29-30/JAN/2020 - Siliguri, India

(29-30/JAN/2020 - Siliguri, India) Today morning Guru Maharaja was on the TOVP-E meeting. As my sim card got corrupted - I went with a devotee to Airtel showroom, but when I went our vehicle tire got puncher and I got stuck for nearly 1:30hrs. When I came back, Guru Maharaja was doing Parikrama of the temple and visiting the smriti Navadvipa tirthas... Guru Maharaja visited Sita Rama temple and was there for longer time praying to Hanuman, the greatest servitor of Lord Rama. Then like this, he did Arati to all the Deities in each small temples. Then he got back to his room and had his lunch.

Today evening there is going to be initiation ceremony for 100 devotees from different parts of North Bengal and Nepal. And Mani Gopal Pr was doing the final checks, and reporting to Guru Maharaja. It was scheduled around 6pm. After lunch Guru Maharaja took rest and got ready, on the doorstep there were many devotees; as today is Sarasvati Puja, even there were so many local public crowd. Before leaving the room, a devotee came with his son to do Vidhyarambha, and Guru Maharaja was holding his had wrote "Krsna" "Rama" and made him chant. Then from Gangtok one mataji came to take Guru Maharaja's darsan, she travelled for 9 hrs, just for the darsana of Guru Maharaja and go back. Her name is Durga. Guru Maharaja gave her shelter and she was in tears when Guru Maharaja said, "From today you are my spiritual-bhedi" (spiritual daughter). And Guru Maharaja blessed her daughter Sonam by touching her mobile. Then from Melbourne two three devotees took shelter via video call. Madhava Kanta Pr was organizing all these things at the same time.

Then Guru Maharaja came out, but the temple management didn't organize any security or discipline way for Guru Maharaja to go to temple. There were many devotees and servants and some local temple brahmacaris and youths were trying to make Barry gates and control the crowd. But, still it was very hard. And finally we lifted Guru Maharaja to the temple hall. And Guru Maharaja took darsana of the Deities and offered ghee lamp. Compared to Bangladesh Siliguri temple is not even 5% organized in crowd management. In this way, Guru Maharaja reached the initiation hall. 

Devotees did a short Pada-puja and Guru Puja performed by the president Akilatma Prabhu. After that, Guru Maharaja gave nice class on the importance of the Holy name through the Ajamila uddhara. Then, Guru Asraya and initiation began 100 initiation was completed very fast. Then, Guru Maharaja went to his room and again one more Vidhyarambha he performed. And blessed the kid. Then Guru Maharaja took his dinner.

And night shift devotees Dvarakesvara Pr abd Nitai-lilaraja Pr joined. We heard from Radharaman Sevaka Pr in the morning that, at 2:30am Guru Maharaja vomited, and got diarrhea. And he went to bed at 3:30am. Again, at 4:30am diarrhea and went to bed at 5:30am. And slept until 8am. He was too tired.

Maha Varaha Pr and Ekanatha Gaura Pr were saying that, it is because Guru Maharaja is not following schedule. He is not eating on time, or resting enough. And stretching himself for devotees. And more over the effect of accepting so many disciples karma.

I went to see Guru Maharaja at 9am. He was taking a light breakfast Haridasa Caitanya Pr was feeding him. There was a Maharaja from Siliguri Gaudiya Matha named Bhakti Nilaya Janardhana Swami, he was there when Guru Maharaja on the first day also, he was there with Guru Maharaja offering lamps and in Guru Maharaja lectures and in Guru Maharaja's room. Guru Maharaja asked him when he met him, "How are you Maharaja? And how is Matha?" Etc. And he invited Guru Maharaja to visit the Matha on his way to Airport. Guru Maharaja said. "I will try!" 

Today, due to Guru Maharaja's health (diarrhea, vomit) he was very weak. So, Maha Varaha Pr suggested that, better to avoid going to Janardhana Maharaja's Matha and take some 30mins rest. But, Guru Maharaja was very much wanted to go there otherwise Maharaja will be very sad. When Maharaja heard that Guru Maharaja can't go due to his health reasons, Maharaja started to cry. And Maha Varaha Pr fell at Maharaja's feet and requested that, this time we avoids this program - Guru Maharaja will come during his next visit to Siliguri. And Guru Maharaja was not able to sat anything to Maharaja; and everyone of us was standing on the one side saying that, Health is more important so better to rest. Somehow we convinced Guru Maharaja and made ly-down on the bed. But, he didn't sleep; he couldn't sleep. It is already 11am. Guru Maharaja flight is at 1:40pm. So, Maha Varaha Pr took the servants and luggage bags to do check-in in advance. And told us that bring Guru Maharaja to airport; and if Guru Maharaja wants to visit the Gaudiya Matha then tell him that, he can be inside the car and take darsan and reach airport as early as possible.

Dr. Acaryaratna Pr gave two tablets to contract diarrhea Guru Maharaja took that. We told Guru Maharaja that, please take rest; he was restless, and we said, we will visit Gaudiya Matha on our way to airport. Then his face got changed and with full blossom, he said let us start now.

He asked me in the morning, "Are you coming with me to Delhi?" I said, "No! Guru Maharaja we are going to Mayapur by train. And will come to receive you in Kolkata Airport on First?" And Guru Maharaja asked, "what time is your train?" "4pm" Guru Maharaja said, "Testa Torsa?" I said, "I don't know - Madhava Kanta Pr booked the tickets and we are 7 seven devotees going." Guru Maharaja used travel frequently before so, he knows the train names etc. So Testa Torsa Express is the name of the train that leaves at 4pm. But, I couldn't understand that train name until then we miss this express.

Then Madhava Kanta Pr, Deva Gauranga Pr, Radharaman Sevaka Pr and I went with Guru Maharaja in the car, usually Guru Maharaja keep his legs on the front seat; as it will take 1:30hrs to Airport - we requested Guru Maharaja to keep his legs on the front seat. But, Guru Maharaja said, "No! Ask Maharaja to sit on that seat." Guru Maharaja was conscious of every single thing. 

Then Maharaja got in, and I was reading some emails that Radharaman Sevak Pr asked me to read. And Guru Maharaja answered back. Then dictated some replies. And like this after some 45 mins we reached the Matha. Guru Maharaja stayed inside the car and did the Arati to the beautiful Deities. And blessed the devotees and left from there to Airport, and we returned from there to ISKCON Siliguri. 

This Bhakti Nilaya Janardhana Swami Maharaja was serving in Mayapur Gurukula before. But, he is from Gaudiya Matha. And his guru called him back to manage the Matha. So he left ISKCON service. But, he had such a respect for Guru Maharaja that, after his guru left this world, he accepted Guru Maharaja to be his main siksa guru. And even on the altar, we see the picture of his Guru and then Guru Maharaja's photo. Janardhana Maharaja was very happy that Guru Maharaja visited the Matha. Guru Maharaja somehow fulfill everyone's spiritual desires. 

Now we are heading towards Mayapur. And day after tomorrow we will go to Kolkata to receive Guru Maharaja to Mayapur. (Syama Rasika dasa - Personal Diary)

28/JAN/2020 - Thakurgaon to Siliguri

(28/JAN/2020 - Thakurgaon to Siliguri) Today morning everybody was busy in packing their luggage bags. And, Guru Maharaja also got ready by 10am. Maha Varaha Pr told Guru Maharaja, "You sleep very late like 12:30am, 1am. But, you get up on time at 4:30am for Mangala-arati. Why don't you sleep also on time at least at 11pm." Guru Maharaja trying to use as much as time in the service of Srila Prabhupada.

Devotees slowly started to get crowded outside, and some of the devotees were waiting in the living room. When Guru Maharaja came out there was huge commotion for taking blessings. And somehow, Guru Maharaja got into the car. And Guru Maharaja said, I am going ahead for the Bangladesh Leaders meeting (National Committee Meeting) where all the presidents assembled. Which was held in Shonar Bangla Resort. And, as Guru Maharaja was leaving, the devotees started cry, the tears were rolling down, old, young, child, woman, men, every one was crying, "Guru Maharaja left us, when we will get his darsana again!!!! When we will get his darsana again!!!" I was out there to click some pictures. And one Brahmacari crying and crying and hugged me and started to cry. Seeing his affection for Guru Maharaja, I also started to cry... Immediately I went inside and told Maha Varaha Pr. And he came out, and asked everyone not to cry, but to chant Narasimha Pranam. So, the all started to sing and cry... Bhagavan... Bangladesh is filled with love and bhakti for Guru Maharaja.

And we also loaded all the luggage into a van and went to the resort, and Guru Maharaja was talking in the meeting. And soon after the meeting Guru Maharaja came out and along with the leaders he took a group photo. Then immediately we left from that place toward the border. As the border get closed by 5pm. So we rushed. 

Guru Maharaja took his lunch in the car. And, we reached the border by 3:30pm. And the passport works took around one hour time. And because of Bhakti Vinaya Swami Maharaja's relationship. The Bangladesh border security force allowed Guru Maharaja and vehicles to go until Zero Point. And there ISKCON Siliguri temple president Akilatma Pr came with a car and Guru Maharaja got shifted from this car to India car. And, we all walked to the India border. And Guru Maharaja was blessing all the military polices, both in Bangladesh and India. Then we started from the Fulbari Border to ISKCON Siliguri. On the way Guru Maharaja stopped in a Namahatta Center headed by Visvajit Pr and blessed the devotees and drove to Siliguri temple. Here also, there was lot of devotees welcomed Guru Maharaja with lamps, and nice flower rangolis. When Guru Maharaja entered the room still devotees were waiting outside Guru Maharaja's room as there was an announcement that there will be a Pada-puja. But Maha Varaha Pr completely disagree to this. And, sent the devotees back. But, Guru Maharaja heard this, and said, "I am ready to accept the Pada-puja - whoever the devotees are there let them do." Then, Maha Varaha Pr explained Akilatma Pr to explain Guru Maharaja that, Guru Maharaja need rest after this long journey by car. Tomorrow before initiation we can do Pada-puja so that all the disciples will get to see. Then Guru Maharaja agreed. But, actually Guru Maharaja was not even having strength to lift his head up; as he was wiped out due to this travel. And more over due to the post mega initiation effect. And Ekanatha Gaura Pr somehow made Guru Maharaja to go to bed. As soon as Guru Maharaja went to bed, he slept, it was 6:30pm. 

And we told everyone that, as much as gm want he can sleep. He need rest. And we all took Prasadam and went to our rooms. And at 8pm Akarsaka Caitanya Pr said, Guru Maharaja woke up. Then, I asked the locals when will the Deity Darsana get close, they said by 8:30pm. And I asked Akarsaka Caitanya Pr, will Guru Maharaja go for darsana, he said, "Just now Guru Maharaja woke up. So no chance." So, I went to room.

At 8:25pm I heard loud ulu-dvani immediately I understood that Guru Maharaja is now going for darsana. So, I took the camera and ran, and we lifted Guru Maharaja to top with his wheel chair. Guru Maharaja offered lamps to Sri Sri Panca-tattva, Sri Sri Radha-Madhava and Srila Prabhupada. Ekanatha Gaura Pr started to sing Harinama. Guru Maharaja did Parikrama three times and came directly and began the class. I was expecting these things, so I was prepared with camera and recorders. Unfortunately we were not able to connect to internet; due to poor connectivity. So we couldn't put Facebook live.

Then Guru Maharaja explained in his class about, how this Siliguri temple design manifested from Guru Maharaja's heart. How the temple planned as per Navadvipa. The big Sri Sri Radha Madhava Sundara and Panca-tattva temple represent Antardvipa, Lord Siva's temple represent Rudradvipa, Narasimhapalli - Laksmi Narasimhadeva temple represents Madhya Dvipa, Jagannatha Temple represents Simantadvipa, and Sita Rama Laksmana temple represents Modadrumadvipa. Like this eight small temples around the main temple. We can understand that this temple manifested from the heart of our beloved Guru Maharaja. At least at 9:30pm Guru Maharaja reached his room and took his dinner. We were all tired. But, Guru Maharaja even in this tiredness, his energy was super powerful. And Guru Maharaja said, "By taking darsana of the Deities, I gained my energy." (Syama Rasika dasa - Personal Diary)

27/JAN/2020 - Thakurgaon, Bangladesh

(27/JAN/2020 - Thakurgaon, Bangladesh) Last evening Krishna Kirtana Pr said he wants to meet Guru Maharaja for five mins and talk. So, I asked him to come at 9pm. Krishna Kirtana Pr is one of the suddha-vaisnava, who is living among us. He is Guru Maharaja's disciple from 1978. And the pioneer in Bangladesh preaching, helping Guru Maharaja from 1978. Whole Bangladesh is addicted to his Kirtan. And he is the person who can sing Narottama dasa Thakura, and such Gaudiya acaryas' songs in their mood. And his team perform Kirtan for ten to twelve hours non-stop and 10,000, 15,000 people will be sitting stunned. So, his preaching, his words, language, devotion everything is very high standard.

So, he came at 9 am to see Guru Maharaja at his residence. Guru Maharaja was in the TOVP meeting, so it finally ended at 10:30am. Then, I said to Guru Maharaja that, "Krishna Kirtan Pr is here to meet with you for five mins." Guru Maharaja said, "Okay bring him in." He came inside and offered his obeisances, he is 70 years old. With the help of a devotee he stood up, Guru Maharaja asked him in loud voice, "What is your blood sugar now?" We all laughed and Prabhu said, "I tested my sugar long back?" And Guru Maharaja laughed loudly. Then, Guru Maharaja asked him, "What do you want? Why you wanted to meet me?" Prabhu replied, "Prema Bhakti Chat! Prema Bhakti bins aar kichu chai naa!" "I want Prema Bhakti, apart from this I don't want anything." Guru Maharaja again laughed and said, "Prema Bhakti! I also... Prema Bhakti bina aar kichu chai naa! Aar kichu chai naa!" It WS very, very ecstatic moments to be in midst of the Vaisnavas and their conversations. Krishna Kirtan Pr asked, "Apnaar sarir lemon ache?" "How is your body?" Guru Maharaja replied, "Now a days I am not thinking about my body. To think and worry I got my secretaries and disciples." And Guru Maharaja laughed. Prabhu said, "I have one request, when you spoke other day on the stage about Koran, you said, Allah-o-akbar means Satyam Param Dimahi. But, whatever we say, some Muslim people take it in wrong meaning and make give some disturbance. So, please don't say anything about these people; they can't understand what you are talking!" Guru Maharaja said, "The leaders appreciated!" So the conversation went on that line... And exactly after five mins - Krishna Kirtan Pr stood up and said, "I asked for five mins - it is over. I don't want to waste your valuable time anymore." And Guru Maharaja and Prabhu took a photo and left.

It is late again today. Then we rushed to pandal. Guru Maharaja got into the car abd I went to give a camera to Radharaman Pr and Guru Maharaja touched my Sweatshirt and he said, "How are you feeling, is it good? It withstands the cold?" I said, "Yes Guru Maharaja!!!" And, Guru Maharaja said, "You can come in this car!" I said, "I will record video sitting in the police van. And Radharaman Pr will do from you car." His merciful glace was so powerful that day. Hr was just anointed with love in his eyes.

Guru Maharaja took darsan of Sri Sri Radha Gopinatha Jiu. And did three times Parikrama and when he was on the parikrama Marg, he just raised his hands and thousands goes in ecstasy crying "Haribol!" So, just to give mercy to the devotees who are waiting for Guru Maharaja, he went on Parikrama. Then went up on the stage, and started the class. In the beginning of the classg Guru Maharaja said, "Those who doesn't want to go back to Godhead they can get up and walk away from this Diksa ceremony!" And he made his point very clear that, I want all the initiated disciple to preach Lord Gauranga's Vani. After the lecture, we got drone camera from Dacca to record some shots. And I told Guru Maharaja that we will record a short clip inside the pandal. Guru Maharaja said, "Is is safe? It should harm any devotees!" I said, "we will be careful; please bless us." Then Guru Maharaja said, "Okay!" Then we did fly inside the pandal, and made it.

Guru Maharaja initiated 450 candidates first, then he went for lunch. And the Yajna was performed during hi absence. After his lunch Guru Maharaja had a small nap, and came out did an annaprasana, and blessed a couple and went to the stage to continue the Diksa ceremony. I, Haridas Caitanya Pr and Kirtan Priya Pr went to Krishna Kirtan Pr's stage to record a song that he wrote newly on Guru Maharaja. This is the first time they are going to sing on stage. So we went and was almost one and half hour went. Then, we got a message that Guru Maharaja completed the initiation, and he is calling Krishna Kirtan Pr and team to perform Kirtan on the other stage. Then we packed all the camera and recordings and ran to the other pandal, and saw that more than 20,000 people standing, and Guru Maharaja singing Mangalacarana. And, exactly before he started the class, I did the setup and started the recording. Guru Maharaja wanted to address the public. He spoke a mild philosophy and made them all chant. Then he said, now Krishna Kirtan Pr will sing for you. 

And Krishna Kirtan Pr said to me, I and my team want to sing a song that I wrote on Guru Maharaja for five mins. I told Maha Varaha Pr, he said, "Five mins okay! But tell Guru Maharaja and see what he says!" I said to Guru Maharaja, "He said okay!" That was a boul song. They started and the crowd was slowly going crazy, and Kirtan Priya Pr started to dance on the stage. Then slowly one by one servants joined and danced, Ekanatha Gaura Pr, Maha Varaha Pr, Madhava Kanta Pr, Akarsaka Caitanya Pr, Maha Puran Pr everyone started to dance, breaking the ice... And they danced like mad person. Then again one more song started... Again everyone danced... Danced... And danced... The whole crowd was dancing... The glories of Guru Maharaja and, after the song, Guru Maharaja stood up and chanted Gauranga! And crowd went even more wild... Every single person couldn't control themselves... I was not able to manage my cameras, as every where devotees and public dancing... And power went off in between, and the whole crowd started to chant Gauranga! Gauranga! The vibration that makes your heart beat high!!!! And, Guru Maharaja's presence. And kindly allowed Krishna Kirtan Pr to sing these two songs.

Guru Maharaja was happy seeing his kids happy singing and dancing... Like this the most highlighted hours of this Bangladesh visit is this evening. Tomorrow we are leaving back to India. (Syama Rasika dasa - Personal diary)

26/JAN/2020 - Thakurgaon, India

(26/JAN/2020 - Thakurgaon, India) Today morning Guru Maharaja got ready earlier. But, somehow or other things got delayed and Guru Maharaja left to the pandal around 10:30am. There were some police guards came to take blessings from Guru Maharaja. And, one couple came and asked for a blessing to beget a child. And Guru Maharaja asked them to follow Putrada Ekadasi in order to get a child.

Today also Guru Maharaja will initiate around 931 candidates and 120+ brahmana Diksa. So, Madhava Kanta Prabhu left early to pandal to filter more devotees. He rejected almost 68 devotees. But, still 120+ devotees passed the exams. They all got their Bhakti-sastri completed. And we were discussing that, we have to make it more tuff for the candidates to get brahmana Diksa even, by making Bhakti Vaibhava compulsory. There was one Mataji who got initiation many years back, now she came to take Brahmana Diksa, but she didn't complete her basic reading quota to take Brahmana Diksa; but she said and the devotee leader who recommended her also said, by six months time she will complete the reading. Guru Maharaja really got angry and said, "All these years she didn't read books, now she says in six months will complete. I don't believe anymore!" And got rejected. So the Diksa tests were made much more strict.

But, somehow the initiation class, and accepting Guru Asraya itself became 2pm. So Maha Varaha Pr and everyone requested Guru Maharaja to take his lunch and then give initiations. Guru Maharaja agreed. Wherever we went we saw thousands waiting for Guru Maharaja's darsana. Devotees, non-devotees standing for three hours, four hours just for that momentary darsana. And Kirtana Priya Pr and I were discussing that, how much we are not taking advantage of Guru Maharaja's association. 

Kirtan Priya Pr fed the lunch today. Guru Maharaja was saying "Hiranyakasipu! Hiranyakasipu!" And said, "Srila Prabhupada gave the name Ravanahari to one of his disciple. So, I can also give a name Hiranyakasipu-hari." And, we requested Guru Maharaja to go to bed and rest for at least 30 mins. The yajna was going on as per the instruction of Guru Maharaja. Guru Maharaja said, "The Diksa candidates can complete the yajna and take prasadam and take initiation." Being merciful, he said these words. So, exactly after 30mins Guru Maharaja got up, we were dressing him up, and when I took a hat from his sweatshirt packet, some money was there that fell off and Guru Maharaja said, "Srila Prabhupada told me that, " I have to always keep some money with me!"" Then got ready and went to pandal started the initiation program.

When Guru Maharaja went to pandal we were interviewing some devotees, leaders, and Krishna Kirtana Pr's team's performances on the other stage. After the initiation, Guru Maharaja went to hall where 120+ brahmana Diksa candidates were assembled. And, Guru Maharaja spent around 50 mins to give them all mantra and a sacred thread. When, he came out from that hall, some twenty boys were standing outside to take blessings. These twenty boys were working day and night for this initiation office. Guru Maharaja blessed them all.

Then we started from there to our residence. While we were leaving the pandal, we heard a song "Jayapataka Jayapataka Bole Dako re, Emon doyala bhave keho nahi re! Keho nai, keho nai, keho nai re! Emon Doyala bhave keho nai re!" written and sung BT Narasindi temple president Prahlada Krishna Pr. And we were all singing that song for 30mins until we reach our destination.

Somehow, we felt that, we are in "Jayapataka Loka" where everyone and everything is connected with Guru Maharaja. Everyone's focus is to take his darsan, hear from him, talk about him, sing about him... So the total vibration was complete echoing Guru Maharaja's glories. Even in every shop, they got Guru Maharaja's picture. It is like a intoxication - we were just seeing these devotees with so much joy, enjoying every hour they wait to see Guru Maharaja. When they see him, some cry uncontrollably - and, when his wheel chair pass through, men, women everyone roll on the ground and take dust from that place and pack it for their home. It is simply a rewind button to be in Bangladesh, some 500 years back, how the Caitanya Caritamrita says; same experience can be felt here.

Caru Candra Pr said, these many people from where they are coming... When they heard Guru Maharaja is here, thousands and thousands appear in this village. Actually, deva, devis descending here and coming to be part of this utsava. We may think that he is exaggerating; but it is not. In this small village, and thousands comes - just for his darsana. Unbelievable and inconceivable.

Dharesa Pr said, when he was discussing with Bhakti Vinaya Maharaja about the arrangements in this village for this festival. Maharaja said, "Here many Muslim farmers are there, when I said, " Guru Maharaja is coming! They said, "We will make a big mela, and do not worry Maharaja!"" So, they provided land to do parking, land to make pandal. They worked more hours and helped Maharaja! Even the Muslims they want to see this festival to be big - because Guru Maharaja is coming. 

And only Guru who visit this part of Bangladesh, which is completely surrounded by villages. And a poorest part of Bangladesh is only our Guru Maharaja. He visited here first in 1988, 1990, 1996, 1999, 2002, 2006 installed Sri Sri Radha Gopinatha. And in 2008 he came with Safari. Now, after twelve years he is here in 2020. So, this place is very significant.

In a day, 4000 kilos of rice being cooked and fed to all the devotees. 60 devotees - a cooking team cooks non-stop. There are 5000 steel plates, and 5000 devotees can sit and eat, that big pandal. And you can eat how much ever you want. And there is no delay in serving, cleaning plates, and rechecking the plates, everything was organized wonderfully. And, rice and dhal are all from the direct harvest from the Thakurgaon village. The farmers just coming with their crops and dumping in the kitchen, and set of devotee cutting the veggies and cleaning, set of devotees simply cooking and cooking and feeding the devotees three times a day. This Ananda-utsava is really amazing. And Gauranga Prema Swami Maharaja said, "This is Maha Bhakta Ananda Mela!" I am not able to type more, so I am stopping here. Those who are not here in this festival, they really missed some very important ever relishing history in their life. (Syama Rasika dasa - Personal Diary)

25/JAN/2020 Thakurgaon, Bangladesh

(25/JAN/2020 Thakurgaon, Bangladesh) Guru Maharaja got ready to go to the pandal. But, as we heard that, still the initiation preparation is going on. So, Guru Maharaja left from the residence at 11:30am. There was two escort police vans with Guru Maharaja. And, I left early at 9am in order to cover the activities and see how the audio systems are there etc. There are two main stages with big pandal setup was there. One for initiation ceremony and another one for public program and for the devotees night stay. And, one more big pandal for devotees Prasadam, where at one shot 5000 devotees can eat. Apart from this, there was lot of shops for locals to shop, like tulasi beads, cloths, books, etc. And at a time 100 devotees can take bath, such an arrangement.

Today 930 devotees will take Harinama initiation. Day and night interviews were conducted and many got rejected, and filtered. At last 930 candidates got approved to take Harinama Diksa. Devotees were making flower rangolis, and securities were managing the crowd, making Barry gates for Guru Maharaja, over all everyone was just looking at the direction where Guru Maharaja is going to come. And thousands were just entering into this village Thakurgaon for Guru Maharaja's darsan.

Guru Maharaja car entered the Thakurgaon village, and both sides there were devotees for nearly half a kilometer or more. And flower showered, the car was struggling to move as devotees were just like honey bees surrounded the car. Police and securities were just trying to move and clear the way for Guru Maharaja's car.

And His Holiness Bhakti Vinaya Maharaja was present at the temple gate to welcome Guru Maharaja. When Guru Maharaja got down, Caru Candra Prabhu offered a garland made of pop-corn. And this was made by Madhavi Nandini Mataji from Dacca. Bhakti Vinaya Maharaj did a simple Arati to Guru Maharaja and welcomed him. Guru Maharaja took darsan of Sri Sri Radha Gopinath Gauranga, and Prabhupada; offered ghee lamps and went to pandal. While coming to pandal through out the way there were devotees and Public, simply was waiting to have a few seconds of darsana. They were waiting from morning 8am. Almost 5 hours of waiting just to see few seconds. Guru Maharaja got up on the stage, the whole atmosphere was resounded with ulu-dvani and hari-dvani. His Holiness Gauranga Prema Swami Maharaja, His Holiness Bhakti Priyam Gadadhara Maharaja was present. There few books got released. From Victory Flag Publications we released "Bhagavad-sevar Rahasya" a new Bengali book. Namasudha a small hand book also got released from Chittagong.

Guru Maharaja gave an address before the initiation ceremony. Then the initiation began Maha Varaha Pr was calculating how much time, it is taking to give out beads for 100 devotees, and he was with a stopwatch. And, Guru Maharaja said, for each devotee I give bead, I will chant one maha-mantra. But it took more than two hours for 450 initiations.

Then there was a break and Guru Maharaja went to take his lunch and a nap. Meanwhile the yajna was conducted. Guru Maharaja had his lunch, and a short nap. Then got ready and came back to the stage and resumed the initiation. And after completing 930 initiations Guru Maharaja came to room and refreshed and went to the stage for his evening program @ 7pm.

The evening pandal program was packed with more than 15,000 people. There were some ministers, and political leaders were there. Some are Muslims still they were there. And Krishna Kirtan Pr's team was performing lots of Kirtan and bhajans through out the day, and in the evening they were doing baul-sangeet. When Guru Maharaja came up to the stage and started his lecture. In his lecture, he explained about "Allah-o-akbar" which is nothing but a "satyam param dimahi" so, like this he started to could common things between Muslim religion and sanatana-dharma. And he also said the Buddhi-manta khan pastime. The crowd was totally there for Guru Maharaja. After the speech, the dignitaries came to Guru Maharaja and paid their respects. And some even touched Guru Maharaja's lotus feet and took blessings.

Then Guru Maharaja left the stage. We all packed our things and got into the car. The crowd started move out from the pandal towards Guru Maharaja's send off. Guru Maharaja understood it and he immediately went back to the stage and sat there to listen other's talk. And again all the crowd came back to pandal. Each dignitaries glorified Guru Maharaja and Bhakti Vinaya Maharaja. The whole session was extra boosting. Then completing the whole program Guru Maharaja left from the stage. And we reached home it was 10pm. Like this the day was fully packed with programs. Tomorrow also it will be the same for sure. (Syama Rasika dasa - Personal Diary)

24/JAN/2020 Thakurgaon, Bangladesh

(24/JAN/2020 Thakurgaon, Bangladesh) Morning no one was able to wake up, as we are all tired of the whole day journey, and due to the climate. If normal, healthy, young people are tired means what to speak of Guru Maharaja? Morning shift devotees woke up Guru Maharaja at 5:30am and gave him medicines and gave rest again. Maha Varaha Pr knowing this, he didn't keep any program. But, still many devotees couldn't take darsan of Guru Maharaja last night and due the request of Jagat-guru Gauranga Pr, Maha Varaha Pr agreed for one hour darsan. And it got planned to be in the ground which is just opposite to the residence. The darsan was scheduled at 12:30 to 1:30pm. But, somehow, things got delayed. And Guru Maharaja came at 1:20pm, just by hearing the news that Guru Maharaja going to give darsan devotees and villagers gathered in that ground, almost 2000+. 

I went and paid my obeisances; seeing my sikha - Guru Maharaja said, "Syama Ra-sikha! Syama Ra-sikha! Sikhs!" And was making fun. Then, Guru Maharaja came to the ground and gave half an hour class. In the class he narrated the Suvarna Vihar pastime, and chanted Gauranga! Gauranga! It was simply outstanding. Then after the class, he released a book; and blessed few devotees and came back to the residence at 2:30pm and started his lunch.

In the evening Maha Bandhu Gopal Pr got some sweatshirts from Dacca. And in that he got two sweatshirts for Guru Maharaja. And he asked us to try it out and Guru Maharaja can wear it.

After the dinner, Guru Maharaja was little free, so I asked Guru Maharaja to give a short message for the Panca-krosa Parikrama - which is going to be tomorrow. Guru Maharaja said, "Okay!" Then we were just trying to get ready to record. Maha Varaha Pr and Ekanatha Gaura Pr entered the room and Guru Maharaja started to talk with them. Then, Maha Varaha Pr started to clear the gifts that all kept in Guru Maharaja's room. He asked to pack all the gifts in one baggage and send it to Mayapur. And he saw the sweatshirt and Guru Maharaja wanted to trial it. First one he did, but the size was small. Then the second one did try, and it was very good, but was tight. But, Guru Maharaja liked it. So, the one which was not fitting for Guru Maharaja given to Ekanatha Gaura Pr to trial it. And he said, it is too lose for me. Then, everyone asked me to try it. And it was very fitting. And Guru Maharaja started to adjust it, and said, "It is very nice for you. You have it! I got same kind and color of sweatshirt in Mayapur." I didn't agree with Kirtan Priya Pr when he told me that take some sweatshirt. But, now Guru Maharaja is gifting me.

And the discussion was about Trump's Impeachment. Guru Maharaja was telling, how that person talking nice about him at the same time he says, "Trump should be removed!" Then Ekanatha Gaura Pr said, "How during his rule, there is no war, and the dollar value increased." Then Guru Maharaja took milk and went to bed. Tomorrow going to be the hectic day, 900+ initiation and evening pandal program, etc. I couldn't type much, as I am too tired and couldn't remember much, and falling to sleep. (Syama Rasika dasa - Personal Diary)

23/JAN/2020 Siliguri to Thakurgaon

(23/JAN/2020 Siliguri to Thakurgaon) We reached Siliguri around 11:45am and got ready. By the time the devotees said, Guru Maharaja will be going to the Border directly from Bogdogra Airport, so Kirtan Priya Pr and Subhadra Mataji went to Airport with few temple devotees. And Akarsaka Caitanya Pr, Nitai Lilaraja Pr, Pancajanya Kesava Pr and I went to the Border directly to clear our immigration process as when Guru Maharaja comes over there it will save some time. Madhava Kanta Pr was over all coordinating and directing us.

Guru Maharaja landed there, and met some dignitaries. Then there were lot of devotees; and as per Prasanna Gauranga Pr - Guru Maharaja asked before getting into the car, who are all the to take shelter and aspiration? And immediately asked to bring the flowers and they recited and mantra and Guru Maharaja gave some devotees his shelter. It was already late 3pm. As the border will get closed by 5pm. As today Mamata Banerji also visiting Siliguri there was some traffic jam; and Guru Maharaja went to a Government guesthouse and got freshen up; and drove to immigration. Meanwhile, there were hundreds of devotees from Siliguri assembled over there, and there was a Kirtan and jaya-dvani. When Guru Maharaja's car entered the immigration - one Guru Maharaja's disciple from Coochbihar came and helped us to process all the passports and luggage bags etc. The officers came to Guru Maharaja's car and took blessings one by one. Even though some are Muslims, still they didn't miss this golden chance. For long time, Guru Maharaja was blessing devotees. The officers came out and took signature from Guru Maharaja. Everything happened in super fast action. As my immigration process completed before, I was there with Guru Maharaja and rest everyone went to get their immigration stamp.

Then the border security arranged a permission for Guru Maharaja to go unto zero point - that means until Bangladesh border in this same car. When we went to the Zero point, there Bangladesh devotees headed by Bhakti Vinaya Swami, Caru Candra Pr, Jagat-guru Gauranga Pr all were waiting. And the Bangladesh Government given a VIP Police security escort with a siren. So, when Guru Maharaja entered into Bangladesh there again out passports were getting entered and stamped. They were doing very fast, still the higher authorities came and shouted them saying, "He is VIP why are you delaying the process, relieve them immediately." It was amazing to see how much they were serving without knowing the outcome of the great results that they will get soon.

Then we left from the border to Thakurgaon. It is almost 98 to 100kms. And will take minimum 2:30 to 3 hrs. Maha Puran Pr, Prasanna Gauranga Pr, Akarshaka Caitanya Pr were with Guru Maharaja. And, in one area there were hundreds of devotees showered flowers on Guru Maharaja's car and with Kirtan they welcomed him. And there big gateways made with Srila Prabhupada and Guru Maharaja pictures. And Guru Maharaja started to bless devotees, then the servants closed the window glass, then Guru Maharaja started bless them keeping his hands on the glass, and he was blessing so much, his hand got pain, and Maha Puran Pr started to massage his hands, and Guru Maharaja again started to bless. He was extremely happy to see the devotees. Like this every 20 kms we got one group.

It was almost two hours. Guru Maharaja said, I want to use restroom. And, Bhakti Vinaya Maharaja said, in another ten mins drive there is a town and in a devotees house we will stop. But, we were just driving and driving, then we stopped in a petrol pump. But there was no facility, so again we started to go. At one point Guru Maharaja said, I think I should use whatever is available at present. Then we stopped the car, and made walls with chadars and made the setup for him. And Guru Maharaja used it. And we were discussing, who knows what is the fortune that Guru Maharaja's lotus feet touched this land. It was almost like 10°, winter seems to be heavy in this area. But, we managed.

And then Guru Maharaja got into the car, and I was giving him his sweatshirt, as he was putting his hand, I was saying "Asthe! Asthe!!" But, Guru Maharaja was little fast, and I thought it might hurt him as he is inside the car and in anxiety I said, "Asthe re bhai!!! Asthe!!!" And Guru Maharaja started to laugh, and Prasanna Gauranga Pr said, "Bhaai?!" Then I said to Guru Maharaja, "Sorry Guru Maharaja!" And Guru Maharaja was laughing...

Then, we reached around 9pm and there was lot of devotees waiting to welcome Guru Maharaja, everyone was in ecstasy seeing Guru Maharaja after many years. Matajis were having lamps in a decorated plates. And throwing flowers on Guru Maharaja's car.. The whole environment made our tiredness light. 

Here Guru Maharaja's staying facility arranged in one of his disciple's house which is three floors and he is a doctor. And, Guru Maharaja entered the house, and the couple were ready with Arati plate, and to do Pada-puja. Then we saw that, Guru Maharaja was having anti-idima socks. So, we said, may be you can offer flower and let Guru Maharaja go and take his dinner and rest. They agreed and took the flowers to offer. Then, Guru Maharaja shouted, "Remove my socks, let her pour the water, and husband do the washing of my feet." Then we removed the socks and then they did the Pada-puja, offered Arati. We are not able to imagine how much Guru Maharaja merciful, even after travelling whole day, still he want to extent himself for devotees.

Then, Prasanna Gauranga Pr started his cooking for Guru Maharaja dinner. Ekanatha Gaura Pr asked Guru Maharaja, "Are you hungry?" Guru Maharaja said, "Little bit!" Prasanna Gauranga Pr said, "30 mins I will prepare it!" 

So, Guru Maharaja was little free so Kirtan Priya Pr and I started to update about Belpukur, and Birnagar. Guru Maharaja very much happy to hear about the Birnagar. As one person wanted to donate a land which is 900m away from Bhakti Vinoda Thakura's janma sthana. So Guru Maharaja will give his instruction and vision in Mayapur about the Birnagar.

And Guru Maharaja asked Kirtan Priya Pr about how was his first visit to Bangladesh? And, was telling how the Muslim country and Hindus are minority - but, devotees are enthusiastic. Then he said, "When I went to Bolivia once, that time the minister came to welcome me, and there was Indian flag and Bolivia flag and with Police escort they took me inside their country. But, this time I went undercover. As the minister now was originally from German, and somehow his daughter became Hare Krishna and he didn't like it, and started to ban the Hare Krishna movement. And started to arrest devotees." Ekanatha Gaura Pr was saying how the devotees are struggling to run the programs etc. There were lot of things discussed, but I am not remembering now. There was nice Prasadam arrangement for the devotees as usual. (Syama Rasika dasa - Personal Diary)

22/JAN/2020 Kolkata

(22/JAN/2020 Kolkata) Today morning Sudhamai Harinama Pr, Tarun Gaura Pr, Pancajanya Kesava Pr, Harinama Kripa Pr and I left Mayapur to welcome Guru Maharaja in Kolkata, after his world trip. Guru Maharaja got into the flight from Chennai @ 11:15 am and landed around 1:40pm. We reached on time. But, due to some communication mistake, we parked the car and came to the gate, and we saw lots of devotees nearly to 150+ devotees gathered for Guru Maharaja's darsana. Within five mins time, Guru Maharaja showed up, and we immediately called for the car to come. But the when the devotees saw Guru Maharaja they lost their control, everyone started to run toward Guru Maharaja. And we were not able to control, and Guru Maharaja took his Jagannatha stick to bless, that made the situation more aggravated we can say. Maha Varaha Pr was tried his level best; but they were not letting Guru Maharaja to move forward, we were trying to go behind and with many luggage bags it was quite difficult to care both sides. Then Maha Varaha Pr asked Guru Maharaja to give the Jagannatha Stick, but Guru Maharaja refused and continued to bless. Wherever Guru Maharaja showed the stick, there were ten heads to take his blessings, not only devotees - even public were trying to get a blessings. That five mins was uncontrollable. Then Guru Maharaja was saying that, we will take a group photo. But, we somehow managed get Guru Maharaja near the car and made him it. And Maha Varaha Pr said to me, "We are back in Bengal! And I don't know what is going to be in Bangladesh!" He was really frustrated.

When Guru Maharaja's car started and came to the main road, one car came front of Guru Maharaja car and stopped, and one mataji came with a tender coconut and offered him, and there was traffic jam, and Guru Maharaja accepted her offering. We reached the hotel and Guru Maharaja took his lunch and got fresh up. And was telling to Maha Varaha Pr that, "If you could have organized a group photo, then this much they would have not went uncontrollable." Then Maha Varaha Pr said, "Guru Maharaja this is because of the Jagannatha Stick! When you showed the Jagannatha stick, the devotees whoever in line got mad." But, Guru Maharaja didn't agree. Like this there was jovial discussions. By the time it was 4pm. So, Guru Maharaja also had a meeting with few GBCs about (MP) at 4:30pm. So, we requested Guru Maharaja to take rest for 30mins at least. Guru Maharaja agreed to our proposal and went to bed.

As the meeting started at 4:30pm but, Gopala Krishna Maharaja was not joined until 5pm. So Maha Varaha Pr said, let Guru Maharaja sleep at least one hour. At 5:10pm Gopala Krishna Maharaja joined the conference from Vrindvana. So, we woke up Guru Maharaja and he joined immediately. So, in this zoom meeting, Guru Maharaja follows the etiquette of Raising Hand. So he raise hand and until the facilitator says, Guru Maharaja doesn't talk. And, at last Bhakti Vaibhava Maharaja asked, "Where is this Raising Hand option?" Guru Maharaja always amaze us in every activity.

After the meeting Guru Maharaja called JPS Office Manager Ramananda Gaura Pr and enquired about the E-care office. And reminded them about the Amazon sales day going to end today. And if anything can be purchased in cheaper price for E-care office then we should order immediately. And, he also asked to by a telephone signal booster for E-care office. And there were some issues about treasury transactions, and Guru Maharaja called Harilila Pr and discussed with him and cleared. Then, also discussed about soe other issues; in that conversation Guru Maharaja made a point that, "To a grihastha, a senior grihastha should council. Even in this, wife should talk to the woman, and men should talk to men. As the wife may think that, "Oh this this man council me good, and understand me more, etc. He us better than my husband. Or vice-versa. So what to speak of Brahmacari gives counselling to grihastha, that too to woman or other man's wife?" Guru Maharaja was very much concern about the modern world, and he is very clear with Sastric injunctions.

Then Guru Maharaja decided to go for cycling to the mall in the ground floor of the hotel. So, we took him downstairs; there were some devotees they also joined Guru Maharaja in his cycling exercise cum walking. 

As I have to leave to Siliguri by train, so I took leave from Guru Maharaja and rushed to railway station with Pancajanya Kesava Pr, and Nitai Lilaraja Pr. Our train scheduled to leave at 9:40pm. But, 3 hours delay so we waiting at the station. In this new year this is my first day with Guru Maharaja. It was very enlivening; as I am seeing him after 83 days. And little nervous in doing services. But, lots of blessings... Tomorrow we will meet Guru Maharaja in Siliguri. His flight is at 12:55pm from Kolkata. (Syama Rasika dasa - Personal Diary)