Radhanath Swami

Radhanath Swami

Radhanath Swami at Gita Nagari Yoga Farm, Port Royal, PA
on May 31, 2015
Religion Gaudiya Vaishnavism, Hinduism
Order Sannyasa
Personal
Born Richard Slavin
(1950-12-07) 7 December 1950
Chicago, Illinois, United States
Senior posting
Predecessor A.C.Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada
Religious career
Initiation Diksa–1973, Sannyasa–1982
Post GBC–1994
Website http://www.radhanathswami.com
Radhanath Swami singing kirtan at Radha Gopinath Temple.

Radhanath Swami (born December 7, 1950)[1] is a guide, community builder, activist, and acclaimed author. He has been a Bhakti Yoga practitioner and spiritual teacher for more than 40 years.[2] He is the inspiration behind ISKCON's free midday meal for 1.2 million school kids across India,[3] and he has been instrumental in founding the Bhaktivedanta Hospital in Mumbai.[4] He works largely from Mumbai in India, and travels extensively throughout Europe and America.[4][5] In the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), he serves as a member of the Governing Body Commission. Steven J. Rosen described Radhanath Swami as a "saintly person respected by the mass of ISKCON devotees today."[6]

Biography

1950-1970: The Early Years

Richard Slavin was born on December 7, 1950 in Chicago to Idelle and Gerald Slavin, who were children of Jewish immigrants from Russia, Lithuania, Poland and Romania.[7][8][9] In 1955, he and his family moved to a suburb of Chicago – Highland Park – located in the beautiful countryside.[7][8] In 1958, his father opened a dealership selling Ford cars, which did not succeed; however, the car repair shop launched thereafter was quite successful.[10] Despite being well-off, at age 15 Richard chose to work hoping to contribute to his family.[7][11]

As a child, Richard showed a tendency, which he later called "the traces of my past lives".[12] He did not prefer eating at the table, but while sitting on the floor, as is customary in India.[12] When his parents forbade him to do so, Richard began to eat at the table standing.[12] He hated the sight of meat and eggs, nauseated at its sight, and often vomited after eating meat; something that took him several years to get accustomed to.[12] From an early age, Richard realized that the materialistic way of life will never bring him satisfaction, and was attracted by poverty and simplicity.[7]

Although his parents were not religious, Richard developed an interest in religion and spiritual themes from his early years.[7] At age 13, he passed the rite of bar mitzvah (a Jewish coming of age ritual) and received instructions from the local rabbi about how to pray.[13] On his thirteenth birthday, his elder brother Marty gifted him the debut album of folk-singing trio Peter, Paul and Mary.[14] In their compositions, they opposed the war and social injustice, but Richard was particularly impressed by their compositions about God.[14]

In 1965, Richard entered the Deerfield High School, where he excelled in studies and made a lot of friends.[14][15][16] He was passionate about wrestling, ending up in his school’s sports team and won majority of fights. However, on dislocating his shoulder in a major competition, he decided to leave the sport.[17] In his spare time, along with a couple of friends, he washed cars.[18] Dissatisfied with the conditions of the African Americans and the Vietnam War, he believed in the ideologies of Martin Luther King.[18][15]

The death of one of his close friends (aged 16) in a car accident made Richard think seriously about the meaning of life.[18] At the same time, following the example of some of his peers, Richard plunged into the hippie counterculture.[15] Keen to understand the deeper meaning of life, he grew long hair and started smoking marijuana.[15] In the summer of 1968, a sense of adventure led Richard to make a hitchhiking journey to California.[16][15] There, he spent the nights on the beaches and visited the then hippie mecca – Haight-Ashbury district in San Francisco.[16][17]

In 1969, Richard enrolled at the Miami Dade College,[17] where, in search of spiritual experience resorted to LSD and books on religion and philosophy.[16] Completely disillusioned with the materialistic life values of Americans, Richard studied well in college.[16] He questioned the "goodness of American life" that he was taught to believe.[16] Having learnt to play the harmonica, Richard moved from drugs to musical experimentation. After reading several books on Eastern spirituality, he began to practice meditation.[16] On listening to a lecture on transcendental meditation, he chanted the sacred syllable "Om" with greater conviction.[19] This practice did not bring him satisfaction, but helped him realize the need to find a bonafide guru.[16]

In the summer of 1970, after the end of the first year in college, Richard attended a rock festival on the Randalls Island, including performances by Jimi Hendrix and other famous musicians and bands of the time.[20] At the festival, Richard met the Hare Krishnas, who gave him a pamphlet with photos of A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada.[21] That summer, Richard dropped out of college and along with a couple of his friends, embarked on a hippie trip to Europe.[15][lower-alpha 1]

1970: From Europe to India

Richard traveled to Europe with his childhood friend Gary Liss.[23] Being penniless, they stayed with anyone who would take them in, and often survived on just bread and cheese.[15] To cover basic expenses, Richard played the harmonica on the street and collected alms.[15] In Amsterdam, Richard met Hare Krishnas once again and spent some time in a hippie commune. In England, he attended the rock festival Isle of Wight on the Isle of Wight on August 30, 1970 – thereby, witnessing one of Jimi Hendrix's last performances.[24]

During his travels, Richard read books on Eastern spirituality and the Bible, which he had brought from America.[15] He loved to attend Christian churches and monasteries, and never missed an opportunity to talk with the priests and monks.[15] In Rome, Richard met with Franciscan monks, with whom he had a long conversation about Jesus Christ and the relationship between Christianity and Judaism.[25] Richard and Gary also attended the speech of the pope in the Vatican. They saw the Catholic monks meditating in the catacombs of the monastery, among the skeletons of their predecessors, and heard from one of them the frailty of the material body.[25] After parting from his friend for a while, Richard made a pilgrimage to Assisi, visiting places associated with the life of the great Catholic saint Francis of Assisi.[26]

In Athens, Richard and Gary first made their living by giving blood, and then, together with a Swiss violinist and French guitarist, playing music and collecting alms on the street.[27] After the police forbade them to do so and confiscated their earnings, Richard and Gary went to the island of Crete, where he lived in a cave by the sea.[27] By that time, Richard has little interest in a carefree way of life and ideals of the hippies; he was increasingly drawn to the spiritual life.[15]

One morning, while meditating and praying on top of a rock, Richard heard an inner voice that urged him to go to India.[23] On the same morning, the inner voice directed Gary to Israel.[23] After parting with his friend, Richard hit the road.[23] He had neither money nor a travel plan. But he firmly believed that by hitchhiking eastwards, he could get to the country that has answers to his prayers.[23]

Having met in Athens two hippies, who also sought East,[28] Richard joined them to India by the (then popular among the hippie) route through Turkey, Iran, Afghanistan and Pakistan.[23] In Turkey, they were let with great difficulty, because at that time there was raging cholera epidemic.[28] After a narrow escape from bandits in Istanbul, they continued their journey by bus through Ankara to the border with Iran. In Tehran, they arrived during Ramadan. As Richard had developed an interest in Islam, he parted with his friends and stayed for a few days in Mashhad – an important place of pilgrimage for Shia Muslims.[29] In the mausoleum of Imam Reza, Richard met an English-speaking Muslim, who explained the basics of Islam and Muslim customs.[29]

Upon arrival in Afghanistan, Richard spent a few days in Herat, where a poor Afghan family gave him shelter.[30] Here, Richard experienced his first culture shock – watching the Afghans happy, despite miserable poverty.[30] Upon arrival in Kandahar, Richard met on the street, a blind boy who spend long hours singing songs about the love of God.[31] To Richard, this boy seemed the happiest man he had ever met.[31] This meeting left a deep impression on Richard and made him reflect on the nature of happiness.[31] In Kandahar, Richard also experienced the strongest narcotic experience in his life, prompting him to vow never to take drugs.[15] In Kabul, a young Dutch girl tried to seduce him.[32] As sex seemed inconsistent with spiritual quest, Richard rejected her advances, vowing to stay celibate.[33]

1970-1972: India – In search of a guru

In India, Richard arrived in December 1970. Watching cows freely walking around in Delhi, he felt an aversion to meat and became a vegetarian.[33] In Delhi, Richard took part in the "World Conference of Yoga", which gathered more than 800 gurus, yogis, sages and pundits.[34] Richard met with renowned yogi, founder of the Himalayan Institute, Swami Rama.[34] When Richard asked him for blessings, Swami Rama replied that Richard’s spiritual progress will continue to be based on communion with saintly persons, who will help him to overcome all obstacles on the spiritual path.[34]

Richard also met Swami Satchidananda – known disciple of Swami Sivananda.[34] Swami Satchidananda explained him the basic meaning of yoga and urged him not to look for shortcomings in others, and always focus on the good qualities.[34] Satchidananda blessed Richard that he may "discover the treasure of his heart".[34] Richard also attended a series of lectures by Indian guru and philosopher Jiddu Krishnamurti, who was known for being able to answer any question and to crush any argument.[34] From Krishnamurti, Richard learned that spiritual life cannot be superficial, as being attached to external things and rituals, people often forget the main purpose of spiritual practice – the cleansing of one’s heart.[34]

Last day of the conference was held in Vigyan Bhavana – the largest concert hall in New Delhi.[34] The event brought together more than 3,000 people.[34] The conference ended with the gurus literally fighting over the microphone, so they could convince the audience that their path was the best.[35]

In January 1971, Richard went to the Himalayas in search of a guru.[33] Upon arrival in Rishikesh, he stopped for a few days in the "Divine Life Society" – an ashram, founded by Swami Sivananda.[16] Richard spoke at length with Sivananda’s student, Swami Chidananda, who led the ashram after the death of his guru.[36] Chidananda convinced Richard of the need to practice japa meditation – chanting mantras on rosary.[36] Richard found a secluded spot on the banks of the Ganges, where for eight to ten hours a day he chanted "Hare Krishna" and other mantras.[16] Soon, he met a sadhu, at whose request Richard threw all his western clothes in the waters of the Ganges, and received in return a simple garment of a Hindu ascetic.[33] The sadhu blessed Richard that the Ganges will be prove to be his mother.[36]

Determined to purify his existence, Richard began to practice severe austerities.[33] Every day for a month, from sunrise to sunset, he meditated sitting on a rock in the middle of the Ganges.[16][33] He only ate raw vegetables, fruits and nuts.[33] When the desire to play the harmonica distracted him from the practice of meditation, he, without hesitation, threw his beloved harmonica in the waters of the sacred river.[33]

In Rishikesh, Richard also became acquainted with a sadhu, who lived in a cave on the hillside.[33] Seeing the sincerity of an American youth, the sadhu taught Richard new techniques of meditation.[33]

Unable to find a guru in the Himalayas, Richard continued to wander in India.[33] For a while, he lived among the Shaivites in Varanasi and among Buddhist monks in Bodh Gaya – the place where Buddha attained enlightenment.[16] Upon arrival in Bombay, Richard saw a poster announcing a series of festivals by the American Hare Krishnas and their spiritual master A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada.[35] Out of curiosity, Richard went to the Hare Krishna program the same evening, where he heard Prabhupada for the first time.[37] Prabhupada’s lectures made a big impression on Richard, and he attended each night, arriving well before the program began to sit as close as possible to Prabhupada and listen to him.[33] The Hare Krishnas strongly preached their hippie-countryman, but Richard was not yet ready to listen to them.[33] He believed that all paths lead to God and did not understand the need to particularly follow Prabhupada and his followers".[37]

After parting with the Hare Krishnas, Richard continued his wanderings in India, traveling "from ashram to ashram and guru to guru".[37] Few months later, he was in Mathura – a holy site for Vaishnavas – where according to legends, Krishna was born.[37] The day of his arrival in this holy city coincided with the birth anniversary of Krishna – Krishna Janmashtami.[37] At the time, Richard lived in Vrindavan, close to Mathura, where Hindus believe Krishna spent his childhood.[37] In Vrindavan, Richard stayed in the ashram of famous Hare Krishna guru and Prabhupada's godbrother Swami Bon, who affectionately named him Ratheen Krishna Das.[38] By that time, Richard looked like a real Indian hermit with his body skinny from poor nutrition and dreadlocks on his head.[33]

A few months later, Prabhupada came to Vrindavan with a group of American students.[39] Listening to a lecture of the Hare Krishna guru, Richard came to the conclusion that the Gaudiya Vaishnava philosophy was the most perfect and that Prabhupada was a person, who truly loved God.[39] The sight of Prabhupada singing Bengali bhajans with strong religious feeling left a strong impression on Richard.[37] In his heart, Richard felt that Prabhupada was the greatest of all gurus and saints he met during all his wanderings in India.,[37][39] Prabhupada answered all of Richard’s questions, backing up each answer with scriptural quotations.[37] Richard also felt that Prabhupada walked his talk.[37] However, Richard decided not to join Krishna at that time and remained in Vrindavan after the departure of Prabhupada and his disciples.[39]

1972-1973: Back to America, Diksa

In the spring of 1972, the Indian government refused to extend Richard’s visa, forcing him to return to America.[39] After spending a few weeks in a Krishna temple in Amsterdam and in the Radha Krishna Temple in London, Richard returned to his parents, who by then had moved from Chicago to Miami.[39] Soon, he again came into contact with the Hare Krishnas, and went to New York, where he met Prabhupada, who was in town for a few days en route to India.[37] Richard wanted to go back to India, but Prabhupada asked him to stay in America, and assist in the development of the New Vrindaban community, under the guidance of Kirtanananda Swami.[37] Richard followed Prabhupada’s counsel and settled in New Vrindavan, caring for cows and reading Prabhupada's books in his spare time.[39] Convinced by the philosophy set forth in the books and personal examples of those living in the New Vrindaban community, Richard finally decided to accept Prabhupada as his guru.[40] On 11 February 1973, he accepted shiksha initiation from Prabhupada (via Kirtananda Swami as officating ritvik (priest)) receiving the name Radhanatha das;[41]

1973-1986: New Vrindaban, Sannyasa

The next six years Radhanath never left New Vrindavan, contributing in developing the community.[42] At that time, life there was very austere.[42] In cold winters, the community members carried out without heating and hot water, bathing with ice-cold water.[42] Radhanath strictly followed the Vaishnava spiritual practices, grazed cows and served the temple deities.[42] On 1 August 1976 Radhanath received diksha initiation as a brahmana from Prabhupada(via Vegavan das as officiating ritvik);[43]

In the first half of the 1980s, Radhanath lectured at several universities in Ohio and Pennsylvania, and conducted courses on vegetarian cooking.[42] In early 1982, a community leader – Kirtanananda Swami – offered Radhanath to take sannyasa (the way of life of renunciation).[44] Though hesitant at first, arguing that the honor and respect that is traditionally conferred upon sannyasis will interfere with his spiritual life, Radhanath eventually agreed after persuasion from Kirtanananda and others.[44] The sannyasa initiation ceremony of Radhanatha was held in May 1982 in New Vrindavan.[44] On accepting the vows of lifelong renunciation, Radhanath received the title of "swami", and since then known as "Radhanath Swami".[44]

1986-present: Leadership in ISKCON and Socially-engaged Spiritual Activities

In 1983, for the first time after many years, Radhanath Swami made a pilgrimage to India, where he met some of his old friends.[44] In 1986, he chose Bombay as his base, where he established the Radha Gopinath Temple. In 1998, he was instrumental in launching the Bhaktivedanta Hospital was established.[44][45] In 2004, at the initiative of Radhanath Swami, the Radha Gopinath Temple started a charitable mission to distribute free vegetarian meals to children from low-income families enrolled in schools in Bombay.[44][46] In the 2000s, yet another initiative of Radhanath Swami resulted in "Govardhan Ecovillage"in Maharashtra.[47]

In 1987, Governing Body Commission of ISKCON resolved to expel Kirtanananda Swami from ISKCON.[48] The following year all members of the community close to Kirtanananda Swami – which included Radhanath Swami – were also expelled from ISKCON.[49] In 1994, Radhanath Swami and the Radha Gopinath Temple headed by him were formally accepted back in ISKCON.[50] In the same year, Radhanath Swami became one of the leaders of ISKCON, and began to serve as a member of the Governing Body Commission and an initiating guru.[50] In 1995-2010, Radhanath Swami led ISKCON in Maharashtra (1995-2010), Goa (2002-2010), Daman and Diu (2002-2010), West Virginia (1995-2007), Ohio (1998-2007 ), Kentucky (1998-2007), Italy (2002-present) and Belgaum (1995-2010).[51]

Projects

Radha Gopinath Temple

Radha Gopinath Temple in Nov. 2004

Succeeding to Kirtananda Swami, Radhanath Swami has been instrumental in the guidance of the Radha Gopinath Temple since 1991,[52] which "expanded beyond anyone's wildest dreams"[53] and is particularly renowned for its "empowered preaching and teaching".[54] Also known as Sri Sri Radha Gopinath Mandir, the temple was founded in 1986 and joined ISKCON in 1994.[50][55] The temple is situated in the elite area of Bombay – Chowpatty Beach – and enjoys great popularity.[56] The congregation comprises several thousands of Bombay's elite.[57] A prerequisite for those wishing to become monk and live in the temple is completion of university education and at least one year of work experience.[56] The monks from the temple of Radha-Gopinath regularly conduct more than 30 cultural programs in University of Bombay.[42] Under Radhanath Swami's initiative, the temple and its congregation has been breeding ground for many successful projects.[58] The temple has in-house design studio and embroidery unit, where artisans meticulously work with clockwork precision, following briefs by designers, to dress up the deities in the choicest of regal attires.[59]

Devotee Care and Relations Program

Based on the Hare Krishna ideology, Radhanath Swami designed the Devotee Care Program in Radha Gopinath Temple, which eventually led ISKCON to emphasize the need for such a program globally.[60] In Radha Gopinath Temple at Mumbai, the program spans diverse aspects such as cultural education and school for children, an orphanage, youth preaching, marriage board, care for monks as well as the elderly, counselling for the householders, credit organization, hospital, farm, annual pilgrimages, drama festivals and ISKCON Food Relief Foundation.[61]

“ Lead by Radhanath, the Chowpatty Temple’s Devotee Care and Relations Program was developed in Mumbai, India in 1986. This Devotee Care and Relations Program established the Bhaktivedanta Hospital, ISKCON Food Relief Foundation, financial aid programs, and many other institutions addressing the physical needs of devotees. In order to address the importance of emotional and spiritual care, the temple is known for developing Grihasta Counseling. This counseling has the “primary purpose to foster trust among devotees,” the program arranges a formal counseling system where experienced devotees help foster the spiritual development of new devotees. The temple also leads a trip to Govardhan Farm, a tropical fruit and bamboo nursery in the Caribbean, advocating for “spiritually healthy” recreation. A model for Devotee Care and Relations Programs around the world, this program serves as an example for developing Devotee Care and Relation Programs in New Vrindaban.[60] ”
— Johnson et al., Harvard Pluralism Project

Annamrita

Launched in 2004, ISKCON Food Relief Foundation – under the brand name "Annamrita" – is the Indian leg of the global Food for Life organization and is considered a "leader in this field".[62] Inspired by Radhanath Swami and others, it operates the Indian Government's Midday Meal Scheme meant to improve both nutrition and literacy among school-going children.[63] Since serving 900 meals on its first day of operations, Annamrita has expanded considerably over a decade and, as of 2014, daily serves about 1.2 million meals across 10 states in India from 20 of its high-tech, industrial (mostly ISO-certified) kitchens.[64] The program is funded through public-private partnership, wherein the Government provides the ingredients, while the cooking and delivery costs are jointly covered by the Government as well as private sponsors. The program offers "different menu every day and simple protein-rich food [...] cooked in an innovative way along with seasonal vegetables for a wholesome meal",[62] and has been credited with improving attendance in schools.[46] Although launched for primary and secondary schools, on account of its success, the program has been extended to post-graduate students,[65] hospital patients[66][67] and NTR canteens.[68] Michelin-starred chef Vikas Khanna is Annamrita's "Goodwill Ambassador", who pledged his support and efforts to complement the awareness and fund-raising efforts.[69] Annamrita's efforts have been recognized by the President of India[70] as well through several awards – to name a few, the D.Y. Patil 2012 Award for "Best Organization in Social Work",[71] Lifebuoy National Child Health Award 2012 for "Exemplary work in promoting Nutrition",[72] PP Mohan Shahani Trophy for the "Best Club Partner NGO" by Rotary Club,[73] and Indian Development Foundation's 2012 "Best Partner Award".[74]

Bhaktivedanta Hospital

Emerging from the Radha Gopinath Temple congregation, the Bhaktivedanta Hospital has become a flagship center for holistic health and spiritual care in Mumbai.[58] What started as a dream to provide quality healthcare at affordable cost by a few fresh medical graduates way back in 1986, transformed in the present-day state-of-the-art 150-bed multi-speciality hospital by Sri Chaitanya Welfare Charitable Trust.[75] As a tribute to ISKCON founder A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada and by the inspiration of Radhanath Swami, it essentially functions as a "not-for-profit" institution with the motto of "Serving in Devotion".[76][77]

In the early days, the doctors conducted medical camps in various areas in and around Maharashtra. These served the medically deprived and needy.[76] Years of dedicated service to thousands of patients led to the launch of 7-bed ‘Sri Chaitanya Clinic’ (or Bhaktivedanta Clinic) in Mira Road, Mumbai in 1992,[76][78] which eventually led to establishing the 60-bed Bhaktivedanta Hospital in 1998.[79]

Though closed in 2003 due to a labour dispute, it reopened in August 2004 under a different trust.[80][81] As of 2014, it also includes four ultramodern operation theaters, a 16-bed ICU,[75] 120 consulting specialists and 360 medical and paramedical staff – about half of which are initiated Hare Krishna followers.[57]

The hospital also houses an Ayurveda, Yoga and Rehabilitation Center as well as an exclusive department on Spiritual Care.[79] On the educational front, it includes Institute of Nursing Education, Institute of Paramedical Science and a Certificate Course for Spiritual Care in Nursing.[82] The Bhaktivedanta Cancer Institute, Eye Care/Vision Center, Urology Center and Center of excellence in Heart Care enhance the breadth of services offered.[79] The hospital also has a special team for counselling patients and an impressive palliative care unit.[83]

Community services form one of the core pillars of the hospital, which it extensively pursues. It has medically-equipped mobile vans to attend to eye care, cancer and maternity issues in remote sections of society;[79] on the same lines, it also established the Hamrapur Community Healthcare Center in Wada Taluka, Maharashtra in association with Lions Club.[84] In addition to social initiatives such as the Green Paper Forum, the hospital conducts regular free medical camps such as the Barsana Eye and Dental Camp, Pandharpur Camp, Senior Citizen Camp, School Camp, Cancer Camp and Dialysis Camp.[79][84]

The annual Barsana Camp, in particular, has been highly successful in that the doctors perform 600-700 free cataract surgeries annually and have even attracted doctors from far-off lands like the US and Britain.[85][86] Consequently, the efforts led to the founding of the Barsana Health Care Center in Uttar Pradesh.[87]

In addition, the Bhaktivedanta Hospice Center serves those who desire to spend their last days in the holy site of Vrindavan with good medical care.[88] The hospital is also proactive in disaster relief activities such as the Gujarat earthquake relief (2001), Tsunami relief (2004), Mumbai flood relief (2005), Mumbai bomb-blasts (2006) and Uttarakhand floods (2013).[89][90][91]

In 2014, AmeriCares India awarded Bhaktivedanta Hospital the "Spirit of Humanity Awards" for their work in the category of Oncology,[92] while it also won "Best Multi Specialty Hospital", "Best Hospital for Wellness & Healthcare", "Excellence in Hospice & Palliative Medicine" and "Best Teacher" awards in Indo-Global Healthcare Summit & Expo 2014.[93] The Times of India, in association with New India Assurance Co. Ltd., recognized the hospital's persistent efforts and designated them as "Trendsetter in Quality Patient Care and Safety" in the Healthcare Achievers Awards 2014.[94]

Govardhan Ecovillage

Children from Lady Northcote Hindu Orphanage singing bhajans
Tool used to make CSEB in GEV

Spread over 75 acres of pristine farmland at the foothills of the Sahyadri mountain in the Wada district of Maharashtra, Govardhan Ecovillage (GEV) is a "model farm community and retreat center highlighting the importance of spiritual ecology: the need for us [humans] to live in harmony with ourselves, nature and the sacred".[95][96] Inspired by Radhanath Swami, with its humble beginnings in 2003, GEV was officially inaugurated in 2011, in the presence of Nana Saheb Patil, Ex-secretary of the Agricultural Ministry for the Government of Maharashtra.<ref = name=GEVInauguration>"Radhanath Swami inaugurates Eco-village". radhanathswami.com. January 8, 2012. Retrieved 31 December 2014. </ref>[97] To bring about holistic, sustainable ecological changes, GEV puts great emphasis on community initiatives such as integrated water conservation and protection, Wadi program, women empowerment, rural health care, food for life, biodiversity park, Vedic culture and educational center and animal shelters.[98] GEV specializes in symbiotic recycling and strives to offer sustainable solutions for community living in issues related to food, water, energy and waste management.[99] GEV is also home to the Lady Northcote Hindu Orphanage.[100]

GEV's achievements in the area of integrated water conservation and protection were honored with the Skoch 2013 Platinum Award and Order-of-Merit.[101][102] Its initiative to build houses with Compressed Stabilized Earth Blocks (CSEB), Rammed Earth technique, Cob houses (Adobe bricks) with traditional thatched roofs was awarded 5-star rating by GRIHA (an indigenous rating system for green buildings in India).[103] In recognition of its continued efforts towards environmental sustainability, a Special Jury Award was conferred upon GEV by the India Chapter of the International Advertising Association's Olive Crown Awards 2013.[104]

Writings

The Journey Home

On the request of his friend and godbrother Bhakti Tirtha Swami, who was on his deathbed, Radhanath Swami agreed to share his story and wrote his memoir "The Journey Home: Autobiography of an American Swami".[105] It is the story of how he grew up in a Jewish family in Chicago, Illinois and through his journey of prayer was led through the 1960s counter-culture movement in America into Europe, walking and hitch-hiking all the way through Europe to the Middle East and into India. Along the way, he met many people, who would share their wisdom with him, encouraging him on his search for the truth. He stayed with Yogis in Himalayan caves, in Buddhist Monasteries, Jewish Synagogues, and Christian Churches. He met many teachers and practitioners of spirituality and learned from them, such as the 14th Dalai Lama and Mother Teresa, to name a few. The book chronicles his spiritual quest.[106]

“ Like many a spiritual autobiography, the external events and details turn out to be the setting for the author’s inner quest. His journey is a humbling, learning to be poor, a series of tests that push the author toward living by faith alone. Like any pilgrim, he does not see all of this along the way, but in retrospect sees how he was being quietly, insistently drawn toward God all the time.[106] ”
— Francis Xavier Clooney, A Hare Krishna Swami Tells All

The book launch of the Gujarati edition was held in November 2011, and was attended by the then chief minister of Gujarat Narendra Modi (in 2014, he became the Prime Minister of India).[107] In his speech at the book launch, Modi emphasized spirituality as the true identity of India and contrasted Radhanath Swami's spiritual journey with that of personalities such as Mirabai and Vivekananda.[107][108]

The Journey Within

A sequel to Journey Home, The Journey Within, was launched in May 2016.The Journey Within: Exploring the Path of Bhakti, became the New York Times Bestseller in July 2016 under the category of 'Religion, Spirituality and Faith'.[109]

Other Books

Radhanath Swami's lectures have also been thematically published in the form of books, which includes those based on his quotations, such as Nectar Drops and Nectar Stream,[110] and those based on his lectures and teachings such as Evolve,[111] Six Goswamis of Vrindavan,[112] The Wisdom Tree,[113] and The Real You.[114] The book "Soul Wise" (later renamed to "The Real You") was reviewed on Spirit Sundae, SABC1, South Africa.[115]

Global Outreach

Radhanath Swami has a strong global influence and has been globally honored for his humanitarian deeds.[116][117] He is one of the few members of ISKCON who influenced the movement globally and remains one of the most inspirational and respected spiritual leaders in ISKCON today.[116][118] He is on the advisory panel of I-Foundation,[119] which is credited with launching the first government-funded Hindu faith school in London.[120][121]

Radhanath Swami’s interfaith discussion with Cornel West resulted in “greater possibilities for both interfaith and intrafaith dialog [...] on Princeton’s campus”.[122] The event is regarded as a model for meaningful exchanges between followers of different beliefs,[122] and was awarded the 2011 Santos-Dumont Prize for Innovation that recognizes "a unique and creative program, event, initiative, or project [on Princeton's campus] [...] which has had wide-reaching impact and visibility".[123] His interfaith discussions with Francis X. Clooney were also very well received.[124]

“ For me as a Christian it was inspiring to hear this great Hindu teacher talk about finding ways to allow ourselves to be motivated and prompted by love of God and by God’s love for us. [...] I felt honoured as a Christian to sit in the presence of a great itinerant spiritual teacher.[125] ”
— Rev'd Andrew Willson, University Chaplain at Imperial College, London, His Holiness Radhanath Swami – the Guru comes to town

Radhanath Swami presented ancient spiritual solutions to modern subjugation at esteemed debating society, Oxford Union.[126] The Union’s event, dubbed Malcolm X’s Speech in Oxford — 50 years later, marked the anniversary of X's acclaimed Oxford address.[127] The event's aim: to rouse modern thought and contention on a radical approach to preserving liberty.[128] Radhanath Swami put forth ecumenical spiritual truths as means of harmonizing society.[129] Prominent participants included Angela Davis, Dr.Cornel West, Prof. Stephen Tuck and Ben Okri.[128][130]

Radhanath Swami appeared as the main speaker at a corporate workshop held by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII).[131] The exclusive interactive session, deemed Spirituality: Leadership and Management, hosted over 150 of India's top corporate executives.[132] Radhanath Swami conveyed the value of integrity, humility and simplicity in daily business affairs.[132] Prominent speakers included Piramal Group chairman, Ajay Piramal and Future Group CEO, Kishore Biyani.[133]

Many famous and influential people interacted with Radhanath Swami and expressed their appreciation of his character and work. Among them are Ajay Piramal,[134] Anil Agarwal,[135] Yash Birla[136] and Chetan Bhagat.[137][138] Renowned yoga teacher, B. K. S. Iyengar and Madhva sect spiritual leader Vishvesha Teertha of Pejavara matha also met him and appreciated his work.[139][140] Steven J. Rosen described Radhanath Swami as a "saintly person respected by the mass of ISKCON devotees today".[141]

“ He's a beautiful fellow. He's got the answer. I'm a spiritual gent and increasingly that's the level I want to vibrate on.[142][143][144][145][146] ”
— Russell Brand, after meeting Radhanath Swami

See also

Notes

  1. ↑ In his autobiography, Radhanath Swami mentions that before going to Europe, he visited his parents in Chicago. In his flight back to New York, his neighboring passenger turned out to be a blues singer Johnny Winter. During the flight, they sang along to the accompaniment of harmonica song "Mother-in-Law Blues" by Junior Parker.[22]

Footnotes

  1. ↑ Lama 2010
  2. ↑ "TEDx Speakers". Retrieved 12 January 2015.
  3. ↑ "Humans are trustees of the environment, not owners: Radhanath Swami". Retrieved 6 February 2015.
  4. 1 2 Dwyer & Cole 2007, pp. 24–25
  5. ↑ 2004, p. 204
  6. ↑ Dwyer & Cole 2007, p. 24
  7. 1 2 3 4 5 Shinn 1989, p. 126.
  8. 1 2 Radhanath Swami 2010, p. 4.
  9. ↑ Radhanath Swami 2010, p. 59.
  10. ↑ Radhanath Swami 2010, p. 60.
  11. ↑ Radhanath Swami 2010, p. 61.
  12. 1 2 3 4 Shinn 1987, p. 25.
  13. ↑ Radhanath Swami 2010, p. 5.
  14. 1 2 3 Radhanath Swami 2010, p. 6.
  15. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Shinn 1987, p. 26.
  16. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Shinn 1989, p. 127.
  17. 1 2 3 Radhanath Swami 2010, p. 8.
  18. 1 2 3 Radhanath Swami 2010, p. 7.
  19. ↑ Radhanath Swami 2010, p. 9.
  20. ↑ Radhanath Swami 2010, p. 12-13.
  21. ↑ Radhanath Swami 2010, p. 13,339.
  22. ↑ Radhanath Swami 2010, p. 15-16.
  23. 1 2 3 4 5 6 Raote, Rrishi (October 24, 2009). "Monk's quest". Business Standard. Retrieved 7 September 2014.
  24. ↑ Radhanath Swami 2010, p. 20.
  25. 1 2 Radhanath Swami 2010, p. 30-33.
  26. ↑ Radhanath Swami 2010, p. 34-35.
  27. 1 2 Radhanath Swami 2010, p. 36-38.
  28. 1 2 Radhanath Swami 2010, p. 42-46.
  29. 1 2 Radhanath Swami 2010, p. 63-66.
  30. 1 2 Radhanath Swami 2010, p. 67-75.
  31. 1 2 3 Kotopka, Ben (April 20, 2011). "West GS '80, Radhanath Swami speak on religion". The Daily Princetonian. Retrieved 7 September 2014.
  32. ↑ Shinn 1989, p. 26-27.
  33. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 Shinn 1989, p. 27.
  34. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Radhanath Swami 2010, p. 97-104.
  35. 1 2 Shinn 1989, p. 127-128.
  36. 1 2 3 Radhanath Swami 2010, p. 106-115.
  37. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Shinn 1989, p. 128.
  38. ↑ Shinn 1989, p. 128, 262.
  39. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Shinn 1989, p. 28.
  40. ↑ Shinn 1989, p. 29.
  41. ↑ A._C._Bhaktivedanta_Swami_Prabhupada, Letter to Kirtananda written from Melbourne
  42. 1 2 3 4 5 6 Radhanath Swami 2010, p. 339.
  43. ↑ A._C._Bhaktivedanta_Swami_Prabhupada, Letter to Vegavan written from Paris
  44. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Radhanath Swami 2010, p. 340.
  45. ↑ Dwyer & Cole 2013, p. 43.
  46. 1 2 Rizwanullah, Syed (April 12, 2012). "Good food leads to better attendance". The Times of India. Retrieved 7 September 2014.
  47. ↑
  48. ↑ "ISKCON GBC Resolutions 1987". Official Website of ISKCON GBC. March 1987. Retrieved 7 September 2014.
  49. ↑ "ISKCON GBC Resolutions 1988". Official Website of ISKCON GBC. February 20, 1988. Retrieved 7 September 2014.
  50. 1 2 3 "ISKCON GBC Resolutions 1994". Official Website of ISKCON GBC. Retrieved 7 September 2014.
  51. ↑ "ISKCON GBC Zonal Assignments 2010". dandavats.com. Retrieved 7 September 2014.
  52. ↑ "Radha Gopinath Temple Official Website". Retrieved 7 September 2014.
  53. ↑ Dwyer & Cole 2007, p. 25.
  54. ↑ Dwyer & Cole 2013, Interview with Kenneth R. Valpey, p. 88.
  55. ↑ "The Simple Temple: Chowpatty". vimeo.com. Retrieved 15 September 2014.
  56. 1 2 Rosen 2007, p. 24-25.
  57. 1 2 Rosen 2007, p. 25.
  58. 1 2 Dwyer & Cole 2007.
  59. ↑ Castelino, Meher (August 10, 2014). "Who is god's dress designer?". Mid Day. Retrieved 9 September 2014.
  60. 1 2 Johnson, Courtney; Kirkwood, Ethan; Ludi, Claudia. "Devotee Care at New Vrindaban" (PDF). Harvard Pluralism Project. Global Leadership Center, Ohio University. p. 34. Retrieved 8 September 2014.
  61. ↑ "Chowpatty Devotee Care Program". devoteecareiskcon.com. Retrieved 8 September 2014.
  62. 1 2 Pandey, Jhimli Mukherjee (July 9, 2013). "Iskcon to serve midday meals". The Times of India. Retrieved 9 September 2014.
  63. ↑ "Our Inspiration". Annamrita. Retrieved 31 December 2014.
  64. ↑ "Feeding 12 lakh children". Afternoon D&C. February 10, 2014. Retrieved 9 September 2014.
  65. ↑ Kattimani, Basavaraj F (September 20, 2011). "KUD to provide midday meals to PG students". The Times of India. Retrieved 9 September 2014.
  66. ↑ Shelar, Jyoti (September 7, 2014). "ISKCON to provide TB Hospital patients with wholesome food". Mumbai Mirror. Retrieved 7 September 2014.
  67. ↑ Vora, Priyanka (September 6, 2014). "Food from Iskcon kitchen for Sewri civic hospital in Mumbai". Hindustan Times. Retrieved 7 September 2014.
  68. ↑ DC Correspondent (September 7, 2014). "ISKCON backs NTR canteens". Deccan Chronicle. Retrieved 7 September 2014.
  69. ↑ Express Features (August 10, 2012). "Food for all". IBN Live. Retrieved 9 September 2014.
  70. ↑ "The President Commends Annamrita's Food Provision Efforts". annamrita.org. March 30, 2013. Retrieved 9 September 2014.
  71. ↑ Smullen, Madhava (November 25, 2011). "ISKCON Midday Meal Receives Best Social Work Award". ISKCON News. Retrieved 9 September 2014.
  72. ↑ "Six Indian NGOs recognized for outstanding work in the sphere of child health". Hindustan Unilever Limited. September 4, 2009. Retrieved 9 September 2014.
  73. ↑ Editor (July 4, 2014). "Food for Life Annamrita receives Best Club Partner NGO Award". Food for Life Global. Retrieved 9 September 2014.
  74. ↑ "IDF dedication in leprosy eradication laudable". Indian Development Foundation. August 28, 2012. Retrieved 9 September 2014.
  75. 1 2 Shah, Dr. Bimal. "Bhaktivedanta Hospital". Retrieved 11 September 2014.
  76. 1 2 3 "About Us". Bhaktivedanta Hospital. Retrieved 12 September 2014.
  77. ↑ "Our Inspiration". Bhaktivedanta Hospital. Retrieved 31 December 2014.
  78. ↑ "History of Radha Gopinath Temple". Retrieved 11 September 2014.
  79. 1 2 3 4 5 Kumar, Pranav. "A Tour Of Bhaktivedanta Hospital". prezi.com. Retrieved 12 September 2014.
  80. ↑ "Hospital shut after Sena attack". MiD DAY. 2003-09-29. Retrieved 17 March 2010.
  81. ↑ Bhaktivedanta Hospital Vandalised Mumbai Newsline
  82. ↑ "Educational Activities". Bhaktivedanta Hospital. Retrieved 12 September 2014.
  83. ↑ DNA Correspondent (April 17, 2014). "Spirit of Humanity Awards given away". Daily News and Analysis. Retrieved 11 September 2014.
  84. 1 2 "Community Services and Health Camps". Bhaktivedanta Hospital. Retrieved 12 September 2014.
  85. ↑ Smullen, Madhava (February 12, 2012). "ISKCON Volunteer Eye Camp in Barsana". Vrindavan Today News. Retrieved 12 September 2014.
  86. ↑ Radhanath Swami 2010, p. 345.
  87. ↑ "Barsana Healthcare Center Official Website". barsanahealthcare.com. Retrieved 12 September 2014.
  88. ↑ "Bhaktivedanta Hospice Official Website". Retrieved 12 September 2014.
  89. ↑ "Disaster Relief". Bhaktivedanta Hospital. Retrieved 12 September 2014.
  90. ↑ Ramanujam, Gayathri (July 17, 2006). "Medicine & Spirituality!". Afternoon D&C. Retrieved 12 September 2014.
  91. ↑ "Frequently Asked Questions". shareyourcare.com. Retrieved 12 September 2014.
  92. ↑ Press Release (April 17, 2014). "AmeriCares India Announces Spirit of Humanity Award Winners". AmeriCares India. Retrieved 11 September 2014.
  93. ↑ "List of Awardees". The Indus Foundation. Retrieved 12 September 2014.
  94. ↑ "Leaders of the Healthcare Industry". The Times of India. December 23, 2014. p. 10. Retrieved 26 December 2014.
  95. ↑ "Official Website of the Govardhan Ecovillage". Retrieved 15 September 2014.
  96. ↑ Vora, Dhara (September 25, 2014). "Head to these travel havens near Mumbai this long weekend". Mid Day. Retrieved 26 September 2014.
  97. ↑ "Radhanath Swami". Govardhan Ecovillage. Retrieved 31 December 2014.
  98. ↑ "Social Responsibility". ecovillage.org.in. Official Website of Govardhan Ecovillage. Retrieved 15 September 2014.
  99. ↑ Das, Gauranga (July 23, 2014). "Greed to Green: The Art of Sustainable Living". Talks at Google. Retrieved 15 September 2014.
  100. ↑ "Govardhan Ecovillage". radhanathswami.com. Retrieved 15 September 2014.
  101. ↑ "Skoch Renaissance Awards 2013". Skoch Group. Retrieved 15 September 2014.
  102. ↑ "INDIA'S Best 2013: Order-of-Merit". Skoch Group. Retrieved 15 September 2014.
  103. ↑ "The GRIHA Summit 2014". grihaindia.org. Retrieved 15 September 2014.
  104. ↑ BestMediaInfo Bureau (April 2, 2013). "IAA Olive Crown Awards: Cheil wins Campaign of the Year for Samsung Printers 'Minus 1 Project'". bestmediainfo.com. Retrieved 15 September 2014.
  105. ↑ "The Journey Home". Mandala Publishing and Earth Aware Editions. Retrieved 8 September 2014.
  106. 1 2 Clooney, Francis X. (May 21, 2009). "A Hare Krishna Swami Tells All". America. Retrieved 8 September 2014.
  107. 1 2 Modi, Narendra (December 1, 2011). "Shri Narendra Modi releases the Gujarati version of Radhanath Swami's autobiography 'Pele Par no Pravas'". Narendra Modi's Official YouTube Channel. Retrieved 8 September 2014.
  108. ↑ Admin (November 30, 2011). "CM releases Gujarati version of Radhanath Swami's autobiography 'Pele Par No Pravas'". Narendra Modi's Official Website. Retrieved 8 September 2014.
  109. ↑ "Religion, Spirituality and Faith Books - Best Sellers - July 10, 2016 - The New York Times". Retrieved 2016-07-08.
  110. ↑ Swami, Radhanath (2014). Nectar Stream. Jaico Publishing House. ISBN 8184954859. Retrieved 10 September 2014.
  111. ↑ Swami, Radhanath (February 4, 2014). Evolve: Two Minute Wisdom. Jaico Publishing House. ISBN 8184954840. Retrieved 10 September 2014.
  112. ↑ Swami, Radhanath. Six Goswami's of Vrindavan. Retrieved 10 September 2014.
  113. ↑ Swami, Radhanath. The Wisdom Tree. Retrieved 10 September 2014.
  114. ↑ Swami, Radhanath (2013). The Real You. Ahmedabad: Jaico Publishing House. ISBN 8184954441. Retrieved 10 September 2014.
  115. ↑ Shetty, Anirudh (December 23, 2011). "Soul Wise By Radhanath Swami reviewed on SABC1". Spirit Sundae, SABC1. Retrieved 8 September 2014.
  116. 1 2 Dwyer & Cole 2013, Interview with Dr. Edith Best, p. 141.
  117. ↑ Kravitz, Lee (2014). "Krishna Meets Radha". Pilgrim: Risking the Life I Have to Find the Faith I Seek. Penguin Books. ISBN 0698156919.
  118. ↑ Dwyer & Cole 2007, Steven J. Rosen, p. 24.
  119. ↑ "Britain's first Hindu school gets planning permission". India Edunews. September 12, 2007. Retrieved 8 September 2014.
  120. ↑ "First Hindu state school to open". BBC News. September 11, 2007. Retrieved 8 September 2014.
  121. ↑ Doward, Jamie (December 24, 2006). "£10m state cash for first Hindu school". The Guardian. Retrieved 8 September 2014.
  122. 1 2 "Winner, Alberto Santos-Dumont Prize for Innovation 2011". Princeton University. Retrieved 8 September 2014.
  123. ↑ "Santos-Dumont Prize". Princeton University. Retrieved 8 September 2014.
  124. ↑ Clooney, Francis X. (April 16, 2012). "Hindu-Christian Dialogue at Columbia 4/20". America. Retrieved 15 September 2014.
  125. ↑ Willson, Andrew (April 18, 2013). "His Holiness Radhanath Swami – the Guru comes to town". Andrew's Blog: Blog of a University Chaplain. Retrieved 8 September 2014. External link in |publisher= (help)
  126. ↑ "Radhanath Swami Speaks at Oxford Union with Dr. Cornel West On…". www.dandavats.com. Retrieved December 24, 2014.
  127. ↑ "Malcolm X anniversary marked at Oxford Union with extremism debate". BBC.com. Retrieved December 24, 2014.
  128. 1 2 "Malcolm X '50' debate at Oxford Union". The Oxford Times. Retrieved December 24, 2014.
  129. ↑ "Radhanath Swami Speaks at Oxford Union with Dr. Cornel West". Radhanath Swami.com. Retrieved December 24, 2014.
  130. ↑ December 24, 2014 "Extremism Debate" Check |url= value (help). The Oxford Union.
  131. ↑ "Corporates head-honchos get tips on spirituality in leadership". IIFL. Retrieved December 31, 2014.
  132. 1 2 "Corporate heads receive spirituality tips in business". BusinessStandard.com. Retrieved December 31, 2014.
  133. ↑ "When spirituality met business". dnaindia.com. Retrieved December 31, 2014.
  134. ↑ Banerjee, Soumyadipta (August 20, 2009). "We have started a youth movement". Daily News and Analysis. Retrieved 8 September 2014.
  135. ↑ "Anil Agarwal introduces Radhanath Swami". YouTube video. Jun 27, 2011. Retrieved 8 September 2014.
  136. ↑ Patel, Amit (April 11, 2011). "One Spirit". The Times of India. Retrieved 8 September 2014.
  137. ↑ Bhagat, Chetan (November 2, 2009). "The Ocean". Chetan Bhagat's Blog. Retrieved 8 September 2014.
  138. ↑ Coelho, Alisha (September 25, 2014). "Chetan Bhagat, The Writer Who Had To 'Beg For Credit', Now Turns Film Producer For Half Girlfriend". Indiatimes. Retrieved 26 September 2014.
  139. ↑ "Meeting with B. K. S. Iyengar and "The Journey Home" Club". radhanathswami.com. January 9, 2014. Retrieved 15 September 2014.
  140. ↑ "Sri Pejawar Swami Appreciates "The Journey Home"". radhanathswami.com. December 16, 2011. Retrieved 15 September 2014.
  141. ↑ Dwyer & Cole 2007, p. 24.
  142. ↑ Sanghera, Sathnam (October 16, 2008). "Russell Brand: I'm a spiritual gent with a crazed lust for glamour". The Times. Retrieved 8 September 2014.
  143. ↑ "Russell Brand seeking guidance from guru". Now Magazine. October 18, 2008.
  144. ↑ "Comedian Russell Brand pictured exploring his spiritual side at a Hare Krishna temple". Daily Mirror. August 18, 2013. Retrieved 8 September 2014.
  145. ↑ Barkham, Patrick (October 30, 2008). "Has Russell Brand turned to Hare Krishna?". The Guardian. Retrieved 8 September 2014.
  146. ↑ Dril, E. Van (October 17, 2008). "Russell Brand Seeing a Swami". thecelebritycafe.com. Retrieved 8 September 2014.

References

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