complexities of our relationship with food. By recognizing the sacredness of what we consume and the ethical consequences of our food choices, we can move toward a more holistic and compassionate approach to nutrition. This journey requires us to question the status quo, challenge the narratives perpetuated by the food industry, and embrace a more mindful, plant-based diet that honors our health and the planet's health. As we navigate this path, we can "... check the imbalance of values in life and ... achieve real unity and peace in the world" (Prabhupada).

Works Cited

Dowling, Levi H. The Aquarian Gospel of Jesus the Christ. 1908.

International Society for Krishna Consciousness. "Our Mission." ISKCON Mumbai, www.iskconmumbai.com/about/our-mission.

Pollan, Michael. "Unhappy Meals." Michael Pollan, www.michaelpollan.com/articles-archive/unhappy-meals/. Accessed 2 Nov. 2024.

"Bhagavad Gita 17.8." Vedabase.io, www.vedabase.io/en/library/bg/17/8/.

The Bible. Genesis 1:29-30.

Why do people of color suffer from disproportionately higher rates of chronic disease? From producers Chris Paul and Billie Eilish, this film investigates the link between diet, disease, poverty, racism, and corruption, unraveling what keeps us sick.

Dear devotees,

We have gathered kirtanas (devotional songs) to be sung at various times throughout the day during Kartika (the sacred month dedicated to Lord Krishna), following the program established by Srila Gurudeva (our spiritual teacher). For your convenience, we have included a YouTube link for each kirtana.

We hope this small seva (service) will bring joy to all the Vaisnavas (devotees of Lord Vishnu).

Sincerely,
Srila Gurudeva’s Audio Seva Team

MORNING ARATI

Sri Gurvastakam

Sri Prabhupada-padma-stavakah

Mangala Arati - Mangala Sri Guru Gaura

Vibhavari Sesa

Jaya Radhe Jaya Krsna

MORNING BHAJANAS

Mangalacarana

Samsara Davanala/Davanala Sama

Vrndavana Vasi Jata

Sri Krsna Caitanya Prabhu Jive Doya Kori

Any Saranagati Bhajan

Radha Kunda Tata:

Krsna Deva Bhavantam Vande

Radhe Jaya Jaya Madhava Dayite

Hare Krishna Kirtan

Sri Nandanandastakam

Sri Radha Krpa Kataksa Stava

Vrinda Devi Astakam

Sri Damodarastakam

Ending with Hare Krsna Kirtana

MIDDAY ARATI

Bhoga Arati - Bhaja Bhakata Vatsala

Yasomati Nandana

Jaya Radha Madhava

Ending with Hare Krsna Kirtana

EVENING BHAJANS

Mangalacarana

Any Bhajana glorifying Sri Guru

Example: Gurudeva Krpa Karke

Any Bhajana glorifying Vaisnavas

Example: Ohe Vaisnava Thakura

Any Bhajana glorifying Sri Rupa Gosvami

Example: Sri Rupa Manjari Pada

Any Bhajana glorifying Sri Nityananda Prabhu

Example: Dayal Nitai Caitanya Bole

Any Bhajana glorifying Sri Gauranga Mahaprabhu

Example: Hari Bole Moder Gaura Elo

Bhajana glorifying Sri Krsna

Example: Jaya Jaya Sundara Nanda kumara

Any Bhajana glorifying Srimati Radhika

Example: Radhila Carana Renu

Hare Krsna Kirtana

Damodarastakam

EVENING ARATI

Jaya Jaya Goracander

Jaya Jaya Radha Krsna Yugala Milana

Namo Namah Tulasi Krsna

Hari Haraye Namah Krsna

Ending with Hare Krsna Kirtana

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Appendix

Bhajanas glorifying Sri Guru

Gurudeva Tumhari Jai Jai Ho:

Sri Guru Carana Kamala:

Bhajanas glorifying Vaisnavas

Je Anilo Prema Dhana Karuna Prachur:

Suddha Bhakata:

Bhajanas glorifying Sri Nityananda Prabhu

Bado Sukher Khabor Gai:

Bhajanas glorifying Sri Gauranga Mahaprabhu

‘Gauranga’ Bolite Ha’be:

Gaurangera Duti Pada:

Gai Gora Chand:

Gauranga Tumi More:

Kali Kukura:

Sakhe, Kalaya Gauram Udaram:

Sri Krsna Caitanya Prabhu Jive Daya Kori:

Vande Vishambar:

Bhajanas glorifying Sri Krsna

Aparadha Phale Mama:

Bol Hari Bol:

Bhajanas glorifying Srimati Radhika

Kothaya Go Premamayi Radhe Radhe:

Radharani Ki Jaya:

Bhajanas glorifying Radha-Krsna

Srita Kamala Kucha Mandala Dhrita Kundala:

Radhe Radhe Govinda:

Radha Krsna Prana Mora:

Govinda Jaya Jaya:

Nava Nava Rangi:

Varaja Vipine:

Varaja Vipine & Sata Koṭi Gopi:

Prayers Full of Longing

Kabe Habe Bolo Seidino Amar:

Hari Hari! Kabe Mora Hoibe Sudina:

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Recently, on July 4, Independence Day, which is awesomely ironic, I took my family on vacation to Seattle, where we could see Amma, the revered spiritual leader known as the 'Hugging Saint' for her practice of embracing her followers. This experience was not just a mere vacation but a significant moment that brought together my past, faith, and family in a way we had longed for over the years.

While on a spiritual pilgrimage to find my self and seek answers about life, I first heard about Amma. I met a devoted follower of Amma, who had been practicing Buddhism for a lifetime and following Amma since the 1980s. I recently discovered that the meditation center he had been reconstructing for the past 15 years was the town's recreational hall, which had been there for almost a hundred years. I've always believed in the synchronicity of such things. While at this place, I learned about Amma, some mantras, and how to process fallen trees into firewood on people's properties. Throughout my life, I've been trying to understand the teaching that we can become enlightened even while doing the dishes. This teaching reminded me of the Bhagavad Gita, which states that the "religion" all beings share is service. Engaging in service brings us joy and frees us from suffering.

The first time I took my family to see Amma was in 2007. My eldest son was only three years old, and my second son hadn't yet been born. I still vividly remember our long line, the anticipation building as we waited for our turn. It was a moment filled with excitement and a sense of the unknown. My son, overwhelmed by the wait, soaked through his diaper, and we had to change him right there in line. It was a humorous moment, a snapshot of the chaos of parenthood, but it also marked the beginning of our family's journey with Amma. I also remember the sense of safety, order, belonging, and community. The vegetarian food was so delicious that I still remember its impact on us today. We were also financially challenged then, so our friend and mentor advised us to get one plate of food, and then we could share it with our little kids and get seconds to save money that way. It's one of my most cherished memories.

Fast forward to 2012, when we revisited Amma in Los Angeles. Our sons were old enough to be there but not old enough to remember the experience. Our whole family had become an initiated devotee of Krishna, and my understanding of spirituality had deepened. I had navigated the complexities of my faith, finding my path through various teachings. Amma, with her universal approach, taught principles of Sankhya, Karma, Jnana, and Bhakti, while our Krishna community focused primarily on Bhakti. This difference sometimes puzzled others, but I found a way to embrace all my spiritual master's teachings, understanding that spirituality can be as diverse as the people who seek it.

Reflecting on these experiences, I realize how much has changed since those early visits. In the years between, I had become more involved in my spiritual community, and my family had grown closer through shared beliefs and practices. Amma's teachings resonated with me, whispering the bhakti mantra and understanding into my heart. She has dedicated her life to humanitarian work, serving thousands of people daily, and her presence is a testament to the power of love and compassion.

I was filled with excitement and disbelief when I learned that Amma would return to the United States after a five-year absence. The pandemic had changed so much, and many had convinced themselves that they might never see her again. Yet, I saved money over the years, hoping to take my family to see her again. This hope reflected Amma's recent teaching: that you must imagine something for it to be possible.

The day we finally saw Amma in Seattle was nothing short of magical. The atmosphere was electric, filled with the energy of hundreds of people gathered in love and devotion. Dignitaries were present, including the Mayor of Seattle and the hotel staff owners. There were opportunities for volunteer work, eco-friendly activities, and spiritual services. The air was rich with the aroma of vegetarian food, and the sounds of live kirtan music filled the space, creating a sense of community that felt like being in the spiritual realm.

When it was our turn to receive a hug from Amma, I felt emotion wash over me. We gathered as a family, and first, Amma enveloped us in her embrace as a couple, then my sons as brothers, and finally, a third time, all together as a family. It was a moment of pure connection, a reminder of the importance of family and faith. Each hug was a blessing, a reaffirmation of our bond and our love as a family with Amma. It was a moment that made us feel genuinely valued and connected. 

What I learned from this experience is profound: we must remain open to the possibilities of life, even when we think they may never come to pass. Devotion is not just about believing in something; it's about being receptive to life's unexpected gifts. The joy of that day, the warmth of Amma's hugs, and the bliss of my wife and children reminded me that love and faith can transcend time and distance. This experience taught me the importance of remaining open to life's possibilities, no matter how unlikely they may seem.

In sharing this story, I want to convey a message that resonates with others: life is full of surprises, and sometimes, the things we long for most can manifest in ways we never imagined. The experience of seeing Amma with my family was not just a reunion; it was a celebration of faith, love, and the power of community. It taught me that we can create genuinely transformative moments when we hold onto hope and remain open to the universe and what Krishna offers.

Even the trees, animals, insects, and all living beings can hear our words. They are not just inanimate objects but conscious entities that can experience happiness and fear. It trembles when we cut down a tree, knowing it will be destroyed. Animals flee at the sight of humans, having learned from experience that we may harm them. 

This fear and conflict permeates the world, with nations, religions, and individuals all fighting out of mutual suspicion. Only the devotees are free from such anxiety. Srila Gurudeva explains that the holy name of the Lord is supremely powerful, and Caitanya Mahaprabhu mercifully gave us the sankirtana movement to purify the atmosphere polluted by quarrelsome and lusty speech.

Through the medium of ether, the sound of kirtan can reach all living beings, offering them a path to transformation. Gradually, by hearing the holy name, they will shed their material forms and regain their eternal, beautiful spiritual identities. Without this sankirtana movement, Srila Gurudeva suggests the world may have been destroyed by now. This is the power of the sankirtana movement, a force for positive change in our world. 

Therefore, we, as devotees, should take it upon ourselves to expand this sankirtana as much as possible. It is our responsibility to ensure that all can become happy by taking shelter of the holy name. The power of the divine sound vibration can reform the entire universe, and this is the greatest gift Caitanya Mahaprabhu has given to humanity. Let us be the bearers of this gift, spreading happiness and peace through the sankirtana movement.

(Bhakta Bandhav Anthology / Volume 54)

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Hey everyone! I'm excited to share the track "Mama Deva Deva" by Jahnavi Harrison with you all. This beautiful kirtan is a heartfelt chant that invokes the divine, filling the air with reverence and love for the deities. I discovered the official music video while working on this post, and I am truly captivated by these uplifting vibrations of Krishna's holy name. Give it a listen, and let's spread the joy of this spiritual music together!

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The history of Vijaya Ekadasi is narrated, involving Lord Rama's search for Sita, his friendship with Sugriva, and Hanuman's assistance in finding Sita in Sri Lanka. The sage Bakadalbhya instructs Rama to observe the fast properly, which involves creating a water pot, decorating it, and worshipping it with various offerings. Following these rituals ensures victory over all obstacles.

The text concludes with Lord Sri Krishna stating that anyone who reads or hears this history will attain great merit, equivalent to performing a horse sacrifice in ancient times. The stories have been summarized and adapted from the book "Ekadasi: The Day of Lord Hari 1986" by HH Krishna Balaram Swami. (Vaisnava Calendar)

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“Vijaya Ekadasi - ISKCON / Vaisnava Calendar Reminder Services.” ISKCON / Vaisnava Calendar Reminder Services, 8 Aug. 2011, www.vaisnavacalendar.info/i/fasting-for-vijaya-ekadasi.html.

Rules for Fasting and Miscellania

Vaisnava Calendar. www.purebhakti.com/resources/vaisnava-calendar.

Bhagavat Dharma Samaj, Est. 1990. “Vijayā Ekādaśī Vrataṁ – Phālguna-kṛṣṇa Pakṣa – Bhagavat Dharma Samaj | Est. 1990.” Bhagavat Dharma Samaj | Est. 1990, 29 Dec. 2023, www.krsna.org/event/vijaya-ekadasi-vrata%E1%B9%81-k%E1%B9%9B%E1%B9%A3%E1%B9%87a-pak%E1%B9%A3a.

Bhagavat Dharma Samaj, Est. 1990. “Ekadasi, the Day of Lord Hari; Bhagavat Dharma Samaj | Est. 1990.” Bhagavat Dharma Samaj | Est. 1990, 29 Jan. 2024, www.krsna.org/product/ekadasi-the-day-of-lord-hari.

Hey everyone! I love the track "Sacrifice" by Grand Tapestry featuring Eligh from the Living Legends. It's a powerful song that resonates with the concept of sacrifice, like Ekadasi, which this article is about. Give it a listen, and feel free to share it with anybody and everybody – let's spread the love for great music!

I am sharing with you how important it is to engage in spiritual practices to achieve self-discipline and freedom. When you love the ultimate goal, it provides enthusiasm and vitality in these practices, guiding and protecting your mind rather than restricting it. Studying scriptures helps develop the right attitude towards spiritual disciplines, inspiring and motivating you to engage in them. Creating a timetable for spiritual practices can be practical and helpful in achieving the goal of knowing your True Self. Since most minds are not in absolute control, spiritual practices are essential for gaining control over the mind. Remember, it's important not to be too hard on yourself if you're struggling with discipline and to avoid suppressing or judging yourself. Reminding yourself of the ultimate goal, getting back up, and continuing to make efforts is crucial. Spiritual practices guide achieving self-discipline and freedom while understanding their benefits and creating a timetable for them. (Amritapuri)

Amritapuri. "Spiritual practices set you free." Online With Amma, www.amritapuri.org/17477/10setfree.aum.

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I have selected the song "Golden State of Mind" by MC Yogi to go with this post as it embodies the sense of freedom and positivity that spiritual practices can bring. I hope you enjoy this track, and please feel free to share it with your friends!