Saturday, February 20, 2010

Global Kirtan

Here are a couple of photos from the January 30 kirtan at Keshi Ghat. The high point for me certainly came with Shyam Das's kirtan after the arti ceremony itself. A very sophisticated and moving performance, done under the lights, with floating deepas speckling the darkness in the background. It felt like a campfire, but very intimate and very transcendental, with a small but enthusiastic group in the audience.

There were many participants throughout the day, particularly featuring members of the Vrinda organization. Notable was a very enthusiastic kirtan led by Deenabandhuji, who is the main source for the pictures here. Ahindra came from Iskcon with his group in the afternoon, and provided another patented Ahindra kirtan, which drew many people on the steps. On the whole a very enjoyable day.

Krishnadevata Dasi must be commended for organizing the global kirtan effort, which brought together devotees at more than 230 sites around the world. Her Facebook page is here and the Global Kirtan Webpage is also available for further information.



Many people were walking through Keshi Ghat on parikrama, as this was one of the Kumbha Mela Shahi Snanas. Some of them stopped to listen and enjoy the kirtan.


Paramadvaiti Maharaj is the steadiest and most consistent voice for sanity in Gaudiya Vaishnavism, at least from the social and institutional standpoint. His disciples are committed, humble and enthusiastic. A great credit to him and I offer them all my obeisance.



Things are quieting down a bit, as expected, but I hope that the concern for Vrindavan's future will not abate. The petitions still need signing, so please do not neglect that aspect of things.




More stuff here: Yamuna Vrindavan Heritage Foundation. Please note the posters that are downloadable for printing. This site has many pictures which make a truly excellent slideshow presentation. It shows Vrindavan as it was 20 years ago, as it is now.


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