Sraddhanjali

SRADDHANJALI
a All glories to Shree Guru & Shree Gauranga a

SRADDHANJALI
(Offerings of love & reverence)
Published on occasion of the 65th divine appearance day and 25th year of
Acharya Lila celebration of the present Acharyaa of Shree Guru Prapanna Ashram-
Gurumata Shrimati Jayshree Devi Goswamini
SHREE GURU PRAPANNA ASHRAM

14 Adhar Das Road,
P.O. & P.S. : Budge Budge, Kolkata - 700 137
(Beside Rail Station)
Mobile : +91 7044015631
Email:shreeguruprapannaashram@ gmail.com
a Website:shreeguruprapannaashram.wordpress.com
Social Media:www.facebook.com/shreeguruprapanna.ashram.9
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SRADDHANJALI
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Editor :
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Paramananda Das
Researcher & Teaching assistant,
University of British Columbia
Canada
Co-Editor :
Sripad Achyutananda Brahmachari
In-charge,
Shree Guru Prapanna Ashram, Kolkata
Publisher :
Unworthy Servants of Gurumata
Available at :
Shree Guru Prapanna Ashram
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(Budge Budge & Kolkata)
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“…I am glad that you are real sadhika (expert in devotional practise to Sri Hari). You
are Vraja-abhisarini. You are ever-flowing river of love. Hence, your name ‘Yamuna’ is
justified and perfect. In the next chapter of your life, you have hoisted the Victory-flag
by attaining victory over such great materialistic temptations, ignoring the so-called
relatives as well as suppressing (trampling) the desire for worldly pleasures and
royal luxuries. In this journey towards success, you have gradually fascinated each
and everyone. You have declared the victory of your love and respect towards Sri
Guru, thereby pleasing everyone. In this way, you have made your name ‘Jayasree’
successful as well…”
- Prabhuji Sri Srila Patitpavan Goswami Maharaj
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SRADDHANJALI
a PURPORT:
Gurumata Shrimati Jayshree Devi Goswamini was the dearmost disciple of Srila
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Prabhuji (disciple of Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati Goswami Prabhupad) and the
object of His greatest affection. Therefore, He has explained the justification of the
Name ‘Jayshree’–the name that He Himself had conferred upon Her as well as the
justification of Her previous name ‘Yamuna’, in a letter written to Gurumata. We quote
a small part of the letter here. The mood and the language of the letter is of higher
spiritual level. This fragment of the letter itself is enough to reveal how extra-ordinary
and special our Gurumata is.
She is a sadhika(spiritual practitioner). “Sadhana vina sadhya vastu kabhu nahi
paya”(One who does not practise devotion cannot attain the ultimate goal or
sadhya).One who practises devotion sincerely is a sadhika. What is sadhana?
“Nityasiddhasya Bhavasya Prakatyam Hridi Sadhyatah”. Sadhana is the awaken-
ing and manifestation of the dormant love for Shri Krishna, hidden inside our heart.
Srila Prabhuji had realised that Gurumata was expert in controlling all the material
senses as well as in checking the six urges- urges of word, mind, anger, tongue,
stomach and genitals , thereby submitting herself completely and unconditionally unto
the lotus feet of Shri Krishna and His service. Hence, she had reached the zenith of
devotional practise or sadhana.
Sadhana has different levels, based on the spiritual progress of the sadhaka. The fully
mature state of Bhakti is Premabhakti. And the highest mood of such divine love
(Prema) is Kanta-bhava. The perfection of such Kanta-bhava was achieved only by
Shrimati Radharani. She is Vrajeswari, Vraja-abhisarini. ‘Abhisara’ is a very exalted
word – in which we have very little adhikara (right or permission to discuss). Abhisara
= Abhi + √Sri + a. One who is progressive or the one who achieves continuous
advancement (in bhakti), is Abhisarini. Shrimati Radharani is going out in abhisara to
have darshan of the Lord of Her life and soul, Shri Krishna. In ‘Ujjval Nilamani’, Srila
Rupa Goswamipad narrates:
“Yabhisarayate kanta swayam babhisaratyapi |
Sa jyotsni tamasi yan yogyavesabhisarika ||”
Again, the Vaishnava saint and poet Srila Govinda Das depicts:
“Kantaka gari kamala-sama padatal | Manjira chirahi jhapi |
Gagari bari dhari kari pichal | chalatahi anguli chapi ||”
That is, absorbed in utmost devotion to Shri Krishna, Shrimati Radharani will be de-
parting for the pre-specified Sanket kunja to meet Him. But in this journey of abhisara,
there are lots of obstacles. So, she is preparing herself to get ready for the abhisara-
yatra.
Shrimati Radharani’s dearmost eternal associates are Her maid-servants or atten-
dants – the manjaris. It appears as if the manjaris and Shrimati Radha Thakurani
shares the same soul. They get overwhelmed in happiness when Shrimati Radharani
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is happy and satisfied. Similarly, they experience the same pain, when Shrimati
Radharani relishes the pain of separation (Vipralambha Rasa). Hence, all the moods a
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and expressions of Vraja-abhisarini Shrimati Radharani is automatically manifested
in the heart of manjaris including Sri Rupa-Ananga-Rati-Lavanga and others, when
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She goes out for abhisara. The ‘Unnata Ujjvala Rasa’ (mellow of amorous love) that
Shriman Mahaprabhu has mercifully bestowed upon us, has this manjari bhava (mood).
All our Gaudiya Guruvargas have their eternal Manjari forms in Vraja. This is the
siddhiprapta (fully enlightened) stage, which is achievable by Nama-bhajana. Sri Srila
Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati Goswami Prabhupad is the most beloved Nayana-mani
manjari of Shrimati Radharani and the entire Saraswata-Gaudiya family is under Her
anugatya (guidance and leadership). Therefore, in this context Srila Prabhuji has care-
fully used this word ‘Vraja-abhisarini’ to reveal that all these moods of Radha-
dasya(mood of the maid servant of Shrimati Radharani) , the profoundness of
Rupanuga and Raganuga Bhakti (spontaneous love and attraction for the divine couple)
is fully manifested in Gurumata. That is, she is Nitya-siddha (eternally enlightened
and liberated soul), Manjari-swarupini (i.e, her original form is that of a manjari) and
she is established in the exalted position of the attendant of Shrimati Radharani.
Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati Goswami Prabhupad was the great personality who
inundated the river of suddha bhakti (pure devotion) in Gaudiya Vaishnavism. Defin-
ing suddha bhakti, Shriman Mahaprabhu says-
“Anyavancha’ Anya Puja chari ‘gyana’ ‘karma’ |
Anukulye Sarvendriye Krishnanusilan ||
Ei ‘suddhabhakti’, iha haite prema haya |
Pancharatre Bhagavate ei lakshana kaya ||”
Therefore, this pure devotion is the source of the divine love or prema. Prema is the
desire to please Krishna. Even such Prema-bhakti (unalloyed devotional love) is not
limited or stagnant as a lake. Rather, it has variations and is like an ever-flowing river.
“Prema vriddhikrame nama- sneha , mana, pranaya |
Raga, anuraga, bhava, mahabhava haya ||”
(The basic aspects of prema, when gradually increasing to different states, are affec-
tion, abhorrence, love, attachment, further attachment, ecstasy and great ecstasy)
Hence, Srila Prabhuji utilises the term ‘Pravahamana Premanadi’ (ever-flowing river
of love) to emphasize His realisation that the mood of surrender of Sadhika Gurumata
unto the lotus feet of Yugala Kisore is so profound, that Her desire to please Krishna is
ever increasing and endless like a flowing river. Her life is devoid of any contamination
or touch of the external material world, is pure and has only one intention – which is
nothing other than pleasing Krishna. Prabhuji hereby confirms that her Raganuga-
prema is getting more and more concentrated. Therefore, analysing all these, Srila
Prabhuji has endorsed here that her previous naming - ‘Yamuna’ was indeed justified.
However, there are numerous obstacles in the path of abhisara, there are barriers in
the river bed. Similarly, the suddha-bhaktas (pure devotees) have to encounter sev-
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eral obstacles in their lives, examples are the lives of our Gaudiya Guru vargas. In the
same way, Gurumata had to face several such tough obstacles. There were plenty of a
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worldly allurements. She possessed extra-ordinary quality, beauty as well as family
prestige and hence, could be strongly influenced by maya.She could utilize all the
opportunities and advantages in the material world, being the daughter of the Chair-
man of the Taki Municipality. But Gurumata, very easily, rejected all the illusions of
Maya, tore apart all the worldly attachments, ignored all the comforts and luxuries and
submitted herself to the lotus feet of Sri Guru – completely surrendering body, mind
and speech. Hence, she did not come to the ashram due to poverty or being irritated
by lack or shortage of material possessions. On the contrary, because of her intense
attachment with the lotus feet of Hari Guru and Vaishnavas, she suppressed (trampled)
all the material desires of leading a luxurious life and at once, became a resident of
the ashram. In this way she has hoisted the victory flag of Hari-bhakti, thereby giving
us a life-lesson - this is her pastime for delivering sinful souls like us. There was no
touch of the contamination of Maya in her, rather, she was specially empowered, filled
with firm faith and determination and enormous Guru-bhakti – which surprised every-
one.
“Krishna-suryasama, Maya haya andhakara |
Jaha Krishna taha nahi Mayar adhikara ||”
Gurumata has proved these scriptural conclusions by her own devotional practise
and has set her own example in front of the world, thereby raising the flag of victory –
victory of Guru-bhakti and Krishna-bhakti. Hence, Srila Prabhuji has concluded that
her name, Jayashree (meaning, Goddess of victory and fortune) is indeed justified.
By conferring this name upon her, Srila Prabhuji (the disciple of Srila Bhaktisiddhanta
Saraswati Goswami Prabhupad), has endowed His most beloved disciple, Gurumata,
with His utmost blessings and Himself declared her victory.
All glories to Sri Srila Patitpavan Goswami Thakur
All glories to Gurumata Shrimati Jayshree Devi Goswamini
All glories to Shree Guru Prapanna Ashram – the shelter of Haribhajan for all the fallen
souls, from children to the elderly devotees.
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SRADDHANJALI
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SRI GURUTATTVA-PRAKASH-KIRAN
A Ray of Introduction to the divine manifestation of Sri Guru-tatva
(Translated from Bengali)
"yadyapi amar guru chaitanyer das |
tathapi janiye ami tanhar prakash ||
guru krishna-rupa han shastrer pramane |
guru-rupe krishna-kripa karen bhakta gane ||"
(Although my guru is a servant of Shri Krishna Chaitanya [the Supreme Person

himself], yet I know him to be the Lord's very manifestation.The guru is a form of
Krishna; that is proven by the scriptures. Krishna bestows his grace upon his devotees
in the form of the guru)
This is how Sri Srila Krishnadas Kaviraj Goswamipad has introduced the
principle of Sri Guru (Guru-tatva) in the scripture 'Sri Chaitanya Charitamrita' . On one
hand, Sri Guru is a close, eternal associate of Shriman Mahaprabhu, and on the other
hand, He/She is the divine manifestation of Sri Gaurahari's own expansion (vilas).
Guru is himself/herself Nityananda-tatva (manifestation of Nityananda prabhu).
"Nityananda Ray prabhur swarup prakash |
Tnar padpadme vando jnar mui daas ||"
This proves that Sri Guru is non-different from Shriman Nityananda prabhu.
Observing that Sri Guru is roaming around, speaking and performing his/her
daily activities in front of our material eyes, if we consider him/her to be an ordinary
human being, then nobody can be considered as unfortunate as we are. Because,
the scriptures state :
"Sakala janame pita mata sabe paye |
Guru Krishna nahi mile bujhaha hiyaye ||".
So, whether we take an animal birth or human birth, we will surely have our
parents, from whom we will get this material body. However, only with the accumulation
of Sukriti of many many births, it is possible to get darshan of the lotus feet of Sri Guru.
And then, in due course of time, one develops intense faith (sraddha) and gets shelter
under His/Her lotus feet.
In the context of Sri Rupa-Siksha (giving instructions to Srila Rupa Goswami), in the
Madhya-lila of Sri Chaitanya Charitamrita, Sriman Mahaprabhu has endorsed this
principle -
"Brahmanda bhramite kono bhagyavan jiva |
Guru Krishna prasade paye bhaktilata bija ||"
Hence, though getting this human form of life is extremely rare, we are making
our human birth a failure by indulging in "ahar-nidra-bhay-maithunancha" i.e., eating,
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sleeping, defending and mating. But how can we escape the strong influence of
maya (the illusory potency of Lord)? By surrendering unto the lotus feet of Sri Guru, a
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who can help us transcend from darkness to light. Therefore, Sripad Lochan Das
Thakur sings,
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"Harinamer nouka khani Sri Guru kandari"
(Harinama is the boat, Sri Guru is the helmsman).
In this infinite, uncrossable ocean of sufferings, there is no other easier way
than to simply take shelter of the lotus feet of Sri Guru, serve Him/Her and receive His/
Her mercy. He/She can deliver us from the dreadful material ocean within a moment.
Hence, in the 'Guruvandana', Srila Viswanath Chakravartipad says
"samsara davanala lidha loka tranaya karunya ghana ghanatvam".
That is, the dangerous wildfire of the mundane world is causing enormous suffering
to me at every moment. Sri Guru, who is the condensed form of karunya (mercy), can
save me from the three-fold miseries by showering his/her compassion and love.
One who has taken shelter under the lotus feet of his/her Sri Guru with firm faith, has
surely experienced this and knows the truth of this statement.
"Acharyang Mang Bijaniyaat Navamanyet Karhichit
Na Martyabudhyasuyet Sarvadevamayo Guroh"
In the 11th Canto of Shrimad Bhagavatam Mahapurana, the Supreme Lord
Shri Krishna has disclosed the actual swarup (form) of Acharya or Guru in the nectar
of conversation with his beloved Uddhava. He has also shed some light on the
responsibilities as well as the proper code of behaviour and conduct that the disciple
should display towards his/her Guru. He is informing - Always consider the form of
Acharya as My own manifestation. And hence, never show any disrespect or negligence
towards Him/Her. Never try to find faults in the spiritual master or try to judge Him/Her
in any respect based on the mundane senses. All the forms of God and demigods
reside in Him/Her.
So, it is to be understood, the Supreme Lord Himself appears in the form of
Acharya.
"Jivera uddhar lagi Nanda Suta Hari |
bhuvane prakash han Guru rupa dhari ||"
(The son of Nanda manifests Himself in the world in the form of Sri Guru to deliver the
souls).
So, Sri Guru is the 'ashraya' form of the Supreme Lord and the reservoir of bhakti
(devotion). Beginning from Sri Bhagavan Himself to the Acharyas, everyone has glorified
the position and principle of Sri Guru. Srila Raghunath Das Goswamipad also
remembers his Guru -
"Mukunda presthatve Guruvaram smara".
Gurudeva is always engaged in one-pointed devotion and service to Shree Hari and
this is the manifestation of his 'Bhagavatva'. But, we, who are indulged in mundane
sense enjoyments and material pleasures, cannot identify this and start finding fault in
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His/Her activities, sometimes show our hatred and even get jealous of Him/Her. In this
way, we ourselves bring inauspiciousness and sufferings in our lives.
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In the scriptural text named Sri Bhakti Sandarbha, Srila Jiva Goswamipad quotes the
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conversation between Narad and Yudhisthir from Srimad Bhagavatam, -
"Suddha Bhaktya Sri Guro Sri Shivasya cha Bhagavata saha abheda
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drishting Tatpriyatama Tvenaiva Manyante" .
Therefore, here also, it has been instructed to consider the form of Guru as non-
different from Shri Bhagavan. Hence, Guru is called 'Sevaka-bhagavan' or 'Ashraya
Vigraha'. 'Visaya' (which is Lord Shri Krishna Himself) cannot be complete without
the presence of the 'Ashraya'. If our Guruvargas would not have acted as reservoirs
of the 'Unnata Ujjvala rasa' 'Svabhakti' (the most elevated mellow of devotional service
- the mellow of conjugal love) that was gifted by Shriman Mahaprabhu, and if they had
not distributed this highest mellow, then wherefrom could we receive this mercy? We
would become animals. That is why, our guruvargas are known as 'Maha Maha
Mahavadanyaya' (extremely magnanimous).
So what is our responsibility towards such exalted, magnanimous, merciful,
deliverer of the fallen souls - Sri Gurutatva ? In Shrimad Bhagavagita, Sri Bhagavan is
instructing Arjuna, -
"Tadviddhi pranipatena pariprashena sevaya |
Upadekshayanti te Jnanam Jnaninastatva darshinah".
Therefore, we will have to offer dandavat pranam to the lotus feet of our Guru
with one-pointed devotion and utmost reverence. We need to fully surrender our ego
unto (and take refuge in) His/Her lotus feet. We should be eager to serve Him/Her
based on His/Her desire, so that the aim of our service is always His/Her pleasure
and satisfaction, rather than my personal benefit. We should consider this very carefully
that we are not serving Him/Her in a way we think is the best. Rather, we should
always take into consideration His /Her pleasure as the ultimate motive of the service.
Moreover, we should ask Sri Guru about our origin and actual identity - 'Atmatatva', in
the same way as Srila Sanatan Goswamipad asked Shriman Mahaprabhu -
"Ke ami kene amay jare tapatraya |
Iha Nahi Jani Kemane Hita haya ||
Sadhya-Sadhana Tatva Kichui na Jani |
Kripa Kari Sab Tatva Kahata Apani ||"
(Who am I? Why are the threefold miseries always troubling me? I do not
know how can I be benefitted. I do not know the ultimate goal of life or the means to
achieve this. Please be kind and merciful to me and explain me these truths) .
We have to confess about our ignorance, our incapability and incompetency to our
Gurudeva - 'I do not know anything. How can I be relieved from the threefold miseries
and the material attachment? Please mercifully tell me. Possessing absolutely no
intelligence, I am unable to understand what brings auspiciousness or inauspiciousness
in my life. Please tell me about my duties. What is the target of my life and how can I
get freed from the diseases, aging and death and how can I progress towards achieving
the ultimate goal? You are fully aware of the science and knowledge about Krishna.
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So please be merciful towards me, please disclose these transcendental truths to
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me, which would bring me auspiciousness.' - In this mood, fully taking refuge in His/
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Her Lotus feet, we have to ask questions to Sri Guru and then only can we progress in
our spiritual life. Srimad Bhagavatam also presents the same conclusion -
"Tasmad Gurum prapadyeta jijnasu sreya uttamam".
Again, to quote our Acharyas -
"Yasya prasadat Bhagavat Prasado
yasya prasadannagati kutohpi
dhyayam stubanstasya yasas trisandhyang
Vande Guro Shri Charanarvindam"
As soon as we receive the mercy of Sri Guru, we also attain the mercy of Shri
Bhagavan, as Sri Guru is a Param-Bhagavat and a pure devotee and the mercy of the
Lord follows the mercy of His devotee. So no one can gain progress in life without His/
Her mercy. That's why, we should meditate upon our Guru, remember and glorify our
Guru without failure during the three sacred junctions of the day. I offer my respectful
obeisances to the merciful lotus feet of Sri Guru again and again.
Gurutatva is never-ending, infinite, limitless and extremely deep tattva, and myself
being an insignificant, ignorant soul and having done so many offenses, how can I
even think of shedding some light on such a grave topic? Still, with the unlimited
causeless mercy of my most compassionate and magnanimous Gurumata, I tried to
pen down whatever I could perceive and feel, to submit it to Her Lotus Feet - where
there is no fear of anything. I offer my prostrated obeisances to Her again and again
and request Her to kindly forgive me of my offenses and give me shelter under Her
Lotus Feet.
Jaya Gurumata.
Servant of the servant of Gurumata,

Paramananda Das
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BRIEF SIGNIFICANCE OF VYASA PUJA
Sri Vyasa Deva and his position:
Vyasa Deva is the literary incarnation of the Supreme Lord Shri Hari, known as
'Saktyavesha Avatar'. Since it is incredibly difficult for the people in Kali Yuga to
remember, analyze, comprehend and follow the Vedic Injunctions, He, also known as
Sri Krishna Dvaipayan Veda Vyasa, categorized the Vedas into four categories and
composed Mahabharata and 18 principal puranas, including Shrimad Bhagavatam
Mahapurana. Such is the greatness of Sri Vyasa Deva, who is considered to be the
original representative of Guru-tatva or the Adi Guru. Since He enlightened all the jivas
immersed in the darkness of ignorance, he is also called 'Jagad-guru' - the teacher or
preceptor of the world.
In a similar manner, our spiritual masters take the role of Sri Vyasa Deva in our lives to
make the complex and hidden conclusions of the Vedic scriptures easier and
comprehensible to us. They awaken our inner consciousness and show the path to
achieve our ultimate goal. Hence, Vyasa is considered to be a specially empowered
position rather than the name of a personality.
Guru Puja is Vyasa Puja:
Vyasa Deva obtained the spiritual instructions from the great sage Narada- who had
the knowledge imparted by Brahma. Brahma had received the same transcendental
knowledge from the Supreme Lord Sri Hari directly in His heart. In this way, the original
instructions and the eternal truth and knowledge emanates from the Supreme Lord
Shri Hari and flows through Vyasa deva and then through his spiritual successors
including our Guru. So, a spiritual master or Guru, in the line of succession as a
descendant of Vyasa Deva, distributes the same transcendental knowledge in an
unchanged form throughout the world. This is why Sri Guru is considered as the
bonafide representative of Vyasa Deva and His/Her divine appearance day is celebrated
as Vyasa Puja Maha Mahotsava. Sri Guru like Vyasa is a tatva or a principle rather
than a particular body. Hence, Vyasa Puja is the worship of Sri Guru who derives
authority from the Vedic scriptures through Vyasa Deva.
Vyasa Puja is a rare opportunity:
Vyasa Puja is an annual offering of special honour to the spiritual master, Sri Guru
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representing Sri Krishna, His manifestation Baladeva as well as His incarnation Sri
Vyasa Deva. On this particular day of Vyasa Puja, the merciful spiritual master or Sri
Guru Tatva becomes even more merciful, fully manifesting the most magnanimous
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form of Vyasa Deva - delivering the most sinners and offenders (aparadhis). Thereforea
this is the most auspicious occasion - a precious opportunity to meditate on Sri Guru,
to better appreciate the gifts of the spiritual master that He/She has mercifully bestowed
upon us. It is the day to express our deepest gratitude to Sri Guru from the inner core of
our hearts for saving our lives.
Guru Puja is the process of offering various items, along with chanting of the mantras,
to Sri Guru, with utmost love and surrender as well as with the feeling of gratitude and
reverence. This is an insignificant attempt to reciprocate the knowledge and
enlightenment that the guru mercifully brings to our life full of darkness. All the items
offered to Sri Guru on the occasion of Vyasa puja are symbolic of the love in the heart of
the devotee and enhance the bonding or connection between the Guru-tatva and
disciples. This is also a great opportunity to purify ourselves by honouring the offered
items and accepting the remnants of Sri Guru which brings auspiciousness in our
lives.
We should not be under the misconception that Sri Guru Himself/Herself accepts
everything that we offer to Him/Her, rather He/She submits all of the offerings to the
Lotus feet of His/Her Guru in His/Her original Swarupa and so on and in this way, ultimately
the offerings reach the Lotus Feet of Shrimati Radharani - who is the origin of Guru
Tatva in Madhurya Rasa. Therefore, no wonder why Vyasa puja is indeed the most
amazing moment to celebrate the transcendental position of the spiritual masters in
disciplic succession.
Aspiring to serve the lotus feet of Gurumata,
Achyutananda
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Shrimati Jayshree Devi - the perfection of Guru-seva and Bhakti 16
-Sannyasini Shrimati Sadhana Devi Goswamini
Divine Appearance of Gurutatva and Identification of Sri Guru 20
- Sannyasini Shrimati Sadhana Devi Goswamini
Flower offering through letters of Shrimati Usha Devi 23
- Collected
Respectful offering unto the lotus feet of our most beloved and dearmost 26
disciple of Srila Prabhuji
- Sannyasini Shrimati Arati Devi Goswamini
The shelter of dedicated women devotees - Shrimati Jayshree Devi 29
- Sannyasini Shrimati Chabi Devi Goswamini
Offering through letter 31
- Sannyasini Shrimati Ratna Devi Goswamini
Shrimati Jayshree Devi - the secured shelter 32
- Sannyasini Shrimati Ratna Devi Goswamini
Sneha Dhanya 36
- Sripad Dvijen Brahmachari (Sannyasa name: Sripad Akinchan Maharaja)
Prayers to the lotus feet of my Sannyasa Guru 37
- Sannyasini Shrimati Mamata Devi Goswamini
Reverence and letter of offerings to Sri Sri Gurumata 39
- Sannyasini Shrimati Durga Devi Goswamini
Heart-felt offering on the occasion of Sri Vyasa Puja 40
- Sri Srila Bhaktivedanta Atulananda Acharya Maharaj (South America)
Offerings on Gurumata's Vyasa Puja 41
- Swami Srila Bhakti Svarupa Damodar Maharaja (France)
Offering to Gurumata on her 65th appearance day 42
- Shrimati Jay Bhakti Devi Dasi Maharani (USA)
Humble offering 43
- Sripad Achyutananda Brahmachari
Arati Kirtan of Gurumata 44
- Sripad Achyutananda Brahmachari
Flower offering unto the Lotus Feet of the most beloved disciple of Srila Prabhuji 47
- Brahmacharini Shrimati Runu Devi
Yadi Gurumata na haita 49
- Brahmacharini Srimati Ruma Devi
Offering of the heart 50
- Brahmacharini Shrimati Malina Devi
Kabe Gurumata more karibena daya 51
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Samarpita
- Brahmacharini Shrimati Urmila Devi
- Srimati Kisori Dasi

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Our Mother - Jayashree Mata
- Written and translated by Srimati Ramita Majumdar
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Pranati Pushpanjali - Obeisances and flower offerings 55

- Members of Vishnupriya Para Vidyapith
What is Gurutattva and Who is Gurumata? 58
- Shrimati Lalita Dasi (Kolkata)
Heart-felt respectful offering on occasion of Vyasa Puja 61
- Shrimati Ananda Devi Dasi (Kolkata)
Gurumata - the embodiment of patience and endurance 63
- Shrimati Makheswari Devi Dasi (Kolkata)
Offering on the day of 65th divine appearance of Gurumata Srimati Jaysree Devi 65
- Narayani priya devi dasi (South America)
Obeisances to Gurumata from Jahnavi Kunja Ashram (Mayapur) 68
65th Appearance Day offering for Srimati Jaysree Devi 69
- Lilavati Devi Dasi (Orissa)
My love and tribute to you on Your VyasaPuja 70
- Ranga Devi (Brazil)
Gurumata - an ideal and inspiration for Ashrama-life 71
- Gauri devi dasi (Vrindavan)
Prayers for your blessing on Vyasa Puja 72
- Rohini Mata (Austria)
My Lotus offering at Gurumata's lotus feet 73
- Yamuna Kunja Devi Dasi (Mexico)
Smriti-Kusum-Anjali - Offerings of flowers of memories 74
- Prem Kumari Dasi (Spain)
Countless thanks to Gurumata on behalf of all souls in the form of women body 75
- Vishnupatni Dasi (Poland)
Gurumata, my prayers to you 76
- Mahalakshmi Dasi (Argentina)
Obeisances on your appearance day 77
- Aradhana Dasi (USA)
Message to my beloved Shrimati Jayshree Devi on her Vyasa Puja 78
- Aanandini Radhika Devi Dasi (USA)
In honor of Parivrajika GuruMata Jayashri Devi 79
- Rupamanjari Dasi (USA)
Prayers on occasion of Vyasa Puja 80
- Indira Dasi (Spain)
Offerings to Gurumata on Her divine appearance day 81
-Mantra Seva Das (South America)
Prayers on the appearance day of Shrimati Jayshree Devi Goswamini 82
a - Rasa Bihari dasa (South America)

Obeisances unto the Lotus feet of Shrimati Gurumata - the best of the Goswaminis
- Paramananda Das (Canada)
83
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Shrimati Jayshree Devi - the perfection of Guru-seva and Bhakti
-Sannyasini Shrimati Sadhana Devi Goswamini
O my dearest most revered elder sister,

On occasion of your 65th divine appearance day Vyasa Puja Maha Mahotsava
and 25th year of Acharya Lila celebration, an insignificant lowly being like me is offering
countless millions of humblemost obeisances to you. For the major part of the 47 years
that you have served in the ashram, I have had the opportunity of serving our gurudeva,
Srila Prabhujee and His mission, standing by your side. In 1976, when Srila Prabhujee
mercifully brought me to our Budge Budge ashram through Navadvipa , you were already
serving as the person in-charge of Budge Budge Shree Guru Prapanna Ashram. On
one hand, supervising all the services and activities of the ashram , and on the other
hand, performing direct service of Srila Prabhuji with utmost care - you were extremely
expert in managing both the wings. Be it someone arriving at our ashram, or new
devotees looking for shelter or be it some new ingredients of service donated by someone,
Srila Prabhuji, without any second thought, used to submit everything to your hand.
Such was His mercy (kripa) towards you. Kripa means attaining by service. No one
was as perfect as you in offering services and hence, you were the object of Prabhuji's
greatest affection and blessings.
Ushering His limitless mercy on me, when our dearmost Prabhuji gave me shelter
in His lotus feet, He offered me to you for learning service. And considering me to be
eligible to perform service in the temple, He gave you the responsibility of teaching me
the process of doing archana and other deity worship services. This is how under your
guidance I first learnt to worship Sri Rajkumar (Gaurahari). Then I was given the
responsibility of maintaining the store-house and cooking preparations for the afternoon
bhoga of the deities. You used to guide me and tell me the names of the items to be
prepared everyday. I used to notice how day and night you were engaged in the loving
service of Srila Prabhuji. You were always attentive towards whatever Prabhuji needed
at any time. Your attempt was always - how to make Gurudeva pleased and happy, how
to relieve Him of the troubles (if any) in the ashram. There were so many situations of
turmoil, but you struggled hard not to let them reach the ears of Gurudeva. Prabhuji
should never be distressed in any occasion - that was your sole objective. And for that,
you had to endure unlimited pain, we - the residents of the ashram are witnesses of
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those incidents. We have learnt from you - how to tolerate all the pains with a smile in
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the face, surrendering oneself entirely for the service of Shree Guru.
When Srila Prabhujee was manifesting illness pastime, you used to perform
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everything - from arranging for His treatment to serving Him in the best possible way,
staying day and night in the hospital. We used to perform non-stop kirtans in the
ashram desiring for His speedy recovery. Shree Guru and His mission, (this ashram)
has always been the object of your utmost concern. No wonder why, Prabhuji left
everything and every responsibility of the ashram in your able hands before He
manifested His disappearance pastime.
In this context, I can remember one particular incident very well. Like all other
days, you were all-day long indulged in tireless loving devotional service and at night
after arranging everything for Srila Prabhuji's rest, you came to the temple and started
chanting Harinama in your japa beads, walking around the parikrama way. And then
suddenly a deadly venomous snake - Russel Viper bit you on your left lotus feet. The
venomous teeth got stuck in your toe - such was the extremity of the bite. Most of us
would have rushed to save our own lives in such critical juncture. But your nistha
(devotion) towards your Guru was such that even at that moment, you were reluctant
to leave the ashram without taking permission from Srila Prabhuji. Sri Guru's
permission and instruction was more important to you than your own life - such
devotional attachment (towards) and faith in Sri Guru is rarest of the rare in today's
world. Such incident shows the identity of intense faith and sincere devotional service,
devoid of any ulterior motives, of a devotee.
Later on, after discussion with the other residents of the ashram, when you
realised that this very news would make Srila Prabhuji extremely worried, you agreed
on going to the hospital without Prabhuji's permission that night. So far, I narrated an
example of your Guru-bhakti (devotion to Sri Guru), but this will be complete only
when I can narrate the rest of it - which fully depicts the utmost affection that Srila
Prabhuji had for you.
Next morning, when all the residents of the ashram went to offer their obeisances
to Srila Prabhuji's bhajan kutir before His breakfast, but for the first time you couldn't
go, Prabhuji started showing His concern. On being asked about you by Srila Prabhuji,
the residents of the ashram tried to hide the reason in the fear that He would be very
worried. Getting more disturbed at this, Srila Prabhuji informed that He will not accept
His breakfast unless and until He was informed. So, then they were forced to inform
everything to Srila Prabhuji and hearing this, Srila Prabhuji stopped talking to everyone
completely. For three days, till you returned back to the ashram healthy, He did not talk
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to anyone and only continued to chant in His Japa beads. This external pastime of the
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All-knower Gurudeva and His beloved disciple is undoubtedly to teach us - the extremity
of tests that a disciple may be subjected to, as well as to acknowledge the level of
service one can attain so that Sri Guru becomes so much affectionate towards him/
her.
Since Srila Prabhuji had the highest affection for you, a few devotees used to
think that Srila Gurudeva must be partial towards you, but, we knew how much service
one has to perform, how much pain one has to endure and what mood of surrender
one has to attain to be the object of so much love and affection of Srila Gurudeva. Your
service was never for showing off, not for establishing yourself among others, your
service was selfless, entirely for pleasing Sri Gurudeva. And that is the way one can
achieve the object of devotion.
Srila Prabhuji used to always instruct everyone to serve and take lessons on
how to serve, from His beloved and most affectionate 'Jaya'. In 1989, when Srila
Gurudeva gave me the responsibility of taking the charge of Navadvipa ashram, He
particularly mentioned to me - serve under the anugatya (spiritual guidance and shelter)
of Shrimati Jayshree Devi. Moreover, after His disappearance pastime, He gave me a
dream, in which He Himself instructed that you should be given the seat of the next
Acharya. But despite requesting you multiple times, because of your limitless humility
and modesty, you did not want to accept the position of your beloved Gurudeva. Later,
since the time you , after receiving indication, agreed to serve as the Acharyaa of our
institution, till today, for 25 years, you have been serving the mission of our Gurudeva
tirelessly, preaching in villages after villages , making the light of knowledge available
to all by distributing His mercy and His divine instructions.
Besides, when there was an internal protest because of Srila Prabhuji giving
shelter to so many matajis (women devotees), at that time, you took the leadership
responsibilities on behalf of us and fought for the fallen and weaker women (like us),
defending and protecting the primary mission of Prabhuji for establishing this ashram.
This is the reason why Srila Prabhuji made the Budge Budge branch of Shree Guru
Prapanna Ashram entirely for the women devotees, which came to be known as the
'Women section' of our ashram. Even today, as the representative of all the Vaishnavis
in the world, you have been working tirelessly for giving the women devotees the
adhikara (rights) to perform direct service to the deities as well as practise devotion
to Lord Hari (Haribhajan), without any gender discrimination. By setting your own
example in the world, you are fulfilling Srila Prabhuji's mission and Srila Prabhupad's
(Srila BhaktiSiddhanta Saraswati Goswami Prabhupad's) heart's desire.
a I can also remember another glorious incident which took place a few days
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before Srila Prabhuji manifested His disappearance pastime. On the day of Vyasa
Puja of Srila BhaktiSiddhanta Saraswati Goswami Prabhupad, during Harikatha
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discourses, Srila Prabhuji wanted you to adorn the Vyasa Asana. This is because
your nectarian discourses used to relieve the material sufferings - the three-fold pangs
of the people. However, with your utmost humility, you kept yourself away from sitting
on the Vyasa Asana considering yourself unqualified. Though He was performing illness
pastime that day, the way He instructed me and Srimati Arati Devi repeatedly,
considering you to be eligible for the Vyasa Asana, I could realise the position, where
He wanted to place you before He leaves the material world for Goloka.
Very briefly, I tried to memorise a few incidents as well as the mood and
pastimes of Srila Prabhuji as an offering to you on this day. On this auspicious day of
your 65th Vyasa Puja, I beg one drop of your extreme patience and tolerance. In those
earlier days, when we used to return after collecting donations for the entire day,
visiting from door to door, and notice your beautiful face, we used to feel as if we are
seeing our mother after returning home and our tiredness would at once go away. On
this Vyasa Puja, I pray to you to kindly shower all the jivas (living entities) of the world
with such serenity and one-pointed attachment to performing service. Many Many
congratulations to you on this auspicious day. I want to conclude this heart-felt offering,
quoting Srila Prabhuji - "Murtimati Dhairya Pratima Jayshree Hoyecho Tai" (Hence
you have achieved perfection as the complete embodiment of patience and endurance
and have become Jayshree) - where our most beloved Gurudeva has Himself glorified,
acknowledged and congratulated you - giving Jayadhvani for you.
KKKK
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a DIVINE APPEARANCE OF GURUTATVA AND IDENTIFICATION OF SRI GURU

- Sannyasini Shrimati Sadhana Devi Goswamini
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The appearance of Sri Guru :

"Guru Krishna rupa han shastrer pramaney |
Guru-rupe Krishna kripa karen bhagyavane ||"
(The spiritual master is non-different from Krishna. This is proven by all revealed
scriptures. Krishna in the form of spiritual master delivers those who are fortunate
enough.)
The origin of all and the prime cause of all causes, Lord Shri Krishna , the son
of the King of Vraja (Nanda), seeing the miserable situation of the conditioned souls,
manifests Himself in the form of Sri Guru to shower His mercy on us. It is not easy to
deliver the conditioned souls from the bondages of Maya. If an ordinary person, thinking
himself as an unconditioned soul (pure devotee), tries to deliver other conditioned
souls, he will surely face failure. This is because only Sri Bhagavan, the supreme
controller of Maya can only perform this task. Hence, the great merciful and kind Lord
Himself appears in this world. Sri Guru is just like Shri Bhagavan, who is unborn,
eternal and imperceivable by the sense organs. Sri Bhagavan does not have birth and
death, similarly, a pure devotee or Sri Guru is devoid of birth and death. Sri Bhagavan
takes the form of a human being to manifest His pastimes. In the same way, though
Sri Guru is part of Sacchidananda Sri Bhagavan, i.e., eternally existing, conscious
and blissful, but He takes the form of human body, made of the five principal elements,
to manifest His pastimes of delivering souls. Hence, one should never judge a pure
devotee or Sri Guru by His caste or family. Nor should one discriminate Guru based
on male - female bodily differences. Because, this pastime is just to give lessons to
the conditioned souls of the material world deluded by Maya. Therefore, one who
discusses about the bodily caste, creed or gender (male/female) differences of Sri
Guru can never be considered intellectual or an expert in scriptural texts.
Discussion on the essential qualities of Sri Guru:

The greatest of all poets, Srila Krishnadas Kaviraja, in His 'Sri Chaitanya
Charitamrita', which is the essence of all scriptures, has repeatedly determined and
expanded the original form of Sri Guru Tatva. In Sri Ray Ramananda Samvada
(conversation between Mahaprabhu and Ramananda Ray), Sriman Mahaprabhu gives
an apparently easy but profound definition of Guru Tatva -
"Kiba vipra kiba nyasi sudra kene naya |
Yei Krishna Tatva Vetta sei Guru Haya ||"
That is, someone may be a Brahmana/Sannyasi/Sudra , but if He/She has knowledge
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and consciousness about the divine science of Sri Krishna, then he/she is eligible for
the position of Sri Guru. Who can understand 'Krishna tatva'? One who has not been
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able to control the urge of speech, mind, anger, tongue, belly and genitals - How can
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he/she be able to grasp the transcendental knowledge of 'Krishna tatva' which is
beyond the perception of senses? Hence, those of us, who judge Sri Guru by His/Her
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varna - Brahmana, Kshatriya, Vaishya, Sudra, or based on the male/female bodily
differences, should rethink if this process of selection of Sri Guru is bonafide and
supported by the revealed scriptures. If one, taking birth in a Brahmin family, in male
body, cannot control these six urges, cannot show the right path towards our goal or
does not himself practise what he preaches, is it justified to give him the position of Sri
Guru? These days we are observing, many conditioned souls are making themselves
'Acharya' getting attracted towards money and fame and lust for enjoying the opposite
gender. And what are the consequences of this? They are preparing the path towards
hell for themselves as well as their disciples.
"Yo Vyaktir Nyaya Rahitam Anyeyena Srinoti Yah…."
That is, one who falsely pretends as an Acharya, will surely face the sufferings
of Hell for uncountable number of years and his disciples will also face the same
sufferings in Hell.
"Apani Achari Dharma Jivere Sikhaya |
Apani na Kaile Dharma Sikhano na jaya ||"
(One who practises 'dharma' himself can preach other souls. One who does not
practise properly, cannot teach others)
Hence, one who is disguised as Sri Guru, but does not follow the path of righteousness,
or does not actually have faith in scriptures, can have hundreds of thousands of
disciples, but cannot bring any auspiciousness to anyone. In this context, Vayu Purana
states that only one, who is able to realise the ultimate conclusions of the scriptures
and reflect those realisations onto his own life and practise, is eligible for the position
of Sri Guru.
"Swayam Acharate Yasmat Acharyastena Kirtitah"
That is, one who can preach others by practising the rules and regulations himself is
called 'Acharya'. Only He can demolish the mountain-like sins of the conditioned souls
and show the ray of divine knowledge. And this procedure is known as Diksha
(initiation),-
"Divyam Jnanam Yato Dadyat Kuryat Papasya Sankhayam"
Thus, merely by memorising the quotations of scriptures and disguising oneself
as Guru in front of the world, one does not become Guru. It will be soon revealed that
he/she is fake. One can achieve the position of Sri Guru only by strictly following the
footsteps and guidance of his/her Guru. One can attain progress in spiritual realm by
serving and accepting guidance of a pure devotee or an eternally unconditioned soul,
by having firm faith in Him/Her and by following His/Her instructions. One who has any
ulterior motive of becoming Guru himself, is unfit for the role of Guru from all respects.
That kind of a person tries to create a false show in front of the world - that I have
served (or, am serving) my Guru so much, and tries to project himself as a great
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personality. But because of the duplicity he/she has in the service, it does not remain
service at all, it becomes karma, or mundane activity, and that too, bad karma. The
urge for name, fame and greediness makes his life restless and miserable.
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The core intention of writing all these is one and only one. Although Sri Guru is
transcendental, full of bliss and consciousness and is eternally existing, we, foolish
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conditioned souls, getting deluded by Maya cannot differentiate between real and fake,
mundane and transcendental object. Nor do we understand the importance and
greatness of Guru Tatva. Before making someone our Guru, we should always very
carefully, minutely and thoroughly monitor the qualities that he/she possesses and
his/her manners and behavior, so that we do not lose the precious opportunity of this
human birth, being entrapped by sweet words of the fake conditioned souls disguised
as guru. However, despite hundreds of efforts, when we fail to understand or realise
this, then the only path left for us is to depend on the mercy of the Great Lord- the
Supreme Controller. This mercy is fully manifested on the occasion of Vyasa Puja.
Only with the mercy of pure devotees can we identify real and bonafide Gurus.
Therefore, on this auspicious divine appearance day of Shrimati Jayshree Devi
Goswamini - the present Acharyaa of Sri Guru Prapanna Ashram, let us all pray to
Her, so that She may guide us to recognize a bonafide Guru, and with Her causeless
mercy, manifest the form of Sri Guru in our hearts - for those of us who have been
distracted from the path of pure devotion. My dearmost and most revered Gurudeva
Sri Srila Patitpavan Goswami Maharaj, who had taken shelter under the lotus feet of
my Paramgurudeva Sri Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati Goswami Prabhupad since
his tender childhood days, has blessed our beloved Godsister Shrimati Jayshree Devi
with enormous potency. May with that potency, she kindly awaken the realisation of
the principal of Sri Guru in our hearts - This is my earnest request to Her, on the
auspicious occasion of Her Vyasa Puja. This is because the realisation of Gurutatva
is, for sure, the source of all auspiciousness in our lives, the end of all worldly sufferings
and the bonafide guidance in the path of bhakti (pure devotion).
KKKK
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FLOWER OFFERING THROUGH LETTERS OF SHRIMATI USHA DEVI a
The letters sent by Shrimati Usha Devi, one of the sincere and beloved disciples
of Sri Srimad Patitpavan Goswami Maharaj, to Gurumata are carriers of the immense
love and respect that she had for Gurumata as well their cordial bonding. From these
letters, we get to know a little about how sincerely Gurumata used to serve the lotus
feet of Her Gurudeva and how much affectionate she was towards the other residents
of the ashram. How they used to get worried to hear about Gurumata's illness pastime,
fearing that Srila Prabhuji's service would be hampered and how they used to be
relieved to hear about Her recovery. The real picture of the ashram revolving around
Gurumata is partly revealed in those letters. Here, we present parts of selected eight
letters, like the eight-fold petals of a fully bloomed lotus and offer it unto the lotus feet
of Gurumata.
FIRST PETAL
My worshipable Jaya di (elder sister),

First of all, please accept thousands of humblemost obeisances of this offender.
I am having fever, but when I received your delightful letter with your own handwriting
on it, I could not help reading it uncountable number of times, lying on my bed. But
sadly, I have not been able to send reply to your letter….
Oh my dear Jaya di! I request for your mercy so that my heart may weep atleast one-
hundredth fraction of yours, for Srila Prabhuji. Oh my dear Jaya di! How can I express
the feeling of my mind. I get some solace by writing to you, like a madman…. Please
usher your blessings upon me. Having no qualification, I simply pray to the master of
the beggars, the all-merciful Lord, who has connected me with my most beloved
Gurudeva, so that I can cry for Him. Oh my dear Jaya di! I do not have any other
possession nor belonging than you. Please stay near Prabhuji and serve Him. I am
the most unfortunate. Please accept my obeisances.
SECOND PETAL
...I was grief stricken to hear that your health condition is unwell. Previously, I was so
happy to inform everyone here that Jaya di's health is totally fine now. But then, I was
feeling so sorry to hear that you are not feeling well again Oh my dear Jaya di! I am
happy to read the letter, in your most beautiful handwriting….
THIRD PETAL
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….Oh my dear Jaya di! I came to know about Prabhu's illness pastime. Please do not a
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go downstairs! Please always take care of Prabhuji, staying near His lotus feet. Oh
dear Jaya di! Bless me so that I may always be able to remember you internally! So
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that, I never feel you are away from me...please bless me...Also, please earnestly
request Srila Prabhuji to kindly forgive my offenses. Oh dear Jaya di! I have no one
except you all! So, whenever I will make any mistakes, before informing to Prabhuji,
please mercifully inform me about my faults, thinking of me as your own, knowing that
I have no one else except you and that I am a poor fallen soul…. Please accept my
pranama.
FOURTH PETAL
….Oh my dearmost Jaya di! You are the reservoir of simplicity, affection and manners.
I get more pained to remember this (as people misutilize your qualities). Oh my dear
Jaya di! Many devotees are surrendered unto the lotus feet of Srila Prabhuji, but my
soul only craves for your affection. I feel whatever pain I have, I can share everything
with you! My beloved Jaya di! I feel ecstatic to think, about the time when will I get your
darshan again! This is really true! Beloved Jaya di! I feel regretful when I think I might
have lost your affection due to my negligence. I will never forget this! My beloved Jaya
di! Please forgive me! And being merciful towards me, please keep me in your lotus
feet in next births, if not this! Please prepare and guide me with your pure, sacred
words and your enormous simplicity! If not this birth, please give me lessons in my
next births how to serve our beloved Srila Prabhuji properly. Oh my dearest Jaya di! I
do not know how to perform loving devotional service! But my sole hope and faith is
that, my Jaya di always serves our most merciful Prabhuji, that gives Him solace
(from the disturbances of the ashram).... When I was in Barasat, I dreamt of you and
told Tapu di, that I have not met Jaya di since so many days, hence I got darshan of
the Goddess in dream. … Please accept my pranam…
FIFTH PETAL
...Receiving your letter, filled with your utmost love and affection, I felt as if I caught
hold of the moon - I was so extremely happy. And I received so much solace … So
much peace that I cannot express in words. Even after reading repeatedly, I was not
getting satisfied. The more I read, the more I get happier!...I am glad that an unfortunate
soul like me could send you a letter on this auspicious day! I feel blessed!
SIXTH PETAL
…Srila Prabhuji has handed me over your letter. I was so disheartened to know that
your health is not well. I came to know that the merciful Lord has granted your request.
a
So Prabhuji's health has recovered, however, you have become ill. When I was with
you, I have witnessed many miracles like this, when He has showered His mercy on a
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you. That is the reason He is here. He always fulfills the wishes of the devotees…. I
know how incapable I am. I pray to the Lord so that I can stay in His lotus feet, in your
association…
SEVENTH PETAL
...Oh my dear Jaya di! I am not at all unhappy that you could not send reply to my last
letter, because I know how sincerely you always serve Srila Prabhuji and hence you
do not get any time. Since you are serving our Prabhuji with heart and soul, this makes
me much happier than receiving letter from you….In every step of my life, I remember
you!
EIGHTH PETAL
… Oh my dear Jaya di! How can I express my happiness upon receiving your letter!
Then I started reading it carefully! At first, I got very surprised! Each and every line,
each and every word - I have never heard anything as wonderful as this! Nor do I have
these wonderful thoughts and realisations. Oh my dear Jaya di! Please consider thinking
about me sometimes… Dear Jaya di! I keep wondering where did you acquire these
wonderful words from! How did you write such an astonishing letter! Then I realised,
there is nothing to be surprised. Words are just reflections of the stage of bhajan one
has reached! Dear Jaya di! Not only is it wonderful, it has the most valuable and
precious teachings of all of our lives!... I need to learn a lot from the matter that you
have sent me! I have carefully kept it and will read again when I get time. … Please
offer my humblemost obeisances to the lotus feet of Srila Prabhuji and you also,
please accept.
Your Most insignificant,

Usha di.
KKKK
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aRESPECTFUL OFFERING UNTO THE LOTUS FEET OF OUR MOST

BELOVED AND DEARMOST DISCIPLE OF SRILA PRABHUJI
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-Sannyasini Shrimati Arati Devi Goswamini
My most beloved didi (elder sister),

First of all, an inferior being like me, would like to offer crores and crores of
humblemost obeisances unto your lotus feet. Today is indeed a very delightful day!
On today's date, showering unlimited mercy on the worldly people, you appeared in
this material world to give your association to lowly beings and fallen souls like us.
Hence today is a very pure and auspicious day.
The most merciful Shrimati Radharani, showering Her grace on us - unfortunate
souls, has sent Her beloved kinkari (attendant), especially for delivering the womenfolks.
And you, under the anugatya (guidance) of your Guru - our most beloved and
compassionate Srila Patitpavan Prabhu, have been sincerely engaged in that service.
The immense contribution that you have towards the world, the enormous sacrifice
you have undergone for this and above-all, the indomitable mentality with which, you
are leading the Vaishnavis of the present world, deserves special mention. But I do
not want to diminish the glories of this day just by mere thanking you.
In the realm of Vaishnavism, a Vaishnavi like you is the rarest of the rare. I look
around everywhere, get darshan of sadhus in different Maths and Mandir. But I do not
find anyone who can adorn the seat that you have occupied in my heart. I find all the
qualities that a pure devotee (Vaishnava or Vaishnavi) should have, fully manifested in
you. Hence, although you are our beloved elder godsister, you are like our spiritual
guide. Besides, you have been fully blessed by our most revered Gurudeva. So, for
me, you are none other than His own representative.
"Nari kul uddharite Sri Radha kinkari
Bhuvane prakash han Patitpavan Rupa dhari"
(Sri Radha's eternal attendant manifests Herself in this material world in the form of
Srila Patitpavan Goswami Thakur to deliver the womenfolk)
With the boundless mercy and kindness of Srila Patitpavan Goswami Thakur,
many years back, I came to reside in the ashram, uprooting the attachment with the
material world. Even in the life of a resident of the ashram, so many storms and blows
have to be faced. Srila Prabhuji used to test us. In situations when clouds of sorrow
gathered in the corner of my heart, just by looking at your lotus face, all the sorrow and
sufferings used to get blown away within a moment. At that very moment, I used to
realise that you are the object of utmost mercy of Sri Guru and specially empowered
with the potency of Sriman Nityananda Prabhu. When you had to travel to the other
branches of our ashram, we used to feel very lonely, as if something is really missing.
a
It would not be an exaggeration to confess that the ashram would lose its elegance in
your absence. Even our Gurudeva used to always acknowledge this very fact. That's
why He always wanted that you take care of this ashram. He is omniscient - He knew
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SRADDHANJALI
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that you are the most capable reservoir, you have the capability to lead the women in a
the right path of Bhakti (pure devotion) in this rotten society. Even now, I can remember,
He never wanted you to go out of the ashram and get association of the worldly people,
though he allowed others to go. You had a separate position, which was revealed to
Him by Sri Nityananda Prabhu Himself. You were 'Jaya' - the object of His most affection.
Thus, we could not even think of organising a festival in the ashram without your
presence. Because your absence used to create lack of proper discipline in the ashram.
You were extremely expert in organising all festivals. You used to take care of everything
with a smiling face and infinite patience - right from arranging the elements required
for the festivals to the distribution of prasadam.
Even a hundred mouth is not enough to glorify your extreme patience and
perseverance. You are the complete embodiment of the 'Trinadapi Suncihena
Tarorapi Sahishnuna' Sloka of Sri Sikshastakam by Shriman Mahaprabhu. The
residents of the ashram used to perform so many mistakes, but still there was no end
to your compassion and affection towards them. You had intense faith and reliance on
everyone, which, though, was not kept by some, still you emerged victorious. The
loving affectionate smile at the corner of your lips at the end of the day soothed all the
hardships of our daily service. The way you kept yourself always immersed in the
devotional service without paying heed towards your own health, the way you served
Srila Prabhuji with utmost care and respect, your firm faith, one-pointed devotion and
allegiance towards Sri Guru - those who have not personally observed these things,
cannot properly realise. When you were engaged in service of Sri Guru, we felt free
from any concern and anxiety as there was no one better amongst us to take care of
Him than you. During your illness pastimes, Srila Prabhuji used to get much more
concerned and worried than we were. Today, all those memories are coming to me. I
want to inspire all the women devotees by spreading this rare instance of your life
throughout the world. I firmly believe the melodious kirtans of your wonderful voice
and the sound of your harmonium surely invokes auspiciousness in the lives of all
souls.
In earlier days, there was no electricity in Budge Budge ashram. Feeling the
discomfort of Srila Prabhuji and His Lordship Sri Rajkumar Gaurahari, you had left no
stone unturned to bring electric light in the ashram. Yourself remaining humble,
repeatedly and earnestly requesting the Railway Staff, struggling days after days, you
arranged for the first ray of electric light in our ashram to serve Srila Prabhuji and His
ashram. Whatever extra-ordinary capability you had, none of us had that power, so
before performing any service we used to ask for your guidance and permission. We
had realised it very well, that in order to serve Srila Prabhuji and His mission, we need
to stay under your proper guidance (anugatya) .
How simply and easily you could convince the worldly people and distribute
the teachings of Sriman Mahaprabhu. Even today, you are distributing Mahaprabhu's
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mercy, untiringly, empowered by your firm devotion towards Sri Guru. Different evil
forces are trying to harm you, out of their jealousy, but failing to do so and will never be
able to. That is why Srila Prabhuji has named you 'Jayashree' - the embodiment of
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SRADDHANJALI
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victory and fortune, and has blessed you that you would be able to defeat the asuras
(evil powers and giants), by dint of your full consciousness and bliss (Chaitanya-
a
Swarup).
I have always desired and am still desiring that you stay in this world accepting
all my life span that I have left. The more years you manifest yourself here, the better
it is for all the souls. You have mercifully blessed me - this unworthy insignificant soul,
by awarding me the Sannyasa order of life, giving me the vesha of Sannyasa. On the
pious occasion of your Vyasa Puja, thereby, I offer my loving respectful pranamas
repeatedly unto the lotus feet of my Sannyasa Guru and beg for a drop of the infinite
qualities that you possess, on behalf of all the worldly souls.
My countless humblemost obeisances unto your lotus feet and lots of love
from the inner core of my heart.
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a THE SHELTER OF DEDICATED WOMEN DEVOTEES - SHRIMATI

JAYSHREE DEVI
a
- Sannyasini Shrimati Chabi Devi Goswamini
Om Ajnana TimirAndhasya JnanaAnjanaShalaakaaya

Chakshurunmilitam Yena Tasmai Sri Gurave Namaha
I was born in the darkest ignorance, and my spiritual master opened my eyes
with the torch of knowledge. I offer my respectful obeisances unto him.
My most beloved and revered Gurudeva Srila Patitpavan Goswami Maharaja's
dearmost and most affectionate disciple was Shrimati Jayshree Devi Goswamini.
Months after His disappearance pastime, based on His indication and instruction,
She adorned the seat of the Acharya of 'Shree Guru Prapanna Ashram'. After a few
years of that, she awarded me with the sannyasa order of life. That is, she is my
Sannyasa-guru and I am Her first Sannyasa-disciple. On one hand she is my beloved
elder Godsister, on the other hand, my revered Sannyasa Guru. Hence, my happiness
and excitement knows no bound to celebrate her divine appearance day. I offer my
sincerest reverence and prayers unto Her lotus feet.
I remember when I first came to reside in the ashram and took refuge in the lotus feet
of Sri Guru, my Gurudeva Srila Prabhuji submitted me to the lotus hand of didi (elder
sister Shrimati Jayshree Devi) and instructed her, "Jaya, please take care of her. I
have lots of faith in her. Please look after her and make sure that she can make good
progress in Haribhajan (devotional practise). " In this way, He had kept me under the
guidance of didi. Our beloved Prabhuji was no ordinary person. He was a great
personality with magnetic power. And He had all faith and reliance towards our beloved
didi, Shrimati Jayashree Devi and hence had given all the responsibilities of
administering the ashram to Her. And we all have developed ourselves under Her
guidance on Haribhajan and based on Her teachings on devotional service. One should
not think of Her as an ordinary person either, as she has extra-ordinary potency. She
is a treasure of the transcendental realm and has appeared in this material world with
divine energy and power. Hence, Her divine appearance day should be celebrated
sincerely.
Prabhuji used to call Her as 'Jaya', which sounded like giving jayadhvani or
glorifying Her always. Attaching 'Shree' with 'Jaya', He had named Her 'Jayashree'.
When can one become 'Jayashree'? When she can achieve control over lust, anger,
greed, attachment, pride and envy - these six enemies (ripus), when she can attain
victory over the illusory potency of the Lord (Maya), the anarthas and offenses. And
can progress smoothly towards the Supreme Lord to take shelter in His Lotus Feet.
She is 'Jayashree'. Our didi could achieve that. 'Shree' means sundar (beautiful,
a
excellent). Didi came out victorious, defending all the adverse situations, and
progressed in the path of pure devotion towards the most beautiful and gorgeous a
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SRADDHANJALI
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Supreme Lord, thereby being successful in becoming 'Jayashree'.
So, wherever I stay, I always keep remembering Her and place Her in my
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heart. I want to spend my life as an object of Her causeless mercy. She is such a
transcendental object, who cannot be defined. Her affection and love for others is
limitless - which cannot be expressed by words. The way She repeatedly tried to unite
all the women devotees together to perform Haribhajan in an organized manner and
the way she motivated us to practise sincere devotion towards Hari, Guru and
Vaishnavas - Because of Her immense contribution, today, we are unitedly saying, 'All
Glories to Her', as the next Acharyaa after our Gurudeva. She is undoubtedly the
possessor of the non-different potency of Srila Prabhuji. It is a very tough task to unite
and manage all the women devotees together . But with the power and transcendental
qualities that She has inherited from Srila Prabhuji and with Her enormous patience
and tolerance, She is trying her level best to maintain and improve the condition of the
institution and that is why, even today we - the women devotees are getting this wonderful
shelter - "Shree Guru Prapanna Ashram" to perform Haribhajan.
Nitai Gaura Premanande Hari Hari Bol!
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a OFFERING THROUGH LETTER

-Sannyasini Shrimati Ratna Devi Goswamini
a
(Through a letter of Gurumata's godsister Sanyasini Shrimati Ratna Devi, Her mood
of anugatya towards Gurumata has been nicely depicted. This is being offered here
as Sraddhanjali to Gurumata)
Oh my beloved Didi, Didi, Didi (elder sister),
First of all, please accept my utmost reverence and humblemost obeisances

in your lotus feet….On the day of Guru Purnima, we enjoyed a lot, that's true, but we
were deeply feeling the absence of someone - she is none other than You. Oh my
elder sister, maybe you don't know in which high position of my heart, I have established
you. I always try to proceed, while thinking about your anugatya towards Gurudeva
and following your ideals. Please bless me so that I may serve Sri Sri Guru
Gauranga under YOUR anugatya (spiritual guidance and shelter) throughout
my life. Oh my beloved elder sister! In the realm of Bhakti, I am like a little kid, starting
to learn and hence please mercifully help me to attain the best and ultimate target of
life. I always remember you….Please take care of your health….Please accept my
love and reverence. We are doing okay, with your causeless mercy. Please honour
prasadam in time. Before concluding, I want to pay my most respectful humblemost
obeisances again.
Servant of the servants of Vaishnavas and vaishnavis

"Ratna"
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SRADDHANJALI
a SHRIMATI JAYSHREE DEVI - THE SECURED SHELTER

-Sannyasini Shrimati Ratna Devi Goswamini
a
My childhood friend Suparna, unable to bear the continuous insults and physical
torture of the in-laws, had decided to attempt to suicide. Noticing her annoyance
towards the material life, I informed her of our Budge Budge Ashram, that many
educated, decent women are living a spiritual life there. Besides, there are helpless
girls without any other shelter and also elderly women who are taken care of. There
are many orphans and extremely poor boys and girls as well - who have been given
shelter. One Maharaja from Gaudiya Math has separately established this ashram for
the women with intense efforts. A few days back, on 19th November, a newspaper
has also published an article about this ashram, depicting it as a market of happiness.
Next day, I came to the Budge Budge ashram with Suparna. Above the Main Gate,
was a banner with "Shree Guru Prapanna Ashram" written in block letters. The
garden near the entrance was filled with beautiful flowers and a few little kids were
playing nearby. Walking a few more steps, we entered the Natmandir and soon a little
girl greeted us with "Jai Nitai" and rolled a carpet for us to sit. In the meantime, with
the ringing of gongs, Bhoga Arati started. One Brahmacharini was offering the Arati to
the amazingly beautiful deity of Sriman Mahaprabhu. I don't think I have ever had
darshan of such an astonishing deity of Mahaprabhu before. It seems like as if He is
calling all of us extending His beautiful arms. We were absorbed in having Arati darshan
and returned back to our senses with the little girl calling us - "Didi, please let's go to
honour prasadam". We sat and honoured prasadam, while an elderly lady devotee
served prasadam to us. What an ecstatic fragrance coming out from the prasadam!
The devotee uttered 'Sukriti labhya Felalava'- only one who is fortunate enough, gets
to honour prasadam. From little kids to elders - everyone's mouth is adorned with
Harikatha - this very much impressed me.
After honouring prasadam, we came to sit in the Natmandir. One Sannyasini, wearing
Saffron clothes, came near us - Her calm, soothing and motherly appearance attracted
us. She was none other than the Head of the ashram, Ashram Acharyaa Gurumata
Shrimati Jayshree Devi Goswamini.
Honouring the dust of her lotus feet, I told her, "Oh Beloved Mother, this lady is my
dear friend, who has come here to get relieved from the enormous pain worldly and
sufferings. We have heard that Srila Patitpavan Maharaj has given shelter to the
women, so, to take refuge in His lotus feet, we have arrived here. Please be merciful
towards us and give us His darshan to quench our extreme thirst."
Sannyasini Ashram Acharyaa said to us, "You are very fortunate , that's why you have
desired to get darshan of such a great personality. Scriptures reveal
a "Durlabhah manusyadeha dehinang kshanbhanguram |

tatrapi durlabhang manye vaikuntha priyadarshanam||" a
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SRADDHANJALI
a
We have obtained this human life after roaming through 84 lacs of species. If we do
not perform Haribhajan, then we have to again take birth as animals. The original
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identity of Jiva (living entity) is eternal servant of Krishna. Whether we offer our devotional
service to Him or not, we are all His servants. Jiva is anu chaitanya (marginal fraction
of the eternal consciousness) while Bhagavan is vibhu chaitanya (massive eternal
consciousness and knowledge),i.e, jiva is insignificant fraction of Bhagavan. Sri
Chaitanya Charitamrita states,
"Jalaja Nava Lakshani Sthavara Lakshavingsatih

Krimayo Rudrasankhakah pakshinang dasalakshanam
Tringsallakshani pashuvah chaturlakshani manushah"
We have taken uncountable number of births and deaths in this world, but
have not been able to perform Haribhajan. Do you know the reason behind this? "Jihva
paiyao nara vine anya prani na balite pare krishna nama hena dhvani"
(Despite all the animals having tongue, without human beings, no other animals can
utter the holy name of Sri Krishna).
Hence, taking shelter of a bonafide spiritual master and opportunity to be ecstatic
in chanting the name of Lord Sri Hari, are rare opportunities which come only in this
birth, no other births. Hence, Mahaprabhu while indicating to Sachimata, informed the
people of this material world,
"Sakala janame pita mata save paya,
Guru Krishna nahi mile bujhaha hiyay".
I had something in mind and hence asked her, "What will happen in future?
Who will look after?" Hearing this, Sannyasini, the Head of the Ashram smiled and
replied, "A great question! Do you know what Prabhuji has told us in this respect?
"You all come to me flooding the banks, if you can be contented with whatever
insignificant I can collect in my bag , then you do not need to worry about future at all.
You will surely find many kind hearted devotees coming forward to help and support
you. " Today I can fully realise His valuable words in my heart. While proceeding, we
have come in contact with so many devotees, so many noble souls who are totally
surrendered at the lotus feet of Shree Shree Guru Gauranga. "
"This path is so difficult, then how do you get so much of joy? I am very curious"
I asked, to which the Head of the ashram, Sannyasini Shrimati Jayshree Devi replied,
"You know! Those, who have proper realisation and knowledge, do not give too much
emphasis on enjoyment of senses body and mind. Because such a mundane
enjoyment is temporary. For instance, the materialistic pleasure that you get by looking
at an amazingly beautiful scenery or by relishing different food items, fit to be chewed,
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sucked, licked and drunk, cannot be long-lasting. But in reality, the soul is eternally in
bliss and this enjoyment of the soul can last forever. To make the soul happy and keep a
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it progressive, one has to perform Krishna Bhajan (devotional practise to please Lord
Sri Krishna) taking shelter of the lotus feet of Sri Guru. Just think what identity we
would have today? Either a service person or a house-wife. Today Prabhuji has elevated
us to the zenith of spiritual practice and realisation and thereby, proved that the
womenfolk are not inferior to men in any respect, not considering the physical strength."
More and more advice we are to hearing from the lotus mouth of Ashram Acharyaa
and Head, Sannyasini Shrimati Jayshree Devi, the more we were getting enchanted.
We understood, She is the one who can give us directions to the correct path we
have been searching for. Hence, we offered prostrated obeisances to Her lotus feet.
"Please come with me" said Ashrama Acharyaa and took us to the second
floor through the narrow stairs. She stood in front of a room and we followed her. A
sweet fragrance was coming out of the room and it appeared to be a sacred temple to
me. Following Gurumata, we entered the room and took darshan of the deity of a
great personality - with Harinama japamala in His hand, Tulsi beads around his neck,
Urdhvapundra Tilaka in His forehead, and a lustrous glow emanating from His sacred
body. Offering her dandavat pranam in front of the radiant deity form, Sannyasini told
us - "This is the great personality - our dearmost Prabhuji - who, getting pain-staken at
the misery of the women, has given the women devotees a secured shelter to perform
sadhana (spiritual practice) and bhajan (devotional activities). Please offer your pranam
(obeisances)".
Offering our respectful obeisances, we started crying, considering ourselves

to be extremely unfortunate for being unable to get His physical darshan, thinking who
will give us shelter now? Sannyasini - the Head of the ashram consoled us saying,
"Oh please do not cry. Though he is not perceivable by our physical eyes, He has kept
all His Shakti (potency) for us. Empowered with His potency, the women devotees are
progressing, so many obstructions have come to get them off the rails, but could not.
His mercy is infinite. He had said, a storm will rise, but do not get scared, always think
of Sri Guru Gauranga as the helmsman, while progressing in your path, then you will
not get troubled. " While speaking, tears of love started rolling down both the eyes of
Shrimati Jayshree Devi.
Coming in contact with such a motherly figure, we could not feel that Prabhuji
has manifested disappearance pastime. Sannyasini, the Head of the Ashram added,
"He has established several branches of Prapanna Ashram with his transcendental
droplets of blood. One can still hear vibrations of the words "Prabhuji! Prabhuji!" from
the brick, wood and stones that the building is made up of".
"We do not wish to go anywhere else, please bless us with the dust from the
lotus feet of your Gurudeva and give us a new birth- a new life", we spoke as we
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embraced the lotus feet of Shrimati Jayshree Devi. We concluded, "Oh beloved mother!
We take refuge unto your Lotus Feet, please enlighten us with the proper direction of
our life".
a
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SRADDHANJALI
a Shrimati Jayshree Devi - the Head of the ashram, the most beloved of Srila
a
Prabhuji, with Her hands folded, uttered, "Let us all pray together unto Him! Oh deliverer
of the women! Oh shelter of the orphans! Please bless us so that we can keep your
great idealism in our hearts! So that we can perform Sri krishna bhajan, under the
spiritual shelter and guidance of those close associates of yours - those Vaishnavas
and Vaishnavis, in the heart of whom you have manifested yourself "
Oh beloved elder sister, Shrimati Jayshree Devi Goswamini, please accept this
precious remembrance as my offering on your Vyasa Puja.
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SRADDHANJALI
a SNEHA DHANYA
-Sripad Dvijen Brahmachari
a
(Sannyasa name: Sripad Akinchan Maharaja)
(Transliterated from Bengali)
Saral bhagavat seva parayane aarti

Sangjam tyager apurva pratimurti
Adhyatmik jagate kripapusta jana
Sri Prabhujir snehadhanya sishya o santan
Subho chintane sada sarbada vyasta
Iswar darshane atmaswarupe pratisthita
Bhagavat seva Iswar aradhanai bala
Jagater ar sakal karma nishfal
Mane prane prabhujike jenechen jini
Sakal kathai sikhechen Jayashree Rani
Sri Sri Radha Govinda aradhanai sarvasrestha
Seva kare chalben paramayu ache ja avasista
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SRADDHANJALI
a PRAYERS TO THE LOTUS FEET OF MY SANNYASA GURUa

-Sannyasini Shrimati Mamata Devi Goswamini
Oh my dearest elder sister,
On occasion of your 65th divine appearance Day, I offer my sincerest regards,
heart-felt love and humblemost obeisances unto your lotus feet. You are such a great
personality, such a magnanimous woman, who has given shelter to so many women
devotees aspiring for dedicated lives and under whose peaceful shadow, so many
women devotees are getting motivation to perform devotional service and Hari bhajan.
Not only that, you have united the residents of the ashram - the Vaishnavis and have
given us lessons on how to perform service to Shree Guru and hoe to practise devotion
to Shree Hari. Being a glorious example yourself, you have practically taught us by
your devotional practise.
You and your divine life is the full manifestation of the accomplishment of Srila
Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati Goswami Prabhupad's unfulfilled desire - to achieve which,
our Gurudeva Srila Prabhuji established this Shree Guru Prapanna Ashram, submitting
it to the lotus feet of Srila Prabhupad. The immense respect that all of our god-brothers
and god-sisters from different branches have towards you and above-all the love and
affection with which Srila Prabhuji made you 'Jayshree' (the embodiment of victory
and fortune), proves the fact without any trace of doubt. The way you have submitted
yourself unto the lotus feet of Sri Hari, Guru and Vaishnavas with your body, mind and
speech, without indulging in mutual conflicts or disputes, ignoring the tremendous
influence of kaliyuga and hoisting the flag of infinite patience and humility - this is a
great lesson for all of us - This is what Srila Prabhupad had wanted and this is what
Srila Prabhuji had desired.
Our most beloved Gurudeva used to inspire us to perform Haribhajan on every
Ekadashi Tithi, and make us take a vow that we would never leave this ashram,
surrendered to the lotus feet of Srila Prabhupad and get distracted from the path of
pure devotion. However, when the violent storm arose after His disappearance pastime,
seeing the tough path that we had to travel through, many of the residents left the
ashram accepting defeat. However, you never left and in that critical juncture, stood
as our secured shelter for the protection of the treasures of Srila Prabhuji. This, in
many folds, increased my respect towards you.
I have noticed your unlimited love and affection, your extreme austerity and
immense faith as well as attachment towards Guru and Krishna. You are fighting with
indomitable potency against the demonic force that has tried to ruthlessly attack the
women devotees surrendered unto the lotus feet of Srila Prabhuji. I have never heard
any mundane word or self-glorification, anything except the advice and instructions of
Srila Prabhuji, His ideals and thoughts from your lotus mouth. I can find the complete
a
manifestation of all the great qualities of Vaishnava in you. Those who are foolish,
those who are always craving to gain more Name and fame, will only hesitate to
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glorify your service towards Sri Guru and to announce your superiority in the devotional
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SRADDHANJALI
a a
path just in order to serve their ulterior motives - I pity them. Those who have received
direct darshan of Srila Prabhuji and listened to His discourses, surely know that Srila
Prabhuji never accepts any offering from those, who are reluctant to serve under your
anugatya (spiritual guidance). Therefore, I consider myself to be blessed and very
fortunate that I have received sannyasa initiation and vesha from you.
I repeatedly offer you my heartiest thanks for your compassion towards the
women devotees, for your tireless efforts in practising and spreading the instructions
of Srila Rupa-Raghunath Goswami following the footsteps of Srila Prabhupad. All glories
to you and your disciples who are receiving your direct association. All glories to your
most auspicious divine appearance day. On this pious occasion, I again offer my
countless humble obeisances unto your lotus feet and beg for your merciful glance
towards me.
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a
REVERENCE AND LETTER OF OFFERINGS TO SRI SRI GURUMATA
-Sannyasini Shrimati Durga Devi Goswamini
a
Today is such an auspicious day, as you manifested your divine appearance

in this world. You saw the first ray of light of this beautiful world. The Almighty Creator
has undoubtedly created you with the best of the transcendental qualities. No wonder
why, your growing up was very different from the other materialistic persons. You
grew up in a bit unique way. For you, transcendental realisation and consciousness
was the core of everything. You had an intense urge and desire for knowing more
about the Supreme Controller and getting nearer to Him. Hence, later we got you as
an extremely gracious, Spiritual Mother, full of bliss and consciousness. Our beloved
Param gurudeva "Sri Srila Prabhuji" blessed you with all the transcendental qualities
and divine potency that He possessed and called you as 'Jaya'. Right from that day,
you became the Mother of the World - the bosom friend of the distressed living entities.
When the world gets occupied with terribly wrong activities and ruthless torture,
people start to forget all the good qualities that they possessed. Those who are honest
and truthful are oppressed by the dishonest persons. In such critical juncture, the
Supreme-Controller Himself sends some extra ordinary souls gifted with His divine
potency to this world. They take initiatives of cleaning the society by purifying the
hearts of the people. And noticing their efforts to deliver us, we, unknowingly end up
surrendering ourselves unto their lotus feet, saying -
"Sadhi Mam Tam Prapannam"
You are the only ray of transcendental knowledge in our material lives, which
guides us in this dark and inaccessible path, full of false attachment. Oh Gurumata!
Please forgive our ignorance and bestow pure devotion upon us.
Through the celebration of your auspicious appearance day, may our worldly
attachments get eroded, thereby developing a sense of deep attachment towards
you.
Please bless us with the required strength-
So that, we can transcend the path of bhakti as shown by you, while still walking
through this temporary world; so that we can fulfill Srila Prabhuji's vision and develop
a new world full of devotion to Lord Shri Hari.
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SRADDHANJALI
a HEART-FELT OFFERING ON THE OCCASION OF SRI VYASA PUJA

-Sri Srila Bhaktivedanta Atulananda Acharya Maharaj
a
(Acharya, Vrinda Mission, Chile)
All glories to Srimati Gurumata Parivrajika Acharyaa Jayshree Devi Goswamini!

No doubt the full world is completely blessed because of your presence in this earth.
Your position is very important, one reason is, that it is very inspiring for so many
mataji devotees, who many times need to take advice from a female saintly person
like you. So, I was very happy when I knew about you. Here, in the Western countries,
many times they ask if we have female gurus, now we can say, with great pride, that
yes, we have, and surely you are inspiring many others to take the same sacred
service.
I know that your life has been completely surrendered and pure, and, for this
reason, Sri Guru and Krishna have put you in this transcendental service for the welfare
of all souls. You are giving trascendental shelter to so many souls, and, surely, many
many more will come to surrender unto your lotus feet.
I'm very happy because of this, and I congratulate you because it is not an
easy service, but, as you know, it is the most beloved by Sri Krishna, and it is the
divine order of Mahaprabhu.
I pray for you to continue being fully blessed by Sri Sri Guru and Krsna. It is your
natural right for being so exemplary pure and surrendered to the divine plane.
So, wishing a very nice day for you, along with your many spiritual sons and daughters.
I pray to be able to remain as your servant, and to be able to meet you again and, in
that way, be completely blessed by your divine association.
Vaisnava-vrnda ki jay!
All glories to your glorious appearance day!
Sri Vyasapuja ki jay!
KKKK
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SRADDHANJALI
a OFFERINGS ON GURUMATA'S VYASA PUJA

-Swami Srila Bhakti Svarupa Damodar Maharaja (Rouen, France)
a
Dear Gurumata Parivrajika Shrimati Jayshree Devi,
Accept my humble homage to your lotus feet on this day of your appearance.
I am truly admiring to see in our lineage, an acarya woman and I am a fervent
admirer of the example you bring to all your disciples. Your spiritual master, Sri
Srimad Patitpavan Goswami Maharaj was such a great revolutionary Vaisnava,
worthy of being the successor of Srila Prabhupada.
May you bless me on this day.
Swami Bhakti Svarupa Damodar
KKKK
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SRADDHANJALI
aOFFERING TO GURUMATA ON HER 65TH APPEARANCE DAYa

-Shrimati Jay Bhakti Devi Dasi Maharani
(San Diego, California, USA)
Shrimati Jayshree Devi Goswamini's 65th appearance day invites my heart to

pray to the sun and the moon, the earth and the wind, and all the elements and universes
to join my humble intention to praise her glories. Shrimati Jayshree Devi Goswamini
came to my life in Vrindavan, a few days after confirming my vows as a Maharani,
filling me with the hope and joy that such a mission was possible; to be a renunciate
woman committed to spread the practice of loving God, protecting Mother Earth, and
encouraging humankind to love each other.
Her role model could not be more fitting to my needs, a mother giving shelter to mothers,
a woman empowering and protecting women, while embracing everyone without
distinction of gender, age, culture, nationality, or anything external to our true nature as
spiritual souls.
Gurumata Shrimati Jayshree Goswamini, thanks for your smile like thousands of suns,
for your kindness and compassion, for your constant service offering shelter through
spiritual knowledge of the eternally magnificent life and pastimes of Sri Chaitanya
Mahaprabhu. Everyone needs to know God and establish a relationship with the Divine,
but too many people lack this essential connection as they do not understand their
basic needs and live in unhappiness.
Thanks so much for your daily commitment to change the current order of things and
bring the souls back to their natural state of eternal pure joy. Like the souls, which are
female, women are naturally happy sources of life and nourishment, which need
protection and encouragement to safely give their best to the world. Thanks for providing
women the means to find the highest happiness stored in the Names of the most
merciful form of the Lord, Sri Krsna Chaitanya, who lives in your beautiful person, in
everything coming from your strong life and the most powerful voice of your sweet
chanting.
Your humble aspiring servant,
Jay Bhakti Devi Dasi Maharani.
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SRADDHANJALI
a HUMBLE OFFERING
-Sripad Achyutananda Brahmachari
a
Offering of this poor soul on occasion of 65th divine appearance day

and 25th year of Acharya Lila celebration of our most revered Gurumata
Parivrajika Shrimati Jayshree Devi Goswamini.
Oh my most worshipable Gurumata,

Even an ignorant soul like me, who is averse to Lord Sri Hari, has been able to
perceive, with the help of your mercy, that You are the dearmost disciple of Sri Srila
Prabhuji. Even the stones and bricks of Sri Guru Prapanna Ashram speak and glorify
your service towards Sree Guru. You have been able to please your Gurudeva Srila
Prabhuji by performing the greatest of services - by taking best care of Him (paricharya)
as well as by spreading His glories and Instructions (prasanga) and hence you gradually
became Jayasree from Jaya.
Oh most beloved disciple of Srila Prabhuji,

You have been able to make Srila Prabhuji happy by making several impossible
tasks possible during His physical presence in this world, and even after He left the
world, in different critical situations, the service that you performed in order to improve
the condition of the ashram, deserves special mention. During His physical presence,
we have seen that Prabhuji used to feel most relaxed when you took the responsibility
of performing any service, rather than someone else in the ashram. And that's why
before leaving this world, He has given the huge responsibility of taking care of all the
branches of Shree Guru Prapanna Ashram upon you - the recipient of His greatest
affection. You have established the beautiful samadhi Mandir and deity of Srila Prabhuji
in Budge Budge, founded a new branch of the ashram in Tollygunge, Kolkata, started
the Vishnupriya para Vidyapith School, acted as the editor and publisher of spiritual
books, served the role of Joint Secretary on Women protection in World Vaishnava
Association and revealed the ideals of Srila Prabhuji to the Western devotees - Thereby
receiving utmost blessings of Srila Prabhuji.
If we remain under the spiritual guidance (anugatya) of you - our beloved

Gurumata, i.e, the present Acharyaa of Shree Guru Prapanna Ashram - Om Vishnupad
Paramhansa 108 Srimati Jayshree Devi, and immerse ourselves in Haribhajan in the
Maths practising pure devotion under your instructions, then, surely our lives will be
successful as the servants of Saraswat family.
Your aspiring servant,
a KKKK
The lowest being, Achyutananda.
a
43
SRADDHANJALI
a ARATI KIRTAN OF GURUMATA

-Composed by Sripad Achyutananda Brahmachari (co-editor)
a
Jaya jaya Gurumatar arati nehari

Shree Guru Prapannashrame jau balihari
Dakshine satirthavrinda vame priyajan
Sanmukhe archane Hare Krishna (das) adi gan
Basi achen Gurumata pushpa sinhasane
Arati karen Achyuta-adi bhaktagane
Prabhu charan mukut kari Prabhur pada dhari
Gurumata ashen bashi Prabhure namashkari
Panchapradipa Dhupa, Sankha Karpura Bati
Haridasa-Sudevi kare Gurumar Arati
Gita-Mamata-Ananda Guru Vandana gaya
Mahanande Paramananda Chamara dhulaya
(Chamara dhulay re,

Gurumar priya bhaktagane chamara dhulaya re
Gurumar sukha abhilashe chamarab dhulaya re
Jay Gurumata Jaya Gurumata ….)
Sankha vaje Ghanta vaje, vaje karatala

Nanavidha vadya vaje parama rasala
Dharma - Sujan-adi bajaya mridanga
Ranga-Yamuna-Gauri mage taar sanga
Lalita-Alo-Shyamali bajaya kashara
Namita-Nanda-Subhadra bajaye jhajhara
Bahu bahu chandra jini Sri-vadana kamala
(Aaar bahu gune gunanvita Sri-charana kamala
Aaar varabhaya pradayaka Sri kara kamala)
Shyama Dashir Mala-mukut kare jhala mala
(Jhalamala kare re
Kata Anurager gatha mala jhala mala kare re
Binasutay gatha mala jhalamala kare re
Guru bhakti sutre gatha mala jhala mala kare re)
Jaya Gurumata Jaya Gurumata Dayamayi Jaya Gurumata--
(Dekho dekho) Vadana sundar padma-palasha lochana
a
Tejodipto ange sobhe gairik vasana
a
44
SRADDHANJALI
a
Priya prestha sevakadi bhabe gadagada
Achyutananda dekhe prabhujir jaya sampada ||
a
(Prabhur sampad seyi to dekhe…
Prabhu daya karen jare, prabhur sampad seyi to dekhe
Prabhu pade pran sape je, prabhur sampad seyi to dekhe
Prabhu vai aar jane na je, se 'jaya' sampad seyi to dekhe)
(eibar amay kara daya

Gurumata Sri (mati) Jayshree Devi eibar amay kara daya
Tomar abhay pade sthan diya eibar amay kara daya
Sri charane nistha diya eibar amay kara daya
anartha -aparadh ghuchaiya eibar amay kara daya
Jaya Gurumata Jay Gurumata Kripamayi Jaya Gurumata)
KKKK
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SRADDHANJALI
a a
a a
46
SRADDHANJALI
OFFERING UNTO THE LOTUS FEET OF THE MOSTa

aFLOWER BELOVED DISCIPLE OF SRILA PRABHUJI
-Brahmacharini Shrimati Runu Devi
I consider myself very fortunate to be able to submit my offering in the form of

words to the lotus feet of Gurumata Shrimati Jayshree Devi Goswamini - the present
acharyaa of Shree Guru Prapanna Ashram, on the occasion of Her 65th divine
appearance Day and 25th year of Acharya lila.
Oh Gurumata - the shelter of the distressed and orphans,
It is my great pleasure that right from my childhood I have been able to receive your
darshan and association. I have received the opportunity to learn service from you
and serve our most worshipable Gurudeva, Srila Prabhuji under your guidance. And
till today, I have been engaged in service of Srila Prabhuji's institution with your mercy.
I have received the Gayatri Mantras from you because of your utmost mercy towards
me, hence you are my 'Guru'. Besides, from my tender age I have received your
infinite affection and love and hence you adorn the seat of my 'Mother' in my heart. Not
just me, you have raised so many children in the ashram with great care so that they
can become fragrant flowers surrendered unto the lotus feet of Srila Prabhuji.
I used to always notice how much respect and honour all the Vaishnavas and Vaishnavis
of the ashram had for you. And you also reciprocated each and every time with all the
Vaishnava etiquettes, being an epitome of humility. You were the object of the greatest
mercy of Srila Prabhuji and hence all the services in the ashram were administered
under your able guidance. Right from buying and protecting the lands of the ashram to
publishing spiritual books and magazines including tri-monthly Bhakti-argha magazine
- you have maintained everything with unlimited skills and capabilities. You had taken
the responsibility of writing about the life and biography of Srila Prabhuji - who offered
His life for the spiritual upliftment of the women devotees. Everyday, amidst so many
services, you used to make time for surrendering yourself in writing this biography of
Srila Prabhuji. Your firm faith and sincere devotion towards Sri Guru is known even by
the bricks, woods and stones of the ashram. During the illness pastime of Srila Prabhuji,
you left everything and took Srila Prabhuji to Vellore so that He could get the best
treatment. Your Guruseva is infinite, how can an insignificant, weak, lowly being like
me glorify your service to Sri Guru?
On the last Guru Purnima when Srila Prabhuji was physically manifesting Himself in
this world, you were the only one who received His mercy to offer Him the last
Pushpanjali (flower-offering). Adorning Him with lotus garland, you offered Him the
last bhoga (food offering) and Prabhu bestowed you with all His potency, before leaving
the material world for Goloka.
And then after His disappearance pastime, you defended the ashram amidst the utmost
a chaos and disorder. In your shadow, the ashram has received protection - we have
received secure shelter. However, though you always defended us from the opposing a
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a
forces, I have never found you to be aggressive or using harsh words. You have a
always maintained the humility and Vaishnava etiquette, being the personification of
Srila Prabhuji's ideals and teachings. Many disciples of Srila Prabhuji have failed to
perform service for Him or His mission till the end, however, I have witnessed how
you, embracing Srila Prabhuji's lotus feet in your heart, have surrendered yourself for
showing the ray of light to the weak and fallen souls - women like us.
You have been always concerned about my physical and mental illness and have
made multiple attempts so that my health condition improves and I am able to engage
in the service of Sri Sri Radha Govinda - such is the extent of your causeless mercy
towards me. Hence in this pure moment of your Vyasa Puja, I repeatedly offer my
earnest prayers unto your lotus feet, so that I can always serve Srila Prabhuji under
your spiritual guidance - so that I never leave your lotus feet. Please forgive all my
offenses and award me with the dust of your lotus feet.
Servant of your servant,
Shrimati Runu Devi.
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SRADDHANJALI
a YADI GURUMATA NA HAITA

-Brahmacharini Srimati Ruma Devi
a
Yadi Gurumata na haita Tabe ki haita

(eman) Snehamayi ache ke?
Gurusevar Mahima Vaishnavir Garima
Jagate barato ke?
Labh Puja Tyaji Prabhur sevaya maji
Kataile kata kal!
Patita uddhari Diya Kripavari
Kata abhagare pala ||
Gao Gao Punah Gauranger Guna
Anugata kari man |
(eman) dhairyer sagar Kripa paravar
Na dekhiye ekajan ||
Jaya Gurumata baliya Saran na laiya
Kemane Thakinu Dure?
Nija sneha diya Aparadh bhuliya
Charane rakhiho more||
( amay charan chara koro na go….
Tomar charane eibar saran nilam…
Param dayamayi Gurumatar oi charane saran nilam…
Jaya Gurumata Jaya Gurumata…..)
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SRADDHANJALI
a OFFERING OF THE HEART

-Brahmacharini Shrimati Malina Devi
a
Oh Gurumata - the deliverer of all fallen souls,

Since the time when I took shelter in your lotus feet , getting enchanted by
your darshan, 15 long years have passed. I was the most unworthy, incapable and
lowest of all. But still, showering your causeless mercy upon me, you have given me
the opportunity to serve the deities, serve Shri Rajkumar Gaurahari Jiu in Budge
Budge branch since last 8 years, so I feel very fortunate.
But still, I consider myself very unfortunate at the same time, because, despite noticing
everyone serving their beloved Gurumata, I cannot find time to serve You - The Lord
of my life, because of my responsibility of serving the temple deities. So I feel very
sad about myself.
However, I did not know that you have so much mercy towards me. I realised
this on the day of Akshay Tritiya this year, when I became severely ill. You were very
busy with the centenary celebration of Srila Prabhuji's appearance day. Amidst so
many of your responsibilities and so much service, my becoming sick created a lot
of distress in your mind.
Our only shelter is your lotus feet. So, I found no other path than to cry, falling
on your lotus feet. And that was when I realised how the object of surrender showers
mercy on the surrendered soul . Your causeless mercy started flowing. You blessed
me so much, keeping your lotus hand on my head, uttering - "Oh dear! What happened
to you? You used to perform so much of service!" Immediately you sent me to the
hospital with Ruma di. However, I fainted as soon as I reached the hospital and they
were ignorant to admit me because of my serious condition. My pulse was very
weak. Hearing this, amidst so much service, you physically rushed to the hospital
and signed the bond so that my treatment starts as soon as possible, as the doctors
were not ready to take risk of treating me without the bond. You surrendered me to
the lotus feet of Sri Sri Guru Gauranga with firm faith. After three days, I recovered
and returned from the hospital. I felt as if I got a new birth. I realised that the mercy of
Guru is infinite.
I did not have words to express my gratitude to you when I returned. You told
me, "I will not be able to save you again , if you do not perform Haribhajan sincerely".
I understood that you yourself have saved my life, have offered me with new body for
Haribhajan. I have received your association since last one and half month, under
your instruction. I had no idea about the essence of Gurutatva. Now I have understood
that I could not have survived without your blessings. Though I was unable to perform
Haribhajan and serve you properly, you have seen me as your own child!
So, on your divine appearance day, I pray unto your lotus feet, please kindly keep
showering your mercy and blessings on me so that I can serve your institution -
Shree Guru Prapanna Ashram till my last breath, under your spiritual guidance, following
your order and instructions.
Aspiring to serve your lotus feet,
a KKKK
Most unfortunate soul, Malina Dasi
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SRADDHANJALI
a KABE GURUMATA MORE KARIBENA DAYA a

-Brahmacharini Shrimati Urmila Devi
(transliterated from Bengali)
Kabe Gurumata more karibena daya |

Kabe ami paibo Prabhujir pada chaya ||
Jnar charan smaran kari Narikul uddhare |
Jnar Kripalesh purno Gurumatar upare ||
Gurumata Jayshree Devi ar sannyasinigan |

Kabe kripa kari deben Prabhur charan ||
Prabhu jader hrid-sampad, paraner dhan |
Gurumatar anugatye vandi tnahar charan ||
Jnar sebar paripatye Prabhu sada sukhi |

(sei) Gurumata kara daya, ami bada dukhi||
Sansarer vandhan ar mayar dahan |
Duriya charane laha adhama taran ||
Vaishnavir Haribhajan viruddha apasiddhanta |

Khandiya karile purusa abhimani khanta ||
Ohe Thakurani tumi susiddhanta sindhu |
Apar karunamayi, bhaktir deho ek bindu ||
Sahya-dhairjya kshama-vinaya dainya adhikari |

Tava guner kana magi dante trina dhari ||
Haiyachen, haben Gurumatar jata dashi |
Sakal Vaishnavir charan sebar abhilashi ||
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SRADDHANJALI
a SAMARPITA
- Srimati Kisori Dasi
a
Krishna srista brahmande ache ek sthan |
Golakar groho seti, dharitri taar nam ||
Aruner kripae se dedipyaman |
Kare rajatva ek devi, 'Maya' tar nam ||
Maya bada shaktisali, jive putul nach nachay |

Diye prakanda rath, diye bahutal, jivere hashay ||
Abar kakhana sarvasya kere tader kaday |
Lutoputi khay jiva, maya plabane bhasay ||
Ei dekhe Krishna amar halen asrusikta |

Kemne dekhben jivere hoe rikta ||
Gururup dhore elen karte jivere pushta |
Gurur charan dhari jivatma holo tushta ||
Siksha Guru Diksha Guru elen sata sata |

Mayar sathe juddhe tara hoilen rata ||
Parasta na haya, aghat haney barambar |
Avaseshe Guru pade Maya manila har ||
Krame Guru karilen jiver prati daya |

Karnamule diya mantra, ghochailen maya ||
Andhakup hate tule, jivere karilen tran |
Jivatma porlo krishnapade, hridaya charlo abhiman ||
Emoni chilen dharay Gurudeva ek mahan |

Akinchan Krishnaprem jini korechen daan ||
Narigane dilen tini Krishna sevar adhikar |
Patitpavan prabhur charane mayera pelo bhaktidvar ||
Tnari snehadhanyaa Devi Goswamini Jayashree |

Hridaya jar kripar sagar, rupe bada susri ||
Bahu baddha jivatma jar karunay hoyechen dhanya |
Jini bhed karechen kathin vastab aranya ||
Bhabisyate jini karben aro bahu jivoddhar |

Aj subho janmadine kari tare namashkar ||
a Hey Devi esho esho, jantranay katar bahu pran |

Dan kara asim Krishnaprem, karo karo moder paritran ||
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SRADDHANJALI
a OUR MOTHER - JAYSHREE MATA

-Smt Ramita Majumdar
a
(Renowned poet and literary personality)
“Hey Krishna Karuna Sindhu Dina vandhu Jagatpate

Gopesha Gopikakanta Radhakanta Namastute”
Lord Shri Krishna is non-different from Shrimati Radharani and Shri Krishna
Chaitanya Mahaprabhu is none other than the unification of the Supreme Lord and His
potency - Sri Radha-Krishna. Surrendered at the lotus feet of Shri Mahaprabhu is our
‘Maa’ - Shrimati Jayshree Devi - the present Acharyaa of Shri Guru Prapanna Ashram.
‘Ma’ is a monosyllabic mantra - a short word, very easy to pronounce, but

covers a wide range of spectrum. Our ‘Ma’ - Shrimati Jayshree Devi, through her
utmost devotion to Shriman Mahaprabhu and sincere devotional practises to please
Shri Krishna, has adorned the position of ‘Ma’ in its real, widest sense!
She lived like a resident of the ashram even in her home in childhood. Later,
she manifested the pastime of accepting the life of a renunciate, living in the ashram
and receiving spiritual initiation from her most revered Gurudeva, Shrila Patitpavan
Goswami Maharaja - who Himself had taken shelter of Shrila Prabhupad from His
tender age. Under His able guidance, started her spiritual life - her sadhana , bhajan
(devotional activities), japa (chanting), tapa (austerity) and Guru-seva (service to Shri
Guru). Following very strict rules and regulations, attaining victory over numerous
hurdles, she started climbing up the stairs of brahmacharya one after another. She
started progressing fast along the path of Hari bhajan, based on the directions shown
by her beloved spiritual master. Neither did she have any account of the changing
days and nights, nor any idea about the happenings of the external material world -
she was completely absorbed in the nine fold devotional activities - including sravana
(hearing), kirtana (chanting and singing), smarana (remembering the transcendental
pastimes), etc. Her days and nights revolved around dhyana (meditation), japa (chant-
ing), sadhana (devotional practise), puja (worship), path (glorification of topics on Shri
Hari). And then one day, she received Sannyasa - the complete renounced order of
life. She received the sacred saffron robes from her Gurudeva and henceforth came
to be known as Sannyasini Shrimati Jayshree Devi.
Her Gurudeva gave her huge responsibilities of managing and maintaining

different branches of the ashram as well as gave her instructions on opening devo-
tional schools for the spiritual upliftment of the women devotees. Embracing each
a
and every instruction of Srila Gurudeva as her heart and soul, she followed all His
orders and fulfilled His desire of establishing ‘Vishnupriya Para Vidyapith’ (the school
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named after Vishnupriya Devi - the beloved of Shri Gauranga, for distributing the tran-
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SRADDHANJALI
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scendental knowledge on Gaudiya philosophy to the women devotees, even the house-
a
wives).
Many years have passed and today she is the head of several branches of the
institution. She is the diksha-guru , the spiritual master of uncountable devotees. Even
today, she utilises every moment of the day in performing sadhana-bhajana-japa-
tapa, gets absorbed in the holy Name of Shri Krishna, fills the premises of the ashram
with ecstacy with her kirtans. Even today, Mahaprabhu is the sole object of her medi-
tation. She pleases Mahaprabhu through her wonderful rendition of Bhogarati,
Sandhyarati and other transcendental kirtan mellows. Mahaprabhu- who is the ulti-
mate source of all these beautiful sweet kirtans, also joins in ecstacy.
Gurumata gives regular Harikatha discourse on different spiritual topics from

Shrimad Bhagavatam and many other sacred texts - which discloses the proper spiri-
tual path to so many devotees. So many fortunate souls, previously distracted from
the path of righteousness, have found the correct path, by receiving her divine asso-
ciation. She has awakened the spiritual consciousness of so many souls. Today is
her divine appearance day celebration as well as the silver-jubilee celebration of Her
Acharya-lila. On this auspicious day, I offer my heart-felt love and respect unto her
lotus feet.
Jaya Gurumata! My utmost reverence unto your sacred Lotus Feet!
KKKK
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SRADDHANJALI
a PRANATI PUSHPANJALI - OBEISANCES AND FLOWER OFFERINGS

Members of Vishnupriya Para Vidyapith
a
We offer our countless humblemost obeisances unto the lotus feet of our most
beloved Gurumata Shrimati Jayshree Devi Goswamini on Her auspicious divine
appearance day.
"Vande Guru Prabhuprestha varam Jayashree Devi Shrinama dhritang

Komala-kanchana-soumya-tanung Sada Gairik-Shobhita Hasya parang
Patitarta janashraya sneha param pranamami sada Gurumata padam ||"
We worship Gurumata Shrimati Jayshree Devi - the dearmost and most

affectionate disciple of Shrila Prabhuji (Patitpavan Goswami Thakur), whose divine
body is very soft, tender and radiant, who always wear saffron clothes and is ever-
smiling. She is the ultimate refuge of all the fallen and distressed souls, upon whom
she mercifully showers her infinite affection and compassion. I bow down and offer
my obeisances to the lotus feet of Gurumata.
In the bhajan composed by Swami Surdasa, we have heard that the philosopher's
stone (touchstone) does not discriminate between the knives - whether it is present in
the temple or in the house of hunter and converts both into gold. Similarly Gurumata
has taken the role of touchstone in our lives.
We are all housewives, mothers of children - What idea did (or do) we have
about Haribhajan? We used to stay in the darkest ignorance, considering ourselves to
be the objects of enjoyment and having material urges. Who would have taken care of
our spiritual upliftment? Who would have protected us? Who would have even thought
about us? The vows and worships whatever we used to indulge in, were for the
auspiciousness of our families, husband and children. Who would have given us
minimum conception about the nectar - who Gaurahari is and what tatva Guru - Govinda
is? Who would have pulled us from the dreadful materialistic gutter and cleanse our
hearts? Who would have offered us some place for performing Haribhajan in the
male-dominated society? Oh our beloved Gurumata - you are the touchstone, who
a
have showered your infinite mercy on housewives like us. You have delivered us from
a
the poisonous air full of sense enjoyment, and given us the opportunity to honour the
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divine fragrance of the Tulsi anointed with sandalwood, that remains attached to the
lotus feet of Lord Sri Hari. Without discriminating our caste and creed, our financial
status, you have delivered us all, just like the touchstone.
No one has taught us the ultimate goal of life with so much care. We never
knew that even women have the adhikara of deity worship, Shaligrama worship. Amidst
the mountain of sorrow and misery, we were wasting our lives . We would sometimes
get restless and sometimes, being foolish, we would free our thoughts from any
concern about life - till they day when you enlightened us. You have brought vast
changes in our lives and hence we have been able to realise now that "Jiver swarup
haya krishner nitya das". With utmost care, you have taught us the scriptural
injunctions. With utmost affection, you have given us kirtan lessons. Establishing
Vishnupriya Para Vidyapith - the transcendental school, you have taught us how to
practise devotion and how to perform service properly. Just like our mother, you have
neglected and forgiven our faults and mistakes and have explained to us everything
with enormous patience. You have personally taught us everything related to devotional
service - from deity worship to deity dressing, and have mercifully given us adhikara
to perform those services. We have always noticed in your words and instructions,
your indomitable effort to fulfill your Gurudeva's desire - how to engage the womenfolk
in devotional service, grabbing them from the clutches of maya. Therefore, we think
what would our condition be, without your divine presence in our lives? Who else has
thought so much about the spiritual upliftment of the women? Our Paramgurudeva
Srila Patitpavan Goswami Maharaj has always thought about us and has handed over
the responsibility to you as His representative. Hence, you are spending your life
embracing His divine instructions, thinking of those instructions as the only aim of
your life.
The materialistic people of the mundane world have made discriminations for
observance of Ekadashi Vrata, considering only widows as eligible for observing
Ekadashi. However, demolishing their arguments with the knowledge of Vedic literature
and re-establishing the pure devotional path, you have explained to us the glories of
Ekadashi Vrata, informed us about the dangerous faults of Kaliyuga and motivated us
to always remain in the path of righteousness. Only by drop of your mercy and your
a
unlimited affection has it been possible for us to come to the ashram for performing
Haribhajan, even after completing our house duties and responsibilities towards other
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a a
family members. This is like the sole source of happiness and bliss in our lives. Unless
we had received traces of this diamond, we would have wasted such precious
moments of our lives (which cannot be returned at any cost) by remaining engrossed
in mundane talks; watching television, serials, movies; travelling and engaging in all
sorts of sense enjoyments.
Therefore, today, we - all the members of Vishnupriya Para Vidyapith and

devotees of the ashram, want to express our heart full of gratitude and reverence to
you. Please bless us so that, climbing up the stairs of Saranagati, we can progress in
the path of your ideals, the path of pure devotion that was re-established by Srila
Prabhupad. Above-all, please grant our desire that we can always perform service
and bhajan under your spiritual guidance, that we can serve you with the last drop of
blood in our body.
On your auspicious appearance day, please accept this flower-offering

(pushpanjali) as the offering of the body, mind and speech of such insignificant and
lowly beings as us.
Aspiring to serve your Lotus Feet,

Rina, Sikha, Shila, Supriya, Varuni, Padma, Vakula, Rekha, Sobha, Manasi, Indira,
Lakshmi and all other members of Vishnupriya Para Vidyapith.
KKKK
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a WHAT IS GURUTATTVA AND WHO IS GURUMATA?

Shrimati Lalita Dasi (Lali)
a
All glories to Shree Guru and Shree Gauranga

All glories to our most beloved Gurumata Her Divine Grace Shrimati Jayshree Devi
Goswamini
"Kripasindhuh susampurnah sarvasatvapakarakah
Nishprihah sarvatah sidhhah sarvavidyavisharadah
Sarva samsaya sanchettahanalaso gururahritah ||"
Guru is one who is the source of unlimited mercy, does not need anything as
he/she is full of eternal bliss and consciousness, reservoir of all transcendental
qualities, invokes auspiciousness in everyone's life, has no material desire, is expert
in scriptures and knower of bhakti - which is the essence of brahmavidya, is capable
of destroying all the doubts of the disciples and is always engaged in loving devotional
service of Shri Hari.
Sri Guru is extremely merciful and kind, always extending his/her arms of mercy and
compassion towards the practitioners of bhakti. So, if we start our devotional practise,
taking proper shelter of a bonafide guru, then Bhakti will surely flow to us. But for that,
we need to be humbly following the spiritual guidance of Sri Guru and Vaishnavas.
Externally, Guru may appear serious and strict, but internally he/she is very tender
and full of affection. He is omniscient and hence can realise whatever activity or service
the sadhaka is performing. In this devotional path, we should be very concerned not to
perform any offense unto the lotus feet of Guru Vaishnavas, as it displeases the
Supreme Lord. We cannot engage in any devotional practise successfully, without
taking Guru's guidance or without satisfying Sri Guru. Else, even though we are reading
and listening to scriptures and kirtans, everything will end up in failure, everything will
become lifeless mere imitation. So, while performing bhajan we have to be very
concerned about this - whether Sri Guru is happy with my service and devotional
activity.
One should meditate upon His/Her Guru in the following way:
Sri Guru has lustre and elegance of thousands of moons. His/Her beautiful arms are
always blessing us and removing our fears. He/she wears white or saffron dress and
is adorned with garlands made of white flowers. His/Her divine body is anointed with
sandalwood paste. He/she is full of bliss and tranquility. His/Her eyes are as beautiful
as the petals of lotus and palash flowers. He/She has an ever-smiling face and is
always engaged in Haribhajan. His/Her body is transcendental and is always eager to
shower His/Her merciful blessings. He/She always remembers and follows the
footsteps of His/Her spiritual master and the lineage. He/She has golden complexion
a
and divine lustre and has an appearance of a nava-kisora or kisori, who is always
indulged in devotional service .
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a The scriptures do not emphasise on male-female bodily difference of souls. a

This is because, all the creation is part of the female, prakriti. The only male form or
purusa is Lord Krishna. Still, we create these distinctions with our foolish and ignorant
mentality. When Mahaprabhu uttered, Jare Dekho Tare Kaha, He did not discriminate
between male-female or on the basis of caste-creed-class etc and wanted to impartially
indulge everyone in this Sankirtan Yajna. Embracing this divine knowledge, our
Paramgurudeva Srila Patitpavan Goswami Thakura, had poured the mercy of
Mahaprabhu onto a capable reservoir as our Gurumata Shrimati Jayshree Devi
Goswamini, who was His most beloved disciple. He wanted to emphasise that the
women are very much capable of performing devotion, through chanting and singing
Harinama as well as engaging in service to please Lord Sri Hari. The scriptures and
the great personalities tell us that Vishnupriya Thakurani was Herself the very
manifestation of nine-fold devotional practises (bhakti). Mahaprabhu Himself has
empowered Her for the spiritual upliftment of women in the society. Similarly, Srimati
Jahnava Mata was also empowered by Shri Nityananda Prabhu.
So our Gurumata, adorning the position of Acharyaa based on the wishes of Her
Gurudeva, is distributing the mercy and nectar of instructions that she has received
from her Gurudeva. We are blessed to hear about the transcendental Name, Form,
Qualities and Pastimes of the Lord from the lotus mouth of Gurumata, in the bonafide
lineage of spiritual masters, in the path of pure devotion. Shriman Mahaprabhu has
Himself told us that there is no discrimination of caste and creed in the practise of
Bhakti Yoga, so we should all indulge ourselves in devotion and inspire others to practise
devotion - This is the best path, which can bring auspiciousness in the world. Hence,
we - the entire women folk would have to distribute Mahaprabhu's divine message
and instructions, remaining under the spiritual guidance of Gurumata. This is how we
can bring happiness in the lives of the people. When Mahaprabhu's close associate,
merciful Sri Advaita Acharya told Shriman Mahaprabhu "Yadi bhakti bilaiba, stri sudra
adi saba murkhere se diba", Mahaprabhu himself vowed to fulfill His desire.
The women in the Vedic age - Gargi, Maitreyi, Lilavati etc were very knowledgeable
and expert in scriptures. They were self-realised souls and used to participate in
discussions and arguments on scriptural injunctions with the men. Later on, Mirabai
and Sabari could also attain the Supreme Lord , despite being female-bodied. In
Srimadbhagavat Gita also, Shri Krishna says,
"Mang hi partha byapasrita jehapesuh papyonayah
Striyo vaishyastatha sudra tehapiyanti paramgatim"
Oh Arjuna! Those who take shelter in Me, though they may be of lower birth or
women, vaisyas [merchants], as well as sudras [workers], they can approach the
supreme destination.
After coming in contact with the lotus feet of Gurumata, I have understood that She
surely belongs to Goloka. She is none other than the personal attendant of Shrimati
a
Radharani - that is Her original manifestation. She has appeared in this material world
taking female body as well, to set Her example and inspire the worldly people, especially
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the women that even they can reach the supreme destination, can attain the ultimate
stage of bhakti. They can also succeed in performing devotional practise and service,
a
they can also preach other people as well as manage and protect ashrams as the
head of the institutions, adorning the seat of Acharyaa. Hence, her 65th divine
appearance day and 25th year anniversary of Acharya Lila, helps us realise that even
fallen souls as us, can bring the auspicious presence of bhakti in our lives, can make
our lives successful by taking shelter and spiritual guidance from an extra-ordinary
personality as Her. The female body is not a low or impure body, rather, being devoid
of the male dominant nature and arrogance, is more favorable to performing bhakti.
The creator has sent us with this wonderful female body. We should think of ourselves
as fortunate and try to utilise this rare opportunity. We should not waste this life in vain,
being reluctant to perform Haribhajan. The divine life of our most revered Gurumata is
a glorious example of this very fact. Hence, on Her divine appearance day, I pray that
may She give us the capability to absorb whatever spiritual wealth she has bestowed
upon us and also, may She keep distributing the rarest, divine spiritual wealth to the
other deprived, ignorant souls to bring auspiciousness in their lives.
Jaya Gurumata.
KKKK
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aHEART-FELT RESPECTFUL OFFERING ON OCCASION OF VYASA PUJA

- Shrimati Ananda Devi Dasi (Alpana)
a
Around ten years ago, enlightening our locality in Bansdroni, named 'Jayasree',
arrived our Gurumata Shrimati Jayshree Devi. It seemed as if our locality was waiting
to get shelter under Her lotus feet. Since that time, I have had the good fortune of
getting Her divine association and remaining under Her merciful shadow.
I had no idea about the notion of Gurutatva and Iswartatva, nor do I have now.
However, after coming in contact with her and by receiving merciful darshan of Her
deities, I have been able to realise a little bit. She used to stay calm and patient, in
different adverse situation, which greatly surprised me! I have come to know that after
spending these 47 long years in ashram, she had enough experience of dealing with
several such chaotic situations! Her faith in Sree sree Guru Gauranga can't be
expressed in words. Her firm determination and reliance, her confidence as well as
the influence of her Haribhajan never fails to amaze me. Indeed, the ashram faced
different critical situation, but in the long run, could not be harmed.
I have observed - so much disrespect she had to bear, so many harsh words
she had to hear from so many people, to protect the ashram - and all this, after
surrendering her entire life in the lotus feet of Sri Bhagavan. I think, if we would face so
many adverse situations, we would have easily accepted defeat, getting utterly upset
and irritated. However, she smiled and said, "Why are you worrying so much? Though
they have not shown proper respect or have used harsh words, but have I accepted
those? When someone gives you something which you are not supposed to receive,
you should reject them - that's the trick. Do you know what Srila Prabhuji has taught
us? These are dirts of the drains and gutters and it is not our task to deal with these.
Our task is to always engage in the service and bhajan of Sri Hari ". She never accepts
anyone's offenses. She is always eager to shower her mercy on the fallen and distribute
the divine instructions of her Gurudeva among everyone. She is herself the ocean of
compassion. So many physically and mentally less capable souls come to her for
shelter and she, keeping them in her shelter, gives them opportunity to learn service
and to serve.
An acharya of the ashram, being the Head, would occupy one of the best rooms
in the ashram - that's my notion, based on what I have seen in different maths and
missions. But our Gurumata performs Haribhajan staying in a hut with a tin roof. And
even, that is not a private room. Keeping the private rooms for other members of the
ashram, she, with a table-chair and her bed, lives in one corner of the hallroom, where
we all honour prasadam. Her extreme austerity and sacrifice brings tears to our eyes.
Sometimes, in the afternoon, she lies down at the back side of the Natmandir to take
some rest. She has not kept any attendant for herself and even today travels alone in
a
bus, train and metro.
Observing Her, I have realised how can one become Acharyaa - Not by forcibly
capturing administrative power, but silently through one's own devotional practise.
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Amidst so much service that she still performs, she would find gaps to complete her
Harinama chanting. Staying far away from the light of Name and Fame, always engaging
a
Herself in Harinama and Harikatha, she is constantly preaching us by dint of her own
example.
Whoever comes in her association, gains lots of strength to perform Haribhajan
and service to Sri Hari. I have been enchanted by her melodious voice of kirtans.
From childhood, I had an urge of learning and singing songs. But it was not feasible at
that time. So I had an internal desire to please Sri Guru Vaishnava Bhagavan, by
singing kirtans. However, after managing the responsibilities of the family - husband,
children and after all-day long service, it was very difficult to manage time to come to
the temple to sing kirtans. When I expressed this to Gurumata, she gave me lots of
motivations and mercifully empowered me so that I am capable of performing this
service. Since then, with her causeless mercy and praying for her pleasure, we - the
women, unite together in the temple every evening to sing kirtans. It is with her infinite
mercy that the bondage of Maya could be loosened. Hence, I am really grateful to
Gurumata. Not only that, it is only with her mercy, that even without enough practise,
we are able to sing kirtans with correct tune and rhythm.
Therefore on this occasion of Her 65th appearance day Vyasa Puja, it is my
humble request unto Her lotus feet:
Oh My beloved Gurumata - the treasure of my heart,
I feel grateful to have come in contact with you since many years. I am blessed
to have darshan of your always smiling lotus mouth. Even with my insignificant
realisation, I have been able to understand that the kirtans glorifying Hari Guru and
Vaishnavas are your heart and soul. All your disciples are always eager to serve you
with several items and offerings. I, as your unworthy servant, sincerely hope that one
day, I will be able to please you by learning and singing kirtans, with whatever little
capability I have. Please bless me so that I can perform service to you throughout my
life, by singing these Gaudiya kirtans and bhajans. Please accept my countless
humblemost obeisances on this auspicious occasion of your Vyasa Puja.
Aspiring to serve you birth after birth,
Ananda Devi Dasi (Alpana)
KKKK
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a GURUMATA - THE EMBODIMENT OF PATIENCE AND ENDURANCE

- Shrimati Makheswari Devi Dasi (Mamata)
a
An insignificant, lowest being as me, does not have the minimum capability to
glorify our merciful, most affectionate Gurumata. Still, I desire to say a few things
based on the incidents, that I have personally experienced, with my mundane sense
organs. These incidents can give us a little glimpse of Her immense mercy and the
infinite patience that she possesses.
The ashram is just nearby our house and Gurumata Shrimati Jayshree Devi
Goswamini is the head of the institution- the acharyaa. I still remember her smiling
face and warm welcoming mood, when I first received her darshan ten years back.
Each and every sentence she utters, her glances, her smiles - shower mercy. It is
very normal to think of Her as an ordinary and humble human being. This is because
She does not reveal herself and her divine potency to us.
However, for me, I could realise Her extra-ordinary capability soon enough.
Few years back, I was suffering from tremendous pain and irritation due to an opera-
tion that I had undergone. I tried different medicines , but they were of no use. At that
time, a festival was taking place in the ashram and I had gone to have darshan of
Sandhya Arati. After Arati, Gurumata sprinkled the conch water on my head and from
that day, I was relieved of all the pain and discomfort. I could understand that it was
nothing else than Her causeless mercy.
It is not just me. I have also heard about a few more miraculous incidents like
this. For example, Brahmacharini Shrimati Alo Devi, the resident of the ashram, has
received her darshan in her manjari swarupa, wearing Ghaghra in a dream. From
another sincere devotee of the ashram, Shila di, I have come to know that she has
also experienced Her presence and Her transcendental mercy while she was ill. In
this way, there are numerous instances where the residents and devotees of the
ashram have been able to realise Her divine potency and mercy. Gurutatva pos-
sesses amazing transcendental potency which is imperceivable to us through our
mundane sense organs. She is our only shelter and hence she showers her limitless
mercy on us.
She delivers all the souls who take shelter in Her lotus feet, by taking away all
their sinful reactions and diseases. She is always busy explaining the glories of
Harinama to everyone, in a very easy and comprehensible way. She is always con-
cerned about how to convince an ignorant soul for chanting Harinama. Singing herself
repeatedly, she gives us kirtan lessons, without getting annoyed at all. She is always
smiling - no trace of trouble or distress in her face. Very easily, within a moment, she
forgives even a dangerous offender. A drunkard person in our locality once insulted
and used extremely harsh words against Her. However, she did not have traces of
a
anger in her face, nor did she say anything in reply. When asked about this, she
smiled, and replied, “These people do not remain in their senses”. I do not have enough
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knowledge to understand what Vaishnavism is. But, I cannot find anyone who has
the extreme patience and tolerance, that she possesses. Hence, undoubtedly she
is unique among all. It is impossible for an ordinary person to have that extent of
a
patience.
I get surprised to see how simple her lifestyle is, how she travels in bus and
train, like all other ordinary human beings. Considering herself as unworthy and re-
maining humble, she has manifested all the ideal qualities of the Vaishnavas in her-
self. One who has not personally observed Her, will not be able to entirely grasp the
meaning of this statement. I have had the fortune of receiving darshan of many great
personalities in different maths and missions, but I have never found someone as
extra-ordinary and as humble as Gurumata. In different situations, my limit of toler-
ance has crossed multiple times, but she has remained calm and quiet, like a stag-
nant lake.
But amidst so much tolerance, I have never observed her to compromise
with unjust things and unethical behaviors. She has protected the residents of the
ashram in different calamities and critical situations and has fought with indomitable
courage as well as equipped with unlimited faith in the lotus feet of Shrimati Radharani.
And at the end, she has come out victorious! All this is to give lessons to conditioned
souls like us.
When she used to manifest illness pastime to teach us and give us the
opportunity to serve, I have seen how , neglecting the bodily pains and discomforts,
she has engaged in Harinama and Harikirtana always. Amidst serious illness, she
has gone to North Bengal for preaching, without paying heed to her own health con-
ditions.
Entire Kartik month, she used to take bath at Brahma-muhurta and then start
kirtana, simultaneously indulging us in Harikirtana as well. As a result, the intense
cold weather started creating problems in her ears. But, still she went on with her
devotional practise - such is her faith and devotional firmness. Though it hampered
her health, she explained to the devotees that the more we get engrossed in our
bodily feelings, the more comfort our body wants from us. Hence, the solution is to
always engage in Harikatha and Harikirtana and Nambhajana. She does not preach
just by giving instructions, but by practically performing herself, she emphasises
that we are not this body which is temporary, we are eternal souls, our only duty is to
perform service to Krishna for His pleasure.
Whenever I accompanied her for medical tests and treatments, I could see
that she was totally devoid of any concern or any worries about her body and health
and hence, could understand that a pure devotee, being completely surrendered in
the fearless lotus feet of the Lord, does not have any worries. Gurumata’s mercy
and pastimes are infinite and cannot be described in a few paragraphs. Therefore, I
would like to conclude my brief offering here, with countless obeisances unto her
lotus feet on her 65th divine appearance day. May she be pleased with me!
a KKKK a
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THE DAY OF 65TH DIVINE APPEARANCE OFa

aOFFERING ONGURUMATA SRIMATI JAYSREE DEVI
-Narayani priya devi dasi (Vrinda Mission),
(Jahnavi Kunj Gaudiya Math, Mayapur)
Jay Gurumata Srimati Jaysree Devi Abirbhav Mahotsav ki jaya!

Jaya Sri Rupanuga Guru Varga ki jaya!
Dandavats, pranams!
vanca-kalpatarubhyash ca kripa-sindhubhya eva ca
patitanam pavanebhyo vaisnavebhyo namo namah
Today is a very special and historical day for our Brahma Madhva Gaudiya
Sampradaya, since we can celebrate the divine manifestation of Sri Guru Tattva in
our lives, through the appearance of a great Vaisnavi, Gurumata Srimati Jaysree
Devi. We know that this is not an event so usual in Gaudiya Vaisnava Society, so it
becomes an even more special occasion, as it invites us to delve into the essence
of our philosophy, backed by the sacred scriptures, sastra gurus, sadhus and our
guru-parampara in the line of Srila Bhaktivinoda Parivar.
What does the essence of Gaudiya Vaisnavism tell us in this regard? We can cite
some scriptures that support the full qualification of women to fulfill the role of guru
or acharya within our tradition, in contrast to some comments that minimize their
service and leadership within the spiritual society. Beginning with Lord Caitanya's
explanation to Srila Sanatan Goswami about the true constitutional position of the
individual soul, beyond the conception of the body, jivera 'svarupa' haya-krsnera
'nitya-dasa' ... "Every living entity is an eternal servant of Krsna ... "(CC Madhya-lila
20.108) In this sense, it is worth asking, is there any indication of our acharyas that
makes a distinction about the service that a soul can render while being in a female
or male body, in absolute terms, as in the case of his sadhana, bhajan or role to fulfill
in the preaching?
Sri Gauranga Mahaprabhu has said,
"kiba vipra, kiba nyasi, sudra kena naya
yei krsna-tattva-vetta, sei guru haya ||"
"Whether one is a brahmaha, a sannyasi or a sudra, regardless of what he is, he
can become a spiritual master if he knows the science of Krsna." (C.C. Madhya-lila
8.128)
On the other hand, Mahaprabhu also said:
"yare dekha, tare kaha 'krsna'-upadesa,
amara ajñaya guru hana tara' ei desa ||"
"Instruct everyone to follow the orders of Lord Sri Krsna, in this way become a
spiritual master and try to liberate everyone on this earth. " (C.C. Madhya-lila 7.128)
a In 'Sri Guru and His Grace', Srila Bhakti Raksak Sridhar Dev Gosvami Maharaj
explains: "Thus, we should think: 'I am fallible, but I am confident that what my guru
gave me is an exceptional, vital and nectarean thing. And he has asked me to give it
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to others. Does not matter. I'll take the risk. He ordered it to me. I am your servant. He
will take care of me. 'In this spirit of risk, the disciple will approach the responsibility,
thinking: 'I can go to hell, but I must comply with the order of my gurudeva. I can die,
but I must comply with my commander's order. 'He must approach his task with this
spirit and there will be no danger if he keeps this awareness; but if he deviates from
this connection and goes interestedly for a worldly purpose, he will be condemned.
Otherwise, no calamity can touch him. This inner spirit must be maintained, and this
is the real quality of a disciple: 'Yes, I am ready to die to fulfill the order of my gurudeva.
I feel that this is nectar and I have to distribute it to others to save them. "
Gurumata Srimati Jaysree Devi is the living example of this spirit of complete
surrender to the instruction of Sri Guru and Gauranga, sparing no effort, despite all
the difficulties she had to face for it. She is an example of purity, who has challenged,
with her own life of sanctity, a society lacking superior values, where women have
been reduced to an object of exploitation and sensual gratification, thus losing all their
true feminine dignity. Srimati Gurumata is also an example of courage and
determination in dealing with so many adverse, sectarian and dogmatic opinions of
many members of the Gaudiya Society itself, who did not appreciate or support the
mission of expanding the ashramas of matajis and rather opposed it.
A mission that was projected by Srila Prabhupada Bhaktsiddhanta Saraswati Goswami
Thakur, who personally required the establishment of spiritual shelters for women
called 'visnu-priya colonies' to house those women who yearned to be devotees and
had no other place to take refuge (something very common in the days that run).
Fortunately, we can now observe that some vaisnava missions have implanted these
Visnu-priya ashramas, which have become role models in the spiritual society.
This is also supported by the message of Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakur, as in his
classic 'Prema Pradipa', which mentions the ashramas of matajis and their holy
leaders who were highly respected. There we find an interesting scene in which
Anand Babu and Naren Babu meet a pure and experienced vaisnavi, called Prema-
bhavini, who had adopted the life of renunciation and taught the Caitanya Caritamrta
to other devotees who lived in the ashram. They were amazed to see that holy woman
so well educated, to whom this elevated role in teaching had been granted.
All this in close concordance with the ancient Vedic opinion of the Atharva Veda which
states that "For a woman there is no better protection than another more spiritually
advanced woman". It is also emphasized that in the brahmacarya stage, girls should
receive the same level of training as boys before entering family life. (Atharva Veda
11.5.18) Then, in another section it is added: "When young women ignore external
objects and develop foresight and vibrant attitude through the power of spiritual
knowledge, they become providers of the riches of heaven and earth". (Atharva Veda
14.1.6)
In response to all this we can conclude that maintaining a non-appreciative and
a
indifferent attitude to the role that a Vaisnavi can occupy in our Gaudiya Vaisnava
tradition means ignoring these indications that come through the immaculate channel
of guru, sadhu and sastra, and at the same time, moving away from the essential,
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dynamic and progressive spirit that our acharyas, in the line of Srila Bhaktivinoda
Thakur and Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakur taught. This is something that
a
unfortunately still persists in some more conservative environments, where the woman
is excluded from the activities of worship, bhajan and preaching.
In contrast to this, Srimati Gurumata appears as a pillar of mercy, refuge and hope
for all those matajis who want to offer their time and potential in the service of Sri Sri
Guru and Gauranga, by opening women ashramas where they can practice and
learn to live a devotional life with purity, and also qualify to convey the divine message
of our acharyas for the welfare of all humanity.
That is why we are happy to worship the lotus feet of Gurumata Srimati Jaysree Devi
on her sacred day of appearance, which gives renewed splendor to our Gaudiya
Vaisnavism and echoes the glorious legacy that great vaisnavas and vaisnavis have
preserved since antiquity.
Jaya Sri Sri Guru Gauranga Jayatah!
KKKK
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a OBEISANCES TO GURUMATA FROM JAHNAVI KUNJA ASHRAM a

Dearest Guru Mata,
Please receive our most humble and insignificant obeisances on behalf of the
devotees of Jahnavi Kunja Ashram, Vrinda Mission. Our simple words cannot express
our admiration for your tireless dedication to the service and savior of all the fallen
souls, and your extraordinary example of Guru Seva. You embody humility, while your
incredible courage to lead paves a path of hope and inspiration for all aspiring
Vaishnavis.
Please forgive our offenses and inadequate service. We beg for your blessings so
that one day we may be able to offer some service to the servants of Sri Guru, and
abandon our misconceptions to develop an understanding of the essence of Guru
Tattva.
Sincerely,
Devotees of Jahnavi Kunja Ashram
Sri Dham Mayapur
Vrinda Mission
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65TH APPEARANCE DAY OFFERING FOR SRIMATI JAYSREE DEVI
-Lilavati Devi Dasi
(Sri Krishna Chaitanya Mission, Balasore)
On this most auspicious day, Srimati Jaysree Devi's 65th Appearance Day, I offer my
humble obeisances to her lotus feet, and pray to accept my offering of a few words.
When I was fortunate to meet you, I first saw your shining appearance, graceful smile
and humble attitude, as you gave me a warm and respectful welcome. I immediately
felt like having found a new home, as you really made me feel like I belong there. It
touched my heart very much to learn about your service to your Gurudeva, Srila Patita
Pavana Gosvami Maharaj, to fulfill his Gurudeva's Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Prabhupada's
desire to open ashrams for those matajis, who otherwise don't have a proper
opportunity to practice bhakti, Gaudiya bhajan. With your youthful, happy mood your
are personally training the matajis in kirtan, service to the Lord, and teach them Gaudiya
Vaishnava philosophy. Most others would have seen this work as an unpleasant burden.
Many superstitions are there, that women are quarrelsome, that they are only meant
to stay and work in the house, that they are the object of enjoyment for men and
meant to serve them, etc. People think, if women get to perform bhakti, they will lose
their obedient slaves, and the social norms in society will get disturbed. However, by
your divine vision you realize, that because the women are the very foundation of
society, and by enlightening them in the Lord's pure devotional service, the highest
welfare is done for the society, since women are the first teachers one has in life.
Their purity and spiritual consciousness is very important, it influences all. One can
find examples of this in the pastimes of Srimad Bhagavatam, where the wives of the
Kaliya snake's unalloyed devotion to Sri Krishna and their prayers to Him were the
cause of Kaliya being saved and becoming a devotee. And, because of their divine
love for Sri Krishna and their service to Him, the wives of the brahmanas have been
accepted as their spiritual masters by their husbands. They gave up all fear and
transcended all social restrictions for serving the Lord.
Dear Srimati Jaysree Devi, you are a great source of inspiration for many, I pray to you
to continue to give us your association for a long time. Please bless me with such
enthusiasm and patience in Sri Hari Guru Vaishnavas' service as you possess.
Lilavati Devi Dasi
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SRADDHANJALI
a MY LOVE AND TRIBUTE TO YOU ON YOUR VYASAPUJA a

-Ranga Devi
(Sri Gopinath Gaudiya Math
Gopinath Ashram Penedo
Brazil)
Dear Gurumata,
I pay my respects to you, who is turning 65, as a soul serving our beloved Sri
Krsna Caitanya Mahaprabhu. I know of the challenges you faced to carry out the
mission of Mahaprabhu in a predominantly patriarchal society where women are not
heard of and do not even have the right to approach the Supreme Personality of
Godhead. Your determination and faith in Mahaprabhu surprised me, and I pay my
heart full of tribute today and always to such a worthy transcendental soul like you.

Ranga Devi
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aGURUMATA - AN IDEAL AND INSPIRATION FOR ASHRAMA-LIFEa

-Gauri devi dasi.
(Sri Krishna Chaitanya Mission, Vrindavan)
All glories to Sri Sri Guru and Gauranga!!
On the most Auspicious 65th Divine Appearence and 25th year of Acharya Lila of Guru
Mata Parivrajika Shrimati Jayshree Devi, an unworthy fallen soul like me is trying to
find words to glorify a Vaishnavi that has dedicated all her life for the satisfaction of her
beloved Guru and all Guru Varga.
I was honored to have her darshan previously when she came in Vrindavan Dham
and I was immediately charmed by her sweet eyes. She is a manifestation of Guru
Tattva in the most sweet and profound meaning of Guru as a mother, and I could not
be but impressed at the same time by the power that was emanating from her. I was
inspired to know that she is Acharya of such beautiful Mission Shree Guru Prapanna
Ashram that provides an opportunity for ladies to be Mathvasi in the line of Srila
Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Prabhupada. Such a mercy! Such a doya! How Prabhupad
must be happy of his dear daughters living in the Math and leading an ideal life like
sannyasinis!
I feel enormously unfortunate to live so far from them, but although I met Guru Mata
only one time, I always remember her to get strength in my spiritual life, aspiring to
become a servant of the servants of Vaishnavas and Vaishnavis.
I hope to meet her again and have her darshan and be object of her mercyful glance
again.
Jay hoo!
Koti koti dandavat pranams.
Fallen soul Gauri devi dasi.
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SRADDHANJALI
a PRAYERS FOR YOUR BLESSING ON VYASA PUJA

- Rohini Mata,
a
(Sri Krishna Chaitanya Mission, Austria)
Dearest Jayshree Devi,
My humble Dandavat pranams to your Lotus feet.
Although I don't know you personally I feel so much affection and aspiration towards
you. You are a great example in surrender to the instructions of Guru and Gauranga.
I can just beg a drop of mercy and your blessings so that I can become one day also
a devotee who can surrender unconditionally to Gurudeva as you are doing.
Trying to become a servant of Hari Guru and the Vaisnavas

Rohini Mata
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SRADDHANJALI
a MY LOTUS OFFERING AT GURUMATA'S LOTUS FEET

-Yamuna Kunja Devi Dasi
a
Mexico
First of all, I address the wise sadhus and request them for showering their blessings
and auspiciousness unto me, so that I can address you - Oh Gurumata, beautiful
sacred lotus flower, my humble obeisance at your feet. I prostrate to implore your
mercy for the most fallen, who loves you very much. Just by looking at you, you stole
my being, just as Shree Govinda does to His devotees. All glories to the blessed day
when you came to this world pouring the blessing. Just looking at you fills me with
peace, light and love and my loneliness disappears. I pray to my beloved Lord Shree
Radha Krishna, to let me look at you, put my forehead wherever you step and have
your association. It is much to ask for this small inferior being, to whom the sight of
your true personality gave me back the joy of life and I no longer feel alone.
All glories to the Vaishnava Thakura lineage ki jaya! Jaya Srila Pr?bhup?da! And
Gurumata ki jaya! Jaya to the most beautiful lotus flower! Cover me, Yamuna Kunja
Devi Dasi from Guadalajara Jalisco México, with the shadow of your beauty and make
me your most faithful and humble servant. All glories to this auspicious day. My mother
I implore your blessing in orphanage, which, for me is life. Let me drink from the
nectar of your lotus feet, which is the nectar of life for me. All glories to my Gurumata,
my beloved lotus flower.
Your aspiring servant
Yamuna Kunja Devi Dasi.
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SRADDHANJALI
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SMRITI-KUSUM-ANJALI - OFFERINGS OF FLOWERS OF MEMORIES
-Prem Kumari Dasi
a
(Vrinda Mission, Spain)
All glories to Sri Sri Guru and Gauranga!
Srimati Guru Ma is a big inspiration to me. As a great devotee of her Gurudev, she
continues his mission by giving shelter to many women (and men) who wants to
dedicate their lives to the Lord's feet, Sri Guru and Vaishnavas.
My Guru ji (Paramadvaiti Swami) was the one who introduced me to Guru Ma in 2016,
Sridham Mayapur. I remember feeling very happy to know a female Guru for the first
time. So I would observe her whenever I could and I found a really sweet and humble
person, with a beautiful strong presence, and I never forgot her figure since then.
In this last Kumbh Mela I had the fortune to serve her. When we were in the car, going
from the airport to the camp, Guru Ma started kirtana voluntarily. And it was so beautiful
I didn't want the journey to end. Not only I heard the sweetest voice but I felt really
blessed, like if she was giving me this very special gift, which was the Maha Mantra,
coming straight from her heart.
I am very grateful for having the opportunity to say a few words about Srimati Guru Ma
on this special occasion. For me, feelings are very hard to translate to words, since I
am not a good writer.
But these are the two best memories I have from Guru Ma, and I always take them
with me, because they make me really happy.
May Sri Krsna allow me to have more of her darshan someday soon, and continue to
make more of these wonderful memories.
Srimati Guru Ma ki jay!
Srila Gurudev ki jay!
Nitai Gaur Premanande!
Hari bol!
Your servant and well-wisher,

Prem Kumari Dasi
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SRADDHANJALI
a
COUNTLESS THANKS TO GURUMATA ON BEHALF OF ALL
SOULS IN THE FORM OF WOMEN BODY
a
-Vishnupatni Dasi
(ISKCON, Poland)
Jay Srimati GuruMata!.
Jay Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Maharaja Prabhupada,
Jay Shrila Patitpavan Goswami Thakur!
I would like to thank you for your heart and life for the mission of Your Srila Gurudeva:
Shrila Patitpavan Goswami Thakur. Thank you for bringing life to the mission of Lord
Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, who gives equal opportunities to souls in women's bodies.
Thank you that you give shelter to the needy (materially and spiritually) people of all
caste, sex, faith and personality.
On this day of Your Vyasa Puja, 2019, thank you for being a jewel in the crown of Lord
Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. You enlighten human ignorance like a torch full of light. . Thank
you . I pray for you and your missions, that Lord Sree Krishna give you everything you
need.
Thank you in the name of souls in the bodies of women. You made Bhakti Yoga available
to women.
Your Servant,
Vishnupatni Dasi
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SRADDHANJALI
a GURUMATA, MY PRAYERS TO YOU

-Mahalakshmi Dasi,
a
(Vrinda Mission,
Argentina)
Gurudeva Patita Pavana Ki jay!

All glories to Sri Guru and the Vaisnavas of the Lord!
Vanca Kalpa taruvyas ca kripa sindhubhya eva ca
patita nam pavanevyo vaisnavevyo namo namah
I offer my respectful obeisances to the Vaishnavas, the Lord's devotees. They are like
desire trees and can fulfill everyone's desires, and are filled with compassion for fallen
conditioned souls.
om ajñana- timirandhasya jñanañjana-salakaya

caksur unmilitam yena tasmai sri-gurave namah
I was born in the darkest ignorance, and my spiritual master opened my eyes with the
torch of knowledge. To Him I offer my most humble and respectful obeisances.
Oh dear Gurumata,
Please accept my obeisances.
My name is Mahalakshmi dasi, I am a disciple of BA Paramadvaiti Swami and I live in
Buenos Aires, Argentina. So far has come the mercy of Mahaprabhu and especially
Nityananda Prabhu...
Gurumata, I don't know you personally yet, but it's something I'd definitely like to do
sometimes in my life. Hopefully, Krishna will fulfill this desire.
I greet you on this very special day, anniversary of your holy appearance in this world
and thank you for your commitment to lead and be an example of spiritual life for so
many souls.
I wish and pray to you to please continue your service and distribute your teachings
and instructions among us. I pray that you will continue to enlighten so many souls
and be a beacon in this world full of chaos but, at the same time, full of opportunities
to serve. I wish I could serve you in some way, even at a distance. Please keep me in
your prayers. The prayers of the saints are sustaining this world.
Thank you very much dear mother. Goura Premanande Haribol!
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SRADDHANJALI
a OBEISANCES ON YOUR APPEARANCE DAY

-Aradhana Dasi
a
(Sri Caitanya Sangha, North Carolina, USA)
Dear Srimati Jayasri Devi,
I offer my heartfelt obeisances unto you.
I feel so thankful that your dear disciple, Paramananda Das, informed me about your
appearance day. Haribol!!
I feel like there are so many things I would like to say in this message-it is a bit
overwhelming. But for the sake of keeping this concise, I would like to say that I deeply
appreciate your immense contribution to the community of Vaishnavis around the
world as well as to the entire community of Gaudiya Vaishnavism. I take so much joy
in watching videos and seeing pictures of the seva being done in your ashrama- so
amazing. Anytime I see a photo of you with your devotees, it warms my heart because
I feel your mission is so important.
Not only is your mission extraordinary, but from the answers to my questions and your
personal demeanor, I can see that you too are very extraordinary- only such a sincere
and loving vaishnavi could do what you are doing.
Thank you for everything.
In service,
Aradhana Dasi
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SRADDHANJALI
a MESSAGE TO MYONBELOVED SHRIMATI JAYSHREE DEVI a

HER VYASA PUJA
- Aanandini Radhika Devi Dasi,
(ISKCON, New Jersey, USA)
Hare Krishna… I am Anandini Radhika Devi Dasi, disciple of Srila Bhakti Charu
Maharaja...I have been living in USA since last 35 years and came in contact with
Iskcon in course of time.
Quite a few years back, I got introduced to Gurumata Shrimati Jayshree Devi through
Internet - That was really an ecstatic moment for me. When I received Her darshan, I
felt like I have a strong connection with her, births after births, such was the impact of
her first darshan. I felt like she is my beloved sakhi. And gradually, I developed a deeper
understanding about Her. When I went to India, I visited her Ashram, 'Sree Guru
Prapanna Ashram' in Budge Budge. I could feel the touch of Vrindavan there. I still
remember how wonderfully I spent the day there with Sri Radha Shyam. The
transcendental mellows of her amazing Harikatha and bhajan-kirtans soothed my
ears. Her ashram is for giving shelter to the women devotees, the Vaishnavis. This
wonderful ashram was founded by her beloved Gurudeva, Shrila Patitpavan Goswami
Maharaja. And Gurumata Shrimati Jayshree Devi instilled life in the ashram. I pray to
Sri Radha Shyamsundar, that she may continue her wonderful service to her Gurudeva,
and that Radha Shyamsundar empowers her with more and more strength to work
for the spiritual upliftment of the women devotees.
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SRADDHANJALI
a IN HONOR OF PARIVRAJIKA GURUMATA JAYASHRI DEVI a

-Rupamanjari Dasi
(California, USA)
I offer GuruMata my koti dandavat pranam. I offer my koti dandavat pranam to

my Guru-Varga headed by Sri Srimad Bhakti Ballabh Tirtha Goswami and Sri Srimad
Bhakti Pramode Puri Goswami. All glories to Jagadguru Sri Srimad Bhaktisiddhanta
Saraswati Thakur Srila Prabhupad! All glories to Sri Sri Guru Gauranga Radha Madhav
Jiu!
I have never gotten a chance to get darshan of GuruMata or hear her Harikatha.
All my association with Sri Guru Prapanna Ashram is on Facebook! But what nice,
uplifting association, it is! Just through screen darshan, Sri Sri Guru Gauranga Radha
Madhav Jiu have stolen a piece of my unqualified heart. All the time their devotees are
affectionately sharing beautiful reminders of Sadhana with the whole Saraswat-Gaudiya
sampradaya. They are always affectionately writing to us, encouraging us and inviting
us. Even at this transcontinental distance, to know that GuruMata is giving refuge to
so many devotee ladies (fulfilling Srila Bhakti Siddhanta Saraswati Thakur Srila
Prabhupad's desire) is inspiring and comforting. I am very grateful for this. I pray it will
be my good fortune to get GuruMata's darshan, hear her Harikatha, and do her some
Seva in this lifetime. I congratulate all her disciples for serving her mission so diligently
and attractively. I ask her to please forgive my offenses and to accept my dandavat
pranam. Gaur Prem Anande Hari Haribol!
a most useless aspiring servant,

Rupamanjari dasi
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SRADDHANJALI
a PRAYERS ON OCCASION OF VYASA PUJA

-Indira Dasi
a
(IPBYS, Spain)
Jay Sri Sri Guru and Gauranga! Jay Sri Sri Radha Vinode Bihariji!
Jay Sri Sri Rupanuga guruvarga parampara!
My most dear Sri Gurumata,

I was so delighted to have the good fortune of having your darshan (as per Krishna's
arrangement) just a few days ago. I have come to know that you're a reservoir of all
Vaishnava qualities, they adorn you like a precious necklace with a central gem of
guru nistha. As you shared with me, your life is dedicated to your Guruji's mission and
there is nothing higher than that. Now we are celebrating your 25th anniversary of
your Acharya Lila, the 25 years - for which you have been engaging the women and all
other souls in distress, in Haribhajan, drenched in utmost mercy towards them. Shree
Guru Prapanna ashram was left under your care as your Gurudeva, Srila Patitpavan
Goswami knew of your surrender. He knew that the perfection of life is serving the
devotees.
I pray at your lotus feet that I may also one day acquire a particle of your surrender and
dedication to make my birth successful.
Dasanudasi,
Indira dasi
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SRADDHANJALI
a OFFERINGS TO GURUMATA ON HER DIVINE APPEARANCE DAY

-Mantra Seva Das
a
(Vrinda Mission, Colombia)
All glories to Gurumata Srimati Jaysree Devi.

For me having Her as a Gurvi and mother shows the universal nature and inclusion
that Bhakti Path means. She is a Woman full of grace, patience, tolerance and love
for all. Meeting her and having her Association is highly valuable for me coming from
outside India.
Jaya Jaya, Jay Gurumata
Mantra Seva Das
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SRADDHANJALI
a PRAYERS ON THE APPEARANCE DAY OF a

SHRIMATI JAYSHREE DEVI GOSWAMINI
- Rasa Bihari dasa
Lima, Peru
Gurave gaura chandraya radhikaya tadalaye

krsnaya krishna bhaktaya tad bhaktaya namo namah
First I want to offer koti dandavats pranama to Srila Patitpavan Goswami Thakur - the
founder Acharya of Shree Guru Prapanna Ashram and the source of unlimited mercy.
Shrimati Jayshree Devi Goswamini is a very simple and humble Vaishnavi who
throughout her life faithfully followed the steps and guidance of her guru and I could
see that when I had the opportunity to visit the Shree Guru Prapana Ashram in Kolkata.
By the mercy of Sri Guru and Vaishnavas, I hope to return to Kolkata to take the dust
of her lotus feet and engage properly in the service of Shri Guru and Vaishnavas. In
this auspicious day of her appearance, may she bestow her blessings upon this
insignificant aspiring servant.
Aspiring for the service of Shri Guru and Vaishnavas,
Rasa Bihari dasa
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a
aOBEISANCES UNTO THE LOTUS FEET OF SHRIMATI GURUMATA
- THE BEST OF THE GOSWAMINIS
- Paramananda Das
Vancouver, Canada
(The poem has been transliterated from Bengali)
Gurumatar padpadma vandi sarvagre |

Jnar kripalesh tare pashanda-nich-ugre ||
Suhasini sevapriya sarva shri purna |
Sarva jaya bibhuti jnar charan bhaje dhanya ||
Snehamayi anandini dainyamurti rupa |
Amiya uchale hasya dhairaja swarupa ||
Jnar pada sire dhari narikul uddhare |
Tnar padpadma vandi dante trina dhare ||
Prabhu charan rajah jar hridayananda kanda |
(sei) Gurumatar charan bhaje adham Paramananda ||
Oh my most revered object of worship, Gurumata,

Today is your most auspicious and holy divine appearance day. On this day,
being utterly merciful towards the womenfolk of this material world, the most
compassionate Shrimati Radharani sent Her own attendant from Goloka (Highest
spiritual realm) to Bhuloka (material world) in the form of female body, just like Kalakeli
Sakhi of Vraja had appeared in the form of Shrimati Madhavi Devi. Therefore, such a
day as today is extremely rare as well as very auspicious in Gaudiya Vaishnava society.
An insignificant and conditioned soul as me has no capacity to glorify such a great
occasion. Today, I can see so many souls engaged in offering their obeisances unto
you and glorifying you, filled with gratefulness and utmost reverence towards you,
carrying precious gifts. However, it is unfortunate that I neither have any material treasure
nor spiritual wealth that I can submit unto your lotus feet to please you. My body is unfit
for service, my mind full of anarthas and my speech uncontrolled. How can I even
think of glorifying a great magnanimous Vaishnavi as you! But still, taking shelter in
your lotus feet - which is devoid of any fear, I am trying to express something.
Despite being the eternal servant of Lord Shri Krishna, I forgot my original
identity and was submerged in the horrible ocean of illusion. I was engrossed in the
karmic binding of the mundane world and indulged in material enjoyment and
unnecessary sacrifices. But the darshan of your lotus feet filled my desert-like heart
with transcendental nectar. The adhi-atmik, adhi-bhoutik and adhi-daivik - three fold
miseries were constantly troubling my body and mind, which was soothed by your
a merciful shelter. Though I was immersed in materialistic desire for sense enjoyments,
you, by repeatedly acquainting me with the ideals of Srila Prabhuji, Srila Acharyadeva a
83
SRADDHANJALI
a a
and Srila Prabhupada, and by constantly showering the mercy of the divine instructions
of Srila Rupa-Raghunath Goswami and tatva of Shriman Mahaprabhu, have shown
me the ray of transcendental knowledge in the dark ignorant world. I was always
indulged in discussions about the mundane world and in materialistic studies. But, by
dint of your unlimited affection towards me, you have saved me from the illusion,
teaching me - "krishna bhakti bina vidya nahi ara" (There is no real study except
practising pure devotion towards Shri Krishna).
I used to feel very disturbed, observing how women and their contributions
were neglected in different maths and temples, how they were kept at the back of the
row, how the renounced devotional life of the women devotees were made fun of.
However, darshan of your lotus face and nectarian instructions coming from your
lotus mouth erased my hesitation. By your sincere devotional practise and your humble
lifestyle, you have motivated countless souls around the world, especially the womenfolk
in Haribhajan. No wonder why, your single-handed effort has been successful in
spreading the name and glories of Shree Guru Prapanna Ashram and Srila Prabhuji
throughout the world.
In you, I find a wonderful blend of Gangamata Goswamini's intense austerity
as well as Shrimati Jahnava Iswari's incredible preaching and administrative skills.
Even the World Vaishnava Association, acknowledging your immense contribution
has awarded you with the position of Joint Secretary for Women Protection. However,
you have risen above the urge for Name, Fame, Position and Prestige in the society.
I could see that you never desire to focus yourself in front of the world as Guru. Rather,
your constant aim has been to distribute the ideals of your gurudeva, Srila Patitpavan
Goswami Thakura as well as His unlimited compassion and mercy for the women
devotees, to each and every corner of the world.
You are always glorious in humility, patience and all other transcendental
qualities of Vaishnavas. Your limitless mercy is our sole hope. I beg for a drop of those
transcendental qualities that you possess. I hear about your one-pointed devotion,
faith and service towards Sri Guru, without any ulterior motives, from everyone. Please
bless me so that I can achieve proper internal realisation and that I can please you by
spreading the instructions and glories of Srila Prabhuji and Srila Prabhupada - which
is the treasure of your heart. I make many mistakes and offenses on my way. Being a
conditioned soul, I find faults everywhere.Getting drowned in the dreadful ocean of
ignorance, I often develop pride and arrogance. I have heard from your lotus mouth
that the ultimate object of surrender - Hari Guru Vaishnavas do not accept the offenses
made by the surrendered souls . Therefore, I take complete refuge unto Your Lotus
feet - which is the ocean of unlimited mercy and the source of nectar. On your auspicious
divine appearance day, I humbly request you to kindly remove the dust and dirt from
my heart, and give this insignificant soul, shelter in your Lotus Feet.
Your most unworthy aspiring servant,
a KKKK
Paramananda Das.
a
84

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SRADDHANJALI

a All glories to Shree Guru & Shree Gauranga a

SHREE GURU PRAPANNA ASHRAM

- Prabhuji Sri Srila Patitpavan Goswami Maharaj

(Although my guru is a servant of Shri Krishna Chaitanya [the Supreme Person

Servant of the servant of Gurumata,

Guru Puja is Vyasa Puja:

Vyasa Puja is a rare opportunity:

- Srimati Kisori Dasi

Pranati Pushpanjali - Obeisances and flower offerings 55

a - Rasa Bihari dasa (South America)

a VYASA PUJA OFFERING a

O my dearest most revered elder sister,

a DIVINE APPEARANCE OF GURUTATVA AND IDENTIFICATION OF SRI GURU

The appearance of Sri Guru :

Discussion on the essential qualities of Sri Guru:

My worshipable Jaya di (elder sister),

Your Most insignificant,

aRESPECTFUL OFFERING UNTO THE LOTUS FEET OF OUR MOST

My most beloved didi (elder sister),

a THE SHELTER OF DEDICATED WOMEN DEVOTEES - SHRIMATI

Om Ajnana TimirAndhasya JnanaAnjanaShalaakaaya

a OFFERING THROUGH LETTER

Oh my beloved Didi, Didi, Didi (elder sister),

First of all, please accept my utmost reverence and humblemost obeisances

Servant of the servants of Vaishnavas and vaishnavis

a SHRIMATI JAYSHREE DEVI - THE SECURED SHELTER

a "Durlabhah manusyadeha dehinang kshanbhanguram |

"Jalaja Nava Lakshani Sthavara Lakshavingsatih

Offering our respectful obeisances, we started crying, considering ourselves

Saral bhagavat seva parayane aarti

a PRAYERS TO THE LOTUS FEET OF MY SANNYASA GURUa

Today is such an auspicious day, as you manifested your divine appearance

a HEART-FELT OFFERING ON THE OCCASION OF SRI VYASA PUJA

All glories to Srimati Gurumata Parivrajika Acharyaa Jayshree Devi Goswamini!

a OFFERINGS ON GURUMATA'S VYASA PUJA

aOFFERING TO GURUMATA ON HER 65TH APPEARANCE DAYa

Shrimati Jayshree Devi Goswamini's 65th appearance day invites my heart to

Offering of this poor soul on occasion of 65th divine appearance day

Oh my most worshipable Gurumata,

Oh most beloved disciple of Srila Prabhuji,

If we remain under the spiritual guidance (anugatya) of you - our beloved

Your aspiring servant,

a ARATI KIRTAN OF GURUMATA

Jaya jaya Gurumatar arati nehari

(Chamara dhulay re,

Sankha vaje Ghanta vaje, vaje karatala

(Dekho dekho) Vadana sundar padma-palasha lochana

(eibar amay kara daya

OFFERING UNTO THE LOTUS FEET OF THE MOSTa

I consider myself very fortunate to be able to submit my offering in the form of

a YADI GURUMATA NA HAITA

Yadi Gurumata na haita Tabe ki haita

a OFFERING OF THE HEART

Oh Gurumata - the deliverer of all fallen souls,

a KABE GURUMATA MORE KARIBENA DAYA a

Kabe Gurumata more karibena daya |

Gurumata Jayshree Devi ar sannyasinigan |

Jnar sebar paripatye Prabhu sada sukhi |

Vaishnavir Haribhajan viruddha apasiddhanta |

Sahya-dhairjya kshama-vinaya dainya adhikari |

Maya bada shaktisali, jive putul nach nachay |

Ei dekhe Krishna amar halen asrusikta |

Siksha Guru Diksha Guru elen sata sata |