21/NOV/2017 - Sylhet to Silchar

(21/NOV/2017 - Sylhet to Silchar) From last evening packing work started. Today morning devotees started to gather in the hotel where Guru Maharaj was. And it was increasing as the time goes.

During Guru Maharaj's breakfast I entered his room and offered my pranams, he called me and asked what is the news? - then I started to tell him about Spanish book releases. And we (JPS Publications) trying to publish two new books Vaisnava Ke? And Vrindavane Bhajan in Spanish Language. And these books are planned to get released by Guru Maharaj during his visit in December. But, we need 4000$ USD. So, I asked Guru Maharaj to give us some loan to print these books, and we will pay it after distribution. Guru Maharaj asked several questions, how the book will get distributed, what is the plan? How will you (Publications) pay this back? Any sponsors you got printing these books? So, I tried my level best to answer all the questions. And finally Guru Maharaj said, 'Okay!' I told him that, we are trying to get some donations via online. As this project is very important to publish books in Spanish Language. Guru Maharaj has lot disciples over there, and it is becoming hard to visit to South America for Guru Maharaj due to health reasons. He is going to visit next month after 4 years. So like this, this conversation took some time, Panchajanya Prabhu was feeding breakfast, seeing our discussion, he asked me to feed Guru Maharaj and discuss. Then he went to pack his things.

After breakfast, National Committee members went to Guru Maharaj with the resolutions that are finalized in this meetings. And they requested Guru Maharaj's signature to approve it. It was few pages. But, Guru Maharaj started to correct many things in that, and one or two pages only he read. So, seeing Guru Maharaj's deep vision for Bangladesh - the leaders got overwhelmed and was pricing Guru Maharaj. Mainly one point that I remember is Guru Maharaj wanted to preserve all the holy places in Bangladesh - Lord Caitanya's and Lord Caitanya's associates sripats for the future.

Guru Maharaj heard from devotee that Sri Madhavendra Puri's birthplace is not under any Hindu or Gaudiyas. So that whole village is now under Muslims. And they doesn't want any hindus to get that place. So like this many issues are there. Guru Maharaj somehow wanted to preserve these holy places. Madhavendra Puri is the root of Krishna Prema said Guru Maharaj.

All luggage got loaded in cars. Devotees did simple Guru Puja. And all the way up to the car devotees were waiting for Guru Maharaj. I missed many things, as I was with Maha Varaha Pr.

Then Guru Maharaj got into the car. And the devotees were outside the hotel - more than 400 devotees. The road was blocked. And when Guru Maharaj's car came out, the devotees were crying and paying obeisances. And the securities were trying to control the devotees. When the cat started to move, devotees started to run behind the car as much as possible.

And they were paying obeisances wherever they stop. And more that 10 cars in row we drove to the Bangladesh-India border. And more than 30 bikes; and one patrol Police security in front. So, it was an amazing experience. Every place all the traffics were stopped for Guru Maharaj to go. But unfortunately the advance party who went to check the road condition - their report went wrong. The road was terrible. And even for an ordinary persons like us felt very uncomfortable. So Guru Maharaj's vehicle went too slow. After about two hours journey 40kms we crossed and reached the border.

There in the border, custom office, and immigration paper works took around 2.5 hours. They gave permission for Guru Maharaj's vehicle to cross the border. And many of us are holding India Passports except Maha Varaha Pr, Shyama Madhusudan Pr and Acarya Ratna Pr. So their passports took lot of time to pass through. And there is no computerized office. Everything is like old style, writing on a notebook. During this time, devotee of Sylhet spend quality time with Guru Maharaj, Caru Candra Prabhu had long talk with Guru Maharaj. And Guru Maharaj's car was cover by devotees. All the Muslim police officers, border security, drivers, local villagers - everyone wanted to see, who is that personality attracting these many people. Even they are calling "Guru Maharaj!" hearing our devotees calling "Guru Maharaj" and most of them called Maharaj.

And finally Guru Maharaj and 7 devotees went ahead to India crossing the border.

And we 6 devotees were processing our entries. Then all our luggage also in between the border.

After entering India border, there also there was procedures to fill our details - and they were writing one by one. Finally, Guru Maharaj left to Silchar around 5pm, and we left around 5:30pm.

Guru Maharaj was very much tired. And Maha Varaha Pr said, while crossing the Karimkanj devotees from ISKCON center came and requested Guru Maharaj to visit the temple, as it was not on our plan. Maha Varaha Pr and everyone said, Guru Maharaj will go to Silchar directly. But devotees started to lay down on the road, some are under the wheels. So it was big drama, and somehow, Guru Maharaj pacified the devotees and left from there to Silchar.

We reached Silchar around 7:30pm. Everyone was tired in this road journey. And what to speak of Guru Maharaj. All the devotees went to their rooms, which are booked by Local temple. As there is no devotees to do night shift along with Golokesvara Govinda Pr, he asked me to join him.

In our ISKCON temple we saw a marble carving saying that, 20/NOV/1987 His Holiness Jayapataka Swami Maharaj - Srila Acaryapada laid the Foundation stone for this temple. And Guru Maharaj is here after 30 years. Many devotees doesn't know, how much he have done to Srila Prabhupada's mission to expand.

So, we got freshen up and came to join our service at 9:30pm. Srivas Pran Pr and Subhanga Govinda Pr were serving all the while travelling from 2pm. So we relieved them. We all made Guru Maharaj to go on the bed and rest.

Guru Maharaj slept around 10:30pm until 4:30am. (Personal Diary - Shyama Rasika Dasa)

20/NOV/2017 - Sylhet, Bangladesh

(20/NOV/2017 - Sylhet, Bangladesh) Today is the third day of Diksa-mela.

Krishna Kirtan Prabhu and team was there infront of Guru Maharaj room at 8am. And finally they for into the room and sang three songs for the pleasure of Guru maharaj! Unfortunately i couldn't go for recording, I was taking bath, so I sent Shyam Sundar Pr to record it. And then Guru Maharaj got ready by 9:30am to go to initiation pandal. But from there Madhava Kanta Pr said, once we get ready - we will call. Meanwhile, Guru Maharaj's stomach upset, and Guru Maharaj said, "If I eat an apple my stomach will be alright." Then Maha Puran Pr got an apple and showed to Guru Maharaj. And Guru Maharaj said, "It is too big!" Then Guru Maharaj pointed on the table and said, yesterday you kept a small apple. And we looked over there - there was small apple in a size of a lemon. And Guru Maharaj accepted it. And there I found one small orange also, which was like lemon too. Then I told Guru Maharaj here orange also small in size. Guru Maharaj said, "Yes! In Bangladesh, all the fruits are small in size. But except one fruit Jackfruit and that is their National Fruit. And when we come for Safari it won't be the season, but Vasanta Pancami time it will be the end of the season." Like this Guru Maharaj was explaining about different details. And like this when we were discussing about, Advaita Acarya's sripat - Guru Maharaj said, "I went to this place in Helicopter and the pilot doesn't know the route - so he landed 4 times to ask the villagers to find a route. And finally he landed in a cricket field and asked the boys how to go. And Guru Maharaj laughed sharing this experience. Everyone was happy to see Guru Maharaj like this relaxed.

And then he remembered how 20 years back those sripats are part of Sylhet, but now it become a separated jilla or district from Sylhet. Even the local devotees couldn't say immediately. But, Guru Maharaj said the details about each holy tirthas. Which made the leaders in amazement.

Then back to today's diary, Shyam Madhusudan Pr got again some issues from Initiation candidates. One devotee who own a pond, and he gives this pond in a lease to someone - they pay him 50,000₹ once in a two month. And they do fish cultivation and catch the fishes and sell it. So, whether is eligible to take initiation?

This was the question. But Guru Maharaj took some time to answer. And first Guru Maharaj asked, " Does he have any other income? If he is giving it for lease means he knows that fishing will be the main business out of that pond. Why can't he sell that pond? Or will he can utilize all those money for Krishna?" Like this Guru Maharaj thinking a lot for a devotee - how to save this one disciple from these Karma business.

And in this way discussing in the car, Guru Maharaj reached the initiation pandal. While going, Navadvipa Dvija Gauranga Pr requested Guru Maharaj that, in Jugal Tila temple, they have made all the arrangements in Guru Maharaj's room. But unfortunately, Guru Maharaj couldn't visit his room. At least once if you visit we will be happy.

And then Guru Maharaj got up on the stage, and his voice was too low. But gave a wonderful lecture. Even though his voice was down. He spoke on the pastime of Brahma asking forgiveness from Krishna and coming to Antardvipa and meditating on Lord Gauranga, and started Chanting Gauranga! Gauranga! Gauranga! And his voice was choking, but still Gauranga! Gauranga! Gauranga! The whole pandal was vibrant. Then started initiation ceremony. And I went to record few devotees experience about Sylhet festival.

Then we 5 servants went to Padma Mukha Nimai Prabhu's house for lunch. And we rushed back to the stage thinking that initiation must have got over. But, Guru Maharaj just completing as we entered the pandal. Then Guru Maharaj got down, and the car was ready. And it was 3:30pm - Guru Maharaj didn't take his lunch yet. But, Guru Maharaj said, "I am not getting into the car, I want to go to my room." And he visited the room and went around and again came back and then got into the car. Guru Maharaj want to fulfil every disciples' desire.

Then came to the hotel room and took his lunch and went to rest. After rest he went to the conference room and gave brahmana diksa to 60 devotees.

And return back to his room, but there were so many devotees waiting outside his room. And Guru Maharaj entered Maha Varaha Pr room and said, "Morning they asked me that they want to do Pada-puja. But I was in a rush, so I said Night time. Now they want me to go again to conference room, and they want to perform pada-puja - where 200 devotees will assemble to watch it. But, I am tired, and tomorrow we have to travel, so what to do?" Seeing Guru Maharaj's situation Maha Varaha Pr got angry at these devotees. And Guru Maharaj went inside the room and we closed the door. Then Maha Varaha Pr said, "While Guru Maharaj taking his dinner, four pujaris can go in and do Pada-puja and come out." Then we informed Guru Maharaj.

We opened the door, four pujaris entered the room with all the paraphernalia. And they started their worship of the Lotus feet. And Guru Maharaj said, open the door, let everyone witness it. Then all the devotees were so happy. Then they started pouring water. And Guru Maharaj said, "Put some flowers petals in the water and do!" The pujaris were in so much nervous. And Guru Maharaj saw the crowd outside his room and said, "Do Kirtan!" Then they started to chant "Sri Guru Carana Padma..." song. Like this all the devotees were satisfied. And few padukas offered to Guru Maharaj, and all the devotees were in bliss.

Then for 23rd Bhumi Puja in Chittagong, Cinmaya Pr got bricks (foundation stones) to touch and bless by Guru Maharaj. And Guru Maharaj blessed those stones.

And then Pandit Gadadhara Pr came with a paper to get signature from Guru Maharaj with main national council leaders, in that paper all the GBCs of Bangladesh such as Bhakticaru Maharaj, Bhakti Purusottama Swami are  signed and approved the temple for fund raising, only Guru Maharaj's signature is pending, without that this fundraising cannot be initiated in any place. So they were asking for Guru Maharaj's signature. But, Guru Maharaj said, "First explain me about floor plan! How many square feet, why it is 8 floor building etc. Then I will sign." And all the leaders were so happy about Guru Maharaj, and they said, "We will explain all the plan and detail, and please Your Divine Grace, and take your signature and then only we will start fund raising. It was very positive and energetic mood.

Then Shyama Madhusudan Pr came and showed his record video to Guru Maharaj - as he sang in the evening pandal program along with Krishna Kirtan Pr's team.

Before Guru Maharaj going to bed Dvarakesh Pr enter the room, and Guru Maharaj was waiting for a medicine, and during that time I conveyed a message from Sudevi Rani Mataji that she reached Kolkata safely and now in a hotel near by Airport. And it was arranged by our Dvarakesh Pr. And Guru Maharaj asked him questions - "where you arranged? Which hotel? What is the hotel name? Etc. He was very much concern about her as she is alone travelling. His fatherly care is always amazing.

Guru Maharaj went to bed around 12:30am. That time there was a name to select for a baby. And already we closed his eyes with medicine, and he is ready to sleep. But, Guru Maharaj started to give names, Jagadananda, Jaya Gaura, Jayananda... Then Goloka Pr said, it is fine. Guru Maharaj said, " Give these names to the parents, and if they find difficult in choosing the name, they can select any two names that they like, and I will select one from it. And if they didn't like any of the names, please ask them to come back to me - I will give more names. - we were trying to make him sleep, but he is not ready to do.

Guru Maharaj has this habit - that once he start something, he wanted to complete it before he goes to sleep, if we read some email in the morning and his reply is pending means - even at night 12 midnight he will dictate it. Because it will be there in his memory that, this is not solved. I need to provide solution for my disciples and devotees. They will be in anxiety. So his mood and vision is very difficult to understand.

Navadvipa Dvija Gauranga Pr joyfully commented, "Guru Maharaj is like Jagannath now, whenever he want to move his pandas (servants) will move him. Whenever he want to stop (resting), his servants will do it. So when Guru Maharaj will come, what he will do. Everything happens instantly according to the situation." Jai Guru Maharaj! Tomorrow morning we will leave to Silchar. - (Personally Diary - Shyama Rasika Dasa)

19/NOV/2017 Sylhet, Bangladesh

(19/NOV/2017 Sylhet, Bangladesh) Today also same as yesterday - diksa mela. I don't remember exactly, but After we arrived in sylhet Guru Maharaj told in a discussion to Naru Gopal Pr and Caru Candra Prabhu that from Sylhet India border is very close by, you can cross India border and go to Silchar. And they were seeing it on google map and said yes! Then the next day, Guru Maharaj said, why don't we go from here to Silchar as I didn't visit for last 5 years. So they called Silchar temple president Gaura Nitai Pr - and informed him that Guru Maharaj planning to visit Silchar from Sylhet.

And as an advance party to check the road and route Maha Varaha Pr and Madhava Kanta Pr sent Dharesh Prabhu, Aloy Govinda Prabhu and Sudevi Mataji. And to collect he details it about border crossing etc.

So, these works also going on behind. As it is not an easy task for Guru Maharaj to travel as he did before - now his health is very very important, and his preaching areas in Eastern India are remote and villages, etc. So taking him through these places and fulfil his preaching desires and meeting devotees and helping him to expand Srila Prabhupada's movement need lot of efforts and assistance. So, Maha Varaha Pr and team spend quality time in getting as much as possible - to their best.

Today also, Guru Maharaj after diksa came late and took his late lunch. And in the evening after giving Brahmana diksa - Guru Maharaj visited Maha Varaha Pr's room. And Sudevi Mataji was there, she said, "I am leaving tomorrow!" And Guru Maharaj said, "You are leaving us tomorrow?" And he asked her how she is going etc.

Guru Maharaj was telling to Maha Varaha Pr before Silchar plan, that he will fly to Dubai in Fly Dubai airlines and stay there for a day and then fly from Dubai to Delhi.

Dharesh Prabhu came and reported to Guru Maharaj about the Silchar route. And it got finalised. So we will be leaving on 21st to Silchar by road.

And while Guru Maharaj was taking dinner - His Grace Krishna Kirtan Prabhu came to take Guru Maharaj darshan, he said, "I have written two boul songs, and My students have made a tune for your songs and I want to you to listen. By singing for you - is my life's perfection." And Guru Maharaj said, "I have tight schedule, diksa is there." But finally it was decided that they will sing while Guru Maharaj takes his breakfast at 8am. And Krishna kirtan Pr said, "Whenever you say, I am ready to sing for you - that's my life." (Personal Diary - Shyama Rasika Dasa)

18/NOV/2017 Sylhet, Bangladesh

(18/NOV/2017 Sylhet, Bangladesh) From today next three days, there is going to be diksa-mela. Total 2400 initiations and 150 Brahmana diksa are scheduled. First day, from Sylhet 750+ devotees will take Harinam initiation. Second day, from Dhaka and other places around 800+ devotees will take Harinama initiation. And on the third day Guru Maharaj will give 800+ Harinam diksa.

So, today morning Guru Maharaj was getting ready to go for the initiation program. But from the pandal Madhava Kanta Pr said, still we are getting organise the diksa, so we will call you once we are ready.

At the same time, from interview section Mani Gopal Prabhu was calling to Shyama Madhusudan Prabhu and asking about some complicated cases - and issues about some of the initiation candidates; how to deal, or reject them - or solution for these devotees' initiation to Guru Maharaj.

So it was takin long time to explain about the issues, and Guru Maharaj was giving solutions to those. One issue was, a devotee who is a farmer - but in a year one time he does Tobacco farming. But he is very wonderful devotee chant his rounds etc. Then Guru Maharaj asked what else he grow, rice, daal, alu etc. Why can't he grow other crops. Like this the discussion was taking time. Guru Maharaj doesn't want to say in one word, "No! I can't give initiation to him. He should leave this then only I will give." He can say, but he is very merciful; he is just figuring out the way to give some solution for their problems.

And another one case was, a Mataji who wants to take initiation she is very active and following all the principles and chanting 16 rounds for 4 or 5 years. But her husband is Fish seller. So, what to do? Then Guru Maharaj asked question, "Is she also a share holder in that business? Is she connected anyway in that business." And he remembered Mrigari pastime and said how Motihari's karma his wife can't take it. Same way, she also won't take karma from her husbands money. And Guru Maharaj said, she can take initiation and must follow all the rules. Like this Guru Maharaj was giving his mercy - to all the souls.

And around 11:30pm we left to initiation Pandal. And when Guru Maharaj got on the stage, still the discussion continued by Mani Gopal Pr and Syama Madhusudan Pr - as they want to clearly understand Guru Maharaj's instructions. And then there were aspiration, and shelter devotees, we can say around 300+ devotees took shelter after his wonderful lecture. During the lecture Guru Maharaj conducted the Uludvani and Haridvani competition and asked us to record it and put it on Facebook. Like this all these three days he will conduct competition of Uludvani and Haridvani in the following days.

Guru Maharaj started to give out the beads and completed the initiation ceremony in 2 hours - 750+ Harinam diksa. It was very wonderfully organised. And to avoid confusions - many devotees were engaged in every corner to check the candidates name and details and their serial number etc. The wonderful management made it very easy for Guru Maharaj. Guru Maharaj was chanting two time Hare Krishna Maha Mantra for each candidate- while giving the beads. So almost 16 rounds chanted during this initiation. We can see that, Guru Maharaj chant every min in his every activity, while eating, walking, exercising, blessing, initiation, even in toilet, while bathing, etc. The holy name is in his blood. His mind chants even while sleeping. This is how we see how the statement of "Kirtane Sada hari" is possible - and he is a living example.

After program Guru Maharaj reached his room for lunch around 4:30pm and started his lunch at 5pm. And Guru Maharaj took some one hour rest and got up and went to give Brahmana diksa. And came back. And once Guru Maharaj said, "Being a guru is not an ordinary. One have to work hard. And care for his disciples, instruct his disciples. And take them back to Prabhupada and Krishna." Then went to bed around 11pm. - (Personal Diary - Shyama Rasika Dasa)

17/NOV/2017 - Sylhet, Bangladesh

(17/NOV/2017 Sylhet, Bangladesh) Today also  as like yesterday same schedule for Guru Maharaj. He went and participated in the meeting and came back to his room. He was tired. And today in our Jhugal Tila ISKCON Temple they are performing Bhumi Puja and Ananta Sesa Prathishta ceremony. And Navadvipa Dvija Gauranga Prabhu requested Guru Maharaj to come and touch the bricks and do Puja for Anantadeva. But Maha Varaha Prabhu said, it is not possible as Guru Maharaj has special evening program - today Friday weekend here - holiday. So almost 15,000 to 20,000 devotees expected to attend this festival of Namahatta Maha Milan. And they all coming to take darshan of Guru Maharaj. So, Maha Varaha Pr doesn't want Guru Maharaj to spend his energy in this Bhumi Puja Program. Then at the same time, it is a historical thing; with out the Acarya's touch - how to start the temple construction or how the temple will stand up? And It is understandable - how the devotees wants very much Guru Maharaj's presence.

So Maha Varaha Pr said, you can bring the Ananta Sesa here, and bricks here and Guru Maharaj will bless and do Puja. Then You take and do bury it. These are the foundation stones. So it is all finalised, and devotees were happy.

And Guru Maharaj requested to address the donors. This meeting was organised in the second floor in a meeting hall. And Guru Maharaj went and addressed them, how much this temple is important. And he spoke about Sri Hatta and how in Panca Tattvas three of the tattvas from Sri Hatta. After addressing the donors and well-wishers Guru Maharaj came back to his room and waited for the bricks and anantadeva. And it was 1pm. Guru Maharaj started his Gayathri chanting; it was 1:30pm. Still they didn't bring the bricks. And Guru Maharaj waited until 2pm. Then we all forced Guru Maharaj to take his lunch. Not delay any more, otherwise evening program will get delayed. Guru Maharaj agreed and started his lunch, and they reached at 2:20pm. They got delayed due to Puja and Yajnas.

And Guru Maharaj completed his lunch. And meanwhile it is again decided by the president that, of Guru Maharaj can do Puja in the hall in second floor then all the devotees and donors can witness this. Then Guru Maharaj agreed. And we took Guru Maharaj again to the conference room and there he did the Puja to Anantadeva and touched all the bricks and prayed and blessed the project. This program really satisfied all the devotees and well-wishers.

Then after evening rest Guru Maharaj reached the pandal at 8:30pm. We can't describe in words, the pandal was filled. And there is no space for one more person, almost 12,000 devotees in on Pandal. And in the next Pandal same like crowd sitting and watching. And the Uludvani and Haridvani made the pandal divine chamber, which made everyone to feel goosebumps and Guru Maharaj's presence on the stage. Again today Bhakti Purusottama Swami Maharaj gave intro, he started like this, "For whose lotus feet darshan we were all waiting from morning, that personality is here..." for each and every word glorifying Guru Maharaj, devotees were in joy expressing by Uludvani and Haridvani. Being on the stage to witness thousand of devotees and all their eyes centre focus is on one personality. Which is amazing from child to old people. Almost three generations calling "Jai! Guru deva!"

After the lecture Guru Maharaj returned back to room and asked us how was the lecture. We just said, "The Lectures was transcendental and the atmosphere is something we never experienced. And the devotees are unconsciously conscious of Guru Maharaj - natural love for Guru." We heard or read from Caitanya Caritamrita that when Lord Caitanya went there were millions of people gathered to see Him. Many may had a question, how it is possible. But, if we see this Bangladesh Vaisnavas and program, we will believe that it is possible and it is real. And some devotees travelled from a far places like 10 hours 12 hours by bus and waiting to see Guru Maharaj for moment. There is no words to explain their love for Guru Maharaj, and his reciprocation for each individuals. And we can see that it is his 40 years of hard dedicated labor for Srila Prabhupada's mission. In the lecture Guru Maharaj said, "I have travelled in rivers, forests, villages and preached in Bangladesh." And he searched for conditioned souls to give mercy of Lord Nitai Gauranga!!! I don't want make this diary too long, so end here. I hope that other servants will chip in some more details to make it more complete. I am eternally indebted to Guru Maharaj for keeping me next him. (Shyama Rasika Dasa - Personal Diary)

16/NOV/2017 - Sylhet, Bangladesh

(16/NOV/2017 - Sylhet, Bangladesh) Today as all our Servant team is here and local devotees were there in Guru Maharaj's service. So I didn't enter Guru Maharaj room. And I was trying to do some of my works and getting the photos and audio recordings uploaded into web. So like this I was busy working in our room - which is opposite to Guru Maharaj's room. Maha Varaha Pr was whole day busy with ticketing and routing and sometime meeting talking over Whatsapp call to Marici Pr about routing and Safari 2018.

And today Guru Maharaj went to Bangladesh National Council meeting and addressed the leaders and expressed his desires - along with Bhakti Purusottama Swami Maharaj and many others were present.

While going to the meeting there were around 50 devotees waiting to meet Guru Maharaj. And after blessing them, entered meeting room. When he came back also there devotees who wanted to do Anna Prasanna, Blessings for newly married couple, like this devotees waiting to get Guru Maharaj's mercy. Then he came to his room and took his lunch and rested.

Then in the evening Guru Maharaj got ready to go for the evening Pandal program. Navadvipa Dvija Gauranga Pr personally came to take Guru Maharaj to temple. And while going in the car president Navadvipa Dvija Gauranga Pr said, we will directly go to the stage, we can't enter the temple. As there is so much of crowd. But, Guru Maharaj said, I want to see the deities. He replied, there was no security arrangement. When Guru Maharaj's car entered devotees from both side, were trying to take Guru Maharaj's darshan. And we felt, it is not at all possible to enter. But somehow the car went straight and parked in front of temple, and Guru Maharaj got down, and enter the temple and took darshan of Sri Sri Radha Madhava, and Jagannatha Baladeva Subhadra and did Arati and then came Down and got into the car and went to the stage.

When Guru Maharaj got up on the stage around 7000+ were shouting Jaya Guru Maharaj! And it was very much vibrating the place with their love. And His Holiness Bhakti Purusottama Swami Maharaj gave a five
Mins intro to Guru Maharaj, it was very wonderful intro. In that he said, "Even you hear from us for hours and hours but just by listening to Guru Maharaj for few mins you will get devotion."

Guru Maharaj started his class, and the class was only 30 mins long. His words just made them happy! Guru Maharaj asked them to Uludvani and Haridvani - and when they did he felt so happy, and was laughing and laughing. Actually, this sound gives the feel of spiritual ecstasy. It increases the ecstasy more. And Guru Maharaj asked me to record it and put it on Facebook.

And Maha Varaha Pr recorded it and uploaded it on Facebook immediately. Guru Maharaj spoke in between the lecture, "Kemon hoitaisi? Hoi Hoi!" This is Bengali but in Sylhet dialect. This is mentioned in Caitanya Bhagavata - when Sri Caitanya Maha Prabhu visited Sylhet He learned this and when He returned back to Mayapur, He was joking, and imitating speaking this dialect. When Guru Maharaj spoke these words the happiness of the Sylhet vasis increases more, and out of happiness they again did Uludvani and Haridvani, the whole Pandal was filled with joy. And then Guru Maharaj said, "We will post this on Facebook, devotees can spread about Harinama on Facebook. But one should not put unnecessary comments against our movement, because you have some conflict." As in Sylhet there were few devotees did this - few months back. So Guru Maharaj very nicely pointed out in jovial way. And made them understand about their mistakes.

When we came back to hotel he looked too tired. But Guru Maharaj said, "I wil walk 108 steps." Then myself and Deva Gauranga Pr holder Guru Maharaj and Radharaman Pr guided Guru Maharaj. But Guru Maharaj not able to walk more than 20steps. As he was very tired. So every 20steps he rest, and again walk 20steps. And it was 9pm. Then Guru Maharaj said, "okay! Let me take my dinner." Like this - Guru Maharaj bestowed his blessings to all the devotees of upto their satisfaction. And these are all just my experience  with him today, but all the servants must be having lot to share. (Personal Diary - Shyama Rasika Dasa)

14/NOV/2017 - Kolkata - Dhaka - Sylhet

(14/NOV/2017 - Kolkata - Dhaka - Sylhet) Morning 5:15pm we reached the airport directly from our hotel. And other servants who stayed with Guru Maharaj took all the luggage and reached airport around 5:40pm. Madhava Kanta Prabhu reached Airport around 4:30am as he planned - with our passports. He is amazing.

Then Guru Maharaj came and we saw there in the same flight many of our devotees from Mayapur also flying, Bhakti Purusottama Maharaj, Venudhari Prabhu, Bhadra Caru Prabhu, Laksmi Govinda Prabhu, Naru Gopal Prabhu, Padma Netra Prabhu and few more. We check in all our luggage and crossed the security check. Unfortunately Radharaman Sevak Prabhu's luggage got stuck in the security check. As he had some electronic device in his baggage. But, there was no time, so we left leaving his luggage and taking him with us.

Guru Maharaj reached near the Aircraft and said to me, "We should go to Kolkata temple and record about Prabhupada's pastimes in His room. And in front of 3C Albert road." He is continuously in the meditation.

There was no facility for ambulift so they lifted with wheel chair on the stairs. Two men try to lift in the front, but the steps were narrow, so one person with confident he took the load, his legs were shaking. But, somehow he successfully lifted Guru Maharaj up to the aircraft.

And we landed 🛬 in Dhaka, when we landed there were two devotees who are working in Dhaka Airport came to help Guru Maharaj. It is really a great austerity Guru Maharaj doing for his disciples - travelling in this condition.

We did our clearance and crossed the security checks - to our surprise Sudevi Mataji from Shyamdesh was there. And she came to join Guru Maharaj in this Bangladesh Yatra. As she couldn't come for Bhishma Pancaka - it is actually a great decision.

And Guru Maharaj came out and greeted her. And he was so happy! And Guru Maharaj said, "Why you came to Dhaka?" She didn't understand... then Guru Maharaj said, "There is a direct flight from Dubai to Sylhet - in FlyDubai Airlines. You could have saved your time and money." And she doesn't know this. Being a great traveller, Guru Maharaj remember each and every route and every connecting flights, around the world.

Then we all moved from International Airport to domestic airport. And Guru Maharaj took his breakfast there. Today is Ekadasi so Prasanna Gauranga Prabhu made few Yuka Breads, and Quinoa pulav, and Yogurt.

Sudevi Mataji got some berries. So Guru Maharaj said, "Put those Ras Berries inside the Yogurt." In that small container - we put all those Ras Berries inside it. And started mix it. Then Guru Maharaj took those as his breakfast.

We can't imagine how much he is living for others. He want to make her happy also. So, he took the fruits from her and started to eat in front of her. And also he always like cida-Dahi and fruits. Always in Panihati mood.

After completing his breakfast. Guru Maharaj went to VIP lounge. And there were many devotees to came to take his darshan. The Bangladesh is filled with Gaudiya Culture. As the crowd is building up. Guru Maharaj decided to leave that place.

And Dhaka devotees made lot of Prasadam and they got all those Prasadam inside the airports in Buckets and started to serve the devotees and  to others. Some devotees requested Guru Maharaj to come and visit their home - which very near by. But due to time and traffic we refused. Then Guru Maharaj said to me, many devotees invite me to satisfy their wife's desire to bring me to their home. They want to show to others that Guru Maharaj came to my home. And said, not everybody. But majority.

Around 1:30pm Guru Maharaj got down from the VIP Lounge (1st floor) - while coming down - One of the devotee who is working in the Airport wanted to get a name for her child. And Guru Maharaj gave several names - through Shyama Madhusudan Prabhu. And she was very happy.

Then we got near to the Aircraft and here they got a Ambulift. But they set it up near the rear end of the Aircraft. Then they realised that Guru Maharaj is a business class passenger - then they again changed it to front doors. But the ambulift was full of rust. And the people who are handling Guru Maharaj is not soft. And they are not allowing us to do also.

But Deva Gauranga Prabhu and we all were near to Guru Maharaj and helped them to take Guru Maharaj safely into the Aircraft. Even then, a small scratch they did on Guru Maharaj's left hand. And the blood was coming. And immediately we got some band-aid. I don't see - why he have to suffer this much.

He just wants to travel and meet his disciples and inspire them to take up Srila Prabhupada's mission seriously.

It was 25 mins flight, we landed 🛬 in Sylhet. Guru Maharaj came out, and there were hundreds of devotees and for welcoming Guru Maharaj.

He is the King there. And devotees just going wild. But, somehow Guru Maharaj got into the car. And in front of Guru Maharaj's car there were around 200 bikes - youths of Sylhet temple. And everyone's bike had a flag and Guru Maharaj's photo got printed. All the way long, there were Guru Maharaj's posters and with his quotes. Myself and Maha Varaha Pr were in the next car. And we were scared the speed the rally was going. The bikes were going around Guru Maharaj's car, and they were doing live on Facebook, and Maha Varaha Pr said, "Guru Maharaj is tired, he will be in the car in front of the gate for five mins and then he will go to hotel and rest." They all agreed. This temple is there in a small hillock.

Guru Maharaj's car just went up on that hillock, and our car was not able to go up. Both sides there were devotees, shouting on their peak of the voice, "Jai Guru Maharaj! Jai Guru Maharaj!" Guru Maharaj's car went and stopped near the temple gate and they did Arati. After all the exchanges Guru Maharaj came down the hillock and reached the hotel.

And here it was very restricted - and devotees are not allowed - so that Guru Maharaj can peacefully rest here. There was no program for Guru Maharaj today and tomorrow.

When we entered the room Guru Maharaj was saying about how devotees were wild. Wild in the sense - devotees were wildly in their ecstasy seeing their Guru after 9.5 years. Yes! Guru Maharaj came to Sylhet in 2008 Safari - after that this is the first visit.

When Guru Maharaj reached the hotel - Guru Maharaj said, I will take some fruits and take rest. Then Guru Maharaj said, "Let's check - what is there on the TV?" Then I switched it on. And there were 54 channels. And out of 54 channels 51 channels were Bengali and Hindi and Urdu or Arabic channels. And we got BBC world. And Guru Maharaj was watching BBC world news. And while changing the channels Guru Maharaj saw some fights. That is WWE. And in BBC - they were talking about Sports - so Guru Maharaj said, "Put that fight," and he was watching for ten mins. With so much action and reactions.

Then he took his fruit Prasadam and went to bed for one hour rest.

Then Guru Maharaj got up around 7 pm and for ready. And came out from his room and visited Maha Varaha Pr's room - and said, "How are you? How is your room? Is everything is okay!" He asked all these questions and went to the next room. Maha Puran Pr knocked the door, and Guru Maharaj said, "Room Service!" And it was Naru Gopal Pr and Alok Govinda Prabhu, Guru Maharaj asked was discussing about the meetings, and about today's bike rally, and welcoming. Then Guru Maharaj knocked the next door, "Room Service!" There were Bhadra Caru Pr and Venudhari Pr, they were shocked, Guru Maharaj asked about Bhadra Caru Prabhu's wife and her health. And he said, "I am praying for her every day. And please convey to her that, I asked about her." He was very much moved. And then Guru Maharaj knocked Bhakti Purusottama Swami Maharaj's room "Room Service!" and it was shock and them and Guru Maharaj was laughing seeing their shock. And entered the room and asked Maharaj "Is the room so comfortable for you?" And after that Guru Maharaj came back to his room and took his dinner and went to bed around 10:00pm. Subhanga Govinda Pr was there with Guru Maharaj assisting him. Maha Varaha Pr got sick from Mayapur - so he is not coming to Guru Maharaj's room. And he is busy in booking tickets for the next travel. (Personal Diary - Shyama Rasika Dasa)

13/NOV/2017 - Mayapur to Kolkata

(13/Nov/2017 - Mayapur-Kolkata) Today as per the plan Guru Maharaj and team set to start from Mayapur to Bangladesh. So, I was working from Morning in Archives as usual last min jobs and assigning different services and works to different devotees in Archives. I reached Lotus Building around 2pm. Guru Maharaj was already there next to the car to get in. And he was talking to Hrdaya Caitanya Prabhu (Mayapur Co-director). And more than 200 devotees singing Namaste Narasimhaya prayers. And Guru Maharaj's Caravan also followed us. And we started. Guru Maharaj took his lunch while driving in order to save some time.

Still our Visas are not ready for Bangladesh Yatra. Including Guru Maharaj's passport - everyone's passport was in Bangladesh embassy. And only 6 devotees got their visas. So, Madhava Kanta Prabhu after the EIDC meeting in Patna - he got 4pm flight from Patna to Delhi and went to the embassy to get it. And return back from Delhi to Kolkata by 2:30pm flight. Until he reach Kolkata with Passport - Guru Maharaj can't travel. And all our tickets will be in loss.

On the way we stopped in a Petrol Pump and Guru Maharaj used Caravan's restroom. And we sent back the Caravan. And Guru Maharaj continued to Kolkata. We reached Kolkata around 8pm.

As usual Guru Maharaj stayed in Nitai Caran Pr's flat - near to the Airport. There is a security who is a Singh - and when Guru Maharaj saw him - he said, "Sasriyakal". And he came and took blessings from Guru Maharaj.

But, due to some rules for security reason - they only allowed 5 devotees to stay in the flat. So, other devotees headed by Dharesh Pr stayed at the near hotel.

When Guru Maharaj enter his room, he said, "Give me Mosquito repellent oil. As in West Bengal there is a dengue fever everywhere." And we applied to him. Then Devotees preparing his bed, and Prasanna gauranga Pr started his cooking for Guru Maharaj's dinner. And I was with Guru Maharaj. And Guru Maharaj was asking about Prabhupada's memories and about his video clips. And after talking a while, he rubbed his hand and then he rubbed back my hand. And said, "I am applying Mosquito Repellent for you." And he saw me in me, and smiled. It was his very deep affectionate eyes! Made my eyes wet. There is no way I can repay him.

We got a news that Madhava Kanta Pr got the passports with Visa for few devotees along with Guru Maharaj. And he will reach Kolkata by 4:30pm.

We as a team went to hotel and rested in a Hotel. And morning shift devotees and secretaries stayed with Guru Maharaj. And everyone decided to assemble in the Airport by 5am. (Personal Diary - Shyama Rasika Dasa)

15/NOV/2017 - Sylhet, Bangladesh

(15/NOV/2017 - Sylhet) Today morning Maha Varaha Pr asked me to record from Guru Maharaj for Prabhupada's movie that is going to be released in Theatres in this December. But, Guru Maharaj said that his voice is down, and also he wanted to see the video, and wants to know the complete detail. And he said, my video should give them furtive results - otherwise, what is the use of speaking and saying that come and watch this movie. I want to know many details before I talk. And his voice was completely low, very difficult to understand. So we conveyed the same to Gauranga Prabhu - who asked for this video on behalf of Yadubara Prabhu.

Guru Maharaj told me that by seeing yesterday's WWE fight in TV - he just remembered how Krishna and Balaram must have been fought with Canura and Mustika - those two wrestlers in Kamsa's arena. Even the Maturavasis felt it is not far. These two beautiful boys are children and these demons are like mountains. How will they wrestle. But Krishna Balarama killed them. Guru Maharaj was in ecstasy. And he said, these wrestlers are beating with out any mercy in WWE, but the Lord He wrestled with so much mercy - and they got delivered by the Lord.

Then Guru Maharaj said, I very much in Srila Prabhupada's smaran. Can we record about Srila Prabhupada - how Bangladesh preaching was started on the order of Srila Prabhupada! And Shyama Madhusudan Prabhu was not there, he left for Parikrama - visiting to Advaita Acarya's birthplace, Madhavendra Puri's birthplace. And Guru Maharaj said, "You understand me, so you repeat and we record." So we sent everyone out, and the room was echoing - but, Guru Maharaj said, "Record now!" And he spoke for eight mins.

Maha Varaha Pr asked, "Guru Maharaj you are not recording for Prabhupada movie! But you are recording these things?" But actually in that video what we recorded - his voice was completely down, and very difficult to understand. Guru Maharaj doesn't want to do a recording with this voice for Prabhupada movie promotion, and also he wanted to watch the movie before he give a promotion message. And also he spoke for a min about Book Distribution.

Then Guru Maharaj did some exercise and then took his lunch and went to bed. He looked very tired. Second team from Mayapur reached Sylhet. And Mani Gopal Pr and Sarvodaya Prabhu came to meet Guru Maharaj, and they have come to check and interview the initiation candidates. 2500 Harinama initiation. And Guru Maharaj said, "Srila Prabhupada had said, we can be little flexible for Harinama initiation, but for second initiation we have to be very strict."

And Guru Maharaj said, "In Bangladesh there may be many working in selling fish, or meat. If so we should not take them for initiation." So in this way he was instructing how to conduct initiation interviews. 16 rounds is must and 4 regulative principles are must. And Prabhupada's book reading also must. I am coming after one year to Bangladesh and they should be prepared for the diksa. And they can't give excuses that I didn't read Prabhupada books, or not able complete it.

Then in the evening Guru Maharaj got up and said, we wil have a uludvani recording of different groups in Sylhet and post it on Facebook. And he said, "In higher planets Devis do this uludvani! When they do, it sounds like conchshell!" And he said, "we have to put a video tutorial on how to do Uludvani! Many are feeling shy!"

Guru Maharaj was watching BBC or some channel and in that there was Program "Village entrepreneur" and in that they were showing that how a team of people constructed toilets in villages and some millions of people got benefitted. Then they showed how the wastes are recycled and made it as bio-gas and water recycle ♻. And after watching it - Guru Maharaj said, "I also started similar to this in Mayapur in 80s, 90s Bio-gas from Cow dung and vegetable waste, etc. But, I don't know - whether it is still there or not." It was amazing Guru Maharaj tried every possible way to develop Mayapur Dham and I hope that, all these green world and conservative energies am these things will be followed by present and future managements in Mayapur. 

Then in the evening we requested Guru Maharaj to do walking - at least 108 steps. And he agreed. As he didn't do walking for many days. Then finally Guru Maharaj agreed. And he asked, where is Radharaman Sevak Pr? But unfortunately he went to temple at that time. Then we made him walk. And every 20 steps sat and rested.

And while resting Dharesh Prabhu came, and Guru Maharaj said, "Hey Dharesh! My pants were short - when I sit." He said, "Guru Maharaj! When u stand up - it will be okay!" Guru Maharaj replied, "Now a days I am not standing at all, always on the wheel chair." So everyone's mood turned sad. Noticing that Guru Maharaj said, "Why Dharesh always you purchase your pants lengthier? Why don't you get for your size?" And he had folded his pants. So everyone started to laugh. Guru Maharaj indirectly mocked up on him - you are short. And Dharesh Prabhu took that joke and said, "I am not getting Pants for my height!" Guru Maharaj said, "Okay, find a tailor and modify my pants here in Bangladesh!"

Then he was speaking and joking with everyone and completed his 108 steps and when he entered the room he met Maha Varaha Pr and started to discuss about tickets. And Maha Varaha Pr said, one route. And Guru Maharaj gave him 5 or 6 different routes - options. After hearing it Maha Varaha Pr said, "Let me check all those!!!"

Then I fed dinner to Guru Maharaj, and He called Sudevi Mataji. And Guru Maharaj asked her, "Is your daughter took initiation?" And he asked something about financial things, and about her job and holiday? Etc." And completed his Prasadam in this way. (Personal Diary - Shyama Rasika Dasa)