The Innovative Monk
He was very strict with himself. It was his birth anniversary today. Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati is the guru of our guru and had been celibate all his life, that would make him a life long monk.
This morning we heard not about his
austere nature but more about his innovation and creativity in drawing the
masses towards spirituality. Born in the
eastern part of India, Orissa, he had established from that section of India a
mission called "Gaudia Math" ending up with 64 branches or
chapter. When it comes time to 'display'
or put on exhibits on spiritual life he taught big and did big.
Imagine a carnival set up for a fair which
was inclusive of the latest pop music (we are talking about the 1920s), a
popular theatre troupe with professional entertainers, wrestling, boxing and
innocent amusements. All featured on a
square mile lot near the Ganges, this secular entertainment constituted half of
the space while the second half demonstrated spiritualism. There was also a luxury cruise arranged for
dignitaries and along there were books on display by gurus of various
denominations and followings. Meat was
also served and ready for the VIPs, he had just about everything in place to
lure the masses. Successful he was. Outgoing with ideas? Yes very much so.
Bhaktisiddhanta was not just a monk he
was an intellectual. When it came time
to deal with Britished ruled India, his eloquent use of the English language
surprised statesmen and VIPs from that community with his use of language and
erudition.
British imperialism was the strong hold
in India and the social political climate of the time was to have the British
leave forever. Subash Chandra Bose also
known as Nettaji was a powerful revolutionary at the time and he approached
Bhaktisiddhanta about his recruiting so many bright young men and that they
would be much better put to use in the army.
Bhaktisiddhanta, however, refuted any
attempt by others to discourage the mission of spreading higher
consciousness. He also had a reputation
as the Simgha Guru (Lion Guru) as challengers of philosophy and theology would
be intimidated by him. He was a powerful
speaker and physically was a towering figure as well.
He stood up for the truth in the most
absolute way. He was staunch with
himself and liberal when communicating in a growing world of liberalism. We have the greatest reverence for him. His Divine Grace Bhaktisiddhanta Thakura
"harmony is possible only when one has attained a firm footing in the
dharma or the function of the soul".
May the Source be with you!
6 KM
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