# RATHA-YATRA AND GENERAL FESTIVALS ## Ratha-yatra Festivals 67-03 "I know you are not much for writing letters but you are much for work. This is very good proposal. ==Make the Ratha-yatra festival very great success. This will be a great introduction in your city and people will appreciate it== and if we can introduce successfully this Ratha-yatra festival not only in San Francisco but also in New York and also in Montreal then it will be a great success of my mission in this country." ([[letters/1967/670504_syamasundara|Syamasundara, 4 May, 1967]]) *** 68-03 "So far the date of the Ratha-yatra festival, it is to be on the 28th of June, and will continue for eight days. ==There are two festivals; one going, and one returning. So you can make plans like that.== Yes, if it is necessary then you can make a nice bed for Lord Jagannatha and Lord Balarama and keep Them nicely until I return." ([[letters/1968/680503_upendra|Upendra, 3 May, 1968]]) *** 68-06 =="For the present you endeavor to make Ratha-yatra festival grand and successful. You should arrange the procession and procedure so nicely that all the neighborhood people may be attracted to join the procession."== ([[letters/1968/680601_upendra|Upendra, 1 June, 1968]]) *** 68-06 "I am planning to go to London from here although for the present the program is for two to three months in Montreal. ==Please make the Ratha-yatra festival as successful as possible. I understand from the letters of the other devotees that San Francisco is arranging to get at least 1,000 to 5,000 people to participate in the procession.== If they all chant Hare Krsna with the procession, it will be a great success of our movement. Try to fit some loudspeakers for the principal singer which will be vibrated or answered by the whole audience." ([[letters/1968/680607_gargamuni|Gargamuni, 7 June, 1968]]) *** 68-07 "In the meantime, Gargamuni has come here and I have heard from him the details of your procession and it is so much engladdening to my heart. == *== I thank you all very much for making the Ratha-yatra festival so successful. Please convey my gratitude to all the boys and girls who participated in this great transcendental service.* This is the second year, and you have made a great stride from the first year, and in the third year, I hope it will be still more successful." ([[letters/1968/680704_upendra|Upendra, 4 July, 1968]]) *** 68-07 "I am in due receipt of your letter dated July 2, 1968 describing very briefly and emotionally about the nice success of our Ratha-yatra festival When Gargamuni came here the other day he also described it so nicely and now you can understand the specimen of transcendental pleasure in which the human society as a whole can take part and realize transcendental bliss == *.== The car festival was very simple. After all, it is a car with four wheels, but it attracted the people so enthusiastically because there was His Lordship, the Jagannatha.* Atheistic people may call it that the Jagannatha *Murti* was made of wood, and the car was also made of wood, but the spiritual bliss can be exacted from anything, simply in Krsna consciousness. Even accepting the whole affair as wooden, a Krsna conscious person can understand that wood is nothing but a display of Krsna's energy. So it is the Krsna consciousness energy that gives us transcendental bliss, just like it is the electric energy passing through copper cable which gives us electric light and heat. Simply the Krsna consciousness electric energy can immediately be attractive by developing our sense of Krsna consciousness, which I am sure you are experiencing gradually how easily it can be done. Now, it may be mentioned in this connection that India's electric energy of Krsna consciousness is gradually developing in your country and prior to this movement, anyone who came to this country from India to give American people spiritual enlightenment simply speculated on the mental platform. In the *Bhagavad-gita* it is clearly said that devotional service which is called *raja-yoga* , or the king of all yoga systems, is transcendental and very pleasing to perform." ([[letters/1968/680707_aniruddha|Aniruddha, 7 July, 1968]]) *** 68-07 "There is a good chance for opening a center in Florida through the agency of Mr. John Fugate, a friend of Dayananda. == *== To implement this transcendental bliss to the people of your country there is immense work to be done ahead and this Ratha-yatra festival is only a bit of sample. * If we get opportunity we shall be able to overflood your country with the waves of transcendental bliss, by the grace of Krsna. We can introduce various other ceremonials in connection with Krsna and His different expansions or incarnations in such a nice way that people are sure to be attracted by such things and become immersed in Krsna consciousness." ([[letters/1968/680707_aniruddha|Aniruddha, 7 July, 1968]]) *** 68-07 "Yesterday Janardana took me to a nice church here called Notre Dame, a very nice wooden structural workmanship with colorful figures and windows, decorated with nicely painted pictures about the crucifixion of Lord Jesus Christ. Everything was grotesque. Generally the Roman Catholic religion depends on this crucifixion incident in the life of Lord Jesus Christ, but I think depiction of this incident simply stimulates the tensions of differences of opinion and differences of religious principles, between the Jews and the Christians. My idea is that ==if simply by narrating the crucifixion incident of Lord Jesus Christ, the Roman Catholic religion can spread to such a wide area of the world, how much there is great potency of spreading our Krsna consciousness by depicting hundreds of thousands of such incidents like Ratha-yatra.== There is not one incident like Ratha-yatra, but there are many hundreds of thousands of incidents in different appearances of the incarnations of Lord Krsna. In different cities and different centers we can introduce such multi-pastimes ceremonies of Lord Krsna. And certainly people will be engladdened to observe such transcendental and happy ceremonies. So in Los Angeles, as promised by Mukunda, you try to construct a grand temple and then we shall introduce gradually many ceremonial functions, which the people will be so glad to enjoy. Think of Krsna always and try to work sincerely and everything will come automatically." ([[letters/1968/680707_aniruddha|Aniruddha, 7 July, 1968]]) ==68-07 *"== I must say that the Ratha-yatra festival was so successful for your diligent labor only. If you would not have constructed such a nice Ratha (car) in such a short time, it would not have been possible to perform the grand festival.* *By Krsna's grace you have got the talent of carpentermanship, and you have fully utilized it in the service of Krsna. You have carved so many Jagannatha * Murtis *, and the car also, so Krsna must have been very much satisfied with your service. * Srimad-Bhagavatam* says that the highest perfectional stage of everyone's talent is to satisfy the Supreme Personality of Godhead, Hari, by his craftsmanship, scientific knowledge, philosophical research, or similar any other energy. Please continue this attitude of service and success of life is assured for you. I have learned the description of the Ratha-yatra festival verbally from so many persons who came to see me from San Francisco, and I have received the photo album from Gurudasa. But I have not received any newspaper clippings, which I am very much anxious to see." ([[letters/1968/680715_syamasundara|Syamasundara, 15 July, 1968]]) ==68-07 "I am so much satisfied with your successful performance of Ratha-yatra festival and I am awaiting to see similar festivals in all our other centers, including one in the prospective London center."== ([[letters/1968/680716_gurudasa|Gurudasa, 16 July, 1968]]) ==69-05 "The proposal that you shall have a cart moving in the Japanese Fair with Deities, kirtana and selling books is very, very nice proposal. If you can get sanction for it, it will be a very nice thing."== ([[letters/1969/690508_sudama|Sudama, 8 May, 1969]]) ==69-05 "Regarding Ratha-yatra, this must be done at any cost. I may go or not go, that is not important. But Ratha-yatra festival, as you have already made program somehow or other it must be done.== **A grand program is being made in San Francisco organized by Tamala Krsna, and with the full cooperation of all Western coast centers. They are inviting public from all the neighboring places and they expect a big assembly of people. If I do not go to London to take part in the Ratha-yatra festival there, then I shall go to San Francisco to take part in that festival. But if you want me to go there and invite me then I am prepared for that also." ([[letters/1969/690526_syamasundara|Syamasundara, 26 May, 1969]]) *** 69-05 "You have inquired about the Jagannatha Car. The crimson color with silver decorations is quite all right. There is no strict regulation about decorating the cars. We can decorate the cars very fascinatingly with gold, silver, and other shiny metallic embroidery work as far as possible. The idea is the more we decorate Krsna, Who is nondifterent from His car also, the more we become decorated indirectly. We are compared as the shadow of the Supreme Personality of Godhead, and as it is stated in the Bible also, man is made after God. We understand from the scriptures that Krsna has His *vigraha* , or Spiritual Body, exactly like a man who has two hands, two legs and all similar features. If you decorate your face, you do not see directly how your face has become beautiful, but when you see the reflection of your face in the mirror, then indirectly you can see the beauty. Therefore, by serving Krsna directly the result of the service indirectly comes to us. Just like we offer very nice *prasadam* directly to Krsna, but indirectly we enjoy the nice taste of the *prasadam* . So we should always remember this, that Krsna is always full in Himself; He does not want a pinch of our help for his satisfaction, but if we try to satisfy Him in so many ways as directed by *acaryas* and scriptures, indirectly we become benefitted by such activities. So try to nicely observe this Ratha-yatra festival in London, and Syamasundara has already informed me about the scheme that three cars will be drawn to some park on the Thames, etc. So some way or other, if you can introduce this car festival in London, by all means London center will be successful. ==It doesn’t matter if you can or cannot establish a temple there, but if you can introduce the Ratha-yatra festival, surely it will be a great success. So try to execute this will as far as possible" ([[letters/1969/690527_yamuna|Yamuna, 27 May, 1969]]) *** 69-06 "The Ratha-yatra festival you will perform from the 20th of July to the 27th of July. ==The main item is the car, so how will you observe the festival without the required car, or ratha. If you want to take the Deities on the shoulders of the devotees, that is also nice.== But if you would convey the Deities on a car, that will be very nice. The festival is the Deities are taken to some river side, if not the sea-side, and Montreal has got a very nice river, the St. Lawrence river. The system is that for eight days the Deities remain on the seaside, and *kirtana* goes on, *prasada* is distributed and people offer flowers, fruits, etc to the Deities. Then on the 8th day the Lord returns to His own place. This is the system and the care is taken in great procession complete with chanting, flowers, etc. This year Boston is also trying to celebrate the Ratha-yatra festival and if you like you may open correspondence with Satsvarupa in this connection and he will help you with further ideas. I am so glad to learn that *kirtana* is going on, and by Krsna's grace you are getting some collections. This is very good news. If during Ratha-yatra you cannot keep on the seaside then you take the car in procession to the riverside and come back in the same day. For the 8 days, as far as possible, distribute *prasadam* especially *khicari* . Then on the 8th day you also hold the ceremony in the same way. Please arrange to take nice photographs of your festival activities as well as of your other *kirtana* activities. We wish to print many such photographs in *our Back to Godhead* , so take many pictures, and send them to Brahmananda in New York." ([[letters/1969/690621_jayapataka|Jayapataka, 21 June, 1969]]) ==69-07 *"== I am also glad to know that Ratha-yatra arrangements are going nicely, and so also in your country, especially in San Francisco, Boston, Buffalo, as well as New York.* *There also they are arranging nicely. Most probably in Boston it will be as good as in San Francisco. In San Francisco they are making good advertisement, and they are expecting a very good crowd. I am going there on the 26th of July. I hope you will send me the pictures of your world famous parade in London. Send all detailed pictures to Brahmananda for publication in * Back to Godhead*. If possible, invite some Indian press representatives to report to the Indian papers how the Vedic culture is being accepted by Americans and Europeans." ([[letters/1969/690715_syamasundara|Syamasundara, 15 July, 1969]]) ==69-07 "You will be pleased to know that in the Western World also there will be held several grand scale Ratha-yatra festivals. Our temples in San Francisco, London, Boston, Buffalo and New York are all planning very gorgeous parades and ceremonies very similar to the ones held in Puri." ([[letters/1969/690717_sri_goswami|Sri Goswami, 17 July, 1969]]) ==69-07 *"== Just this afternoon I returned from San Francisco where they have just held a gigantic Ratha-yatra ceremony just on the order of the ones held at Jagannatha Puri. There were at least 10,000 young and old people, all chanting and dancing in bliss and ecstasy for the entire day,* starting from noon and going on until after evening. So it was a most magnificent occasion, and I am very much encouraged that the people of the Western world will come to understand the glories of this movement, and as Lord Caitanya predicted, His name will be chanted and praised in every town and village throughout the world" ([[letters/1969/690728_mandali_bhadra|Krsna dasa, 28 July, 1969]]) *** 69-07 "Regarding Lord Jagannatha, He is the unfinished carved form of Krsna. One king named Indradyumna wanted to establish a Jagannatha temple some thousands of years ago, but while the Deities were being carved by the heavenly carpenter Visvakarma, the king was too much in haste and he established the half-finished Deities in the temple. Jagannatha means Lord of the Universe. That is Krsna. Krsna as the only one Lord of everything is confirmed in the *Brahma-saḥhitā, Srimad-Bhagavatam, Bhagavad-gita, Caitanya-caritamrta* , and all Vedic literature. ==Ratha-yatra is celebrating the occasion when Lord Krsna, or Lord Jagannatha attended one religious function in Kuruksetra along with His elder brother and younger sister in a big chariot" ([[letters/1969/690728_mandali_bhadra|Mandala Bhadra, 28 July, 1969]]) *** 69-07 "I could not understand from your half finished letter whether Ratha-yatra ceremony was performed according to a subdued program. But I could understand that you are immersed in great confusion on account of the wheels giving way just after starting. I have received one letter from Syamasundara dated July 25th, in which it is stated that the magnitude of the *ratha* was double than the one you had in San Francisco. So such a heavy structure was not properly attended as to its weight and the wheels which could carry such a huge weight. I think it was a mistake of engineering calculation. The load was heavier than the wheels could carry. So there is no question of being disappointed. I have not received any detailed information either from you or from the others, but even if the festival was not properly performed, you should not be discouraged. As in the material world sometimes failure is considered as a pillar of success, similarly in the spiritual order also the same principle can be applied. Maybe Krsna's desire is something higher in this connection. If the Ratha-yatra has not been performed, you can postpone it to be performed on the Janmastami festival. There is no harm if you postpone the function to a later date, and the public will appreciate it. You consult amongst yourselves without being discouraged and patiently work for its being performed one month later. There is no harm. Jagannatha and Krsna are the same Supreme Personality. If it is Krsna's desire that He should enjoy the function on Janmastami day, it might be He put some hindrance on the Ratha-yatra day plans. So if you decide to hold the function on Janmastami day, Sept 4, 1969, then on hearing from you I shall give you further instructions in this connection. But in any case don't be disappointed. Keep your enthusiasm. Be patient and Krsna will reward your attempts with success. ==So far as San Francisco Ratha-yatra festival, it was very pompously and successfully executed in my presence. There were about 10,000 people attending the function. *== * The procession was led from our temple through Golden Gate Park and some other streets. We started at about 12:30 and reached on the beach about 5:00 or 5:30. Then we had a meeting in a big hall up until 6:00 and they performed a puppet show and distributed *prasadam* . Then *klrtana* continued up until about 10:00 at night. The function was reported in the local papers, and I will send you a copy when it is printed up. So if possible, you just postpone the function until Janmastami day, and do the needful. But don't be confused and disappointed. I hope you are well." ([[letters/1969/690731_gurudasa|Gurudasa, 31 July, 1969]]) *** 69-08 "When I first heard that the wheels of the car collapsed it was so great a shock to me that the whole day I was sick and morose, and now after receiving this letter and your pictures I am very much enlivened. The car was on the road and the photo is taken with a multitude of people. That is your success and as a result of this collapse you have got now the sympathy of the Indian community as well as all the people of London—so much so that ==next year you can timely and conveniently erect three carts like that*. ([[letters/1969/690813_syamasundara|Syamasundara, 13 August, 1969]]) *** 70-02 "Regarding Ratha-yatra festival, I have already written to Acyutananda for the exact date which I shall send you as soon as possible. But you can make arrangement of this Ratha-yatra festival for taking place sometimes in the month of July. Last year ==it was a great pleasure *== * for me to participate in the San Francisco Ratha-yatra. So this year if you invite me certainly I shall go to London, but for the transcendental competition with San Francisco you have to introduce three rathas as they are done in Jagannatha Puri. But if it is difficult for many reasons, then you can accommodate all the three Deities on one ratha." ([[letters/1970/700210_syamasundara|Syamasundara, 10 February, 1970]]) *** 70-02 I am glad to learn that you are early planning for the upcoming Ratha-yatra festival. In this connection, I have requested the exact date of the festival from India but it has not yet been replied, so ==you may plan for any suitable date between 20th and 31st July—even if it does not correspond, we have to arrange conveniently, that is allowed *.== * So far additions for this year's Ratha-yatra, you may make three rathas, one for each of the Deities. The rest of the details are already there, simply you may supply more money for festoons, decorations, flowers, bells, flags, etc. The spiritual sky is far away but you just try to do it following Jagannatha Puri Ratha-yatra. Jagannatha Puri or wherever Ratha-yatra is performed is not different from the spiritual sky." ([[letters/1970/700214_madhudvisa|Madhudvisa, 14 February, 1970]]) *** 70-02 "Regarding the exact date for celebration of the Ratha-yatra festival, it is on the 5th July until the return journey of Lord Jagannatha on the 14th July. ==Before Ratha-yatra on June 19th there is a ceremony of bathing Lord Jagannatha after which Lord Jagannatha falls sick with fever from too much bathing. Then he takes rest and no one is allowed to visit, but He reappears on Ratha-yatra day*== Hope this will meet you in good health. Your ever well-wisher, A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami *This ceremony you can observe by bathing a small Deity on the day participated by all devotees. But there is no need of closing the temple for 15 days." ([[letters/1970/700221_syamasundara|Syamasundara, 21 February, 1970]]) *** 70-03 =="Regarding Ratha-yatra, Jagannatha starts on the second day of the moon, and on the fifth day there is no meeting but there is some controversy with Laksmi's servants and Jagannatha's servants—that is Hera-pancami. Jagannatha returns back on the tenth day of the moon." ([[letters/1970/700517_yamuna|Yamuna, 17 May, 1970]]) *** 70-04 "I understand from the letter from Bahulasva as well as from your letter that the police and the public have appreciated this transcendental procession. The general public of Berkeley had a bitter experience that whenever there was a large gathering like this, inevitably there was political upheaval, protests and window breaking and general havoc. But this unique procession has convinced them that our men are very nice and they can organize a great crowd without any violence. That is a fact: if people actually want peace and tranquility, they must support this movement wholeheartedly and we shall execute our prescribed duties very seriously and sincerely. In this way if we are given a chance, I am sure we will enact a new chapter in the history of the Western world. Please therefore always pray to Krsna to give you strength and protection, and go on with your duty straightforward. I am so pleased to learn how the crowds gave their attention to your street play. This is transcendental entertainment. And to distribute prasada sumptuously to the crowd is strictly in our Vedic tradition. ==Now the police have given you permission for continuing the program of festivals throughout the summer, so get this permission positively. That will serve our purpose in many ways.== If the people do not put any hindrance to our routine work surely we will be able to render a great service to the state." ([[letters/1970/700414_madhudvisa|Madhudvisa, 14 April, 1970]]) *** 70-06 "Regarding your first question, ==the bathing ceremony of Lord Jagannatha is observed by His Lordship standing in a bathing tank while each of the devotees in turn offers prayers and obeisances,== then pours water to bathe the Lord then offers obeisances and the next devotee follows the same procedure. All the other devotees are holding *kirtana* throughout the bathing ceremony which takes place on June 19th. Regarding your second question, after being bathed, Lord Jagannatha catches fever and at that time you may carry Him along with Balaramaji and Subhadra to my room for recovering. During this time, up to Ratha-yatra, any repairs may be made. In Jagannatha Puri during this recuperation period the Deities are completely repainted. But that is especially in Jagannatha Puri that this is done. Then Lord Jagannatha reappears on the day of Ratha-yatra festival. During His convalescence *bhoga* is offered as usual, but no visitors are allowed to see the Lord. I am so pleased with the continuing expansion of London center's opulence for Deity worship, and that is the mercy of Lord Krsna for attracting so many visitors who will become devotees." (SPL to Yamuna devi, June 4th, 1970) 70-06 "It is my desire that three places at the present moment namely, San Francisco (New Puri), New Vrndavana and New Navadvipa should be especially organized for three great festivals namely ==Janmastami, Ratha-yatra and Phalguni Purnima or Lord Caitanya's birthday. On these occasions not only myself but all the devotees should assemble in these places and we shall meet together for the mutual advancement of our centers.== So by all means you, husband and wife, come to San Francisco during Ratha-yatra festival." ([[letters/1970/700613_revatinandana|Govinda dasi, 13 June, 1970]]) *** 70-06 "Regarding your first question, while Lord Jagannatha is on His ratha, and for the duration of the festivities for eight days following, *bhuni khicari* may be offered along with other preparations. ==So for Ratha-yatra day feast it should consist of bhuni khicari which you make by first frying the dal and rice in ghee. Also fry the vegetables with little ghee and massala.== Then after the *khicari* is cooked add some sugar, not enough to make it sweet, but just a little sweet taste, and some nutmeg, cinnamon, and other sweet spices. In this way it is like *pusa-pana.* Other preparations may be a fruit salad, sweet-rice, *puris* , a chutney, and a vegetable which is neither wet nor dry. There is no need of a curtain for covering the Lord as He is being carried to His throne. For the eight days following July 5th the best thing is that Their Lordships remain in some new place very gorgeously decorated for Them and the program should be as much offering of feasts and *kirtana* as possible. If it is not possible that They shall be able to remain in some new temple place, then they may return to London temple. I had suggested to Syamasundara that this could be very nicely done at the chapel house at George's, but I have not heard from him in this connection. It is very nice that you have decorated Their Lordships with complete new outfits just befitting Their excursion. I am enclosing also a description of the *sankirtana* parties and how they should be arranged for surrounding the London *ratha* . I have received the tape recording of London devotees chanting and thank them all very much." (SPL to Yamuna, June 24th, 1970) 70-07 == *"== Ratha-yatra festival was celebrated in three major cities—San Francisco, London and Tokyo—with great pomp and grand success. * The transcendental festivities organized for large public participation have drawn admirable comments from the city authorities regarding their unprecedented joyous nature shared by otherwise unmanageable numbers of people. The San Francisco Ratha-yatra was given all facility by the full cooperation of the city and public advertisement was extended by the city via the newspapers, radio and television and posters in all the public transportation vehicles as well as large banners lining the main streets. Over 20,000 persons attended for a full day of chanting and dancing as they eagerly drew the *ratha* cars five miles to the sea. At the end of the procession, *prasada* was sumptuously distributed to everyone and the distribution of *prasada* was extended through the next several days. Also at the end of the procession route a capacity attendance filled a standing auditorium to attentively hear the spiritual master speak. His reception was well mannered and very enthusiastic including participation in dancing *sankirtana* ." ([[letters/1970/700716_nevatiaji|Nevatiaji, 16 July, 1970]]) *** 70-07 "We should concentrate our energy in constructive work. The constructive work is preaching. So this Ratha-yatra festival is one of the items of our preaching work and therefore it was introduced in both San Francisco and London and the initiative was taken by Syamasundara. In 1967 I gave this idea to Syamasundara when I was in San Francisco. So it was promptly executed. Similarly, last year in London also he promptly executed. So his proposal for preaching from village to village in our own bus is very much appreciated by me. I have already instructed him to do this immediately and you also encourage him." ([[letters/1970/700719_hayagriva|Tamala Krsna, 19 July, 1970]]) *** 71-07 =="I am so glad to hear how nicely you performed Ratha-yatra festival. Next year you can perform the regular ceremony with a cart, as we are doing in San Francisco and London. That will be very nice. It doesn’t matter if you construct a small cart, but you can hold such a festival."== ([[letters/1971/710704_nayanabhirama|Nayanabhirama, 4 July, 1971]]) ==71-07 "Please accept my blessings and offer the same to all the boys and girls there who have worked so hard to make Ratha-yatra festival in London, scheduled for today, a grand success. Please let me know how things have worked out, and how many people attended the function." ([[letters/1971/710704_tribhuvanatha|Tribhuvanatha, 4 July, 1971]]) ==71-07 *"== I am so glad to note that you are planning a Hare Krsna festival in Detroit, on the order of the ones we held in India (Bombay and Calcutta).* *We had a very large tent, displayed our literatures, had * kirtanas * and * arati * ceremony for Radha and Krsna, spoke some on * Bhagavad-gita * and * Srimad-Bhagavatam *, and distributed * prasadam* sumptuously, and not less than 20,000 and as many as 40,000 came daily to participate; it was so successful. ==And our magic was simply this chanting and dancing; that's all.== So you can do likewise in Detroit as far as possible and it will be a great event. Perhaps soon we can have such big festival in all the big cities in your country also." (SPL to Batu Gopala, July 8th, 1971) 71-07 =="I am so glad to hear how successful our Ratha-yatra festival was, with nearly 10,000 people participating in the procession. *== * And the police were very pleased with our cooperative spirit. Very good. I have received similar report from Naranarayana Prabhu about the festival and I am so much appreciative to you all for your sincerely working to make this year's Ratha-yatra festival a grand success. Thank you very much." ([[letters/1971/710717_tribhuvanatha|Tribhuvanatha, 17 July, 1971]]) *** 72-04 "Your ideas for Ratha-yatra are nice, so do it like that. If you want any suggestions or points, I shall give you. I suggested to make a smaller *ratha* of wood finely carved with silver plating if possible; if not, you can have a nice *ratha* in the normal way ==*.== In childhood, my ratha used to go to this temple, so if this is again introduced, it will be again very much appreciated by Radha-Govinda." (SPL to Bhavananda, April 14th, 1972) 72-07 "Yes, Singhania will not help us very much, but if ==he wants to sponsor a ten-day Hare Krsna Festival== in Kanpur from September 22nd to October 1st, 1972, that will be nice. If I am in India at that time, I shall be pleased to attend. ...or 'Bhagavat Dasaha' which means ten days of transcendental discourses on the science of Bhagavan, reading from as well as that from *Srimad-Bhagavatam* . If I attend, I shall let you know timely so that you could give publicity sufficiently. Most probably I shall attend." ([[letters/1972/720711_subala|Subal, 11 July, 1972]]) *** 72-07 =="We have celebrated a very, very nice Ratha-yatra festival here in London, and in the Trafalgar Square itself I initiated nearly 30 new devotees with fire yajna before 25,000 persons, mostly Englishmen. All in all, it was the best Ratha-yatra we have seen to date. I have not heard anything from you about Ratha-yatra in San Francisco." ([[letters/1972/720719_karandhara|Karandhara, 19 July, 1972]]) *** 72-08 "I have just received the newscuttings from Calcutta, and the Ratha-yatra festival there was simply spectacular. In one day, we have captured the full attention of the Calcutta people and they are very much favorable. So in this way, ==if we perform many festivals in all of our centers around the world, many times during the year, then the general populace will become very much favorably inclined toward us and that will push on this sankirtana movement in the best way."== ([[letters/1972/720801_karandhara|Karandhara, 1 August, 1972]]) ==73-01 "So far your questions about Lord Jagannatha and Ratha-yatra festival, the first Ratha-yatra was 5,000 years before, when Krsna and Balarama and Subhadra came from Dvaraka to Kuruksetra. So far the festival at Puri, there is no such history, but it must be more than 3,000 years.== * * At least there is recorded history 2,000 years old because we see in the * Aquarian Gospel* that Lord Jesus Christ was attending the Ratha-yatra festival at Puri. Yes, there was attempt by Radharani to take back Krsna from Kuruksetra to Vrndavana." ([[letters/1973/730104_jadurani|Jadurani, 4 January, 1973]]) *** 73-02 "Regarding your proposal for having Ratha-yatra in New Orleans, I request that you consult with the GBC in your zone, Satsvarupa dasa Goswami and ask him to discuss this matter with the other GBC men there in America. But ==one thing is very important. If you decide to do it, then you must do it very opulently, as they are doing in San Francisco. This is very important." ([[letters/1973/730218_nityananda|Nityananda, 18 February, 1973]]) *** 73-06 "Your report is very encouraging to me. The communists by dry philosophy have spread practically all over the world. We are holding festivals, feasting, philosophy and salvation—why shall we not spread our influence and overthrow them? ==Regarding your plan to travel around the world staging such Hare Krsna festivals—yes, do it, you have my blessings." ([[letters/1973/730629_hansadutta|Hamsaduta, 29 June, 1973]]) ==73-08 *== "I beg to acknowledge receipt of your letter and enclosed photographs of the Ratha-yatra festival. If we introduce this festival in all big cities in the world along side with book distribution then in no time we will conquer the whole world. Yes! Certainly I shall come to your festival next year, thank you." ([[letters/1973/730807_bhutatma|Bhutatma, 7 August, 1973]]) *** 74-05 =="I have heard that you are very keen to make the Melbourne Ratha-yatra very wonderful and you have requested extra instructions. One thing is there are many band parties—if you can get band parties to join that would be nice. Our men should hold kirtana just in front of the ratha,== and other parties may proceed before us." ([[letters/1974/740528_rupanuga|Madhudvisa Maharaja, 28 May, 1974]]) *** 74-06 "I want to thank you a hundred times for the excellent way you are worshiping the Deity there as I can see from the color photographs you have sent. ==From my very childhood I was also worshiping Lord Jagganatha. When I was six years old my father gave me a ratha and I was performing the Ratha-yatra in my neighborhood. And now in the Western world you are worshiping Lord Jagannatha so gorgeously and it pleases me very, very much. *== * Thank you again for the way you are conducting the Deity worship in the Philadelphia temple. As for the *ratha* ceremony, you go on with it, I shall attend there next year. But you go on holding a splendid ceremony for the people of the city. I am sure it will be a success." ([[letters/1974/740610_ravindra_svarupa|Ravindra Svarupa, 10 June, 1974]]) ==74-09 "Try to revive the Ratha-yatra next year in London. Agree to follow all their instructions, but the ratha must move in procession as it was done previously. People enjoyed it, both European and Indian. Everyone enjoyed. Why there should be this restriction for public enjoyment? This is injustice both the Indian and European people."== ([[letters/1974/740907_batu_gopala|Hamsaduta dasa, 7 September, 1974]]) *** 74-09 "I am in due receipt of your letters dated September 5 and 9,1974 with enclosed clippings of my visit to Chicago Ratha-yatra. The clippings are especially nice, and I am requesting that they be displayed here at Mayapur for our Gaura Purnima festival. I very much liked your Chicago festival, and I encourage you to increase it next year ==*.== This Ratha-yatra festival is very dear to me from my very childhood days, so I very much appreciate your holding this festival in Chicago. If you have longer route and two or three cars it will be very good." ([[letters/1974/740929_jagadisa|Sri Govinda, 29 September, 1974]]) ==74-11 "Regarding the Ratha-yatra festival, keep it always gorgeously alive, but do not change the principle. The principle should go on as usual.== Yes, it is all right to make something in the park as you have suggested. Why you want to change the wheels? This is unnecessary. Don't do this. Keep the old system strong, and if necessary repair it. Don't change from this to that. That is your American disease, is very serious that you always want to change everything. Spoked wheels will never be as strong and hard as the old way. Never do this. Neither there should be any separate float as you have suggested for me. Regarding having the crowds come forward to touch Lord Jagannatha's feet, that will also be impossible to manage. So for the time being this progrm may not be taken." ([[letters/1974/741124_bhakta_dasa|Bhakta dasa, 24 November, 1974]]) ==74-12 "Increase the Ratha-yatra festival in Chicago. Make it twice as big, that will be very nice. This festival must be introduced wherever possible. It is so nice.== In connection with your using your efforts to make television shows, no, that is not important now. Don't waste time in this way. Better to have nice festivals like Ratha-yatra festivals. If they see us on television show then the next moment they will forget. But if they come to a festival and participate that is eternal benefit." ([[letters/1974/741228_jagadisa|Jagadisa, 28 December, 1974]]) ==75-06 "Regarding Ratha-yatra, we shall choose the most favorable time to hold our celebration. If for our preaching, it is going to be more beneficial to hold it in September, then you may do so."== ([[letters/1975/750617_madhudvisa|Madhudvisa Swami, 17 June, 1975]]) ==75-07 *== "I am very glad that you had a nice Ratha-yatra there, and that even more people attended this year. It doesn't matter that the ratha was smaller. The people know that the police have reduced the ceremony. Anyway, do not try to agitate the police. Whatever they say, you follow. We want the ceremony that's all." ([[letters/1975/750729_hansadutta|Hamsaduta dasa, 29 July, 1975]]) *** 76-03 "Your plan to have the Ratha-yatra on July 18th, down 5th Avenue, is approved by me and I shall try to be there definitely. ==However make the carts very strong, not that while the procession is going on, the wheel breaks on the cart. It is better to have one first-class cart.== The cart in Philadelphia was done very nicely. If you are unable to make three strong carts, then make at least one very nicely. But, if you can make three very strong, then I have no objection." ([[letters/1976/760503_adi-kesava|Adi Kesava Maharaja, 3 May, 1976]]) *** 76-03 =="If you carry out your plan to hold Ratha-yatra, be certain that the ratha-cart is very strongly made, so that it does not break during the procession. They had a very good cart made in Philadelphia and you can take hints from the devotees there how they designed their cart."== ([[letters/1976/760511_giriraja|Ajita dasa, 11 May, 1976]]) ==76-04 "Ratha-yatra, that will be your achievement. Nobody has done it before. Ratha-yatra in New York should have been introduced long ago but there was no competent men to do it. So Krsna has sent you there and most likely I shall attend the New York Ratha-yatra."== ([[letters/1976/760421_puranjana|Madhudvisa Maharaja, 21 April, 1976]]) *** 76-06 =="Try to introduce Ratha-yatra and Janmastami, at least 4-5 ceremonies and festivals annually. I recall how in the London newspaper, The Guardian, that when our Ratha-yatra ceremony was taking place in Trafalgar Square, they commented that Ratha-yatra was rivalling to Nelson, as there is a statue of Lord Nelson in Trafalgar Square. So in this way they thought that if Ratha-yatra goes on, Nelson will be killed." ([[letters/1976/760604_bhagavan|Bhagavan, 4 June, 1976]]) *** 76-06 "In that newspaper, The Leader, it is very good indication of our acceptance by the South African community. They are clearly rejecting all these bogus rascals like Sai Baba and in the same issue they are glorifying our Ratha-yatra festival. So this is good sign that they welcome Jagannatha and so you can arrange to have Jagannatha Deities and Ratha-yatra festival in Durban. Just like when I first began our Ratha-yatra in San Francisco, all we had was a flatbed truck for the Ratha-cart. So do it immediately. They are eager for it, and this will give life to the Hindus in South Africa. Actually these rascals are simply creating magic and jugglery. Even during the time of Krsna, Paundraka was there and Krsna immediately cut off his head. That is the only punishment for them, to immediately cut off the head of such rascals who pose themselves as God. They are simply cheating the people. ==Concerning the Ratha-yatra festival you can hold it in the warm months,== just like in Melbourne, the festival is held in January. Pusta Krsna Swami is going to arrange to have Jagannatha Deities sent from Puri if there is no one expert enough to make Jagannatha Deities in South Africa." ([[letters/1976/760615_riddha|Riddha dasa, 15 June, 1976]]) ==76-07 "The distribution results from the Ratha-yatra are very nice. There is no question of profit. Distribution is the first consideration." ([[letters/1976/760711_bishambhar|Yasomatinandana dasa, 11 July, 1976]]) *** 76-07 "Please accept my blessings. ==For so long I have wanted to have Ratha-yatra in New York and now at long last you have helped me fulfill this long-cherished dream.== The *ratha* carts were very strong and attractive and I thank you and all of your assistants for working so hard to prepare such nice carts. May Krsna bless you all for your sincere service that you may all go on making more and more advancement in Krsna consciousness. I hope that this meets you in good health." ([[letters/1976/760719_anangamanjari|Jayananda dasa, 19 July, 1976]]) ==76-09 "Regarding Ratha-yatra, you can change the date according to a suitable time. You may hold it in Paris whenever it is the best time. It will attract many persons. Please do it." ([[letters/1976/761107_bhagavan|Bhagavan, 7 November, 1976]]) ==77-04 "Why not hold the Ratha-yatra on Janmastami? *== * It comes at about the same time as you are planning and it will be very much appreciated. For Gaura-Nitai alone, Ratha-yatra is not at all recommended because They are playing the part of devotees. But as you are having three large carts you may arrange the following: Sri Sri Gaura-Nitai in the first *ratha* , Sri Sri Radha-Krsna in the second *ratha* and Sri Jagannatha, Balarama and Subhadra in the third *ratha* . I have received a letter from Caru dasa from Berkeley. He is worried that due to your Ratha-yatra no devotees will attend the San Francisco Jagannatha festival. This must not happen. Due to competition one program should not be diminished for another. San Francisco Jagannatha festival is established for many years, and it must be maintained and increased in the same grand style. As far as possible all of the devotees should attend it, as has been done in the previous years. You may also hold Ratha-yatra as described above in Los Angeles. In this way both festivals can be performed very grandly." (SPL to Ramesvara, April 17th, 1977) ## General Festivals 68-02 =="So far the speaking engagements are concerned they must be well organized and sponsored so that there will be enough publicity and many people will come. We are not cheap, we want to speak something, but there must be good accommodations provided. There must be good sound system, and there must be good publicity beforehand so that many may know of us and come." ([[letters/1968/680226_andrea_temple|Uddhava and Cidananda, 26 February, 1968]]) *** 69-07 "Regarding festivals in Boston, you may hold as many as possible. ==If you can hold such festivals daily, that is also nice. Our movement is for ananda, simply bliss, and the method of pushing this movement is chanting, dancing, feasting and philosophizing.== So in our almanac there are many festivals in every month. I am enclosing some festivals which were already held in Los Angeles, and if you perform them, I will give you a long list of others. But don't embarrass yourself at present with greater plans than you can handle. The more you will get devotees the more you will be able to perform nice festivals." ([[letters/1969/690715_jadurani|Jadurani, 15 July, 1969]]) ==70-04 "I beg to thank you very much for your descriptive letter dated April 6, 1970, introducing a new chapter in the history of your country—Lord Caitanya's birthday ceremony publicly demonstrated. Please try to serve the foretelling of Lord Caitanya in this way, and as you write to say that 5,000 people danced without being requested this is the genuine proof about the authenticity of this Krsna consciousness movement." ([[letters/1970/700414_madhudvisa|Madhudvisa, 14 April, 1970]]) *** 70-04 "I understand from the letter from Bahulasva as well as from your letter that the police and the public have appreciated this transcendental procession. The general public of Berkeley had a bitter experience that whenever there was a large gathering like this, inevitably there was political upheaval, protests and window breaking and general havoc. ==But this unique procession has convinced them that our men are very nice and they can organize a great crowd without any violence.== That is a fact if people actually want peace and tranquility, they must support this movement whole heartedly and we shall execute our prescribed duties very seriously and sincerely. In this way if we are given a chance, I am sure we will enact a new chapter in the history of the Western world. Please therefore always pray to Krsna to give you strength and protection, and go on with your duty straightforward. I am so pleased to learn how the crowds gave their attention to your street play. This is transcendental entertainment. And to distribute *prasada* sumptuously to the crowd is strictly in our Vedic tradition. Now the police have given you permission for continuing the program of festivals throughout the summer, so get this permission positively. That will serve our purpose in many ways. If the people do not put any hindrance to our routine work surely we will be able to render a great service to the state." ([[letters/1970/700414_madhudvisa|Madhudvisa, 14 April, 1970]]) *** 70-07 "Other major celebrations are Janmastami and Lord Caitanya's Abhirbhava on Phalguni Purnima. These are especially celebrated gorgeously at New Vrndavana and New Navadvipa respectively. For its lavish Ratha-yatras yearly for the last four years San Francisco is now commonly known as New Jagannatha Puri. == *== We are gradually increasing the size of major festivals and eventually there will be twenty-four or two each month. The public response is always very encouraging." ([[letters/1970/700716_nevatiaji|Nevatiaji, 16 July, 1970]]) ==71-07 "I am so glad to note that you are planning a Hare Krsna festival in Detroit, on the order of the ones we held in India (Bombay and Calcutta).== We had a very large tent, displayed our literatures, had *kirtanas* and *arati* ceremony for Radha and Krsna, spoke some on *Bhagavad-gita* and *Srimad-Bhagavatam* , and distributed *prasadam* sumptuously, and not less than 20,000 and as many as 40,000 came daily to participate; it was so successful. And our magic was simply this chanting and dancing; that's all. So you can do likewise in Detroit as far as possible and it will be a great event. Perhaps soon we can have such big festival in all the big cities in your country also." (SPL to Batu Gopala, July 8th, 1971) 71-11 "Regarding your proposed festivals, yes, that is a good idea. Please do it very nicely == *.== These public festivals have proven very effective in spreading knowledge about Krsna consciousness to all the citizens.* In fact, I have directed the GBC to organize such festivals and travelling *sankirtana* throughout their zones. The festival we are holding at present in Delhi has been extremely successful, and by Krsna's grace everyone is appreciating this movement by seeing the beautiful Deity worship, by hearing the melodious *kirtana* , and by seeing the bright faces of my students." (SPL to Galim dasa, November 20th, 1971) 71-11 "It is very nice that you are holding festivals in San Diego center. ==We are finding these festivals very successful for attracting the citizens to our activities. More and more these festivals may be held== , at least very large festival in a year, simply for glorifying Krsna in public places. It is not that a specific holiday or theme has to be chosen. We are simply calling our Indian programs *'A Hare Krsna Festival.'* But if there are some holidays you specifically like, you plan them together with Karandhara by adjusting to the local taste." (SPL to Bhakta dasa, November 20th, 1971) 71-11 =="You may organize your travelling party on the lines of a festival which moves from city to city,== and if there is good field, a camp may be set up and you may carry on with our *Hare Krsna Festival* as long as there is good response. In this way, you may move from country to country as the weather permits. And you can equip yourselves to be completely self-sufficient—sleeping, cooking and everything. This program is very, very pleasing to me." (SPL to Krsna dasa, November 30th, 1971) 71-12 "I very much approve of your enclosed brochure, and I am pleased by your festival plan for the colleges all over the state. == *== Actually, this roving sankirtana and college program is the most appropriate plan for spreading Krsna consciousness and preaching. * I have just received intimation from Rupanuga of a very large festival he is planning for Central Park. His conjecture is very nice, and I want that many such festivals should be held in every city. I have one suggestion, that on Sundays you make a tent in that back yard garden to accommodate many guests and provide profuse *prasadam* to all." (SPL to Bhagavan dasa, December 10th, 1971) 71-12 "I am encouraged to hear from you that our Delhi pandal festival was seen on T.V. in America and other places. We can become famous for such shows, and at the same time utilize them for giving people good information about what is the real goal of life and how to achieve it. So in combination with the others you ==go on thinking how to improve these Krsna conscious plays and dramas and how to give the public more and more of Krsna consciousness. That is real preaching work." (SPL to Nayanabhirama, December 22nd, 1971) 71-12 "Our Delhi *pandal* was also very much well-received by everyone. From early morning, 6 a.m. to late at night, sometimes past midnight, thousands of persons came there to see and listen. ==One very popular feature was our 'Questions and Answers booth,' wherein one of our elderly devotees would sit on a very high vyasasana and answer questions put by the visitors.== This item became so controversial and popular that it was open at least until midnight daily to accommodate all the curious public. Everyone delights in lively debates and discussions of philosophy." (SPL to Rupanuga, December 10th, 1971) ==72-06 "So far your road-show is concerned, we are not meant for giving performances, we are simple kirtana men. There must always be kirtana going on wherever we travel, and nothing else." ([[letters/1972/720625_kirtanananda|Kīrtanānanda, 25 June, 1972]]) *** 72-09 "I am happy to hear that your program in New Vrndavana has been very successful, and for my part I was very much pleased to attend this year. Now I can understand that this *Bhagavata-dharma* discourse can be held anywhere all over the world and people will come in large numbers from such great distance and under all kinds of hardships just to hear our discourse. That is very encouraging to me, now you are *sannyasis* and GBC men and I leave it to you to hold this. ==Have Bhagavata-dharma discourse and Hare Krsna festival all over your country widely, and this will be the success of our movement.== You are an experienced devotee, and you know how to do things well, so kindly train the others and distribute your experience widely, and organize. If such festivals can be held in different places continuously then my dream will be fulfilled." ([[letters/1972/720923_kirtanananda|Kīrtanānanda, 23 September, 1972]]) *** 72-11 "So far the Road Show and this Yoga Village are concerned these things should be stopped. Simply perform our *kirtana* . If we divert our attention in this way the whole thing will gradually deteriorate. He is going far away. All these things are nonsense inventions. Such inventing spirit will ruin our this movement. People may come to see, some will become devotees, but such devotees will not stay because they are attracted by some show and not by the real thing or spiritual life according to the standard of Lord Caitanya == *.== Our standard is to have kirtana and start temples. * What is this 'Road Show' and 'Yoga Village?' It will be another hippy edition. Gradually the Krsna consciousness idea will evaporate and another change, another change, every day another change. Stop all this. Simply have *kirtana* , nothing else. Don't manufacture ideas." ([[letters/1972/721105_sudama|Sudama, 5 November, 1972]]) *** 73-01 "In Bombay we have just celebrated our second *Hare Krsna Festival* and it has come out very successfully. More than 20,000 people attended the last evening's program. ==A special feature was the 'Question and Answer' booth where 24 hours a day and night one of our sannyasis answered all philosophy questions. *== * So the people were impressed that we are not seemingly sentimentalists, but have substantial philosophical footing." ([[letters/1973/730126_karandhara|Karandhara, 26 January, 1973]]) ==73-08 "Observe many festivals, that will keep both public and devotees alive. Temple means festivals and festivals means chanting and distribution of prasadam."== ([[letters/1973/730808_satsvarupa|Tamala Krsna, 8 August, 1973]]) ==73-10 "Regarding the festival programs, you should not stop because it is not economical. You can earn from book selling and then spend for the festivals. The festivals are very good for attracting the people, then you can easily inject the Krsna conscious poison into them."== ([[letters/1973/731012_ramesvara|Hamsaduta, 12 October, 1973]]) ==74-06 "Your reports of the devotional progress of San Diego are very convincing; this combination of book distribution and public festivals is very good for bringing the people to an attraction for Krsna consciousness. Go on holding as many festivals as possible." ([[letters/1974/740605_nrsimha_caitanya|== **SPL to Nrsimha Caitanya, 5 June, 1974]]) *** 74-09 "I beg to acknowledge receipt of your letter dated 8/18/74 and the contents have given me much pleasure. You have given me all happy news. ==The festival success is very encouraging to me. So go on with your festivals. Everyone will like this movement, it is such a nice thing, what Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu has given.== You have captured the essence, and therefore you are successful in being able to distribute it to the people of Sweden. I am very glad that I have got such good disciples as you." ([[letters/1974/740919_ramesvar_prabhu|Ajita dasa, 19 September, 1974]]) *** 74-12 "I was very happy to hear of your *Hare Krsna Festival* program and that the response has been so wonderful. Simply by giving people a chance to hear this wonderful Hare Krsna *mantra* and Krsna's philosophy as stated in *Bhagavad-gita,* so many people will become interested and actually they will join us. The poster you have enclosed is very nice and attractive. ==So continue this program of Hare Krsna Festivals all over the United Kingdom and in this way attract people to Krsna consciousness.== Work nicely under your GBC's direction and always keep yourself strictly following all of our principles without deviation. As far as taking Deities to the programs that sounds like a very nice plan. But if you want to take the Deities permanently on your party there may be difficulties because you have to maintain Them nicely. So you can discuss this with Hamsaduta and see what he thinks." ([[letters/1974/741215_tribhuvanatha|Tribhuvanatha, 15 December, 1974]]) *** 75-01 "Regarding your coming to India, I was told by Bhagavan dasa that you wanted to leave England and that it would be good for you to come to India, so I said that I had no objection of your coming to India. But if you can ==stay there in England and continue your festival program, that will be best. It is a very nice program. You should increase it as much as possible."== ([[letters/1975/750108_tribhuvanatha|Tribhuvanatha, 8 January, 1975]]) *** 75-09 =="Regarding your festivals with prasadam, yes do it occasionally.== There is no need of accumulating wealth more. You can get wealth more, and also spend wealth more. 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]]) ==76-02 "The private programs you held in homes in Allahabhad were very nice. I would also like you to arrange a suitable place for us to have a tent at the Kumbha Mela. We shall go there and have a nice festival."== ([[letters/1976/760213_sacimata|Prthu Putra Maharaja, 13 February, 1976]]) *** 76-04 "In regards to the International Yoga and Meditation Conference in Chicago, there is no need for any of our men to participate. However, ==you can have a bhakti-yoga bookstall, and paintings, a painting of Dhruva Maharaja as five years old alone in the forest,== one painting of a devotee sitting in a nice place chanting *japa* Hare Krsna. We have got yoga meditation... and quote authoritatively giving evidence: *yoginam api sarvesam,* etc. One who chants Hare Krsna is the topmost yogi. The highest perfection of yoga is Radharani... Krsna goes to Mathura and all night She is crying, "Where is My Krsna?' But what they can understand? So you can have a bookstall, and show paintings, like that." ([[letters/1976/760423_sons_and_daughters|Ramesvara dasa Maharaja and Ranadhira dasa, 23 April, 1976]]) ==76-06 "Concerning the festivals, it is a very good idea to have festivals on the major celebrations, at least four to five each year."== ([[letters/1976/760606_b.r._sridhara_maharaja|Jayapataka Maharaja, 6 June, 1976]]) ==76-09 "Yes, kirtana and prasada will appeal to even the uneducated. We have means to preach to both the educated and uneducated, the sinful and the pious—dhiradhira-jana-priyau. Regarding the concerts, make mrdanga concert. You will get good mrdangas from Los Angeles" ([[letters/1976/760929_dvarakesa|Dvarakesa dasa, 29 September, 1976]])