We may blame noise outside for our struggles in japa, but even ‘peaceful’ forests couldn’t save Ajamila. The real noise is within. When the heart is calm and free from offenses, the Holy Name flows like the unobstructed flow of Ganges.
Every day, sitting down to focus on 16 rounds of the Hare Krishna Maha-Mantra is a great challenge. Though chanting is the most accessible way to connect with Krishna in this age of Kali, at times, we may not feel His presence. Should we really expect purification of heart with a lower level of chanting? Can we easily attain Krishna’s grace by putting no or little efforts? How can we ensure that our chanting becomes a deeply fulfilling experience every single day?
The same Brahma appeared as Haridasa Thakura in Caitanya Lila. Haridasa Thakura’s life of exclusive devotion enabled him to go beyond distractions, to the extent of conquering Mayadevi herself. Extra-ordinary parallels from the life of Brahma and Srila Haridas Thakura.
Our desires for sense gratification have reached the zenith, whereas our prayers for attaining Krishna are at the foothills. How and when can we be sure of attaining Krishna’s grace?
Chanting is the easiest and best way to connect with Krishna and elevate ourselves, but its true power lies in the quality of our practice. We must make sure that our chanting pulls us up, and we do not get bewildered by the whirlpool of material energy.
Rekindling the natural yet lost attraction for Krishna in our lives. Chanting the Holy Name of Krishna is the easiest and most effective means to reawaken that love. Once that love is awakened, one simply flows towards Krishna like the flow of mother Ganges towards the ocean.
Explanation of Hare Krishna Mahamantra by Gopala Guru Goswami. An assortment of beautiful verses to be offered as prayers to the Lord.
On the way to Hampi. Some reflections on the Holy Name, on sadhana, on practicing bhakti with the right intent.
