Polish Japa Retreat December 2009

Japa Retreat Poland

December 24^th-31^st 2009

Dandavat Pranamas

All glories to Sri Sri Guru and Gauranga.

Over the Christmas break, while many in Europe and America were suffering disruption to travel conditions etc, brought about by the sudden snow storms, the devotees in Poland were happily taking warmth from the precious fires of some exclusive nama bhajan.

We were kindly hosted and adequately taken care by Premdas prabhu in his house in the country, 40 minutes from Warsaw.

All of the devotees were quite new to hearing Srila Narayana Maharaja’s teachings, and their enthusiasm to absorb and understand was truly inspiring.

For the most part we had between 10 and 12 devotees, but others, according to their schedules, dropped in for a day or two.

As usual the power of nama took over and everyone reached newer stages in awareness of Krishna’s beauty and pastimes.

All glories to Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu who has given us this gift of nama, and all glories to His devotees who come together to honour that gift.

Sankirtan Yajna Ki Jaya

BV Tridandi Swami

Polish devotees appreciate the week

Uczestnictwo w festiwalu prowadzone pod nadzorem B.V. Tridandi Maharadża umożliwiło mi w części zrozumienie zawiłości wiedzy zawartych w pieśniach, wersetach i rozrywkach Radhy i Kriszny. Składam moje pełne wyrazy szacunku i pokłony do Jego Lotosowych Stóp.

Wszelka Chwała Gurudewowi!

Pragnę podziękować Premdasowi za udostępnienie nam domu, w którym spędziłam niezwykłe dni.

Gaura-priya d.d.

Haribol. Japa Retreat jest ciekawym i bardzo przyjemnym przeżyciem.

Czułem się bardzo dobrze mogąc od rana skupić się na intonowaniu Imion Kriszny.

Madhavananda das

Japa Retreat spowodował, że przekonałam się, że jest możliwe intonowanie dużej ilości mantr w ciągu dnia. Bez większego wysiłku. Przy czym nie należy przejmować się materialnymi potrzebami , wydarzeniami itp. Należy zrównoważyć ilość intonowanych mantr i czas poświęcony na służbę oddania oraz minimalizować inne czynności w ciągu dnia.

Zrozumiałam w dużym stopniu jiva-tattva oraz guru-tattva. Jestem bardzo wdzięczna Tridandi Maharadżowi za wszystkie instrukcje i nauki i prowadzenie „Japa Retreatu” oraz Premdasowi Prabhu za zorganizowanie go w Polsce.

Anupama d.d.

Japa Retreat dał mi możliwość docenienia ogromnego współczucia Śrila Gurudewa dla nas i jego niezwykłej łaski w postaci wskazania nam metody docenienia Kryszny i bycie przez Niego zauroczonym poprzez przesiąknięte słodyczą rozrywki Kryszny. Te spotkania uświadomiły mi także jak ważne są właściwe relacje z każdą żywą istotą, gdyż centrum tych relacji jest Kryszna.

Czaru Kryszna das

„Japa Retreat” to jest coś czego każdy powinien doświadczyć! Nie da się w kilku zdaniach opisać nawet drobnej części tych wszystkich korzyści jakie można osiągnąć przez uczestniczenie w tym wspaniałym Festiwalu Świętego Imienia i Kryszna-katha, tak jak i nie da się zrozumieć jego korzyści bez osobistego uczestnictwa. To jest doświadczenie, które każdy szczery wielbiciel powinien przeżyć w tej wspaniałej atmosferze i nastroju, pod opieką B.V. Tridandiego Maharaja!

Premdas

Moje ogólne odczucie z pobytu na Japa Retreat jest bardzo pozytywne. Pragnę serdecznie podziękować B.V. Tridandi Maharadżowi za jego wysiłek i oddanie płynące do nas szerokim strumieniem. Dzięki niemu mogłam zrozumieć trochę niektóre zawiłości wiedzy o Krysznie i zrozumieć, że dużo muszę się jeszcze uczyć i że bardzo tej wiedzy potrzebuję. Pragnę również serdecznie podziękować Premdasowi i jego żonie za udostępnienie nam całego domu. Mieliśmy bardzo dobre warunki. Było ciepło i niezwykle miło.

Gunamala d.d.

To jest niezwykłe doświadczenie. Czuję się przeniesiony w jakąś wyższą rzeczywistość i doświadczam małej, ale jakże potężnej namiastki duchowego szczęścia płynącego z praktyki duchowej bhakti-yogi.

Wspaniałe wykłady i dyskusje filozoficzne, wielogodzinne intonowanie japa i słuchanie słodkiego krsna-katha dało mi w sumie niezwykły efekt rozwiania wątpliwości, pogłębienia swojej wiedzy i bliższego poznania i docenienia Kriszny i Jego czystego reprezentanta - Guru. Czuję, że odniosłem ogromne korzyści za co serdecznie dziękuję Tridandi Maharadżowi i wszystkim uczestnikom.

Indubhuszan das

To jest niesamowite duchowe przeżycie, które każdy powinien doświadczyć we własnym życiu :) Poświęcenie całego tygodnia na tak intensywną medytację i intonowanie daje przedsmak tego o co w tym wszystkim chodzi. Podporządkowanie się guru i Świętemu Imieniu daje niesamowitą moc i mnóstwo doświadczeń. B.V. Tridandi Swami dodatkowo prowadzi niezwykle interesujące wykłady na tematy związane z pozycją jivy (duszy) i to dodatkowo daje moc i inspiracje do duchowej praktyki. Wybieram się też następnym razem :)

Kryszna Kirtan das

Glastonbury England November 2009

Appreciations of the Glastonbuty Japa retreat November 2009








Dandavats to everyone.
By the causeless mercy of Sri Sri Guru and Gauranga, this most recent retreat in Glastonbury was an astonishing success. Success in the sense, that all the 18 people who took part, very clearly benefited enormously from the powerful influence of the Holy name.
This power was visibly apparent through our evening exchanges with each other. It seemed that each evening the devotees became more inspired and clearer as to their spiritual direction and focus of energy that they wanted to experience. Much clearing, bonding and healing took place and so much happiness and warmth between us all was exchanged.
This year was different in that we had 7 people new to the concepts of mantra meditation and what that meant. I was so inspired to see them all become enthusiastic students of our Vedic teachings empowered by the maha mantra.
In the last days many were able to chant a full 64 rounds, this certainly opened up new boundaries of consciousness and awareness for them in the holy names glories, and really, this is what the retreat is intended for.
I feel the greatest happiness and respect for all the participants, again I feel I have made so many new life long friends.
Thank you, all of you. In particular Radhe and Kesava for their full support and most warm hosting, no one can compare to their generous spirit. I am always indebted to them and forever grateful.
Yours in the service of Sri Guru and the Vaisnavas
BV Tridandi Swami
****

All glories to Srila Gurudeva!
I have been very fortunate to attend four of BV Tridandi Maharaj’s 7 day japa retreats in recent months, and have found the opportunity to deepen my relationship with Nama and associate closely with Tridandi Maharaj and sadhu sangha to be very beneficial and enriching for my spiritual life. Regardless of whether we are steady in sadhana or not, or have experienced periods of intensive sadhana (such as having lived amongst devotees in temple life), the retreat provides a sacred space where participants can drop much deeper into sadhana without distraction and share an intimacy of devotee association.

This is a particularly rare opportunity for grhastas (householders) who most often have many external duties to perform, and can experience some feelings of spiritual isolation in daily life, wishing for more quality association outside of visiting the temple or going to programmes/festivals or on vraja/navadvip parikrama with Srila Gurudeva.

The japa retreat, which is mostly held in silence, provides a simple but effective structure which is both gentle and intense. The day revolves around a spacious programme with mangala arati, Hari katha, kirtan, delicious healthy prasadam, devotee exchange (where participants come together to share their journey in Krsna consciousness and in relationship to the Holy Name) and of course there is enough time to rest, and chant a lot more rounds than we might ordinarily find time to chant. In acknowledgement of the individuals’ different capacity and intention for the retreat, the various aspects of the programme are optional, which allows each participant to engage at the level that they feel happy with and as a result, a very sweet and relaxed mood develops.

After these retreats I have been left with a strong feeling of heart connection and belonging in our Gurudeva’s family, my absorption in Krsna consciousness has deepened, and fulfilling my commitment to chanting my rounds of japa has become quite effortless.

An aspiring servant of the servant of the Lord
Keshava Das Owner and host of Shekin ashram Glastonbury
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I don’t remember when I was last in such a peaceful atmosphere and I could chant so many rounds of the maha mantra. The mode of goodness here I think has helped me tremendously to do all this, and I feel it pulling me away from the modes of ignorance and passion. The Hari Katha of Tridandi Maharaja gives so much sweetness and inspiration.
Ananda Mohini dd from Norwich.
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It is difficult to express just how wonderful this japa retreat has been for me. To be so welcomed into the Ashram of Kesava and Radhe and to experience the wisdom and teachings of Bhaktivedanta Tridandi Swami has been truly beautiful. I believe this week has changed my life for the better, and has given me a host of new friends as well. Thanks to all, especially Gurudeva and Krsna.
Cecilia from Chester.
****

My Japa retreat experience has been the most wonderful inspiring week.
It has touched my heart and soul in a way that I know will never leave me.
I am grateful also to have had the opportunity to share this experience with such cool, warm, sincere people.
Thank you.
Katie from Glastonbury.
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This japa retreat has been of immense value for my emotional, physical and especially spiritual life. It is a real retreat with genuine people searching for harmony in the Absolute Reality. I sincerely recommend this retreat to anyone in any walk of life looking for some kind of inner peace and a searching for the soul.
Balabahadra dasa, Hemel Hampstead, London
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The retreat helped me to deepen my devotional practice and allowed me to receive from the Divine. The classes brought up the most profound truths for discussion, and so helped to deepen the understanding of higher realities. The retreat was punctuated with experience of light beings and other mystical phenomena.
Freespirit Glastonbury.
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As a newcomer to this path, I found the retreat to be so informative and inspiring, and the opportunity to practice so much Japa invaluable. I feel so much gratitude for having had such a wonderful opportunity.
Haribol.
Thank you all very,very much.
Helen Shenstone Australia.
****

A week spent living an ashram life gives benefits that cannot be perceived of before hand. Under the guidance of a true scholor on Vedic scripture, Tridandi Swami. With the mercy of Sri Krsna delivers a powerful awakening experience whatever the level of understanding. This week has re-enforced my faith in humanity that we have a divine purpose here on beautiful mother earth. Tridandi Maharaja is a living example of this and hopefully we will see each other often again my friend.
Deepest and dearing love and thanks
Marvyn Glastonbury Haribol!
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This is my third Japa retreat and this one has been just as good as the first two, which is to say pretty wonderful!
Gaura Chand Dasa London.
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The most beautiful experience of my life, I have been bitten by that black snake. For one week I was transported to a place of the deepest connection to my soul, Guru and Krsna. I feel totally amazing, nourished spiritually on every level. Maharaja’s classes were like total nectar. I left feeling totally inspired to increase above 16 rounds. My faith in the maha mantra has grown like anything.
Lalit Krsna From Brighton.
****

Japa has naturally awakened in my soul through transcendental sound and knowledge. Intensive chanting has lifted me from material anxieties and helped me to understand my true identity.
It was a beautiful journey to make one small step closer to the Divine.
I would warmly recommend this Japa retreat to everyone who is searching for inner peace, truth and a connection with the supreme.
Anni from Estonia.
****

The japa retreat was wonderful. It’s a reconnection to the real self, through the Maha mantra. Also, to experience the power of the name. It’s a week I will never forget all my life. I’ve got a second life!
Being with wonderful devotees in a peaceful environment is unique and nourishing.
All by the causeless mercy of Sri Guru and Gauranga.
I recommend it to everyone!
Haribol.
Parama Dharma dasa London (France)
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I am relatively new to the concept of Krsna consciousness, but from my brief experiences previously at Shekinashram, I wanted to know more about it.
The Japa intensive retreat lived up to its name. Foreign concepts and ideas were clearly explained and through the power of Krsna mantra, they started to sink in in a profound way. Repeating the mantra felt like it had a purifying effect. Finding myself worshipping at the feet of the servant of the servant of the servant…to Radhe, feeling nothing but pure love made me realise I’d come to the right place and the right time.
Thanks to you all.
Samantha Marais. Bristol
****

Japa Retreat Sicily July 2009

Report

Dandavats Prabhus and friends,
All glories to Sri Sri Guru and Gauranga.
By the causeless mercy of our beloved Gurudeva, we have successfully completed another week long Japa Retreat.

I want to first express my sincere appreciation to Tamal Krsna Prabhu and his good wife Vrajarani Devi Dasi for taking all the responsibility in hosting our retreat here in Sicily, they looked after everyone like their own family. All the devotees are most appreciative.

This retreat was particularly beautiful being set in the remarkable peaceful forest of the cool Sicilian volcanic, mountains.

Most of the devotees managed their quota of chanting each day, plus most even had some extra time to study.

During the retreat we studied Guru tattva, Gaura tattva, Vigraha tattva, bhakti tattva, jiva tattva, rasa tattva and more. Many lila’s were also discussed, and I was very pleased that so many devotees remembered the various applicable verses.
As on previous retreats, we sang as well as discussed extensively many bhajans and astakams, and each evening was crowned with a beautiful ecstatic kirtan of the holy name.

Once again, I was tremendously inspired and felt honoured to witness the power of the holy name, when drunk in large continuous quantities, acting so powerfully within the soft devotee’s hearts. The devotees literally grew brighter each successive day.
It really is a miraculous process, were all doubts can be left behind as the glorious sun of nama begins to rise from the darkness of long, forgotten, neglectful ages.

Relationships grew sweeter as each day passed until once again, we had bonded as a loving family of devotees, eagerly seeking Srila Gurudevas mercy to progress on our most fortunate journey home, to realize our eternal service to Sri Radha in the heart.

Gurudeva Ki jaya!
Hari Nama Ki jaya!
Jaya Jaya Sri Radhe Syama!!

Vaisnava dasanudasa
BV Tridandi Swami


What follows are the devotees appreciation of the week.

If the symptom of bhakti, of love for guru and Krsna, is seva, then BV Tridandi Maharaja is really special, because his seva is sublime.
The aim of Caitanya Mahaprabhu is to spread the congregational chanting of the holy name, which culminates in awakening our constitutional nature as the servant of the beauty of that unatta-ujivalla rasa, which He Himself has come to taste.
If we had even a small understanding of the wonderful glories of the holy name and where Sri Nama is leading us, the desire in our hearts to improve our chanting would always be strong.
If we can always remember that the choice to be attracted to Sri Krsna or to Maya devi is with us at this eternal present moment, then this japa retreat, by Gurudeva's mercy, is a real success and a benediction for the soul.
Tamal Krsna Dasa


Il Japa retreat è un'esperienza che consiglio a tutti i devoti.
Il canto del maha mantra è la più dolce e più potente energia d'ispirazione per raggiungere la fonte dell'amore unoversale e che risveglia lanostra anima da un sonno che senza sarebbe eterno.
Questa è un'ottima occasione per entrare in contatto con il se, per conoscere e comprendere i divertimenti di Radha e Krsna e assaporarne la dolcezza, fatelo fatelo fatelo.
Offro i miei omaggi a BV Tridandi Maharaja che con la sua conoscenza, umiltà e il suo amore è stato un chiaro esempio della misericordia di Gurudeva
Premananda das
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Gurudeva dice che i Sanniasi vengono ad annaffiare il Bakti lata bija che lui ha piantato nel nostro cuore.
BV Tridandi Maharajja con la sua dolce e mirata Hari-Katha ha ispirato la mia mente durante il canto dei santi nomi ad entrare in profondità negli argomenti studiati.
Come scritto nel primo Siksastakam, il santo nome è la vita e l'anima della conoscenza trascendentale; poichè "vidhya" è la consorte di Sri Nama prabhu.
Chiunque dovrebbe fare questa esperienza per capire da se stessi quanto cantare il Maha mantra per molte ore amplifica l'intelligenza e scioglie il cuore, permettendo alla conoscenza di entrare.
Porgo i miei dantavat pranama e i miei ringraziamenti ancora e ancora a BV Tridandi maharaja che con molta cura ha portato la misericordia del nostro amato Gurudeva nella tasca del mio cuore.
Radhe Radhe
Janaki


Avevo sentito parlare della potenza del Maha Mantra Hare Krsna, pensavo di sperimentarlo ogni giorno durante la mia pratica di meditazione ma dopo questa straordinaria esperienza, una settimana insieme ai devoti immersi completamente nel ricordo, nell'ascolto ma sopratutto nel canto del Maha Mantra, ha portato la coscienza a profondità mai immaginate prima.
BV Tridandi Maharaja ci ha condotto con metodo, attenzione, competenza, chiarezza e dolcezza nel Bhajana contribuendo notevolmente allo sviluppo della mia Bakti e dandomi una traccia chiara da seguire per il futuro.

Jay Gurudeva
Murari das

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Il Japa retreat è un'esperienza pratica, un'immersione totale nella dolcezza del Hari Nama, Krsna-Katha e Bhajana.
Un dono per l'anima che porterò eternamente con me.
Indescrivibile!! come un rasgulla che bisogna assaggiarlo per capirlo.
I miei dantavat pranama a BV Tridandi Maharaja

Tamal Krsna das


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Esperienza assolutamente unica sotto l'occhio esperto di BV Tridandi maharaja che con tanto amore riesce a dirigere questo meraviglioso programma.
Consiglio a tutti di partecipare al Japa retrait in modo da poter comprendere cosa vuol dire veramente cantare il santo nome.
Jay Gurudev

Raghunandan das


Il Japa treat e’ stato una profonda esperienza dentro una comprensione maggiore del canto dei Santi Nomi, con dolcissimi Bhajana e attenti studi, guidati dal migliore fra gli amorevoli insegnanti B.V. Tridandi Maharaja.
Ogni devoto dovrebbe fare questa esperienza, per capirne personalmente il valore e il potere.
Dantavat Pranam a B.V. Tridandi Maharaja
Jay Gurudeva Vrajarani Devi Dasi




Il canto del maha mantra e ciò su cui si fonda la nostra scelta di seguire il sentiero della bhakti. Il japa retreat è un imperdibile occasione per gustare le sue infinite dolcezze, per finalmente assaporare e comprendere il significato di ciò che abbiamo scelto. Una base su cui costruire la nostra devozione guidata da un dolce dolce maestro, nessuno mai dovrebbe perdere un'occasione tale.
Jay Gurudeva
Tulsi dasi

Dutch Japa Retreat May 2009

Dandavat Pranams
All Glories to Sri Sri Guru and Gauranga.
This years Dutch Japa retreat took place in the very beautiful ashram of Sada Siva Dham.
Set deep within the forest, the devotees were able to find time to chant their japa in a natural setting.
The exchanges between the devotees grew more sweet as the time passed, and the Hari Katha thickened in intensity with everyones participation each passing day.
I am personally so inspired to see the power of the Holy name regularly lift all participants to newer and newer realizations and strengths in their Krishna consciousness.
I believe these retreats to be a powerful stimulus to connect so much more significantly with Sri Guru and Sri Gauranga Mahaprabhus' mission in this fallen age of Kali.
The Holy name and talks of Sri Guru and Sri Gauranga naturally bring everyone closer to our ultimate goal of serving the Divine couples fragrant Lotus feet.
Srila Gurudeva Ki Jaya!!
Vaisnava dasanudasa
BV Tridandi Swami

What follows are the devotees expressions of appreciation for a week well spent,

Hare Krishna
Dandavat Pranamas. All glories to Sri Sri Guru and Gauranga.
This Japa retreat has really inspired me to continue more enthusiastically along this path of bhakti, which is the most wonderful, lovely and inconceivable adventure of my life!
A very powerful program, from early morning ‘till evening, with beautiful explanations about Krsna consciousness, philosophy and stories about the most wonderful pastimes of Sri Sri Radha and Krsna to meditate on.
I’ve become more aware of the special mission of Lord Caitanya and this is so inspiring for me.
Then so much sweet kirtan, and great prasadam. As well as all the personal chanting and so much more, I can’t say all.
Wow, this is the way! Actually I have no words to express myself about the beauty of Krsna consciousness, and the gratitude I feel towards Sri Guru and Sri Sri Radha Krsna.
Thank you for everything.
Your servant
Yammuna Devi Dasi (Amsterdam)

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I am a reporter and writing a book about retreats, so I’ve visited quite a few places already, Christian monks, Buddhists etc.
When I came here I expected to find a bunch of freaks, but I’ve never felt more welcome in group of strange people before. I could totally be me during a very inspiring and enlightening week.
Thank you all.
Miriam Van Biemen. (publisher and author living in Amsterdam).

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Because of this Bhakti retreat program I am not afraid anymore for the future.
Thank you Maharaja, I will always remember Srila Gurudeva and Sri Vrindavana.

Sincerely, Gita Devi Dasi (Amsterdam)

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All glories to Sri Gaura Sundara.
This retreat was marvellous and I’m so inspired and happy to back on track again.
Every time I hear the Hari Katha I remember Srila Gurudeva.
Now I strongly desire to reduce my television watching and long phone conversations.
Because the group is small and intimate I feel comfortable showing my true self.
This japa meditation has given me has so much strength to understand the supreme truth and wisdom presented, but even more, it has opened a window to the meaning of our path of love and devotion.
Gurudeva distributes so much wealth I can cry!
I hope with all my heart to attend many more japa retreats.
Thank you Maharaja.
With love and affection.
Premalata devi dasi. (Amsterdam)

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When Tridandi Maharaja asked us if we were willing to organize a japa retreat in Holland, we felt instantly that we had to do this.
When I read Jaiva Dharma, I understood that this chanting is the core practice I must improve on.
Reconnecting with Krishna and my spiritual being, is all I long for. Chanting is really the essence.
It seemed to me that the whole group was completely uplifted. This must be the real meaning of sadhu sanga.
Also I received a much deeper understanding of what I’m really doing here in this world, and this has given me so much motivation to continue my practice carefully and learn to become steady in it.
The difference between dusting furniture and the mirror of the heart, is that the furniture gets quickly dusty again, yet my heart seems able to get progressively cleaner and over a period of time, perhaps stay that way.
When I came to the retreat I was fearing getting my recurring headaches by getting up at 4.30 in the morning, but to my happiness and surprise, they never bothered me and I was easily able to have only 5 hours comfortable sleep each night and felt great!
I learned so much personally by organizing this retreat, and felt very blessed when listening to all the devotees express their satisfaction with the arrangements.
I think that now I have become an addict for these retreats, I feel I have really made some life changing progress.
I thank Gurudeva for educating such a wonderful sannyasi.
When I hear Maharaja speak, because he doesn’t have the Hindi accent, it is easier for me to understand.
I pray that my progress and steadiness will continue.
Dandavats to Sila Gurudeva and Maharaja, and please bless us that we will continuously have Radha and Krishna’s mercy.
Hare Krishna.
Lalita Kishori Dasi . Organizer (Anaheim)

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This week the retreat has inspired me to chant so much than before, and experience its intensity.
Also I feel inspired to take my sadhana more seriously, for example, to rise earlier in the morning and not waste time, and to utilize more of my time for valuable spiritual pursuits, rather than things not favourable for my progress on this special path.
It has helped me to remember and think about Sri Guru, Sri Vaisnavas, Sri Sri Gaura Nitai and Sri Sri Radha Krishna throughout the day.
I have understood a little now that I am not the enjoyer, but Sri Krishna is. So I will try to honestly increase my service to Him, and to follow the example of His beloved Sri Radha’s dedicated service mood.
This week for me, was like a week at a Hare Krishna festival, except this was with a smaller group, but the same inspiration was there for me.
I also know that for sure, I need to attend these retreats regularly.
Thank you again and again Maharaja.
Srila Gurudeva ki Jaya!!!
Your servant Abhinanda dasa (Amsterdam)

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This bhakti retreat has greatly inspired me to seek more sadhu sanga.
I realize that by sadhu sanga my Krishna consciousness has made so much rapid progress in this short time. Sadhu Sanga is essential for my spiritual life, without sadhu sanga progress is impossible and my spiritual life goes backwards. With Sadhu sanga, all the spiritual practices become easy and natural for me. It’s not a sacrifice like when I’m home alone without many devotees.
Jaya Sadhu Sanga
Your servant Murari Gupta dasa (Amsterdam)

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I am very inspired to be engaged in chanting and remembering Sri Sri Gaura Nitai and Sri Sri Radha and Krishna.
Under the guidance of such a nice devotee as Bhaktivedanta Tridandi Maharaja, I see a wonderful example of Srila Gurudeva’s unlimited mercy upon me.
I feel like now I have the strength to continue my devotional practices again.
I will remove my television to the attic (or maybe to the pawn shop).
This retreat has really washed a lot of negative thoughts and desires from my heart.
So 16 rounds minimum and 3 Gayatri mantras a day. Clean my Gopal diety regularly, study Arcana Dipika and really try to honour Srila Gurudeva everyday with every minute, every second and with all my life airs, so that one day I may truly serve His devotees who are so dear to Him.
Srila Bhativedanta Narayana Goswami Maharaja Ki Jaya!!!
Your servant always Haridasa dasa (Amsterdam)

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This week has inspired me greatly.
I found answers to so many of my questions. It feels as if the door I was trying to open has finally opened and I can start my journey which will bring me, with Srila Gurudevas mercy, closer to Sri Radha and Krishna’s lotus feet.
Great week!!
Your servant Mohini Dasi (Amsterdam).

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How amazing! I was being totally tossed around by my material desires, I really needed this boost for my consciousness so much.
All the classes were very enlivening and although my mind has much difficulty to hold onto information, still the overall experience impressed me tremendously. Especially in focusing and directing my wandering desires.
This is surely the result of my increased bhajan.
Until next time Maharaja…
Thank you.
Srila Gurudeva Ki Jaya!!
Anadi Krsna Dasa (Amsterdam)

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A great week Maharaja!
Japa back on track. These retreats are really a must for me now.
All affection to everyone.
Srila Gurudeva Ki Jaya!!
Lilavati Devi Dasi (Glastonbury, England)

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After I decided to go to the japa retreat I kept my doubts if it was the right decision. But now I’m so happy I was here this week.
It is an apocalypse to know that there is an ocean of unconditional love available!
I have never realized this before. My view of God has really changed from what I originally thought. That past I can now delete, maybe I already did.
This week was impressive and overwhelming by what I felt and what I heard.
I saw a snake yesterday in the forest, and I think it means transformation, and this mirrors what I feel is going on inside me.
I feel I have gained a great gift, and it is not yet over I think.
I feel while I’m chanting sometimes what I’m missing and what I’m longing for, which has always been love for Radha and Krishna.
I’m grateful to Tridandi Maharaja that you’ve brought this knowledge to me about Krishna and show the love for Him.
I thank all of the people here for doing your part and inspiring each other and paying attention when necessary to each other.
And especially to Lalita and Premalatta who have tirelessly organized the whole thing
Srila Gurudeva Ki Jaya.
Hare Krishna
Irene de Bruyn (Amsterdam)

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Wonderful boost Maharaja. Beyond words.
A truly, inspiring and “conscious boundary breaking” experience.
I am inspired to tighten everything.
I’m already looking forward to the next retreat.
Jaya Sri Radhe
Jaya Gurudeva.
Your servant
Kesava Dasa (Glastonbury, England)

Christchurch NZ Retreat report

Dandavat Pranamas.
By the causeless mercy of Sri Sri Guru and Gauranga we have just completed our Japa retreat here in the South Island in New Zealand, at Governors Bay, half an hour south of Christchurch.
Fifteen of us stayed together in the beautiful “Old Vicarage” house beside the picturesque Governors Bay harbour.
The retreat was a complete success for everyone and we are happily planning two retreats in New Zealand next year, one in each island.
Below are some of the devotees thoughts, realizations and appreciations.
I would like to sincerely thank all the participants for coming and allowing me to share with them my understandings of Nama and my Guru Maharaja's teachings.
I am very grateful for their attention and patience.
Hare Krsna.
In the service of Sri Guru
BV Tridandi Swami

Introduction by Bhadra Devi Dasi of Kati Kati (Bay of Plenty, North Island)

The japa retreat is an intensive living experience which greatly enhances heartfelt appreciation for the mission and precepts of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu. It significantly enlivens one's relationship with the holy name. Participants become encapsulated in a sublime sphere of exclusive hari katha and sadhana-bhajana for an entire week. Facilitated by Sripad BV Tridandi Maharaja, the japa retreats serve to directly connect the participant with the holy name in a more profound way than one has perhaps ever experienced. I believe these japa retreats are the most powerful thing happening on the planet ... apart from Srila Gurudeva's hari katha, of course. Sripad Tridandi Maharaja is an exceptional example of a devotee and a human being. His humility, authenticity, clarity of vision and genuine intimate loving dealings with each and every person, provide the atmosphere, facility and encouragement to draw out the strengths in each individual. He creates a unique environment in which devotees feel comfortable to share their feelings and insights on how their inner lives are being influenced by the chanting of harinama. In this way, a very deep level of intimacy in sanga is reached.

With mauna-vrata (vow of silence) observed throughout the day, hours of bhajana, sweet interactive hari katha morning and evening and the days filled solely with japa, one experiences a tangible clearing and awakening in the mind as well as a softening of the heart. This serves to strengthen our faith in the chanting of the holy names. In the nightly group sharing, each devotee sees something of themselves reflected in each other, which as the days go by, enhances a deepening awareness of one's conditioned state and spiritual growth.
True sanga is experienced, and guhyam akyati prccati, the intimate sharing of insights among devotees, is beautifully and organically achieved. By the end of the seven days, the participants really feel the Golden Age of Mahaprabhu manifesting in their hearts.

Jayadeva dasa. (Kati Kati, Bay of Plenty, North Island)
Since coming to Krsna consciousness I have learned and understood many truths about this process, but since completing the japa retreat I really feel like I’ve experienced a taste of it’s heart – “Love and Affection”
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Vrnda dasi (Kati Kati, Bay of Plenty, North Island)
I feel the japa retreat has implanted many wonderful and beautiful seeds in my heart which are all so favourable, and indeed essential for progress on this spiritual path. Loving, respectful and affectionate dealings with others is easy to talk about, but I feel so many of us, especially myself, don’t really know what this means or how to do it. The seed of loving, affectionate dealings has been implanted in my heart during this japa retreat, and my desire is to cultivate with sincerity and Hari Nama that special seed.
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Madhu Pandit. (Christchurch)
-Be prepared for Harinama Prabhu to take you on a sometimes challenging journey as we glimpse our shortcomings, insignificance and indifference to the Lord. But always Nama Prabhu is there to patiently guide us like a tonic; sometimes bitter, sometimes sweet. I feel deeply grateful. I thoroughly would recommend this to anyone who wants to come closer to Nama Prabhu. Everything becomes sweeter. The bhajans, the kirtans and the association.
Thank you.
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Narayana dasa. (Kati Kati, Bay of Plenty, North Island)
Srila Bhaktivinode Thakur wrote in one kirtan –
“Whatever miseries are afflicting the jives, You fully dispel if one even neglectfully chants Your name just once, feeling himself insignificant and destitute, seeing no other remedy for his relief.”
This japa retreat, so kindly presided over by Sripad B.V. Tridandi Maharaja, has afforded me a meaningful insight in this connection. He is capably reflecting the love and affection of our dear Srila Gurudeva, Srila Bhakitvedanta Narayana Maharaja who is presently carrying the flow of bhakti as revealed by Lord Chaitanya Mahaprabhu and our guru varga, to the World. My appreciation will be apparent by how I deal with this matchless gift. My heartfelt thanks.
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Bhadra dasi. (Kati Kati, Bay of Plenty, North Island)
The experience of doing almost nothing for seven days except chanting the Maha Mantra and hearing and participating in Hari katha gives significant, tangible upliftment to the mind and the heart. I feel considerably chastened and strengthened in my commitment to Mahaprabhu’s process of developing divine love.
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Uttama Krsna dasa. (Christchurch)
Seven days of association with Nama Prabhu, combined with devotee sharing, gave me a much needed injection of spiritual realization. Love is doing service for someone else even if we don’t want to do it. Thank you.
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Hari Kanta dasa. (Dunedin, South Island)
All glories, all glories to the Holy Name. I’ve achieved tangible results this week and more deeply desire realization of these truths. My heart is beginning to feel at least a semblance of true love and affection for the Lord.
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Balaram dasa. (Auckland)
A unique, rewarding experience of how to dive deeper into the Maha Mantra, in a caring atmosphere with an expert facilitator. An experience everyone should try at least once in his life and then try to maintain that level of sadhana.
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Bela dasi. (Kati Kati, Bay of Plenty, North Island)
Trying sincerely to serve Hari Nama during this week uplifts my consciousness and soothes my mind and body, but it makes me feel more happy to see how Nama Prabhu brings everyone more closer to Sri Guru, Mahaprabhu and Sri Radha and Krsna. Yet the ultimate happiness I can see (and aspire for) is to know that my and our combined effort pleases Srila Gurudeva and serves his sublime mission of unalloyed love to one and all.
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Prema dasa (Kaikoura, South Island)
Sripad Tridandi swami is an emissary from Srila Gurudeva for me and helps me get my Krsna consciousness back into focus. For me, the japa retreat is fun, very challenging sometimes, nurturing, nourishing and generally just a great recharge.
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Dhruva dasa. (Kati Kati, Bay of Plenty, North Island)
This japa retreat afforded me a long awaited opportunity to find space away from my conditioned environment and force-feed me the medicine that Sri Gauranga Mahaprabhu is giving, which is in fact, increasingly sweeter and sweeter, in a most wholesome and sublime way. I found most precious understandings along with feelings, both sweet and subtle this week. The Nama yajna retreat most naturally dissolved short sighted, unwanted, contentious and ugly vices from my selfish mood. I feel a fresh and new vista of hope, and I hope to maintain along this track. I am very grateful for all the elements provided for here, and highly recommend this retreat for anyone and everyone who wishes to dive more deeply into Krsna Nama at any cost. Sripada Tridandi Maharaja, thank you for bringing to my door this japa retreat.
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Harsharani Dasi (Christchurch)
It was great!. Looking forward to the next one. Hare Krsna.

Navadvipa Gaura Purnima Festival

Hare Krsna readers
By the mercy of Sri Sri Guru and Gauranga, we have spent the last 7 days wandering amongst the nine islands of Sri Dhama Navadvipa during this years 2009 Gaura Purnima festival.
Almost continuously the holy names of Krsna and Gauranga Mahaprabhu have filled the entire atmosphere with sweet, divine transcendence.
The effects have been remarkable, as we witnessed within the blissful faces of more than 10,000 ecstatic devotees chanting enthusiastically during the final arti ceremony. But more than the flickering euphoria experienced collectively, will be the long term effects on the devotees minds, consciousnesses and hearts.
Certainly in this age of Kali, the chanting collectively of the Holy names of the Lord, is the assured antidote for any type of material suffering, because the power of the mantra, especially when chanted in sankirtan (collectively), will always elevate and purify the consciousness giving direct experience of the Lord, and allowing us to clearly see the futility of any serious material endeavour, except when assisting others to experience the same sweet taste.
Now we are again fully recharged and vitalized for what we expect to be another successful year of japa retreats, again offering more and more individuals a chance to nourish their souls and connect with transcendence.
Hare Krishna
Repeatedly confirmation of the success and potency of chanting the holy names is deeply appreciated by all the fortunate souls who attend these festivals

Glastonbury Retreat

By the causeless mercy of Sri Sri Guru and Gauranga, the second Glastonbury Japa retreat, again was amazingly successful. The sweetness of the relationships developed over such a short period, amongst the devotees, who all took their practice of chanting and attending the entire program very seriously, was remarkable. All felt it was an enriching and powerful boost in our focus on the principle of our existence here in this material world, to always remember our devotion and service to Sri Radha.
All are eagerly awaiting another opportunity to meet together and discuss and chant the glories of Sri Sri Radha and Krsna in such a sacred and warm, “safe” environment.

Glastonbury retreat

The Glastonbury retreat has just finished and everyone is completely satisfied with the new horizons in consciousness reached.

Welcome to the launch of JapaRetreats.com

We're happy to announce that today we launched the all new JapaRetreats.com to inform and inspire visitors to learn about our regular Japa Retreats.

Please check back regularly to learn about new dates, read inspiring articles and register for one of our retreats near you.

We look forward to welcoming you soon.
Happy chanting!