Hare Krishna Calendar 2024 International Society for Krishna Consciousness Founder-Acharya: His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada
King Satyavrata, a devoted ruler, once encountered a small fish while offering oblations by the Kritamala river. Concerned for its safety, he placed the fish in a jug. But in one night, the fish grew too big for the jug and in the morning asked to be moved to a more comfortable place. So King Satyavrata took the fish to a well and, the very next day, to the ocean. The king realised it was no ordinary creature but a special incarnation of the Personality of Godhead, Narayana. The fish foretold a coming flood and instructed Satyavrata to prepare a boat to save himself, the animals, herbs, and seeds. As predicted, the deluge arrived, and Satyavrata found refuge on the boat. During this time, a giant golden fish imparted spiritual wisdom. In his next life the king became Vaivaswata Manu, the son of the Sun-god. The Lord assumes various forms to protect His devotees from peril. “I offer my respectful obeisances unto the Supreme Personality of Godhead, who pretended to be a gigantic fish, who restored the Vedic literature to Lord Brahmā when Lord Brahmā awakened from sleep, and who explained the essence of Vedic literature to King Satyavrata and the great saintly persons.” - ŚB 8.24.61 Matsya, 2018, oil on canvas, 90 x 70 cm © Prasanta Das Matsya The Fish Incarnation
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday January 2024 Illuminate your journey School of Bhakti share empowering wisdom and impactful spiritual techniques via courses for the modern-day seeker. krishnatemple.com/courses December 2023 M T W T F S S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 February 2024 M T W T F S S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 New Year’s Day (Bank Holiday) Saphala Ekadasi Disappearance of Sri Devananda Pandit Break fast 08:04-10:46 Disappearance of Sri Mahesha Pandit & Sri Uddharana Datta Thakur Appearance of Sri Lochana das Thakur Disappearance of Srila Jiva Goswami & Sri Jagadisa Pandit Lohri Makara Sankranti, Ganga Sagar Mela Pongal Putrada (Vaikuntha) Ekadasi Break fast 07:53-10:45 Appearance of Sri Jagadisa Pandit Sri Krishna Pushya Abhishek Month of Magha (Madhava) begins Appearance of Srila Gopala Bhatta Goswami Disappearance of Sri Ramachandra Kaviraja Disapperance of Sri Jayadeva Goswami Bhaktivedanta Manor, Hare Krishna Temple Bhaktivedanta Manor, Dharam Marg, Hilfield Lane, Watford, WD25 8EZ (Sat-Nav: WD25 8DT) Visiting hours: Mon–Sat: 10am–1pm & 4pm–7.30pm | Sun: 10am–7.30pm krishnatemple.com | [email protected] | 01923 851000 | WhatsApp: 07778 051000
Indra, the celestial king, once offended the powerful yet irritable sage Durvasa Muni, leading to a curse. This caused the demigods to suffer defeat in battle against the demons, losing their heavenly kingdom. They approached Lord Vishnu, who suggested a truce with the demons to churn the milk ocean for the nectar of immortality. They used Mount Mandara as a churning rod and Vasuki, a serpent, as a rope. The demons joined, planning to seize the nectar when produced. Thousands of beings pulled the rope, but the mountain began sinking. In response, Lord Vishnu incarnated as Kurma, a giant transcendental tortoise, supporting the mountain on His back, enabling the churning. During the process, poison, a divine cow, a gem, a flying horse, and Goddess Lakshmi emerged. Finally, Dhanvantari appeared with the immortal nectar. After a contest, the demigods won the nectar. Devotees learn to endure obstacles, seeing them as God’s will. They understand that God can both create and remove hindrances, trusting that they will be removed in due time. “Appearing in bodies like those of an ordinary fish, tortoise and hog, You exhibit activities impossible for such creatures to perform— extraordinary, incomparable, transcendental activities of unlimited power and strength. These bodies of Yours, therefore, are not made of material elements, but are incarnations of Your Supreme Personality.” - SB 10.10.34-35 Kurma The Tortoise Incarnation Kurma, 2018, oil on canvas, 90 x 70 cm © Prasanta Das
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday February 2024 Spiritual Gatherings Find a group that suits your needs. Whatever stage your Krishna consciousness is at, it’s vital to have friendship and association. krishnatemple.com/groups 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 January 2024 M T W T F S S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 March 2024 M T W T F S S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 Disappearance of Sri Lochana das Thakur Sat-tila Ekadasi Break fast 07:29-08:34 Shrove Tuesday Vasant Panchami, Sarasvati Puja Appearance of Srimati Vishnupriya Devi, Sri Pundarika Vidyanidhi, Sri Raghunandana Thakur, & Srila Raghunatha das Goswami Disappearance of Srila Vishvanatha Chakravarti Thakur Ash Wednesday Appearance of Sri Advaita Acharya (fast till noon) Bhishmashtami Disappearance of Sri Madhvacharya Disappearance of Sri Ramanujacharya Bhaimi Ekadasi (not suitable for fasting) Jaya Mahadvadasi (Fasting for Bhaimi Ekadasi) Appearance of Sri Varahadeva (fast till noon for Sri Varahadeva & Sri Nityananda Prabhu) Appearance of Sri Nityananda Prabhu Break fast 08:48-10:30 Appearance of Srila Narottama das Thakur Month of Phalguna (Govinda) begins Appearance of Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakur (fast till noon) Disappearance of Sri Purushottama das Thakur Bhaktivedanta Manor, Hare Krishna Temple Bhaktivedanta Manor, Dharam Marg, Hilfield Lane, Watford, WD25 8EZ (Sat-Nav: WD25 8DT) Visiting hours: Mon–Sat: 10am–1pm & 4pm–7.30pm | Sun: 10am–7.30pm krishnatemple.com | [email protected] | 01923 851000 | WhatsApp: 07778 051000
Swayambhuva Manu, entrusted with protecting all life, sought Lord Brahma’s aid to rectify a crisis: Earth had fallen into the Garbhodaka Ocean. Brahma, contemplating, realised divine guidance was needed. As he was thinking, a tiny boar emerged from his nostril, growing into a colossal elephant- sized being. This bewildered even Brahma, the universe’s creator. Surrounding sages pondered the creature’s identity. The boar roared, and the sages chanted the Vedas. Lord Varaha, the radiant transcendental boar, soared into the sky, entered the water, and effortlessly lifted the Earth with His tusks, vanquishing the demon Hiranyaksha. This tale reminds us that some, oblivious to the Supreme Lord, selfishly exploit Earth’s resources, failing to recognise its true owner. Such exploitation disrupts the natural order, causing catastrophes. Earth abundantly provides, as per the Lord’s design, but recognising its ownership is crucial. Devotees seek harmony with this principle, avoiding needless complexities. “A devotee should always consider that Krishna does not appear as an ordinary human being or ordinary beast; His appearance as Varaha-murti or a horse or tortoise is an exhibition of His internal potency.” - SB 4.8.57 (Purport) Varaha The Boar Incarnation Varaha, 2018, oil on canvas, 90 x 70 cm © Prasanta Das
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday March 2024 Be a Monk Challenge Cut off from everyday distractions over a period of seven days, and get a taster of spiritual practices in real life (for men and women). krishnatemple.com/beamonk 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 February 2024 M T W T F S S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 April 2024 M T W T F S S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 St. David’s Day (Wales) Vijaya Ekadasi Break fast 06:31-10:18 Disappearance of Sri Ishvara Puri Shiva Ratri Mother’s Day Disappearance of Srila Jagannatha das Babaji & Sri Rasikananda (fast till noon) Ramadan begins Appearance of Sri Purushottama das Thakur St. Patrick’s Day (Ireland) Amalaki Vrata Ekadasi (not suitable for fasting) Paksha Vardhini Mahadvadasi (Fasting for Amalaki Vrata Ekadasi) Disappearance of Sri Madhavendra Puri Break fast 05:57-10:04 Gaura Purnima: Appearance of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu (fast till moonrise) Holika Dahan Holi Month of Chaitra (Vishnu) begins Good Friday (Bank Holiday) Easter Sunday British Summer Time begins Bhaktivedanta Manor, Hare Krishna Temple Bhaktivedanta Manor, Dharam Marg, Hilfield Lane, Watford, WD25 8EZ (Sat-Nav: WD25 8DT) Visiting hours: Mon–Sat: 10am–1pm & 4pm–7.30pm | Sun: 10am–7.30pm krishnatemple.com | [email protected] | 01923 851000 | WhatsApp: 07778 051000
The demon Hiranyakashipu sought revenge when Lord Varaha killed his brother. He performed intense austerities to become unconquerable. His fiery penance made the universe swelter, disturbing all life. Brahma, petitioned by the demigods, granted him benedictions, but not immortality. Hiranyakashipu cleverly requested protection from death: that he not be killed inside or outside any residence, during the day or night, on the ground or in the sky, nor by any being except those created by Brahma. Nor was he to be killed by any weapon, human, or animal. Mystically empowered, he used his new strength to torment his son Prahlada, who was devoted to Vishnu. Unable to kill Prahlada, Hiranyakashipu asked where Vishnu was. Vishnu, protecting His devotee, emerged from a pillar, revealing a unique form of half-man and half-lion. In a doorway, neither inside nor outside, during twilight, on His lap, using sharp nails, Vishnu, in the form of Nrisimhadeva, tore apart Hiranyakashipu, ending the tyrant’s reign. “Don’t be afraid if somebody tortures us, somebody teases us. We must go on with Krishna consciousness without any hesitation, and Krishna will protect us. If you are more tortured, then Krishna will appear as Nrisimhadeva and give you all protection.” - Nrisimhadeva Half-Man Half-Lion Incarnation Lecture on SB 7.9.8 (Seattle, 1968) Nrsimhadeva, 2018, oil on canvas, 90 x 70 cm © Prasanta Das
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday April 2024 Simple Living, High Thinking New Gokul Farm is a fresh approach to farming in the modern world. A place where cows are sheltered and protected throughout their lives. krishnatemple.com/cows 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 March 2024 M T W T F S S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 May 2024 M T W T F S S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 Easter Monday (Bank Holiday) Appearance of Sri Srivasa Pandit Papamochani Ekadasi Trisprsa Mahadvadasi Break fast 06:23-10:50 Disappearance of Sri Govinda Ghosh Chaitra Navratri begins Ugadi & Gudi Padwa Eid al-Fitr Puthandu, Vaisakhi Tulasi Jala Dan begins Vishu Rama Navami: Appearance of Sri Ramachandra (fast till sunset) Kamada Ekadasi Break fast 05:53-10:37 Damanakaropana Dvadasi Mahavir Jayanti Earth Day Sri Balarama Rasayatra Appearance of Sri Hanuman, Sri Shyamananda Prabhu & Sri Vamsivadana Thakur St. George’s Day (England) Month of Vaisakha (Madhusudana begins) Disappearance of Sri Abhirama Thakur Bhaktivedanta Manor, Hare Krishna Temple Bhaktivedanta Manor, Dharam Marg, Hilfield Lane, Watford, WD25 8EZ (Sat-Nav: WD25 8DT) Visiting hours: Mon–Sat: 10am–1pm & 4pm–7.30pm | Sun: 10am–7.30pm krishnatemple.com | [email protected] | 01923 851000 | WhatsApp: 07778 051000
The incarnation of Vamana is a celebrated tale from the Srimad-Bhagavatam that highlights the divine playfulness of the Lord. In this captivating story, Lord Vishnu assumed the diminutive form of Vamana, a dwarf Brahmin, to subdue the ego and arrogance of the demon king, Bali. Vamana approached Bali during a grand sacrificial ceremony and asked for a seemingly modest boon: three paces of land. Bali, known for his generosity, agreed. To everyone’s astonishment, Vamana expanded into a colossal form and, with His first step, covered the earth. With the second step, He covered the heavens. There was nothing left to offer for the third step, so Bali offered his own head for Vamana to place His foot. This story reminds us that the Lord manifests in mysterious ways to uphold righteousness. Bali’s complete and instant abandonment of his position embodies the principle of sharanagati, the Vamana The Dwarf Brahmachari complete surrender of the soul to God. “Standing on His right foot and extending His left to the edge of the universe, Lord Vamana became known as Trivikrama, the incarnation who performed three heroic deeds.” - Lecture on SB 5.17.01 Vamana, 2017, oil on canvas, 90 x 70 cm © Prasanta Das
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday May 2024 Want to lend a hand? A great way to be part of the community. You will pick up some amazing skills and make life-long friends. krishnatemple.com/volunteer 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 April 2024 M T W T F S S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 June 2024 M T W T F S S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 Disappearance of Srila Vrindavana das Thakur Varuthini Ekadasi Break fast 05:24-10:26 Early May Bank Holiday Appearance of Sri Gadadhara Pandit Akshaya Tritiya Chandan Yatra begins and continues for 21 days Appearance of Sri Ramanujacharya Tulasi Jala Dan ends Jahnu (Ganga) Saptami Appearance of Srimati Sita Devi & Srimati Jahnava Devi Disappearance of Sri Madhu Pandit Mohini Ekadasi Break fast 05:01-10:18 Rukmini Dvadasi National Vegetarian Week begins Disappearance of Sri Jayananda Prabhu Appearance of Sri Nrisimhadeva (fast till dusk) Appearance of Sri Sri Radha-Raman, Sri Madhavendra Puri & Sri Srinivasa Acharya Disappearance of Sri Paramesvari das Thakur Buddha Purnima Month of Jyestha (Trivikrama) begins Spring Bank Holiday Disappearance of Sri Ramananda Ray Bhaktivedanta Manor, Hare Krishna Temple Bhaktivedanta Manor, Dharam Marg, Hilfield Lane, Watford, WD25 8EZ (Sat-Nav: WD25 8DT) Visiting hours: Mon–Sat: 10am–1pm & 4pm–7.30pm | Sun: 10am–7.30pm krishnatemple.com | [email protected] | 01923 851000 | WhatsApp: 07778 051000
In the ancient Treta Yuga, King Kartaviryarjuna achieved extraordinary sensory powers and yogic mastery through devotion to Dattatreya, rendering him invincible and opulent. Defeating even the great demon Ravana, he encountered Sage Jamadagni’s hermitage during a forest hunt. The sage warmly welcomed him, using his mystical Kamadhenu cow to fulfil their every need. Despite this generosity, Kartaviryarjuna stole the magical cow, causing her to weep bitterly as she was dragged to his city. Outraged, Jamadagni’s youngest son, the empowered incarnation Parasurama, armed Himself and stormed the city, ultimately slaying Kartaviryarjuna for his cruelty towards the cow. Yet, upon returning, Parasurama was reprimanded by His father for the unnecessary killing, emphasising the forgiveness inherent in Brahmanas. Tragically, Kartaviryarjuna’s sons later killed Jamadagni. Seeking vengeance, Parasurama systematically decimated the entire warrior dynasty over many years. This narrative carries vital lessons: the Supreme Lord intervenes to safeguard spiritual practitioners, remove sinful rulers, and eliminate cruelty. Krishna will continue to eradicate corrupt leaders and followers through various means for the world’s welfare. “Learned scholars accept this Parasurama as the celebrated incarnation of Vasudeva who annihilated the dynasty of Kartavirya. Parasurama killed all the ksatriyas on earth twenty-one times.” - ŚB 9.15.14 Parasurama The Warrior Parasurama, 2018, oil on canvas, 90 x 70 cm © Prasanta Das
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday June 2024 A life less ordinary Pandava Sena offers the youth an opportunity to ‘live a life less ordinary!’ A youth group that is passionate about transforming hearts. krishnatemple.com/youth 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 May 2024 M T W T F S S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 July 2024 M T W T F S S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 Apara Ekadasi Break fast 04:47-10:15 Appearance of Srila Vrindavana das Thakur World Environment Day Appearance of Srimati Gangamata Goswamini Disappearance of Sri Baladeva Vidyabhusana Ganga Puja Father’s Day Pandava Nirjala Ekadasi (Total fast, even from water, if any Ekadasi has been broken during the year) Break fast 08:12-10:15 Panihati Cida Dahi Utsava (Chipped rice festival) Summer Solstice Snana Yatra in Jagannatha Puri Disappearance of Sri Mukunda Datta & Sri Sridhara Pandit Month of Asadha (Vamana) begins Disappearance of Sri Shyamananda Prabhu Appearance of Sri Vakresvara Pandit Bhaktivedanta Manor, Hare Krishna Temple Bhaktivedanta Manor, Dharam Marg, Hilfield Lane, Watford, WD25 8EZ (Sat-Nav: WD25 8DT) Visiting hours: Mon–Sat: 10am–1pm & 4pm–7.30pm | Sun: 10am–7.30pm krishnatemple.com | [email protected] | 01923 851000 | WhatsApp: 07778 051000
Lord Rama, born to Dasharatha and Kaushalya in Ayodhya, displayed exceptional archery and valour from a young age. He slew man-eating demons for Guru Vishvamitra and famously broke Shiva’s bow. Rama wed Sita, an incarnation of Lakshmi, and daughter of King Janaka. Exiled by His reluctant father, Rama, along with His brother Lakshman and wife Sita, spent years in the forest. Sita’s abduction by the demon king Ravana sparked a relentless search. With the help of Sugriva’s powerful monkey army and the mystical Hanuman, they found Sita, built a bridge to Lanka, and waged a fierce battle. Rama’s arrow slew Ravana, reuniting Him with Sita. Returning triumphantly to Ayodhya, the Lord and His party were greeted with a city illuminated by thousands of lamps. Even now, this day is marked by the celebration of Diwali, the ‘Festival of Lights.’ Devotees seek inspiration in the Ramayana, the narration of Lord Rama’s pastimes, embracing Lord Rama’s teachings and invoking Hanuman’s mercy to become faithful servants. Rama’s story endures as a beacon of righteousness and heroism. “The point is that Krishna appeared as the full fledged Supreme Personality of Godhead. But Ramachandra appeared as an ideal king. Therefore in the Lila of Ramachandra, principles of morality and ethics as they are to be followed by ideal king and ruler was followed.” - Letter to Satsvarupa, 1968 Rama The Perfect King Sita, Rama, Laksmana, and Hanuman, 2019, oil on canvas, 100 x 100 cm © Prasanta Das
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday July 2024 Spiritual Sundays for Kids Spiritual Sundays for kids, where 4-13 year-olds learn spiritual wisdom, life values and practical skills to help them in their life’s journey. krishnatemple.com/kids 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 June 2024 M T W T F S S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 August 2024 M T W T F S S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 Disappearance of Sri Srivasa Pandit Yogini Ekadasi Break fast 04:49-10:19 Disappearance of Sri Gadadhara Pandit & Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakur (fast till noon) Gundicha Marjana Ratha Yatra in Jagannatha Puri Disappearance of Sri Svarupa Damodara Goswami & Sri Sivananda Sena Hera Panchami Disappearance of Sri Vakresvara Pandit Sayana Ekadasi Break fast 05:05-10:25 Guru (Vyasa) Purnima Disappearance of Srila Sanatana Goswami First month of Chaturmasya begins (fast from green leafy vegetables for one month) Month of Shravana (Sridhara) begins Disappearance of Srila Gopala Bhatta Goswami Disappearance of Srila Lokanatha Goswami Anniversary of the incorporation of ISKCON in New York Kamika Ekadasi Bhaktivedanta Manor, Hare Krishna Temple Bhaktivedanta Manor, Dharam Marg, Hilfield Lane, Watford, WD25 8EZ (Sat-Nav: WD25 8DT) Visiting hours: Mon–Sat: 10am–1pm & 4pm–7.30pm | Sun: 10am–7.30pm krishnatemple.com | [email protected] | 01923 851000 | WhatsApp: 07778 051000
Lord Balarama is Lord Krishna’s first expansion, bearing equal beauty but distinct in colour, with Krishna being dark and Balarama whitish. Their supremacy is identical, but Balarama always appears as Krishna’s brother, either older or younger. In Vrindavan 5,000 years ago, Balarama manifested as the elder sibling. While Krishna is the chief hero, Balarama offered crucial support, dispatching demonic foes. Balarama plays diverse roles to assist Krishna, expanding as objects for Krishna’s service—shoes, yak-tail fan, and bedstead, among others. He’s also Seshanaga, the divine serpent on which Vishnu rests. Krishna and Balarama manifest Their eternal activities on Earth in a farming community, Krishna with His flute for herding the cows, and Balarama with His plough for cultivation. Balarama occasionally displays a distinct temperament, wielding His plough as a weapon, causing tremors in cities like Hastinapura. Once, when insulted, he swatted away Romaharshana Suta with a kusha straw. This action led Him to go on a pilgrimage, missing the Kurukshetra battle intentionally. Devotees aim to emulate Balarama, always seeking practical ways to serve Shri Krishna. “Balarama is the elder brother of Krishna. He is incarnation of Sankarshana, next expansion of Krishna. So He was very white in complexion, and He was wearing blue garments, and with His plough” - Lecture (Los Angeles, 1970) Balarama Krishna’s Eternal Brother Balarama, 2017, oil on canvas, 90 x 70 cm © Prasanta Das
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday August 2024 Daily Public Worship At Bhaktivedanta Manor there is a daily programme filled with aratis, kirtans, philosophical talks and worship for everyone to attend. krishnatemple.com/darshan 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 July 2024 M T W T F S S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 September 2024 M T W T F S S 30 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 Break fast 05:24-10:32 Teej Disappearance of Sri Raghunandana Thakur & Sri Vamsidasa Babaji Pavitropana Ekadasi Jhulan Yatra begins Disappearance of Srila Rupa Goswami & Sri Gauridas Pandit Break fast 05:49-10:39 Appearance of Lord Balarama (fast till noon) Jhulan Yatra ends Second month of Chaturmasya begins (fast from yoghurt for one month) Raksha Bandhan Month of Bhadra (Hrishikesha) begins Anniversary of Srila Prabhupada’s departure for the USA Sri Krishna Janmashtami: Appearance of Lord Sri Krishna (fast till midnight) Summer Bank Holiday Appearance of Srila Prabhupada (fast till noon) Nandotsava Annada Ekadasi Break fast 06:10-10:43 Paryushana begins Bhaktivedanta Manor, Hare Krishna Temple Bhaktivedanta Manor, Dharam Marg, Hilfield Lane, Watford, WD25 8EZ (Sat-Nav: WD25 8DT) Visiting hours: Mon–Sat: 10am–1pm & 4pm–7.30pm | Sun: 10am–7.30pm krishnatemple.com | [email protected] | 01923 851000 | WhatsApp: 07778 051000
Lord Buddha preached non-violence (ahimsa) during a time when people were largely atheistic and engaged in widespread animal slaughter under the guise of Vedic sacrifices. He empathised with animals and outwardly rejected Vedic tenets, highlighting the detrimental psychological consequences of animal-killing. In the age of Kali, those lacking faith in God adopt Buddha’s principles, emphasising moral discipline and non-violence as initial steps towards spiritual realisation. Buddha’s influence reached even the faithless, as they placed absolute trust in Him, recognising Him as an incarnation of God. He transformed the faithless into believers in God through His mercy. To educate people on the path to God, animal-killing must cease. Claims that animal- killing and spiritual realisation are unrelated are baseless, leading to the rise of misguided spiritual organisations. True justice and peace cannot coexist with animal slaughter. Devotees honour Lord Buddha as a symbol of non-violence, shaping their diets around vegetables, grains, fruits, and milk, all offered to Lord Krishna as a sacred practice. “Technically Lord Buddha’s philosophy is called atheistic because there is no acceptance of the Supreme Lord and because that system of philosophy denied the authority of the Vedas. But that is an act of camouflage by the Lord. Lord Buddha is the incarnation of Godhead. As such, he is the original propounder of Vedic knowledge.” - SB 1.3.24 (Purport) Buddha Preacher of non-violence Buddha, 2017, oil on canvas, 90 x 70 cm © Prasanta Das
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday September 2024 Ceremonies (Samskaras) We perform a variety of ceremonies, marking the significant and major moments throughout your life, from grain ceremonies to weddings to funerals and bereavements. krishnatemple.com/ceremonies 30 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 August 2024 M T W T F S S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 October 2024 M T W T F S S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 Onam begins Ganesh Chaturthi Appearance of Srimati Sita Thakurani (Sri Advaita Acharya’s consort) Radhastami: Appearance of Srimati Radharani (fast till noon) Parshva Ekadasi (fast till noon for Sri Vamanadeva) Break fast 06:36-10:48 Appearance of Sri Vamanadeva & Srila Jiva Goswami Appearance of Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakur (fast till noon) Bhadra Purnima Ananta Chaturdasi Disappearance of Srila Haridasa Thakur Shraddha (Pitru Paksa) begins Month of Ashvin (Padmanabha) begins Sri Vishvarupa Mahotsava Acceptance of sannyasa by Srila Prabhupada Third month of Chaturmasya begins (fast from milk for one month) Anniversary of Srila Prabhupada’s arrival in the USA Indira Ekadasi Break fast 06:58-10:52 Bhaktivedanta Manor, Hare Krishna Temple Bhaktivedanta Manor, Dharam Marg, Hilfield Lane, Watford, WD25 8EZ (Sat-Nav: WD25 8DT) Visiting hours: Mon–Sat: 10am–1pm & 4pm–7.30pm | Sun: 10am–7.30pm krishnatemple.com | [email protected] | 01923 851000 | WhatsApp: 07778 051000
Kalki is the tenth and final avatar of Lord Vishnu, the prophesied future incarnation of the divine. According to the Puranas, scriptures which tell of the future as well as the past, Kalki is expected to appear riding a white horse and wielding a sword, to bring an end to the current age of corruption known as Kali-yuga. Kalki’s incarnation occurs when the world is steeped in chaos and moral decay. His appearance creates a cleansing and renewal of the universe. He restores righteousness (dharma) and rids the world of evil forces, leading humanity into a new age of enlightenment and harmony. Kalki fulfils the Lord’s promise that He Kalki The Tenth Avatar appears age after age to remove those who are obstructive to dharma, and to uplift those who follow and preserve it. His appearance at the end of a cycle of ages serves as a reminder of the cyclical nature of existence, where creation, preservation, and destruction are continuous processes. “In Kali-yuga, vice increases to such a point that at the termination of the yuga, the Supreme Lord Himself appears as the Kalki avatar, vanquishes the demons, saves His devotees and commences another Satya-yuga. Then the process is set rolling again.” - Room Conversation (Paris, 1973) Kalki, 2017, oil on canvas, 90 x 70 cm © Prasanta Das
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday October 2024 Looking for a guide? Mentors are role models who have progressed on their spiritual journey and have volunteered to assist others to do the same. krishnatemple.com/mentorship 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 September 2024 M T W T F S S 30 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 November 2024 M T W T F S S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 World Vegetarian Day Sarva Pitru Amavasya Navratri Rosh Hashanah begins Ramachandra Vijaya Dasami (Dussehra) Appearance of Sri Madhvacharya Yom Kippur Pashankusha Ekadasi Break fast 07:28-10:58 Disappearance of Srila Raghunatha das Goswami, Srila Raghunatha Bhatta Goswami & Srila Krishnadasa Kaviraja Goswami Lamp offering for Kartik begins Sri Krishna Saradiya Rasayatra Lakshmi Puja Disappearance of Sri Murari Gupta Fourth month of Chaturmasya begins (fast from urad dal for one month) Month of Kartik (Damodara) begins Karva Chauth Disappearance of Srila Narottama das Thakur Appearance of Radha Kunda Bahulashtami Appearance of Sri Virabhadra Rama Ekadasi British Summer Time ends Break fast 09:03-10:05 Dhantrayodashi Naraka Chaturdasi Halloween Bhaktivedanta Manor, Hare Krishna Temple Bhaktivedanta Manor, Dharam Marg, Hilfield Lane, Watford, WD25 8EZ (Sat-Nav: WD25 8DT) Visiting hours: Mon–Sat: 10am–1pm & 4pm–7.30pm | Sun: 10am–7.30pm krishnatemple.com | [email protected] | 01923 851000 | WhatsApp: 07778 051000
Each divine incarnation conveys the timeless wisdom of the Vedas tailored to the era. In the current age of Kali-yuga, marked by short lifespans and spiritual indifference, the path to God-realisation is accessible and powerful through congregational chanting, known as sankirtan. It is the singular method emphasised in scriptures. When Sri Krishna incarnates to promote this, He appears as Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, ‘The Great Master,’ the original Godhead imbued with the compassionate, kind and generous spirit of Srimati Radharani. Taking the form as a sannyasi He dwelled among the people, His message and personal devotion attracting saintly sadhus, kings and philosophers, and the common folk. Wherever He went, and He travelled all over India, He sang the names of Krishna and danced in uncontainable joy. Devotees meditate on Him today, invoking His mercy, and themselves chant the Holy Names, quietly on their meditation beads, and loudly with musical instruments. In this way, they spread the sankirtan movement globally, sharing their happiness. “Lord Krishna in the form of Lord Chaitanya educates His devotees to develop progressively to the stage of pure devotional service. Thus He appears periodically as a devotee to take part in various wonderful activities depicted in His sublime philosophy and teachings.” - CC Adi 4.28 (Purport) Sri Chaitanya The Golden Avatar Sri Chaitanya, 2019, oil on canvas, 90 x 70 cm © Prasanta Das
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday November 2024Spiritual Education The Gurukula, the Manor Pre-School, and Avanti Trust all provide spiritual and educational foundations for the youth. krishnatemple.com/kids 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 October 2024 M T W T F S S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 December 2024 M T W T F S S 30 31 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 Diwali (Dipavali) World Vegan Day Go Puja, Govardhana Puja, Annakuta Bali Daityaraja Puja Appearance of Sri Rasikananda Disappearance of Sri Vasudeva Ghosh Yama Dvitiya (Bhai Dooj) Disappearance of Srila Prabhupada (fast till noon) Guy Fawkes Night Chhath Puja Gopastami Disappearance of Sri Gadadhara das Goswami, Sri Srinivasa Acharya & Sri Dhananjaya Pandit Jagaddhatri Puja Remembrance Sunday National Interfaith Week begins Utthana Ekadasi Disappearance of Srila Gaura Kishora das Babaji (fast till noon) Bhishma Panchaka begins Break fast 07:15-07:33 Tulasi Saligram Vivaha Disappearance of Sri Bhugarbha Goswami & Sri Kasisvara Pandit Sri Krishna Rasayatra Appearance of Sri Nimbarkacharya Last day of Bhishma Panchaka & Kartik Guru Nanak Jayanti Month of Margasirsa (Keshava) begins Katyayani Vrata begins Utpanna Ekadasi Disappearance of Sri Narahari Sarakara Thakur Break fast 07:38-10:24 Disappearance of Sri Kaliya Krishnadasa Disappearance of Sri Saranga Thakur St. Andrew’s Day (Scotland) Bhaktivedanta Manor, Hare Krishna Temple Bhaktivedanta Manor, Dharam Marg, Hilfield Lane, Watford, WD25 8EZ (Sat-Nav: WD25 8DT) Visiting hours: Mon–Sat: 10am–1pm & 4pm–7.30pm | Sun: 10am–7.30pm krishnatemple.com | [email protected] | 01923 851000 | WhatsApp: 07778 051000
All the numerous avatars originate from Sri Krishna, and of the many energies, extensions, expansions and incarnations of the Lord, His eternal devotee Srimati Radharani is the foremost and chief. It is not that Radharani is separate from Krishna. Radharani is also Krishna, for there is no difference between the energy and the energetic. Without energy, there is no meaning to the energetic, and without the energetic, there is no energy. Similarly, without Radha there is no meaning to Krishna, and without Krishna there is no meaning to Radha. Because of this, the Vaishnava philosophy first of all pays obeisances to and worships the internal pleasure potency of the Supreme Lord, Srimati Radharani. Thus the Lord and His potency are always referred to as Radha-Krishna. The relationship of original and divine love which exists between Them is a central and revered concept in the Bhakti tradition, and devotees across the world celebrate it through various festivals, music, dance, and art. “Sri Radha is the full power, and Lord Krishna is the possessor of full power. The two are not different, as evidenced by the revealed scriptures.” - CC Adi 4.96 Radha-Krishna The Divine Couple Radha and Krishna III, 2020, oil on wood, 52 x 41 cm © Prasanta Das
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday December 2024 Sharing is caring There are many ways to share Krishna consciousness, including harinam, kirtan programmes, book distribution and more. krishnatemple.com/outreach 30 31 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 November 2024 M T W T F S S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 January 2025 M T W T F S S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 Appearance of Sri Lochana das Thakur New Year’s Eve Odana Sasthi Subrahmanya Sasthi Mokshada Ekadasi Gita Jayanti: Appearance of Bhagavad-gita Break fast 07:57-10:35 Katyayani Vrata ends Month of Paush (Narayana) begins Disappearance of Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakur (fast till noon) Christmas Eve Christmas Day (Bank Holiday) Saphala Ekadasi Disappearance of Sri Devananda Pandit Boxing Day (Bank Holiday) Break fast 08:06-10:43 Disappearance of Sri Mahesha Pandit & Sri Uddharana Datta Thakur Bhaktivedanta Manor, Hare Krishna Temple Bhaktivedanta Manor, Dharam Marg, Hilfield Lane, Watford, WD25 8EZ (Sat-Nav: WD25 8DT) Visiting hours: Mon–Sat: 10am–1pm & 4pm–7.30pm | Sun: 10am–7.30pm krishnatemple.com | [email protected] | 01923 851000 | WhatsApp: 07778 051000
Courses School of Bhakti share empowering wisdom and impactful spiritual techniques via courses for the modern-day seeker. Cut off from everyday distractions over a period of seven days, and get a taster of spiritual practices in real life (for men and women). Pandava Sena offers the youth an opportunity to ‘live a life less ordinary!’ A youth group that is passionate about transforming hearts. Spiritual Sundays for kids, where 4-13 year-olds learn spiritual wisdom, life values, and practical skills to help them in their life’s journey. The Gurukula, the Manor Pre- School, and Avanti Trust all provide spiritual and educational foundations for the youth. At Bhaktivedanta Manor there is a daily programme filled with aratis, kirtans, philosophical talks, and worship for everyone to attend. Mentors are role models who have progressed on their spiritual journey and have volunteered to assist others to do the same. Find a group that suits your needs. Whatever stage your Krishna consciousness is at, it’s vital to have friendship and association. A great way to be part of the community. You will pick up some amazing skills and make life-long friends. Mark the significant and major moments throughout your life, from grain ceremonies to weddings to funerals and bereavements. New Gokul Farm is a fresh approach to farming in the modern world. A place where cows are sheltered and protected throughout their lives. There are many ways to spread Krishna consciousness, including harinam, kirtan programmes, book distribution, and more. Be a Monk Challenge Pandava Sena Krishna Club Krishna Education Daily Public Worship Manor Mentorship Spiritual Gatherings Volunteering Ceremonies (Samskaras) Manor Farming Manor Outreach Spiritual Opportunities Visit krishnatemple.com/devotion to get involved
Notes Tithis The observance of specific events occurs according to “tithi”. A “tithi” refers to a lunar day, which is the duration of time it takes for the longitudinal angle between the moon and the sun to increase by 12°. Tithis therefore do not have a fixed duration, and begin at varying times of the day. They range between 19 hours and 26 hours in duration. As a result of this, certain solar days do not sufficiently overlap with tithis and are therefore not suitable for fasting or observing events. In such circumstances, the relevant observation is held on the following day. Differences in calendar systems It is worth mentioning that there are a number of calendar systems in use in India. Slight discrepancies sometimes exist regarding the precise occurrence of specific events. The ISKCON calendar is based on the Gaudiya Vaisnava Panjika (which was used by Srila Prabhupada as an authoritative reference), with times adjusted to cater for the difference in tithi occurrences at different points on the globe. As a result, you may notice that some events are observed in the UK one day before or after they are observed in India. Start of the month Months start on the Pratipat, the day after Purnima (full moon day), according to the Purnima calendar system. Caturmasya is a period of four months during autumn and winter, in which specific items are avoided. The observance for each month of Caturmasya begins the day prior to the first day of the actual month. This means that the Caturmasya vow for the specific month begins on the Purnima. Ekadasi Ekadasi, by definition, is the eleventh day of the lunar cycle beginning with the full moon (Purnima). However not all Ekadasi days are suitable for fasting, and therefore on some Ekadasis fasting from grains and beans is carried out on the following day, Dvadasi. © 2023 Bhaktivedanta Manor Cover photo: Radha Damodara Das Paintings courtesy of: MOSA (Museum of Sacred Art) Writing: Kripamoya Das Proofing: Deepak Vohra, Lila Kamala Dasi, Nila Madhava Dasi, Sarita Banga Design & layout: Nakula Fogg The Museum of Sacred Art is an international visual arts initiative. It is a Belgian foundation based in Brussels dedicated to support and promote spiritual art and artists from India as well as art and artists of the Hare Krishna Movement/ISKCON. It also supports and promotes sacred art in general. It strives to promote social cohesion and interfaith dialogue through the visual arts by: organizing exhibits, producing catalogues, books and films, organizing conferences-workshops-residencies. It has branches in the Belgian Ardennes at the Radhadesh community and in beautiful Tuscany in Italy at Villa Vrindavan as well as sunny Tenerife at the ISKCON Center in Playa de las Americas. Prasanta Das Born in 1957 at Sant’ Antimo, Naples, Italy, Prasanta Dasa, formerly known as Di Giovannantonio Pietro, studied art first at his high school and then at the Art Academy in Naples, and was greatly inspired by Italian Renaissance Art. From 1980 to 1986, Prasanta was part of the International Art Academy at Villa Vrindavana in northern Italy. The artist finds inspiration for his work from his spiritual meditational practices and his experience of contemporary art. In cooperation with Pandu Putra Dasa, he has restored and cleaned several paintings at the Bhaktivedanta Manor in the UK. He is currently working on restoring the paintings at Villa Vrindavana. MOSAFOUNDATION.ORG +32 (0) 86 43 30 22 - [email protected] Château de Petite Somme, Septon, Petite Somme 5, 6940 Durbuy, Belgium
krishnatemple.com/courses techniques for the modern-day seeker. empowering wisdom and impactful spiritual by friendly, down-to-earth tutors who share to take part in one of our courses, delivered Bhaktivedanta Manor welcomes everyone Take a course learning A place of 1 krishnatemple.com/volunteer way to give back and be part of a community. of devotional service. Volunteering is a great is what it is today - a spiritual oasis and hub group of volunteers ensure that the Temple The efforts of Bhaktivedanta Manor’s large Volunteer with us service A place of 2 krishnatemple.com/groups community of like-minded people. everyone to join a ‘Sanga’ and find their life. Bhaktivedanta Manor invites can be very difficult to navigate spiritual Without association and friendship, it Join a group community A place of 3