Homages ISKCON Centers, VP2025
Dear Śrīla Prabhupāda,
nama oṁ viṣṇu-pādāya kṛṣṇa-preṣṭhāya bhū-tale
śrīmate bhaktivedānta-svāmin iti nāmine
namas te sārasvate deve gaura-vāṇī-pracāriṇe
nirviśeṣa-śūnyavādi-pāścātya-deśa-tāriṇe
“It is not possible to actually understand the debt of gratitude we owe you, but with each new sup-
posed calamity, we have the opportunity to understand a little better that this material world is
not our home.”
This was the opening line of one of your granddisciples’ offerings to you last year, as you may
remember. She had just lost her home and all her family’s belongings in a dreadful forest fire that
consumed much of our Vaiṣṇava community.
She went on to say, “With what you have given us, we can see Kṛṣṇa’s blessings in devastation,
we can accept our karma, we can feel wrapped up in Kṛṣṇa’s lotus hands, see His expertise in ful-
filling all our desires, and can accept that we are, beyond a shadow of a doubt, not in control. There
is such relief in accepting this and accepting our position of dāsānudāsānudāsa.”
Later that day, I asked a friend of hers, who was visiting from another place, if she and her
husband still wanted to relocate to our community after seeing all the damage done by the recent
forest fire. Much of our 1,800-acre property looked ghostly, charred, and depressing. She replied
that if by living at Śaraṇāgati she could make the spiritual advancement that her godsister had
just experienced after losing everything, “I want to move here more than ever!”
And there is more! The local government agencies employed some citizens to come to our com-
munity to offer both emotional support and helping hands. Before they came, they were given a
two-week training on how to deal with those whose lives and property have gone through devas-
tating calamity. Often, victims of calamities can be harsh and full of blame. The lady sent to help
my friend reported that she was so moved by her gratitude and attitude that it changed her own
life forever!
This is the power of your teachings, the association of your followers, and the effects of chant-
ing the holy name. Such gifts you have given us, Śrīla Prabhupāda!
This material world is no place for an honorable person, as you have stated. I long to become
more absorbed in meditation on the pastimes of Kṛṣṇa in His holy dhāma and to follow in the
footsteps of His eternal associates as described in our Vaiṣṇava literature. I pray for your blessings,
pray to offer sevā to your followers, and pray to live my life in such a way that you will notice me
and take me to wherever you are so that I may serve you life after life.
Your eternal servant,
Uttama Devī Dāsī
on behalf of the devotees of Śaraṇāgati Dhāma
Homages ISKCON Centers, VP2025
My dear Guru Mahārāja, Śrīla Prabhupāda,
Please accept my most humble obeisances at your lotus feet. All glories to Your Divine Grace.
On behalf of the Saskatoon yātrā, I offer this humble offering with a heart overflowing with
gratitude. We are deeply indebted to you for your boundless compassion in delivering the pure
teachings of Lord Caitanya Mahāprabhu to this part of the world.
If you had not established ISKCON, if your divine voice had not echoed across the globe,
how different our lives and the world would be! Without your guidance, we would likely remain
trapped in the cycle of material existence, chasing fleeting pleasures and caught in the grip of
illusion. Instead, through your teachings, we found a path to true happiness, a connection to the
Supreme Lord, and a community of loving devotees.
Since embracing your guidance, we have witnessed profound transformations within ourselves
and our community. The purifying power of chanting the holy names has uplifted our hearts,
devotional service has deepened our connection to Kṛṣṇa, and sharing prasādam has brought us
immense joy. Your emphasis on congregational chanting and saṅkīrtana has become a cornerstone
of our practice, inspiring us to cultivate compassion, humility, and a lifelong pursuit of spiritual
wisdom. We have seen how your teachings can transform lives, bringing peace, purpose, and a
sense of belonging.
In Saskatoon, we strive to follow your instructions, chanting the holy names, distributing your
books, and engaging in congregational chanting and prasādam distribution. We are a small but
dedicated group, trying our best to cultivate a community of devotees inspired by your example
of unwavering faith and dedication. We recognize that any positive spiritual advancement we
make is solely due to your mercy.
(yadi) prabhupāda nā haita tabe ki haita
(e) jivana bahita kise?
We acknowledge our shortcomings and humbly pray for your guidance and blessings. Please
empower us to continue spreading your message in Saskatoon, serve the Vaiṣṇavas with heart and
sincerity, and always remember your teachings. We pray that we may always be instruments in
your hands, dedicated to fulfilling your mission. We beg you to kindly accept our sincere prayers
and allow us to remain forever at your lotus feet.
Your aspiring servants from the Saskatoon yātrā
(Written by Rajann Rana)
Canada & USA, Homages ISKCON Centers, VP2026
Hare Kṛṣṇa, dearest and beloved Śrīla Prabhupāda,
Please accept my most humble obeisances at your divine lotus feet. All glories to Your Divine Grace, who out of unlimited compassion descended to deliver the fallen souls of this age.
nama oṁ viṣṇu-pādāya kṛṣṇa-preṣṭhāya bhū-tale
śrīmate bhaktivedānta-svāminn iti nāmine
namas te sārasvate deve gaura-vāṇī-pracāriṇe
nirviśeṣa-śūnyavādi-pāścātya-deśa-tāriṇe
Śrīla Prabhupāda, when I try to write this offering, my heart feels overwhelmed with gratitude. What am I without your mercy? In a distant land, far away from the holy dhāma and strong devotee association, I’ve often wondered how my spiritual life will survive.
Three years ago, when I moved from Mumbai to Saskatoon, there was uncertainty and quiet fear within me. Mumbai was filled with your presence – temples, devotees, kirtans, festivals – your mercy flowed everywhere. Coming here felt like stepping into a vast spiritual emptiness.
But Śrīla Prabhupāda, you did not abandon me. By your invisible and divine arrangement, you gently guided me to your devotees here. Discovering the congregation in Saskatoon felt like a thirsty traveler finding water in a desert. In that moment, I realized deeply that you are always present wherever your sincere followers gather: tatra tiṣṭhāmi nārada: “O Nārada, I reside wherever My devotees chant My glories.”
You also reside wherever your devotees chant your glories, and I experienced this truth personally. By your mercy, our congregation gathers regularly every Sunday. These weekly programs are filled with the chanting of the holy names, soulful kirtans, enlightening discussions on Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam and Bhagavad-gītā, and the joyful honoring of prasādam. These gatherings provide us with spiritual nourishment and strength to continue our journey in Kṛṣṇa consciousness amidst the challenges of daily life.
In addition to the weekly programs, we also come together to celebrate important Vaiṣṇava festivals with devotion and enthusiasm. These occasions bring great joy and unity among the devotees and also serve as an opportunity to introduce newcomers to the beauty of devotional service. Though our congregation may be small, the sincerity, dedication, and cooperative spirit among the devotees are truly inspiring.
Śrīla Prabhupāda, by your inspiration, there are also ongoing preaching efforts in this region. Devotees are trying in their own humble capacities to share Kṛṣṇa consciousness with others, whether by organizing programs, inviting new people, distributing prasādam, or sharing your teachings. In this connection, your instruction always inspires us:
bhārata-bhūmite haila manuṣya-janma yāra
janma sārthaka kari’ kara para-upakāra
One who has taken his birth as a human being in the land of India [Bhārata-varṣa] should make his life successful and work for the benefit of all other people.
In a place where awareness of Kṛṣṇa consciousness is still growing, every small effort feels significant and meaningful. It is only by your empowerment that such preaching can take place and remind us of our real purpose.
Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam (1.2.17) states:
śṛṇvatāṁ sva-kathāḥ kṛṣṇaḥ puṇya-śravaṇa-kīrtanaḥ
hṛdy antaḥ stho hy abhadrāṇi vidhunoti suhṛt satām
Through hearing and chanting, you continue to cleanse our hearts, even from afar.
Śrīla Prabhupāda, one of the most beautiful manifestations of your mercy here is the Kṛṣṇa Club for children. It is deeply touching to see young hearts being gently guided toward Kṛṣṇa consciousness. Through simple teachings, kirtans, stories, and activities, children are learning about Kṛṣṇa and devotional life. What is even more wonderful is that their parents also come, participate, and gradually become connected. In this way, your movement is quietly and steadily touching entire families. Seeds of devotion are being planted in young hearts – seeds that will one day grow into strong trees of bhakti. This, Śrīla Prabhupāda, is your miracle.
Another glorious occasion when your mercy shines brightly is the Ratha-yātrā festival. Even here in Saskatoon, this festival becomes a grand mahā-yātrā, drawing thousands of people. As Lord Jagannātha, Baladeva, and Subhadrā Devī ride on Their chariot, and devotees pull the ropes with joy, the entire atmosphere transforms. The streets echo with the holy names:
harer nāma harer nāma harer nāmaiva kevalam
kalau nāsty eva nāsty eva nāsty eva gatir anyathā
In those moments, it feels as though the spiritual world descends upon this place. Strangers become participants, hearts become softened, and your mercy flows freely to all. We are also deeply fortunate to receive the association and blessings of the “Walking Monk,” His Holiness Bhaktimārga Swami, during such events. His presence strengthens our faith and inspires us to serve your mission with greater sincerity.
Śrīla Prabhupāda, when we as a congregation see all this, we cannot help but marvel at your inconceivable vision. You came alone, with nothing material but with complete faith in Kṛṣṇa, and today, even in a small city like Saskatoon, your movement is alive, breathing, and growing.
Your books are our constant shelter. In moments of confusion, they guide us. In moments of weakness, they uplift us. Through your words, you are still speaking, still teaching, still transforming lives.
Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam (1.2.18) states:
naṣṭa-prāyeṣv abhadreṣu nityaṁ bhāgavata-sevayā
bhagavaty uttama-śloke bhaktir bhavati naiṣṭhikī
Personally, I feel deeply unqualified and insignificant. Yet somehow, by your mercy, I have been allowed to remain connected to this path. Whatever little devotion I have is simply your gift. Śrīla Prabhupāda, please forgive my countless shortcomings, my lack of sincerity, and my many offenses. I have no qualification, but I have hope – hope in your mercy.
tṛṇād api sunīcena taror api sahiṣṇunā
amāninā mānadena kīrtanīyaḥ sadā hariḥ
One who thinks himself lower than the grass, who is more tolerant than a tree, and who does not expect personal honor, yet is always prepared to give all respect to others, can very easily always chant the holy name of the Lord.
Śrīla Prabhupāda, please bless the Saskatoon devotees that we may develop even a drop of this humility, so that we may chant sincerely and learn to serve without pride. Please engage us all, in whatever small way, in your mission. Let us remain always connected to the association of all devotees. Let us never forget your instructions.
I also pray for the continued growth and unity of this Saskatoon congregation. May we remain instruments in your hands, working together in harmony to spread Kṛṣṇa consciousness.
Śrīla Prabhupāda, you have given us everything – Kṛṣṇa, the holy name, the path, and the purpose. We have nothing to offer in return except this small prayer: Please never let us forget you. Please keep us always under your shelter.
Your insignificant servant,
Vijayalaxmi Priya Devī Dāsī
on behalf of the Saskatoon yātrā
Homages ISKCON Centers, VP2025
Dear Śrīla Prabhupāda,
Please accept our humble obeisances at your lotus feet. All glories to your divine appearance
day.
oṁ ajñāna-timirāndhasya jñānāñjana-śalākayā
cakṣur unmīlitaṁ yena tasmai śrī-gurave namaḥ
I was born in the darkest ignorance, and my spiritual master opened my eyes with the
torch of knowledge. I offer my respectful obeisances unto him.
Śrīla Prabhupāda, we are fortunate and blessed as we write down your glories as our annual
Vyāsa-pūjā offering. Though we do not have any qualifications, we beg that your mercy enlighten
us on how to complete this service. We humbly seek your blessings and mercy as we strive to
express our heartfelt devotion through our words. May our offering reflect the depth of our grati-
tude and the desire to serve your mission with sincerity and love. Your glories are unlimited; may
we continue to glorify Your Divine Grace eternally.
Over the past year, ISKCON Scarborough has flourished in various ways. We have a new
saṅkīrtana team that distributes books, spreading the movement far and wide. The new temple
council is efficient and believes in cooperation. We have been putting effort into securing a new
location for Śrī Śrī Rādhā-Gopīvallabha. This great effort is backed by our fundraising team,
which is working relentlessly to gather the required amount for the down payment and more.
Please bless us so we can expand the saṅkīrtana movement of Lord Caitanya through the new loca-
tion. We organized a grand Jagannātha Ratha-yātrā followed by an extensive celebration of Śrī
Kṛṣṇa Janmāṣṭamī. Various congregational members have upskilled to perform their services.
The children of the Murari Bhakti School are being nurtured in both devotional arts and
academics, including the recitation of ślokas and the study of sacred scriptures from your books.
They actively participate in major festivals and Sunday feast programs, showcasing their talents
through singing, bhajanas, śloka recitations, and dramatic performances. Their contributions play
a vital role in keeping our traditions vibrant and alive.
Śrīla Prabhupāda, you gave us everything we need: the holy name, the Deities, books, temples,
and the list goes on. Without you, we would have been sleeping in the lap of māyā. We express
our heartfelt gratitude to you for giving us this wonderful association of devotees. Thank you for
accepting us to serve you and Lord Śrī Kṛṣṇa.
Your servants at ISKCON Scarborough
Canada & USA, Homages ISKCON Centers, VP2026
Dear Śrīla Prabhupāda,
Please accept our most humble obeisances at your lotus feet on this most auspicious occasion of your Vyāsa-pūjā. All glories unto you and your divine appearance day.
With hearts filled with gratitude, we thank you for allowing us another year in the service of your divine mission. It is only by your causeless mercy that we have any opportunity to serve. We sincerely pray to remain loyal to your instructions for the rest of our lives.
We have no qualification to glorify such an exalted personality as yourself. Whatever little we attempt to express can never do justice to your unlimited glories. What you have accomplished has never happened in the past, nor will it happen again in the future. Your unparalleled contribution to spreading the teachings of Lord Caitanya Mahāprabhu continues to guide and inspire us at every step.
As a humble offering for your pleasure, we wish to report that by your inspiration, ISKCON Scarborough has endeavored to expand your mission. This year we have distributed more of your transcendental books than ever before. By your mercy, we have also collected a record amount of funds toward acquiring a new property, aspiring to create a center that will better facilitate devotional service and outreach.
Our congregational community continues to grow steadily, firmly rooted in the teachings of Lord Caitanya Mahāprabhu. By your blessings, the Murari Bhakti School is inspiring hundreds of children and youth to take up Kṛṣṇa consciousness, nurturing the next generation of devotees.
By your divine grace, we were also able to extend your mission to the far northern region of Nunavut. For the very first time, the holy name was chanted, your books were distributed, prasādam was offered and shared, and discourses on Kṛṣṇa consciousness were conducted. This historic outreach was successfully carried out with the association and guidance of His Holiness Bhaktimārga Mahārāja with the support of ISKCON Scarborough.
As our community increases day by day, we eagerly look forward to expanding further once we are blessed with a larger property equipped with all necessary facilities to serve your mission more effectively.
Holding a blade of grass between our teeth, we offer our prostrated obeisances unto you again and again. We thank you for your boundless mercy and guidance. Whatever we have achieved is only by your grace. We pray that in the coming year we may become better instruments in your hands and expand your glories even further.
Your insignificant servants at ISKCON Scarborough
Homages ISKCON Centers, VP2025
Our dearest Śrīla Prabhupāda,
On this most auspicious day of your divine appearance, we, the devotees and well-wishers of
ISKCON Schenectady, New York, wish to express our utmost gratitude and indebtedness to Your
Divine Grace for so compassionately and mercifully giving us the highest, indisputable, and surest
process and way to develop unconditional love and devotion to the original Supreme Personality
of Godhead, Lord Śrī Kṛṣṇa. We cannot ask for more, nor is there any other better way for us to
be delivered from this material world. It is now up to us to use our free will and independence
appropriately and wisely and follow your pure, uncompromising instructions through your pur-
ports of the many Vedic scriptures, your lectures, and your many conversations and direct instruc-
tions to your many disciples. You left us an abundance of spiritual treasure, an organization in
ISKCON, and a system and structure that can take us to the end of our lives and through many
generations to come – indeed, for the next approximately ten thousand years – to take advantage
of and perfect our human lives.
O Śrīla Prabhupāda, we, your granddisciples and aspiring granddisciples, seek your kind recip-
rocation in our neophyte mentality as we sincerely endeavor to serve your mission and please you
in our meager, insignificant disposition. Bless us all with the power and ability to overcome all
obstacles and to evolve as humble and capable servants of your many astute and surrendered ser-
vants. Bless us all to remain in the mainstream of your incorporated ISKCON and to individually
and collectively preserve your sacred teachings and mission.
Here at ISKCON Schenectady we are a small group of “trying to become devotees” with the
desire to follow your teachings and present them to as many persons as possible within the city
of Schenectady. As a preaching center, we conduct a weekly Sunday program as well as programs
for all the major Vaiṣṇava auspicious festival days. We also execute outreach programs, and in the
summer season, engage in harināma and Food-for-Life. As much as possible we try to distribute
your books. There is so much more we wish to do, but we have constraints in terms of competent
human resources. We will report to you and your designated representatives of our progress, and
through your causeless mercy and compassion we pray there will be fewer setbacks.
We bow to thee, Śrīla Prabhupāda, our greatest savior.
Giving us all the transcendental teachings of the original Creator.
So many souls of all races and frivolous background brought us together.
