# BUSINESS AND MONEY ## Business 65-11 “I proposed for starting the restaurant with a view that you may become one of the richest families in America. ==One can become rich only by trying his luck in business. It is not possible by serving others. One should have an independent source of income that is possible only if one is engaged in business or in landlordship.== **If you can invest $20,000 in a property in New York which is worth $100,000 you can have at least $1,000 per month as the rent of the house. So in 15 years time you become the proprietor of a good house in New York which would fetch you $1,000 per month. That is my next proposal. I think you can invest $20,000 some way or other and if you can please do it immediately because that is chance also.” (Sally, 19 November, 1965) ==67-11 “Regarding your business I have seen many merchants who will supply us incense, frankincense, saris, musical instruments, dancing ghungru (jingle bells for feet, etc).”== ([[letters/1967/671111_mukunda|Mukunda, 11 November, 1967]]) *** 67-12 “If there is cheap labor you can organize there some incense manufacturing concern. I wish that in every center we shall now manufacture incense of very good quality. The only thing you have to be assured to get is the splinters or the tin sticks. If you think it will be possible to get then immediately start the work. The ingredients are the splinters, charcoal, starch or gum and essential oils. It will be a very lucrative business and the profits will be sufficient to maintain the center once you begin the work. I will give you many business ideas by which you can accumulate nice profits. ==For business four things are required, namely place, labor, capital and organization.== **Little capital you are gathering. The poverty place means that you can get cheap labor and the place you have already in your possession. Guidance, I am present. So do it immediately and there will be no scarcity of money. I hope you understand me right.” ([[letters/1967/671216_subalab|Krsna devi, 16 December, 1967]]) *** 67-12 * * ==“I== * * ==have already given you a business suggestion, namely manufacturing incense locally. Once you are successful in this attempt you will get more money than your expectation and spend it for Krsna’s service. I hope you will understand me right and do the needful.”== ([[letters/1967/671216_subalab|Subala, 16 December, 1967]]) ==67-12 “Gargamuni's first experiment in dhupa manufacturing has come out very successful. He is making more and more experiments.”== ([[letters/1967/671221_brahmananda|Brahmananda, 21 December, 1967]]) ==67-12 “Your== * * ==idea of manufacturing the incense in one center is my idea also. Here in San Francisco, Gargamuni has told me that he is== * * ==arranging for it to be produced. From here all the temples will be supplied, not that every temple should make it.”== ([[letters/1967/671229_brahmananda|Brahmananda, 29 December, 1967]]) ==68-05 “Regarding== ** ==your seeking permission for selling some leather goods and water pipes: I say 'Yes, you can sell.' We have nothing to do with these things, but in special cases, if somebody asks us to sell intoxicants or similar things, we cannot do that.== The pipes are meant for persons who are already addicted to intoxication. So if we don't sell it, it does not mean it will counteract intoxication, even though indirectly it is connected with intoxication. We are not having any connection with these things, but you are selling for getting some profit for Krsna. You cannot dissatisfy your supplier who is eager to sell like that. But anyway, in all such odd circumstances as this, you should ask my permission. But be careful that you may not be attached to such business. If required, we can give up such business at any moment.” (SPL to Gargamuni, May 31st, 1968) 68-06 “For serving the Lord, we require to sacrifice our life, our wealth, our intelligence, and our words. One can serve the Lord with these four possessions; if not, with three, if not, then with two or even one, and that is sufficient to please the Supreme Personality of Godhead. ==I wish that you can utilize your best talents in business organization and the result utilized for Krsna's satisfaction is on the absolute platform.== To make the idea more clear, if I am translating *Srimad-Bhagavatam,* and if you are contributing for its publication and helping for its distribution, this means there is no difference between your service and my service. In the absolute platform there is no such distinction. And service is always on the absolute platform. One has to make the best use of his talent for the service of Krsna. That is wanted. Best example is Arjuna, that he utilized his talents, military science, in the service of Krsna.” (SPL to Gargamuni, June 7th, 1968) ==68-06 “How is your store going on, Krsna's store? You have not written anything about it. You can also remind Brahmananda whether he has got the original letter received from Mr. Sahai of the Indian Embassy in Washington. If he has got that letter, please ask him to return it to me.”== ([[letters/1968/680619_purusottama|Purusottama, 19 June, 1968]]) *** 68-06 “In the meantime, as I have already informed you, ==a boy, Ranjit Mullick is prepared to export goods from India on the following terms:== 1) If letter of credit is open, he is prepared to export goods for the present up to $1,000. 2) He will charge 20% on the purchase value of the goods, including all expenditure. That is, FOB, free on board. That means he will be free by boarding goods on the ship and we will have to pay the freight here, while taking delivery of the goods. This is the technical term, FOB. 3) As he is my friend's son, I have requested him to contribute 50% of the profit for delivering to our International Society Indian center, and he has agreed to this proposal. Now you can consult with Mr. Kalman and send him some trial order on the above basis. His address is as follows: Ranjit Mullick, 7 Kaliyakrishna Tagore St., Calcutta 7, India. I am sending a copy of this letter for Ranjit Mullick for information, and you can now open correspondence with him by asking quotation for the goods you may require presently. And in receipt of the quotation, you can send him the order if you approve the prices. I think you should give him a trial order, and ==if the transaction is successful, then you can increase the volume of the business.”== (SPL to Brahmananda, 21st June,* 1968) 68-06 “When I first came from San Francisco to New York, and when you informed me about the prospective business with Mr. Kalman, I was so much doubtful about the success of the plan. And therefore I hesitated. Anyway, whatever is done is done; now try to separate from this botheration without breaking our good friendship with Mr. Kalman. Caitanya Mahaprabhu especially warned His devotees not to deal with worldly minded men. Therefore, according to Vedic principles, only the *brahmacari,* the *vanaprasthas,* and the *sannyasis* are recommended to take to Krsna consciousness seriously or to get free from the problem of earning money. The *grhasthas* are supposed to support the 3 sections of the society. Anyway, the best source of our income should be by accepting contributions from the sympathetic public, and selling our own books and literature. That is also a sort of business, but it doesn't matter. ==If we do business we must do it independently, without any assistance from outsiders.== We can take help from the outside in the matter of monetary help, either by contribution or by loan, but not to enter into transactions with outsiders. Because their aim of life is different from ours. Please therefore do not be agitated at the present situation. Tackle everything cool-headed and if Purusottama is not feeling well then you can send him for a few days here, to live with me. And while coming here he may bring with him my yellow colored hand-bound *Bhagavatam* book. Now from the dealings of Mr. Kalman, we can clearly know that he is after business for his own profit. And I am sure he is not going to help us with any money as you expected from him in the matter of publishing *Teachings of Lord Caitanya.* Therefore, in the acknowledgement, his name should not be given as it was suggested by you. I shall be glad to know what is the further development in this connection. But try to settle up everything peacefully and in future, if possible, you can do business independently.” ([[letters/1968/680628_brahmananda|Brahmananda, 28 June, 1968]]) *** 68-06 “Yes, I quite agree with you on this money subject. This subject matter I have discussed here also. The difficulty is that in ==your country the brahmacaris cannot go and beg from door to door== *,* therefore the process which is now adopted by Hamsaduta is coming to be very hopeful. ==But boys who are not engaged in the temple service during the day time must try to get some money by working or some other way.== **Without money it is not possible to exist in the material world. Although Krsna is always on the background, still Krsna advised Arjuna that you have to fight, at the same time, remember Me. The same principles we have to follow. We have to work, just like others, and at the same time think of Krsna constantly. Outsiders should be educated to know that we are in the most humble service of the human society.” (SPL to Rupanuga, June, 1968) *** 68-07 “So far business is concerned, Gargamuni is getting goods from some importer on credit, and he is selling the goods and then paying him the amount. So, he has not got to invest his capital in the business, but he is a good salesman. And if you can import some goods according to his choice, and on your amount, I think he will have no objection to purchase from you on the same system as he is doing with the others. He did not talk with me about your business proposal. Under the circumstances, if you want to do something, you can talk with Gargamuni personally and if he consults me I shall give my opinion. I know in your community of Patels in Gujarat, they are a business community. And they can do lots of lucrative business for material benefit. But you should know that we are not doing any business for material benefit. Gargamuni spends his profit for Krsna consciousness. He is so much elevated that he works very hard for doing business diligently, but the profit made out of it, he spends for Krsna. If you wish to do business in that spirit, that will enhance your spiritual assessment. ==Generally, people are inclined to do business or make profit for sense gratification and such tendency is the cause of material bondage. But to act for Krsna is the cause for opening the door for liberation. So, I shall not try to implicate you in business if you are not ready to award the profit for Krsna's benefit.== **The best thing will be that if you can come here for some days, say, at least for a fortnight, you can remain here with us in the temple here, and talk with me in detail before you become my disciple. Actually, I shall be very glad to accept an educated and intelligent disciple like you, but first of all we must meet and you should know whether you can accept me as your spiritual master, or I can accept you as my disciple. This is preliminary necessity. I am therefore requesting you to come here at least for a fortnight, and let us understand one another. I think it is better if you reply to this letter in English because I find it difficult in reading Gujarati script, though I can understand Hindi fairly well.” ([[letters/1968/680706_vinode_patel|Vinod Patel, 6 July, 1968]]) *** 68-07 ** ==“Regarding your business: This ebb tide and flow tide of business we should always expect. But so far I know that you can do more business by traveling. Under the circumstances, the showroom you are keeping is extra expense. I do not know who looks after your store in your absence. So you can take action according to the necessity of business, because we must use our full intelligence in any matter.”== (SPL to Gargamuni, July, 1968) *** 68-07 “The business of Krsna conscious persons is to enjoy by the mutual association on the basis of understanding Krsna from *Bhagavad-Gita* and *Srimad-Bhagavatam.* So when you become three together, you should utilize your time by discussions on Krsna, and chanting Hare Krsna. Even you do not get some job; Krsna will not put you into difficulty. But ==try to get some job, and work for the improvement of the temple. And whenever there is an opportunity, try to chant in public parks, and collect some money from the gathering,== and surely Krsna will help you in spreading this sublime gospel.” (SPL to Subala dasa, July 13th, 1968) 68-09 “Regarding Mr. Wade's promise to Gaurasundara, to pay $225-250, they must keep their promise. Otherwise, it will be not possible to do business with them, if they change their word of honor. You must say to Mr. Wade like that. ==In business principle, what is promised, that must be kept. If the promise is not kept, then we are not going to deal with them, with such business firm, even it may be very big.== **That should be our principle also. So I think on this principle we can arrange with them, and I shall give you bank reference when they require.” ([[letters/1968/680915_brahmananda|Brahmananda, 15 September, 1968]]) *** 68-09 “You are right that you propose to travel because you are alone *.* But ==there is an Indian proverb: that you can earn $12 by travelling but you can earn $13 by sitting provided you know how to sit in a place.== **The same principle can be applied in this connection. Certainly you can preach well by travelling, as I also came in your country, but since I sat at 26 Second Avenue in July 1966, the Society has developed to its present shape. I came here in your country in September, 1965 and because I could not sit down at a nice place until July, 1966, I could not do very well in the matter of preaching work. So anyway, your travelling was not at all disturbing to me, but Krsna has given us good chance to open a nice center now. Please utilize this opportunity. I shall very soon write to your mother, and I hope very soon your dream of a religious congress in Berlin, sponsored by the Krsna Consciousness Society, will be fulfilled. I am asking immediately Acyutananda to return from India to Germany, to you, and you can immediately arrange for the place and let me know.” ([[letters/1968/680918_sivananda|Sivananda, 18 September, 1968]]) *** 68-09 “Regarding collecting funds: ==the brahmacaris, vanaprasthas, and sannyasis are not supposed to earn money like grhasthas. The grhasthas or the householders can engage themselves in earning money, either by accepting a job or some professional work.== But a *brahmacari, vanaprastha,* and *sannyasi* is supposed only to depend on Krsna and beg from the *grhasthas.* The same system can be followed if it is possible. You are completely right when you think that if by begging alms we can provide ourselves, we should not accept any job.” (SPL to Sivananda, September 18th, 1968) 68-12 “Purusottama has also heard that ==you are considering to open a store of Indian imports in the new temple on 61 Second Avenue. This idea is approved by me and please try to do it nicely to help support and make improvements in the new large temple.== If this temple can be made very attractive then surely it will attract many people to join us in *kirtana* and to take interest in Krsna consciousness. Also you may resume your job as circulation manager; we have a much improved *Back to Godhead* since you have last done this job in New York and I know that you may do very good service in this regard. If you can help your God brothers in selling ads also, it will be very nice.” ([[letters/1968/681219_gargamuni|Gargamuni, 19 December, 1968]]) ==69-01 “So far as selling your incense is concerned, you may be interested to know that I have got connection with one big firm in Bangalore. (The firm is Shree Saibaba Perfumery Works, No. 40, 1st Cross, VI Main Road, Chamarajapet, Bangalore 18, India). I have asked this party to send me samples and quotations and we shall see whether they are favorable to others.”== ([[letters/1969/690111_gargamuni|Gargamuni, 11 January, 1969]]) *** 69-02 ** =="After a long time, I beg to thank you for your letter dated 31st January 1969 from the Spiritual Sky store. You have given a very nice name. At least you are giving ideas to the people in general that there is a spiritual sky and they will get information sufficiently about the spiritual sky, the planets thereof, the inhabitants of these planets, etc., through the medium of your store, Spiritual Sky.”== ([[letters/1969/690205_gargamuni|Gargamuni, 5 February, 1969]]) *** 69-02 ==“I am pleased to note that your store, the Spiritual Sky, is doing successfully. Krsna has given you nice talent for doing business, and I am glad to see that you are using it well." There is no need for you to contribute to my book fund immediately if you are unable. Do it as it becomes convenient for you.”== ([[letters/1969/690217_gargamuni|Gargamuni, 17 February, 1969]]) *** 69-05 ==“I have advised Uddhava to inform you of what is decided regarding your business, and you may invite Kartikeya to come there to help you, as I have advised Uddhava to inform you. But your business must cooperate with the other departments, so that all departments can go on smoothly. Otherwise it is not a very good situation.”== ([[letters/1969/690508_gargamuni|Gargamuni, 8 May, 1969]]) ==69-05 “Regarding your idea of pressing a 10" record, if you can sell these in ordinary stores that's all right, but don't depend simply on temple sales. Depending on temple sales is not business-like== *.* You must plan your work in a businessman's way, upon our centers for all sales. In the temple there are devotees, there are not businessmen, so you cannot depend on them for doing business; neither can you expect advice about business dealings from me. I have given you a department to manage nicely, and if there is some profit, you may give some for my *book fund,* but I cannot be consulted for advice in how you should manage the particulars of your business.” ([[letters/1969/690515_dinesh|Dinesh, 15 May, 1969]]) *** 69-05 “You have written to say that you are still having problems in obtaining manpower for your business, and the only solution I can think of is that you engage outsiders to do this work. If you think you have a scarcity of money, then I can return the check to you and you can utilize it. As I have mentioned in my letter to Brahmananda, I do not know how I can solve all of these departmental problems if they are all referred to me. It would be better if the department heads could work out such things amongst themselves. Today Kīrtanānanda Swami has left for North Carolina to take my place in lecturing there at two college engagements. This is very satisfying to me, and I wish that many of my disciples may become expert preachers so they may assist more and more in the great preaching work that we have to do for the benefit of mankind. ==P.S. Successful business means it will improve in volume== *.* Suppose you require 50 assistants then where we have got so much men? At that time we have to employ outsiders. Suppose we increase our sales of books very nicely then we have to take help of outsiders for binding. We cannot expect that all our men may become book binders. Our Krsna consciousness program must be executed.” ([[letters/1969/690515_gargamuni|Gargamuni, 15 May, 1969]]) *** 69-07 “I have seen your letter to Dinesh, dated 26th June, 1969, and I am a little bit disturbed in my mind. This recording business is not our line, so you should not divert your attention for the time being for such things. After a great struggle, you have got now a nice place for the London temple, and if you leave now, your other co-workers, God brothers and God-sisters, will be discouraged. So I request you not to leave London at the present moment at any cost. I have already sent you a note for the Archbishop of Canterbury as per your letter of June 19th, and you have so many things to do now. So I request you not to divert your attention to this musical side. I know you are a musician, and naturally you have got a tendency for musical entertainment, but at the present moment our main business is to push the *sankirtana* movement. So, as you are doing, take the *sankirtana* party to various places, and this will be most appreciated. ==If you adulterate our sankirtana movement with some business motive, then it will be spoiled immediately. Be careful in that way”== ([[letters/1969/690701_mukunda|Mukunda, 1 July, 1969]]) ==69-07 “== Regarding your job at Krsna Lights ==, if you are getting a good income from this business, why should you stop it? Our philosophy is that we should earn honestly as much as possible and spend it for Krsna.== * * I understand from Syamasundara that you have agreed to help pay the rent on the newly occupied house there. So if you can actually do so, it will be a great service to the Society and to Krsna. I therefore would advise you to continue with this business." (SPL to James Doody, 10th July,* 1969) 69-07 “So far as doing business by importing Indian goods, that is a nice idea but it is secondary. We should not deviate much of our time for any business manipulations. Our main business is *sankirtana.* You will be very glad to hear that in New York last week they collected $1,000 and sold *Back to Godheads* at a rate of 200 per day on the weekend days. Similarly, we have got good report from Boston that they are collecting $50-60 daily and selling about 60-70 copies of *Back to Godhead.* And what to speak of Los Angeles? So if we can organize our *sankirtana* movement there will be no scarcity of money; rest assured. But we may do some business which we require for ourselves. Otherwise ==, if you divert your attention for a separate business in Indian goods, that will not be a very good idea. It may be done conveniently as a secondary engagement,== * * but the primary engagement should be as above mentioned.” (SPL to Krsna dasa, 28th July,* 1969) 69-08 ** ==“Regarding your accepting a job in the graphics profession, I think you can accept this job because it is paying, as well as you can get experience in the profession. So as Krsna dasa has advised you, I confirm it.”== ([[letters/1969/690813_jayagovinda|Jaya Govinda, 13 August, 1969]]) *** 69-09 “I understand that you want to open another branch of Spiritual Sky in Boston, but Gargamuni has written to me that he does not like the idea. ==I think we should not do anything which may be business competition between centers. Business is in one sense very dangerous allurement of maya.== **If they are doing it nicely on the West Coast and supply the necessities of the East Coast, there may not be another competitive organization. Then this example will be followed, and some other center may like to open another branch. I am just trying to hand over the whole management in the hands of my devotees, but if there is some disagreement in the management, then the whole thing may not go well. I think therefore, unless you all agree to open another branch in the East Coast, it should not be done. You have got enough business in the East Coast, especially in the books and the press matter." (SPL to Brahmananda, September 5th, 1969) ==69-09 “I am pleased to note your attitude regarding business. Our policy is: nirbandhah krsna-sambandhe. We shall accept all kinds of civil activities, including business, trade, industry, only in connection with Krsna. I am glad that you are following this principle and Krsna will be very, very pleased upon you to make you advance in Krsna consciousness.”== (SPL to Gargamuni, 22nd September,* 1969) 69-10 ** ==“Regarding your idea for a jewellery shop, it is nice. You become an expert jeweller and you must open a jewellery shop to earn millions of dollars for spending in Krsna consciousness.== Your father is a kind gentleman. I have all good wishes for him, and Krsna will also be very much pleased upon him because he has such a nice devotee son. So your father will also be pleased if you open a jewellery shop. It is a good opportunity both ways to keep good relations with your father and to make money and serve Krsna with the money profusely. Your plan for supplying the temples with nice ornaments for their Deities is also very good. We should decorate our temple Deities with first-class ornaments and nice flowers.” ([[letters/1969/691008_dr._sham_sundarji|Krsna dasa, 8 October, 1969]]) ==69-10 “Regarding your business and spiritual practices, I give you special permission as follows: you find out of the 24 hours at least one hour conveniently for chanting Hare Krsna== * * with great attention, either by the Deities or any place, without being disturbed by anyone else. So you have 23 hours for other things. Now these 23 hours, whatever you do in them, either eating or working or sleeping, you always try to think of Krsna. That will keep you intact of Krsna consciousness. If one is always careful about falling down and prays to Krsna that he may not fall down on account of greater strength of * maya * then Krsna will give him special protection. This was advised to Arjuna by Krsna Himself. Arjuna was a great fighter, statesman, and at the same time a great devotee. A statesman and military commander has very little time to perform the routine work of devotional service, but Krsna advised him especially to be engaged in his occupational duty, and at the same time always be thinking of Krsna. This is the secret of not being a victim of * maya.* Rayarama's case is different. He definitely denied my instructions. I asked him to come to me and live with me and he definitely denied. So this denial is cause of his temporary suspension of devotional life, but if he has executed devotional service in the past sincerely, I think he cannot go back. Regarding Spiritual Sky business, I am very happy to learn that it is making very nice progress and you are getting demand. Do it nicely, and as already agreed you can *use* the profit exclusively for opening branches. The sales which an individual center makes by selling incense may be employed for temple expenditures. Similarly, Los Angeles also can employ it for this purpose. But so far as Spiritual Sky business is concerned, done by you, this profit should be set aside in a different account reserved for expanding branches. When you do business you should do it business like. We should not neglect any minute part of it, but at the same time we shall think of Krsna, seeking His protection. The living example is the *gopis.* They were householder’s wives, young girls having children to feed, carrying out the order of superiors, father-in-law, mother-in-law, sister-in-law, satisfying the whims of the husband, executing so many household duties from morning to night. Still they practiced in such a way Krsna consciousness that they did not forget even for a second Krsna. While mopping the floor, while washing the dishes, while milking the cows, while feeding the baby, while talking with friends, while cooking in the kitchen they were always thinking of Krsna. You will find all these descriptions in our book, *Krsna,* how they remained compact in thought of Krsna. So this is the highest ideal of Krsna consciousness, and we should try to follow their footsteps. Everyone has to adjust things in his particular way, but I again repeat that at least one hour should be set aside for chanting the beads. I hope this will help you both ways and I pray to Krsna that He will give you all protection.” ([[letters/1969/691029_gargamuni|Gargamuni, 29 October, 1969]]) *** 69-11 "Regarding your business, Krsna will surely help you and He is already helping you. We want to show the world that Krsna's service is not stereotyped, one sided. Krsna can be served from any position, provided one is willing to serve Him. ==Krsna can be served and approached by businessmen, by lawyers, by scientists, by artists, by musicians, by philosophers, even by thieves and rogues;== * * everyone. He is so kind. One has simply to accept the prescribed method how to approach Him. When I speak of thieves and rogues I do not mean that a * Krsna * devotee is also a thief and a rogue. The idea is that even the thieves and rogues are eligible to accept this path of * Krsna * consciousness and make their lives sublime. Actually when a thief or rogue takes to * Krsna * consciousness he soon becomes a saintly person. Just like Jagai and Madhai. They were thieves and rogues but after being favored by Lord Nityananda they became first-class devotees. So * Krsna * consciousness is so nice that everyone can approach the goal, and if one simply agrees to follow the prescribed method very soon he becomes a saintly person." (SPL to Gargamuni, 11th November,* 1969) 70-02 ** ==“Regarding your jewellery engagement, you must finish the examination very satisfactorily first. Things which have taken for so long time must be terminated in good result and the same may be offered to Krsna== . ==Krsna is ready to accept service from all directions, and our Krsna consciousness movement is particularly meant for this purpose. So when you pass your examination, then we shall consider what to do next."== ([[letters/1970/700218_sivananda|Krsna dasa, 18 February, 1970]]) ==70-04 “I talked with Gargamuni; you can immediately begin the incense business. It is not very difficult and you can do very nice business in London. From Holland you can get very good scents. Holland is a great center of manufacturing essential oils.” (== *SPL to Gurudasa, 1st April, 1970* ==) ==70-04 "So far the incense business is concerned, you can do it very nicely as they are doing here. Gargamuni will cooperate fully in this connection and both Jivananda and Mukunda are very intelligent boys. So do it nicely."== ([[letters/1970/700416_gurudasa|Gurudasa, 16 April, 1970]]) *** 71-01 ** ==“So far as the devotees at our Montreal center working at regular jobs during the winter months, that is not very good, but if there is no other way what can be done? If they can pull on without work, then they can chant Hare Krsna day and night inside. For a Vaishnava to work for a karmi is not very good.”== (SPL to Jagadisa, January 16th, 1971) ==71-04 “It is very much encouraging to hear that the incense business is beginning to flourish and by that program you are paying off your debts. So continue it vigorously and recuperate your financial position.”== (SPL to Mukunda, April 13th,* 1971) 71-04 "The incense and oil samples enclosed are very nice, and I am burning the incense in my room daily. These scents are so nice. But one thing is that you needn't spend $10,000 for machinery to package the incense. That is not required. Do not depend on machines. We are not going to be large-scale business. Incense distribution is proving to be very important asset for raising funds for temple upkeep, etc., but we are more interested still in distributing our books. ==Incense sales are clearly business only, but when we sell our books, that means we push forward our movement. Of course they can both be done together== *.* That is nice program and has proven successful in many centers." (SPL to Ranadhira, April 21st,* 1971) 71-04 * * =="Organization of book selling is more important than incense distribution. Incense sales is clearly business only. But when we sell books that means we push forward our movement. So unless it is absolutely necessary, we should not become ordinary businessmen. Try to understand this point."== (SPL to Bhagavan dasa, April 21st* , 1971) 71-04 * * =="Yes, incense distribution has been very helpful in many centers for maintaining financially, but we are not businessmen. So producing candles for distribution is not at all necessary. We do not want to increase factories. We want to increase Krsna Consciousness and this can be done best by distributing our books and preaching. So in that way you can make your program."== (SPL to John Milner, April 22nd,* 1971) ==71-08 "This incense business is all right as a supplement, but we should give all our energy to distribute these literatures and magazines. Then we maintain ourselves and at the same time push on this Krsna Consciousness philosophy.== *" (SPL to Sri Govinda dasa, August 5th, 1971) 71-08 "I understand from Syamasundara that ==you have engaged all our sankirtana members of Amsterdam to work in a cigarette factory. I do not know how you could dare to do this without asking me or any other GBC members== *.* Amsterdam is doing nicely in *sankirtana* party collections; why they should go to work in a cigarette factory? In your last letter to me also you tried to impress me that everyone should go to work. That is not our principle. ==Our principle is not to work like the karmi or under a karmi== *.* We are not *Sudras. Sudras* are meant for working under somebody, not *Brahmins.* If you do not know this principle, you should know it now. All our men living in the temple are basically *Brahmins.* Otherwise, why they are offered sacred thread? We should live on the paltry income, whatever we receive, by selling our magazines, but in dire necessity when there is no other way we may accept some service temporarily. But on principle we should go on *sankirtana,* not work, and whatever *Krsna* gives us we should accept on that principle. You are a senior member of the Society. You should have known all these things. Anyway, send them back on *sankirtana.* All Amsterdam devotees should be engaged in *sankirtana,* not in a cigarette factory." (SPL to Hamsaduta, August 17th, 1971) ==71-08 “So far work is concerned, when it is absolutely necessary it can be done. But as far as possible we should work in our own field and on the basis of our principles.”== (SPL to Hamsaduta, August 24th,* 1971) ==71-08 “== About taking jobs I have already sent one letter to Hamsaduta in this connection. But ==if there is no other way then temporarily you may take some job and help, but that is not a permanent business. Our main business is to distribute Back to Godhead and sankirtana== * * and whatever little income we get from that we should be satisfied. It is not our business to take jobs and live luxuriously. So far I have heard * sankirtana * party and distribution of * Back to Godhead* in Hamburg is increasing. Maybe they can improve their condition without help from your center. So use your discretion.” (SPL to Sivananda, August 25th, 1971) ==71-11 “== If you simply push on this one activity of distributing my books, your all success will be there. I have hatched this 'transcendental plot' for getting money by selling my books, and if we stick only to this plan, and use our brain for selling books, there will easily be sufficient money. I have recently informed the GBC to allow each temple to keep 25% of the money they collect from direct book and magazine sales for temple maintenance, 75% to be sent to book fund. Supposing you sell 800 dollars a week worth of literature (retail price). Will not 200 dollars weekly be sufficient for food and rent? If not, increase book sales, or, until things are adjusted in this way, supplement in other ways, but ==try to avoid too much business as this distracts us from our real mission. If Krsna sees that we are very active to spread information about Him, He is Master of the goddess of fortune, He will give everything.”== (SPL to Lalita Kumara, November 15th, 1971) ==71-11 “Regarding your question about incense. Karandhara has just informed me that our Spiritual Sky incense business is making now $1,000,000 a year to spend for Krsna. How can that be maya?== * * My Guru Maharaja used to say, ’Anything material, if it is used for the service of * Krsna * , it is a mistake to give it up.' Because I have understood this principle, he used to appreciate me in front of my God brothers. I have given this idea all along-why you big leaders do not understand it? You should take it to heart as a guiding principle that somehow or other we always please Krsna by doing what is practical and necessary, according to time and place. Not that we should be whimsical. But one test is that all the devotees should be satisfied. They have given their lives to * Krsna * , so we should see they are always happy. Their service is voluntary. It is not that we can force anyone to do anything. If we do they will go away and that is a great loss. Everyone must be encouraged to do what he likes to do for * Krsna * , so if someone likes to do business for * Krsna * , let them make $1,000,000 for * Krsna * .” (SPL to Hamsaduta, November 20th,* 1971) 71-11 “So far the posters for temple altars, if you have got extra money you can print the posters. But I am against the policy of our ISKCON Press charging exorbitant prices for books and other things which they sell to the temples. Our policy should be cost price, or if a little more (10% above cost) is required for other expenses, that may be added. But ==it is not that we are in business to make profit from each other. With the public, that is a different thing. But our real business is to spread Krsna consciousness== *,* and for that our centers require so many things like books, tapes, photos, like that-and these should be freely exchanged between the temples to be utilized nicely in preaching work, without profit-making.” (SPL to Rupanuga, November 30th,* 1971) 71-12 “Now if you like you may begin incense oil business, I have no objection. But it must be operated very nicely, and not that it should become our big activity. Our big activity is to distribute books and *Krsna* consciousness * movement in general. But * * ==if there is need for money and you can run this business without interfering in our routine work, then I have no objection.== You may get good advice from Karandhara and others who have become expert in incense business.” (SPL to Hamsaduta, December 8th, 1971) 71-12 “So I am pleased that you desire for competition with your God brothers to spread Krsna consciousness movement all over the world by printing our books there. Why not use the poster profits to print books in L.A.? When I shall come there, perhaps by late spring, my translation work will be greatly accelerated if you provide me such facilities. ==I want that our literatures be profusely distributed, so if you can assist me in this way by your Spiritual Sky business, I am greatly satisfied.”== (SPL to Jayatirtha, December 9th, 1971) 72-01 “Regarding your questions, your first question was should the devotee always speak the truth to everyone in all circumstances? The answer is yes, one should always speak the truth, but qualified devotee will be able to speak the truth always very palatable to everyone so that it will sound pleasing even to his enemy that is the art of speaking the truth. It is certainly so that we must speak the truth to all people, but how you say it that is another thing: *satyam bruyat, priyam bruyat.* When you become yourself little more experienced in *Krsna* consciousness by preaching work and if you are sincere and serious to make progress in spiritual understanding, you need not have to worry yourself further because the truth will always be spoken by you in the proper manner. *Krsna* will give you that intelligence, you need not be concerned for it. Simply try to please Him always by your sincere service and chanting, that's all. ==Of course, for doing business with businessmen you have to lie business. Just like Krsna Himself, the Supreme Personality of God-head, sometimes He also had to also fabricate something in emergency situations== *.* Although He made promise not to interfere in the Battle of Kurukshetra, He was forced to break His promise just to save his pure devotee. So there is no prohibition, one shall never tell lie, because for business of carrying our propaganda work sometimes it maybe necessary. *Krsna* consciousness means practical living, not something utopian or idealistic and vague. We simply do the needful, whatever pleases *Krsna* most, and that’s all. Gradually you will understand what it means to please Krsna and what it means to displease Krsna. That you will learn by studying our books and by yourself engaging in practical devotional service. In the material dealings there is always there is always something undesirable, but even so you cannot give up your occupation. Just like fire is very pure, still there is some smoke. You cannot avoid it. All these things can be rectified when the result is offered to Krsna. Otherwise even though you may do very honest business it has no utility whatsoever.” (SPL to Yajnesvara, January 2nd,* 1972) 72-01 “So far your proposals, I agree that by utilizing our knowledge of selling, by selling for Krsna, that is approved by my Guru Maharaja, so it may be done very nicely. But we must always be careful to render firstly our routine devotional practices, and maintain always the highest standards of chanting, preaching, temple worship, rising early, cleansing, street *sankirtana,* etc.; ==business is secondary to our basic routine work. If the routine Krsna consciousness program is neglected for other things, then everything else will fail== *.* I am very much encouraged that you are anxious to engage in making money for Krsna with oil business and to print my books profusely. If this can all be managed and still the regular temple practices go on nicely, that is best. In every case, as with the question regarding whether prospectus or magazine is better, do the best needful.” (SPL to Hamsaduta, January 20th, 1972) 72-01 “So far making tapes of Ajamila series, I have told Los Angeles tape-making operation that they should distribute to our devotees at cost price-to non-devotees that is another thing. ==We== should not make exorbitant profit by exploiting each other in the matter of vital == * * == Krsna consciousness paraphernalia such as books, tapes, etc.== * * which are vital for our preaching work and for the devotees personal advancement in Krsna consciousness.” (SPL to Hamsaduta, January 20th, 1972) 72-05 * * ==“As far as possible we shall not deal in business. That will not be very good for our spiritual progress. But if somebody contributes for our good cause, that is different.== * ” (SPL to Giriraja, May 15th, 1972) 73-01 **==“There are four pillars of a successful business, and that is land, labor, capital and organization. So first is the land. If you get nice land, then everything else will follow. So we have got place, labor, you are gradually getting more, we have got some capital, and we are organized, therefore I see no reason that we shall not be very much successful in India, as we shall be also all over the world.” ([[letters/1973/730105_tejiyas|Tejiyas, 5 January, 1973]]) ==73-05 “Side by side increase our spiritual consciousness by attending to the temple routine work, Deity worship, sankirtana, attending class. The idea is we must have the necessities of our life as far as possible independently. But we should not be business-minded. Our main business is to develop our dormant Krsna consciousness. Side by side we may take to such enterprises as will maintain us very nicely.”== (SPL to Jayapataka and Bhavananda, 9th May,* 1973) 73-10 “Unless we become very strong in Krsna consciousness, ==it is very risky to handle material things and business. We are naturally business minded, and so as we get some opportunity, that mentality becomes strong.== **We have already got our book selling program. It is better not to divert to other lines of business. This boy Rishi Kumara appears to be lost coming in contact with business. I heard he was coming to India and staying in the hotel without coming to the temple. Similarly Hayagriva is also lost almost. So, the situation is not very favorable.” ([[letters/1973/731019_karandhara|Karandhara dasa, 19 October, 1973]]) ==73-12 “Yes== *,* ==if you are able to acquire some farm land and produce grains that will be nice. Especially we want to export grains to India. Do not, however, change or disrupt the existing temple program. The economic situation is always precarious but we are dependent on Krsna only.” ([[letters/1973/731211_makhanlal|Makhanlal, 11 December, 1973]]) ==74-01 “Regarding Spiritual Sky incense business in Canada, the best thing is if you can find some competent managers to handle this so all your time is not spent in selling incense. I understand that you have taken it on because you wish all the centers to be financially sound. So now that you have been managing the business for four months, you should find a suitable manager to take it over.”== ([[letters/1974/740108_jagadisa|Jagadisa, 8 January, 1974]]) ==74-03 “If by starting an incense business economically you become solvent to run on your center then it is good, and for this purpose I will advise Bali Mardan to give you the necessary capital on your approval== *.* But I don't think it is practical to run a factory in Tokyo. If something is to be done seriously then let me know if you have a branch of the Chinese bank known as the Liberty Bank. This bank has a branch in Honolulu and we have kept some money there. So please let me know if a branch of the Liberty Bank is there. If you can establish a strong center in Taiwan as it is described in Sri Vallabha dasa's letter it will be a great idea. We have one branch in Moscow, if we get a branch in China, on the mainland, it will be a great achievement." ([[letters/1974/740329_dr._ghosh|Trivikrama Maharaja, 29 March, 1974]]) *** 74-06 “You have taken the right decision. For the time being you suspend your GBC responsibilities and let Hamsaduta manage as he is doing nicely. Hamsaduta saw me recently, however, and was complaining that he is meeting with an opposing party there, although he is working as authorized GBC. I think if you ask all of them to cooperate with him while you *try* to improve your business separately that will pacify things. I am hopeful and praying to Krsna that you become successful. The difficulty is you didn't know about the business and you believed everyone. I have a report even from Bala Krsna that you have been cheated. ==If you have sufficient experience and are careful then you can do the business. I think it requires great experience, otherwise you will be cheated.== **For the time being do your business and wherever you stay follow the regulative principles. Always chant and follow the regulative principles. Then you can see me in India during the installation ceremony in Vrndavana. I shall advise you further. There are so many things which happened in your absence which I do not wish to discuss now. But everything can be rectified if you follow my instructions. If you have actually sold jewels that is encouraging and we can discuss further about it when we meet next.” ([[letters/1974/740608_syamasundara|Syamasundara, 8 June, 1974]]) *** 74-06 ==“It is pleasing to me to hear that you are happily engaged in devotional service and living as an ideal grhastha. Please go on as you are doing; keep your business separate and wherever you remain keep your family in Krsna consciousness always chanting Hare Krsna and observing the regulative principles. Cultivate your business for Krsna, remain happy in Krsna consciousness and always serve Krsna.”== ([[letters/1974/740609_krsna_dasa|Krsna dasa, 9 June, 1974]]) *** 74-08 ==“Regarding the Society's leaders emphasizing business, you should understand what is the meaning of business. Business means to help the preaching. Preaching needs financial help; otherwise, we have no need for business. So far as I understand our book business is sufficient to support our movement. I do not want the preaching to be at the expense of managing. Manager must also be a preacher otherwise who will want to follow him?”== ([[letters/1974/740813_madhudvisa|Tamala Krsna Maharaja, 13 August, 1974]]) *** 74-09 * * ==“Regarding the incense factory; yes, you can guide them but you should not be very much involved with business. Be on the sidelines and help them."== (SPL to Ksirodakasayi dasa, 8th September,* 1974) ==75-02 “I want that someone learns how to make mrdangas in the Western countries. As far as I know Isana has not' produced any mrdangas. So how will he teach your wife how to make them? First let him produce something, and then he can teach others. I have no objection. If somehow or other someone can learn how to make good mrdangas in America, it will be a great service.”== ([[letters/1975/750202_sahadeva|Duryodhanaguru dasa, 2 February, 1975]]) ==75-05 “Your husband recently came to Delhi and Vrndavana and he has sold so many properties of ISKCON through the Mukutwala. His only business is to acquire money. He is collecting money like anything and is not contributing to the Society. So what can I do? I did not say anything to him. I am simply praying to Krsna for his welfare.”== ([[letters/1975/750511_hansadutta|Yamuna, 11 May, 1975]]) ==75-07 “Actually we are not fond of having businesses. Although for spreading Krsna consciousness we can use millions of dollars, yet we do not like to employ many of our men at great endeavor in the competitive business world.== * * In order to manufacture and market your own inventions it would be a great struggle and too much time and energy would have to be spent, as you have stated. It also requires great business expertise to succeed and not be cheated. You should regard your main business as trying to become Krsna conscious through reading my books and associating with the devotees in the * sankirtana* movement there in Brooklyn temple. You are an older man, 68 years old, so I appreciate it if you can help my disciples in New York in cooperation with the president.” ([[letters/1975/750701_nityananda|Mr. Lapidus, 1 July, 1975]]) ==75-07 “In Hawaii they are arranging for manufacturing plastic khols. You can arrange one or two Bengali experts in making and fitting the heads of the khols. They must be prepared to stay with us for at least one year. We will pay their transportation to Hawaii and return and also a small salary. Our men can then learn from them. We now require so many khols for expanding our sankirtana movement.”== ([[letters/1975/750704_ramesvara|Jayapataka Swami, 4 July, 1975]]) ==75-01 “Now we have a plan for expanding our sankirtana and we will be needing so many hundreds of mrdangas. So you have got the fibre-glass shells there, so I am informing Jayapataka Swami to arrange for one or two Bengali craftsmen to come and stay with you for at least one year to make the skins. Then our men can learn from him. We will pay the transportation and some salary.”== ([[letters/1975/750704_ramesvara|Paramahamsa Swami and Srutakirti dasa, 4 July, 1975]]) *** 75-08 ** ==“I have seen your farm, and it is very nice. Develop it very nicely. You have already done nicely, so develop it further. That is very nice that you are saving money U.S. $250.00 per month on cow feed. Grow food for animal and man as far as possible. That is Krsna's order: annad bhavanti bhutani. It is also nice that you are making so much profit from your Spiritual Sky. Use it wisely”.== ([[letters/1975/750821_rupanuga|Nityananda dasa, 21 August, 1975]]) *** 75-09 “Regarding the restaurant, that is the defect, that if we divert our attention more on business. Therefore it is very difficult. Things should be adjusted so that temple programs are not hampered. ==The brahmacaris and sannyasis must stick to the temple activities. Only the grhasthas can take part in the restaurant.== * * ==Our aim should not be to work for profit== * .* You American boys and girls can make very large profit, but why you have taken to Krsna consciousness? You are not meant for profit-making but for advancing in spiritual life. So we should not take to the restaurant for profit making at the cost of slackening of spiritual life. This is dangerous.” ([[letters/1975/750904_gatravan|Paramahamsa Swami, 4 September, 1975]]) ==75-10 “I have marked how you are making mrdangas. Make many mrdangas. It will solve a great problem.”== ([[letters/1975/751022_tulsi|Tulasi dasa, 22 October, 1975]]) *** 75-11 “It is not good that all of the temples are spending more than they are receiving. They should rather save more and not exceed on the expenditures. ==I do not think that the jewellery business should be encouraged. We are after preaching, not money. Their endeavor should be utilized for selling books. That is different from the endeavor of selling jewellery.== I do not think that this attempt should be encouraged. Our principle is *tyaga,* or renunciation, which means to renounce material activities as far as possible. What plans are there for the book distribution for the bicentennial celebration in Philadelphia?” ([[letters/1975/751109_jagadisa|Rupanuga dasa, 9 November, 1975]]) ==75-11 “Regarding the contract with the incense manufacturer, don't supply them if they do not pay. That is very good to separate the Spiritual Sky business from the temple.”== ([[letters/1975/751114_sri_v._s._murthy|Bhagavan dasa, 14 November, 1975]]) ==75-11 “The mrdanga-making is very important. The new bhaktas, they can be engaged in the mrdanga-making and also help Baradraja with the doll making.”== ([[letters/1975/751120_ghanasyama|Jayatirtha dasa, 20 November, 1975]]) *** 75-11 “Regarding Denver, why are they doing business? This creates a bad atmosphere. We shall only do one business and that is book selling. That's all. As soon as you become *karmis* after business, then spiritual life becomes damaged. This business should not be encouraged any more. Doing business and not *sankirtana,* this is not at all good *-visaya cariya kabe suddha ha 'be mana, kabe hama herabo sri-vrndavana.* 'When the mind is completely purified, being freed from material anxieties and desires, then I shall be able to understand Vrndavana and the conjugal love of Radha and Krsna, and then my spiritual life will be successful.' One has to engage himself in devotional service, giving up the engagement of manufacturing pounds, shilling, pence. ==Sankirtana is very good, but grhasthas under condition can do other business, only if they give at least 50%, but sankirtana is the best business.== **Our Denver temple is situated in a very nice place. It is our own house, so it must be managed very nicely. Please encourage Kurusrestha in this regard. He is a very good devotee, very sincere and intelligent.” ([[letters/1975/751120_ghanasyama|Satsvarupa dasa Goswami, 20 November, 1975]]) *** 75-11 “Regarding the New Orleans farm, do not make sugar. Just boil it and make molasses. You can eat the molasses instead of sugar. Just boil it and keep boiling it until granules form and then keep in a pot. Don't try to make sugar and sell it. That will simply increase the botheration. If you start trading business, then so many problems will be there. You should produce just enough for our own use. ==Trading leads to envy, jealousy and cheating, and then everything is lost. I am seeing now that the business activities in our Society, they are increasing.== * * Originally I allowed that Gargamuni could start the incense business. I thought that the Ramakrishna Mission, they are doing and the incense we are using, so if we make some and sell it, then what is the harm. But now I see that Spiritual Sky, they have so many products. And now there is jewellery business going on. So why should the business increase? Nanda Kumara, he came here to India simply for doing business. This is not required. So I have given him * sannyasa * and now he is finished with all business, and he will go to Africa to preach. So this business should be discouraged, otherwise, if they do it, our men will again become * karmis.* Our business is simply book distribution." ([[letters/1975/751120_ghanasyama|Jagadisa dasa, 20 November, 1975]]) ==76-01 “You have suggested that some men are best engaged in doing business. I agree. All grhasthas who are interested in doing business should do so in full swing”== *yat karosi yad anasi, yaj juhosi dadasi yat, yat tapasyasi kaunteya, tat kurusva mad-arpanam* Let this be the guiding principle. So let all the *grhasthas* who wish to, execute business full fledgedly in the USA and in this way support *gurukula.* Business must be done by the *grhasthas,* not by the *sannyasis* or *brahmacaris.* Neither the *sannyasis* nor *brahmacaris* can be expected to support *gurukula.* The parents must take responsibility for their children, otherwise they should not have children. It is the duty of the individual parents. I am not in favor of taxing the temples. The parents must pay for the maintenance of their children. Neither can the BBT be expected to give any loans. Now the BBT, 50% for construction is pledged to the projects in India-Bombay, Kurukshetra, Mayapur. The profits from the businesses should first go to support *gurukula* and balance may be given for the local temple's maintenance. *Grhasthas* can do business. It is best if the temple presidents are either *sannyasis* or *brahmacaris.* If the *grhasthas* want to do book distribution, they should be given a commission of 5-10% of which part must go to *gurukula.* For any others who are engaged in important Society projects, they must get something for maintaining their children at *gurukula.* So far as *prasadam* and residence, they are already getting that free. But sometimes, *grhasthas* make their own arrangement for cooking. For that we can give no expenditure. Just try to improve the *prasadam* system so nicely that one will not want any other arrangement. Another thing is that the *grhasthas* may be encouraged to do agriculture. In the Indian villages like in Vrndavana, they get enough ghee for their personal use, and sufficient excess to be sold to the merchants, who then also get some money. Cow protection means good food and good trade. So I can give you suggestions how to manage everything, but it is up to the GBC to practically execute all these points.” ([[letters/1976/760122_jayatirtha|Jayatirtha, 22 January, 1976]]) ==76-01 “I am glad that you are developing the mukhut business. Now the devotees must learn so that in the future professionals will not be required.”== ([[letters/1976/760129_aksayananda|Aksayananda, 29 January, 1976]]) ==76-02 “It is nice they are maintaining and increasing the Rathayatra program in Philadelphia. Last year's program was very nice. That is good they have sold the jewellery business; we have got so nice book business, why shall we have this? You say Atlanta has pledged $33,000 that is nice, whose business can give us profit like that?”== ([[letters/1976/760221_gabhira|Rupanuga dasa, 21 February, 1976]]) *** 76-05 “I thank you for your kind offering of some of the honey you produce at your honey farm. As you know, I have requested the devotees here to construct one beautiful temple on the grounds in order that many people may come from all around and see the gorgeous worship of the Deities. It is a big project and will require so much capital. So if possible you can ==try to follow the formula recommended practically by Srila Rupa Goswami, that 50% of one's income be spent for propagating Krsna consciousness. That will be very nicely and then your business endeavors will surely be pleasing unto the Supreme Lord,== * * as stated in the * Srimad-Bhagavatam: atah pumbhir dvija-srestha, varnasrama-vibhagasah, svanusthitasya dharmasya, samsiddhir hari tosanam (S.B. 1.2.13) ’O best among the twice born, it is therefore concluded that the highest perfection one can achieve, by discharging his prescribed duties (dharma) according to caste divisions and order of life, is to please the Lord Hari.'" ([[letters/1976/760509_trivikrama|Balabhadra dasa, 9 May, 1976]]) ==76-06 “Concerning the production of toothpaste and cosmetics for which I may be able to supply the information, etc., you can come to see me in Toronto when I visit there.”== ([[letters/1976/760606_b.r._sridhara_maharaja|Prabhupāda dasa, 6 June, 1976]]) ==76-07 “So far I know, retail business is not good in comparison to wholesale business.”== ([[letters/1976/760711_bishambhar|Gopala Krishna dasa, 11 July, 1976]]) *** 76-10 ** ==“Regarding this cooperative point, who will manage all the expenditure? We will spend so much money, why should it be managed by a cooperative? The cooperative society proposal is absurd. The poor members cannot pay adequately, neither are they interested. It is not tenable from all angles of vision. In the beginning the report was given to the DM. Now again DM, DM. Why again DM, be first given proposal?"== ([[letters/1976/761023_jayapataka|Jayapataka, 23 October, 1976]]) *** 76-11 ** ==“Regarding our men becoming lawyers, yes do it. For a graduate it is not difficult. You can also take a degree. However, five years is too long for our men to work as a clerk. That is not good."== ([[letters/1976/761108_rupanuga|Rupanuga, 8 November, 1976]]) *** 76-12 ** ==“It is good that you have stopped all business ventures. Now, stick to it. Book distribution is sufficient. You should not divert for any other business."== ([[letters/1976/761228_kurusrestha|Kurusrestha dasa, 28 December, 1976]]) *** 77-01 ** ==“I have received your invitation to the opening of Prasadam Distributing International Inc., and I found it nicely presented. Krsna will give you intelligence how to engage in honest, brilliant, glorious work on His behalf. There is no need to engage in anything dishonest. Krsna has given enough money, now earn by honest means.”== (SPL to Prasadam Distributing International, Alex, Bob, Drdha-vrata, Gupta, Rsabhadeva and Stan, 24th January, 1977) ## Money 67-10 “I have received your letter of October, 5th. ==’Money is the honey' goes so far as it is employed for Krsna consciousness== *.* The body is undoubtedly a material vehicle, but when it acts for Krsna consciousness it becomes spiritualized. By the grace of Krsna, material energy can be transformed to spiritual energy & spiritual energy is never deteriorated. To be in Krsna consciousness means to be in spiritual energy. More in my next. Hope you are well.” (SPL to Hamsaduta, October 13th, 1967) ==68-02 “== So to take risk for Krsna is *very* good. You know the history of starting the Society in 1966, it was all risky, and I was alone, but I took it depending on Krsna. ==So I think if you take the risk of $150, for Krsna’s sake, Krsna will supply you the required money undoubtedly. It depends however on your personal discretion== *,* but I am hopeful that if you take the risk it will not be bad. In the meantime, Upendra is also released earlier from his interment, and I think if he takes some job he can also help. So try to open this branch and let us depend on Krsna's good will.” ([[letters/1968/680212_gargamuni|Gargamuni, 12 February, 1968]]) *** 68-06 ** ==“Yes, you can have the band play there in the temple as you are in great need of money to carry on there. When we are in need of money to carry on Krsna’s work, then we can resort to whatever means there is available. So long it is always for Krsna and never for personal sense gratification. So you can try to get some money in that way.”== (SPL to Subala, June 12th, 1968) ==68-06 “== Teaching the girls to sew nicely is also a very good idea. Take some Indian samples from Purusottama and try to make exactly like that so that we may make very good profit for the Society. Our Society requires millions of dollars for propaganda work, but Krsna has made us financially poor. ==I think it is good to remain financially poor because always we shall be able to pray to Krsna, asking His help to execute His service. If all of a sudden we become very strong financially, maya may dictate to us for sense enjoyment and we may fall prey to her tactics== *.* Therefore, to remain poor is one of the qualifications for advancing in Krsna consciousness. Our predecessors, the Goswamis, voluntarily gave up everything for advancement in Krsna consciousness. We do not require any money for our personal account, we shall always be happy with anything Krsna is happy to supply us for maintenance, ==but for the preaching purposes, we can accommodate to receive all the riches of the world.== **So let us try with sincerity and Krsna will help us in the matter of our advancing the cause of Krsna consciousness.” ([[letters/1968/680614_himavati|Himavati, 14 June, 1968]]) ==68-06 “== Regarding the bus, the best thing will be to dispose of it and get some money. One thing, ==you must be very careful that we should not divert our attention for money-making too much. If we can make money by the process which you have now adopted that is very nice== *.* But we cannot divert our attention to such things as running on the bus, etc. This is not good. The bus should be sold to get out of the botheration. If the bus was in good condition we could have it to utilize to move ourselves, but that is not possible. Under the circumstances, better that you dispose of it at the highest possible price and get out of the complication. ==”== ([[letters/1968/680621_brahmananda|Hamsaduta, 21 June, 1968]]) ==68-06 “== Money making schemes should be easy; we cannot divert our attention for money making activities. We require some money for prosecuting our activities, and if we get that money by contribution that is best, otherwise, we can sell our literature and books etc. But if we direct our attention like others, then it becomes *karma.* And *karma* is very dangerous for persons who want to go back to Godhead. Therefore, in the *Bhagavad-Gita karma-yoga* is advised. ==On the whole, we can endeavor for money making if it doesn't hamper our devotional service. Otherwise, we shall prefer to starve and chant Hare Krsna== *.* That should be the pivot of all our activities. ==”== ([[letters/1968/680621_brahmananda|Hamsaduta, 21 June, 1968]]) ==68-06 “== Your question, 'Could we use alchemy to make gold for Krsna’s altar?' but-I could not follow what you mean by using alchemy for Krsna’s altar, but if you can make Krsna’s sitting place made of gold either by alchemy or by purchasing gold, it will be a grand success. But I do not advise you to take advantage of alchemy for making gold; it is not certain. We should not waste our time on that which is not very sure. ==If you can manufacture gold, then we can very soon spread our Krsna consciousness, but I think Krsna will not give us that opportunity because as soon as we get a large quantity of gold we forget Krsna.== That nature is incumbent in our character. ==”== (SPL to Rupanuga, June,* 1968) ==68-06 “== Caitanya Mahaprabhu especially warned His devotees who deal with worldly-minded men. Therefore according to Vedic principles, only the *brahmacaris,* the *vanaprasthas,* and the *sannyasis* are recommended to take to Krsna consciousness seriously or to get free from the problem of earning money. The *grhasthas* are supposed to support the 3 sections of the society. Anyway ==the best source of our income should be by accepting contributions from the sympathetic public, and selling our own books and literature. That is also a sort of business, but it doesn't matter.== **And if we do business we must do it independently, without any assistance from the outsiders. We can take help from outside in the matter of monetary help, either by contribution or by loan, but not to enter into transactions with outsiders. Because their aim of life is different from ours.” (SPL to Brahmananda, June 28th, 1968) ==68-06 “== Yes, I agree with you, on this money subject. This subject matter I have discussed here also. The difficulty is that in your country the *brahmacaris* cannot go and beg from door to door, therefore the process which is now adopted by Hamsaduta is coming to be very hopeful. But ==boys who are not engaged in temple service during the day time must try to get some money by working or some other way. Without money it is not possible to exist in the material world.== Although Krsna is always on the background, still Krsna advised Arjuna that you have to fight, at the same time, remember Me. The same principles we have to follow. We have to work, just like others, and at the same time think of Krsna constantly. Outsiders should be educated to know that we are the most humble servants of the human society. ==”== (SPL to Rupanuga, June 30th, 1968) ==68-09 “== Regarding collecting fund: ==the brahmacaris, vanaprasthas, and sannyasis are not supposed to earn money like grhasthas== *.* The *grhastha* or the householder can engage himself in earning money, either by accepting job or some professional work but a *brahmacari, vanaprastha,* and *sannyasi* are supposed to depend on Krsna only and beg from the *grhasthas.* The same system can be followed if it is possible. You are completely right when you think that if by begging alms we can provide for ourselves, we should not accept any job. So far I can understand from the indication in your letter, that if you form a party of *sankirtana,* and walk in the street, I think you can get not less than 50 to 100 marks daily. If five or six men who are sympathetic to you, and as some of them have already assured that you can count upon them, the best thing will be to form a local trust party, including those gentlemen and yourself, of 12 heads, and immediately start your work In the meantime, we shall have our books, *Bhagavad-Gita As It Is,* and *Teachings of Lord Caitanya,* ready. That will sell also. ==”== (SPL to Sivananda, September 18th, 1968) ==68-10 “== Next point, and when he is awakened, he becomes completely detached from the so-called affection for designations, namely, society, friendship and love. Next point, by such understanding, one is not so much materially active. ==One is satisfied with income which can simply maintain his body and soul together and he is no more interested to increase the bank balance unnecessarily for sense gratification.== **The defect of the modern civilization that everyone is earning money undoubtedly in large volumes, but he does not know how to spend it. He is spending simply for sense gratification and the last word of sense gratification is sex, therefore all money is being spent up for intoxication and sexual life, nudey dance, nudey theater, in so many ways. That means they are spoiling their human source of energy. Next point, one should be so trained up that within the heart he will be freed from all material attraction, but so long the body is there, to keep the body and soul together; he has to work like ordinary man. Next point, the society, friendship and love of material existence may be accepted without any attraction, and whatever the so-called society, friendship and love wants to take service from us, one should simply say, yes, it is very nice, but actually he should give more importance for spiritual advancement of life. ==”== (SPL to Rayarama, October 17th, 1968) ==68-10 “== Next point, therefore, one who spoils food grains unnecessarily, he is a criminal. And ==one who accumulates more money than is actually required, he is also a criminal. And according to the law of nature, or according to the law of God, such persons are surely to be punished.== **This punishment may not be visible in this life, but because life is eternal, it is continuity, one must be prepared to accept such punishment in this life or next life, and because they are taking the risk, therefore, the living entity is transmigrating from one body to another, and that is his problem of life. The human life is meant for solving this problem. All animals like deer, camel, ass, monkey, even flies and snakes, none should be ill treated. Even they enter into the house or in the fields and take their eatables, they should not be stopped. Because they have got the right to eat, eatables supplied by the Lord. And they will not eat more, neither they will take at home. They are better than human beings. If a human being is allowed to enter into the field or into the garden, he will try to take away something for selling or stocking, but the animals do not. So the innocent animals should be accepted as children of the householder.” (SPL to Rayarama, October 17th, 1968) 68-12 ** ==“Regarding my apartment, if it is possible to keep it with no strain on your financial condition it is all right. Otherwise I am not very serious about retaining the apartment. Everything should be performed with no strain because too much financial strain will hamper our progress in Krsna consciousness.”== (SPL to Brahmananda, December 19th, 1968) ==68-12 “== First of all, I must inform you that Vamanadeva's advice that first you should make a move and then consult your spiritual master is most unauthorized. A disciple should not do anything without first asking his spiritual master. It is said in *Srimad-Bhagavatam* that a *brahmacari* should beg and collect things and then deliver them to his spiritual master, and when the spiritual master will ask him to come and take *prasada* he will do so. If one day the spiritual master forgets to call the *brahmacari* to participate in the lunch, he should rather fast that day than take food out of his own accord. Of course, I do not mean to impose upon you such strictures, but the purport is that a *brahmacari* should not do anything without being directed by the spiritual master. I know that you are a sincere devotee and a faithful *brahmacari* but still you should not do anything without consenting me. If Vamanadeva gave such unauthorized council he did not do right. Anyway, I have carefully read the contents of your letter and I can understand your mental situation. Your scheme is all right, your mother has some financial strength and you want to be in her confidence to get the money engaged in Krsna consciousness movement. ==That's a good scheme, but unfortunately we do not get financial help by our schemes, but should always depend upon the causeless mercy of Lord Krsna.== “( *SPL to Sivananda, 31st December,* 1968) ==69-01 “== I am so glad to understand that as soon as your finances are almost depleted, Krsna sees to everything. This is the process of Krsna consciousness. If we are sincere, Krsna will supply us with all the necessities of life. ==When we serve some mundane master, he gives us sufficient salary, so when we serve the Supreme Master, how is it possible that He will keep us fasting?== * * Actually, due to our lack of Krsna consciousness sometimes we become disturbed with shortage of funds. But we should be confident that our necessities will certainly be fulfilled by the Supreme Lord. The same incident sometimes happens in New York temple. When there is a shortage of funds, sometimes they find money accidentally without knowing the source. ==”== (SPL to Gurudasa and Yamuna, 21st January,* 1969) ==69-02 “== Regarding your insurance policy, I do not wish to engage you in litigation; that is not a *sannyasi’s* business. In India, since I left, ==people have grabbed my money up to many thousands of rupees== *.* That Hitsaran took away Rs. 2,000; the landlord has taken away more than Rs. 2,000, but what can I do? ==If I go to litigation, I will have to put myself in so many anxieties. It is better to forget.== **If peacefully you can draw the money from your father that is all right. I do not know what kind of devious means you want me to use in this connection, but any means, if it does not put you into difficulties will be acceptable.” ([[letters/1969/690214_kirtanananda|Kīrtanānanda, 14 February, 1969]]) ==69-04 “I am pleased that you are working for our activities in Japan, and in three months you should be able to gather at least $1,500 together. Don't spend money needlessly. Try to save as much as possible, because you have very important work to do for the service of Lord Caitanya.”== (SPL to Sudama and Kartikeya, 19th April,* 1969) ==69-04 “I understand that Krsna has helped you with some source of income. All the money we require is simply to meet our necessities and we do not require any more for the purpose of sense gratification. But for our necessities we can always know that Krsna will help us with all facilities. Some way or other if Mandali Bhadra gets the facility of fully working on his translation work, it will be a very nice thing.”== ([[letters/1969/690426_vrndavanesvari|Vrndavanesvari, 26 April, 1969]]) ==69-05 “== Regarding your idea of supporting the temple by *sankirtana* collections, it is nice. In Los Angeles, New York and other centers they are chanting on the streets every day and they are getting good remunerations, better than any job. New York once collected $500 in one weekend and Los Angeles sometimes collects $250 in one day. Uddhava and Vaikunthanatha are collecting at least $20-40 daily, so if it is possible to collect it is very good. ==Simply we have to work and people will give contribution for this good cause. It is better to get money by collections than to work.”== ([[letters/1969/690504_sivananda|Sivananda, 4 May, 1969]]) ==69-06 “So far as the money is concerned, it is not meant for banking, but it is meant for spending. Our policy should be to collect millions of dollars or more than that daily, and spend it daily.== That should be our policy. Every morning we shall be empty-handed, get collection of a million dollars during the day-time and by evening it should all be spent. That should be our motto. But because we are pushing on our activities regularly, therefore some money should be saved to meet emergencies. So if you have got chance of opening a branch in Laguna Beach, do it. When we get a big temple in Los Angeles, Krsna will supply the necessary funds. ==”== (SPL to Tamala Krsna, 17th June,* 1969) ==69-06 “== The father and mother are also as good as the spiritual master, and we are indebted to father and mother in so many ways. So as they are dependent on your income, try to help them as far as possible as well as spend something for Krsna also. ==Rupa Goswami spent 50% for Krsna, 25% for emergency, 25% for relatives. You can also try to follow this principle as far as possible== *.* Your main business is to keep in Krsna consciousness, and if you keep that point in view, you can deal with others according to social convention without being attached.” (SPL to Gopala Krsna, 21st* June, 1969) ==69-08 “== You are improving in every respect of our London *yatra* program and I think your labor to make friends with the Beatles has been successful in the matter of pressing the Hare Krsna record. I hope by this means many thousands of people will flow into Krsna's treasury. We are very poor financially, but by Krsna's grace we are getting help undoubtedly. That is nice. I came here without any money, Single-handed and Krsna is sending me so many nice assistants and the required money whenever it is necessary. ==We should be satisfied with such grace of Krsna. We do not want any extra money for sense gratification, but Krsna is so kind He is supplying the necessary amount.”== ([[letters/1969/690831_syamasundara|Syamasundara, 31 August, 1969]]) *** 69-10 ** ==“Money depending on others is no money”== (SPL to Tamala Krsna Goswami, October, 1969) ==69-11 “== Regarding your expenditures, we do not mind if there is no saving. Our policy should be to collect millions of dollars and spend also millions of dollars or sometimes more. ==But we should be very careful that we may not be extravagant. For necessary expenditures we have no grudge== *....So, as* far as possible economize, and there is no need of savings. But because we are trying to purchase our own building we have to save something because in the future we will have to pay large monthly installments.” (SPL to Gargamuni, November 20th, 1969) ==69-12 “== You are handling thousands of dollars for Krsna, but you ask your mother for helping your personal needs. ==I very much appreciate this example, but it is my order that whenever you are in such trouble, you should not minimize any expenditure.== * * You must have the best kind of treatment available, and you can spend from the money you are collecting on behalf of Krsna. Your mother's assistance is welcome, and as a child you can very affectionately ask her for such assistance. But in case of denial or inability, you should not hesitate to spend from Krsna’s money. You can take it from me. ==”== (SPL to Gargamuni, December 15th,* 1969) ==70-02 “If we are in spiritual strength there will be no scarcity of money: and the spiritual strength is that each and every one of us must chant the sixteen rounds of beads and follow the rules and regulations with great adherence”== ([[letters/1970/700208_yamuna_mandakini_ilavati_jyotirmayi_dhananjaya_digvijaya_jotilla_prithadevi_tamala_krsna|Tamala Krsna, 8 February, 1970]]) ==70-07 “== If ==we can organize our sankirtana movement, there will be no scarcity of money rest assured; rest assured.”== (Krsna dasa, 28 July, 1970) ==70-09 “We should know it well that Krsna is no poor man, and He can give us any amount at any time. Simply He is waiting to see that we will use it according to His desire. So the more we spend in His service, the more He will provide, rest assured."== (SPL to Bhagavan dasa, September 19th, 1970) ==70-09 “== I think you will remember that I called you not Gargamuni but Gargamoney. So whenever I required some money I approached you and you were kind to pay me immediately. ==So please continue your capacity in this way to supply money to the Society. That will please Krsna.== **I am immediately in need of $250,000, somehow or other. Collect this money and both of you come here. We shall open a very gorgeous branch in Calcutta. Calcutta is my birth-place, so all of you as my disciples do something unique in Calcutta. That will be fitting service to your spiritual master.” (SPL to Gargamuni Maharaja, September 25th, 1970) ==70-11 “My Guru Maharaja used to say, ’Don't worry about money. Do something nice for Krsna and money will come.’ So we should always be thinking how to distribute the message of Krsna and surely He will give us facility. Even an ordinary man if he wants publicity then he gives so much money for the propaganda work. Similarly Krsna is not poor. He can supply any amount for the devotees who are engaged in broadcasting His glories.”== (SPL to Karandhara, Novemher30th, 1970) ==71-01 “That there is a scarcity of money certainly means mismanagement. I have seen it myself that sometimes they sell books and do not send back the money. Why is that? This situation must be rectified. An accurate account of all dealings must be kept by those involved. How else things will be managed?”== (SPL to Jagadisa, January 16th, 1971) 71-08 "Actually cottage life for chanting Hare Krsna *mantra* is very nice but because we are dealing with Western people, Americans and Europeans, they require some nice apartment. Therefore we have to construct a nice house for them. ==My Guru Maharaja's policy was to give nice facility to devotees so that they may chant Hare Krsna mantra peacefully and make advancement. But we cannot be luxurious== *.* As far as possible minimize the needs of our life but we shall not curtail the bare necessities." (SPL to Acyutananda Maharaja, August 14th, 1971) ==72-04 “== If ==we have regular plan of selling books, then there will be no scarcity of money, and it will be easier to get books from Japan and sell them and utilize them than to receive money from America. So I do not think there is need for any transactions for five Krsna books.”== (SPL to Giriraja, April 12th,* 1972) ==72-05 “So far our investing, where is our money to invest? We have no money to invest. Our process is to collect and spend, from left hand to right hand, or from right hand to left hand.”== ([[letters/1972/720515_giriraja|Giriraja, 15 May, 1972]]) ==73-07 “Now you have taken a loan of Rs. 1,50,000 from the BBT, so with these excellent collections you are now taking, I request you to fill up that debt and then collect further, and the balance I shall arrange. I have read how you have dispersed your recent collections to repay BBT, and Vrndavana construction and it is all right. Please deal cautiously and do not spend unnecessarily”== ([[letters/1973/730720_tamala_krsnaa|Tamala Krsna Maharaja, 20 July, 1973]]) ==74-10 “Debt is not good. It is said that a happy man is he who lives at home and has no debts. That is a happy man. Please try to correct this situation."== ([[letters/1974/741011_tejiyas|Sri Govinda dasa, 11 October, 1974]]) ==74-12 “Yes, we must invest our money in books and land, but note there will be a collapse as you have anticipated== *.* Everything will be adjusted by the grace of Krsna. From my own experience I have seen when first-class rice was selling at 8 anna per kg. and now that is being sold at Rs. 8/-. That means that it is 64 times higher, but still people are eating, and the man who lives in care of the footpath he is also eating. So the man in care of the footpath, and the man on the 30th floor of the skyscraper, they are living and still the inflation is going on. Man-made laws cannot work any rupture in Krsna's plan. Better let us remain now under Krsna’s shelter fully dependent, and we shall remain unaffected by all the man-made difficulties. =="== ([[letters/1974/741201_hansadutta|Hamsaduta dasa, 1 December, 1974]]) ==75-01 “Regarding your plane fare to India, it will be best if you can collect that money by selling some books on sankirtana. Then there will be no shortage."== ([[letters/1975/750117_hansadutta|Prajapati dasa, 17 January, 1975]]) *** 75-06 * * ==“To help the preaching work, that is also preaching. If you can get money to help expand our preaching activities, that is preaching. We require money== * .* Laksmi is the immediate assistant of Narayana. Narayana is always preceded by the word Laksmi. The Mayavadi philosophers do not touch Laksmi, but we accept for the service of Krsna. We are not of the mentality of Ravana who took Laksmi from Narayana and became ruined. Keep Laksmi and Narayana always together and you will become as powerful as Hanuman. He is always worshipped along with Lord Rama and Laksmi- Sita. There are many temples of Hanuman in India. Regarding investing money there in Iran, I have no objection if it is kept in Atreya Rsi's name. He is one of our men. Please send the complete details in this connection and I shall decide. ==”== ([[letters/1975/750618_karandhara|Karandhara, 18 June, 1975]]) ==75-06 “It is my habit to see that money is not being squandered. If money is spent unnecessarily, I feel very badly. You are all collecting with great effort, and I do not like to see it spoilt.”== ([[letters/1975/750621_gurukrpa|Gopala Krsna, 21 June, 1975]]) *** 75-09 ** ==“Regarding your festivals with prasadam, yes do it occasionally. There is no need of accumulating more wealth. You can get more wealth, and also spend more wealth. This is Brahmanism. Get and spend, but not to spoil and squander. This example should be shown to others. That the city was paying you means that they are appreciating. Gradually they will all appreciate very much.”== ([[letters/1975/750926_jagadisa|Kurusrestha dasa, 26 September, 1975]]) *** 75-11 ** ==“What is this stealing and violence? This is not good. By stealing, did he collect that money? Stealing is not our business. Our business is to become Krsna conscious. This is our program.”== ([[letters/1975/751109_jagadisa|Trivikrama Maharaja, 9 November, 1975]]) ==76-02 “Regarding your request for money, we ourselves are beggars and if we do get some money, we immediately use it to spread the chanting of the holy name of Krsna”== ([[letters/1976/760209_brahmananda|David Alan Ladner, 9 February, 1976]]) ==76-02 “And I think that Brsakapi should follow the example of Rupa Goswami. Rupa Goswami took sannyasa and gave 50% in charity, 25% for family use, and he kept 25% for emergency. Krsna wants to see that the life is sacrificed, but also accumulation, money, should be given to Krsna. Life to Krsna and money to wife is not a good decision.”== ([[letters/1976/760221_gabhira|Rupanuga dasa, 21 February, 1976]]) ==76-02 “== It is my intelligence and your cooperation that is working. There is a story of a man who was challenged whether he had any intelligence. He then began to look in his pocket. When asked why he was looking in his pocket, he replied, =='If there is money, then there is intelligence.' So you have gone so far to collect money and intelligently, but if there is no money, where is the intelligence?== Both must combine, then everything works out nicely.” ([[letters/1976/760225_giriraja|Giriraja, 25 February, 1976]]) ==76-12 “== The preaching work you are doing is very good. Continue this program enthusiastically and increase your number of company. You have to create devotees by your preaching work and train them according to your needs. Krsna has given you and your companions a *very* nice responsibility. If you like you can go all over India and make it more and more in that way. *Try* to distribute Hindi and other vernacular literature. ==Do not depend on outside help. Also, for financial support depend on Krsna. That is preaching success. People's appreciation will be practical when they help you financially also.== **Also, book distribution. We are maintaining our huge establishment by selling books. That is wanted. In foreign countries they are distributing huge quantities of books. Money is needed, that you have to collect. You can't expect money from outside. That is not successful preaching. ==”== ([[letters/1976/761214_lokanatha|Lokanatha, 14 December, 1976]])