INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR KRISHNA CONSCIOUSNESS
Founder-Acarya: His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada
GOVERNING BODY COMMISSION
GBC BODY MEETING RESOLUTIONS 1995 Sri Dham Mayapur
1) That Sesa dasa is accepted as assistant GBC.
2) THAT Bir Krishna Goswami is accepted as a candidate for GBC for the
Southeastern USA zone.
3) THAT Bhaktivaibhava Swami is accepted as assistant GBC.
4) THAT Naveen Krishna dasa is approved to become a full GBC.
5) THAT Bhakti Raghava Swami is accepted as acting GBC.
6) THAT Rohini Suta dasa is accepted as a full GBC.
7) THAT Param Gati Swami is accepted as acting GBC.
8) THAT Radhanatha Swami is accepted as acting GBC.
9) THAT Ramai Swami is accepted as assistant GBC.
10) THAT the following officers are elected:
a. Badrinarayan dasa is elected as GBC Chairman. He will also serve as
chairman for the duration of this meeting, filling the vacancy left by
Jagadisa Goswami’s resignation.
b. Bhakti Tirtha Swami is elected as GBC vice-chairman.
c. Naveen Krishna dasa is elected as GBC secretary.
11) Proposal Name: Re-Organization of Education Office/Board ID# VI-1
A.
1. THAT the members of the GBC Education Sub-committee are: Bhurijan Dasa,
Bir Krishna Swami, Badrinarayana Dasa, Kavichandra Swami, Gaura Govinda
Swami, Dhanvantari Swami (replacing Bhakti Bhusan Swami if approved as an
Assistant GBC) and Bhaktarupa Prabhu (Treasurer).
2. The GBC Sub-committee will meet in Mayapur annually to serve as an
interface between the GBC Body and the Office of Education and deal with
educational matters assigned to it by the GBC Body.
3. THAT Bhurijana Dasa is appointed Chairman of the GBC Education Sub-Com-
mittee.
B.
1. THAT Muralivadaka Dasa is appointed “Director of the Office of Educa-
tion.” He may organize a worldwide committee to attain the goals of this
office which are to:
(a) give child protection training & recording (WHAT?)
(b) serve as a center for help and information
(c) develop strategies and goals for ISKCON education worldwide
(d) oversee the “Office of Accreditation & Curriculum Development ”
(e) oversee the allocation of the education budget.
C.
1. THAT Urmila devi dasi is appointed “Accreditation & Curriculum Develop-
ment Coordinator.” She will develop standards for accrediting schools and
the writing & printing of the curriculum.
2. THAT a committee of Bir Krsna Swami, Bhakti Tirtha Swami, and Badrinar-
ayana dasa will meet with Muralivadaka Dasa and Urmila devi dasi to implement
this revised system.
12) Proposal Name: GBC Official Archives ID# VI-7
1. THAT the GBC Correspondence Secretary establish and supervise an official
document archive in Sri Mayapur Dhama. The Correspondence Secretary is
empowered to publish detailed rules, guidelines, and fee schedules for
operating the archive.
2. THAT any ISKCON devotee may place a document in the archives upon payment
of a fee and issuance of a receipt. Certified copies of documents may be
issued to the holder of a receipt or any ISKCON temple officer upon payment
of a fee..
3. THAT duplicates should be made and kept in Mayapur by the Correspondence
Secretary.
13) Proposal Name: Child Protection Guidelines ID# VI-3
1. THAT The local GBC should be advised if a Temple President knowingly
arranges for a confirmed child abuser to be supported by a temple, or live on
temple property without first notifying the householder community as per
ISKCON laws. The local GBC is to supervise the situation to be sure the
Temple President follows the following GBC guidelines:
“In no case should a confirmed perpetrator remain in the local community
unless the local ISKCON authorities obtain the written authorization of no
less than three-quarter of the parents of children at the project or in the
community. The local government authorities and/or the ISKCON Board of
Education will make the final determination of the appropriate degree of
segregation. (1990-119.4)”
2. THAT every GBC make sure the temples presidents in his zone are made
aware of this resolution and GBC guidelines.
14) PROPOSAL NAME: SANNYASI ANNUAL COMMITMENT ID# IV-18
1. THAT sannyasis who are not GBC’s or ISKCON Managers shall annually submit
in writing to the GBC a “service program” report they are committing themsel-
ves to for the following year. This report shall include the following:
a) what devotional services they intend to do;
b) where they intend to perform their services;
c) when they intend to be in different places, if not always in the
same zone;
d) anything else they would like the GBC to know.
2. THAT these Sannyasis shall also submit their “annual devotional service
progress” report explaining in brief the highlights, achievements, and any
obstacles in their devotional service during the previous year.
3. THAT the above two reports shall be submitted to the Sannyasa Minister,
on behalf of the GBC, one month prior to the GBC meeting.
15) PROPOSAL NAME: MINOR PROPERTY LAW REVISION ID# I-11
THAT Section 2.2.2 of ISKCON Law 93-54 shall be amended to read: “It is not
allowed for any private individual or non-ISKCON entity to hold equity in any
structure built on ISKCON property if that equity constitutes a legal
encumbrance on that property.”
16) PROPOSAL NAME: ZURICH RELOCATION ID# N-5
THAT the GBC Body gives its blessings to ISKCON Zurich to relocate Their
Lordships Sri Sri Jagannath, Baladeva and Subhadra Devi and Sri Sri Gaura–
Nitai to a new location in Zurich.
17) PROPOSAL NAME: EXPANDING INITIATING GURUS ID# V-20
THAT devotees first initiated by Srila Prabhupada and second initiated by
Srila Prabhupada’s disciples may, with the written consent of the mantra
guru, be accepted as a candidate for initiating spiritual master like any
other Srila Prabhupada disciple.
18) PROPOSAL NAME: FOUNDER ACARYA BUILDING PLAQUES ID# N-14
1. THAT either before or during the Srila Prabhupada Centennial, all ISKCON
temples and prominent buildings which don’t already have Srila Prabhupada’s
name enscripted upon them, shall install a plaque stating Srila Prabhupada’s
full name as the Founder-Acarya of the International Society for Krishna
Consciousness.
2. THIS shall also apply to the prominent buildings of the BBT, BI and any
other society founded by Srila Prabhupada or affiliated to ISKCON.
3. THE BBT shall mention Srila Prabhupada as the Founder-Acarya.
4. THE Communications Ministry shall give a standard format and wording for
these plaques upon request.
19) PROPOSAL NAME: LEGAL, TAX, FINANCIAL COMPLIANCE ID# I-12
1. THAT every Temple President is to insure his temple is operating at
acceptable standards in all legal, tax, and accounting matters according to
local law.
2. THAT competent lawyers and accountants (retained or volunteer) be engaged
to review current standards and guide ISKCON temples to come up to acceptable
standards by January 1, 1996.
3. THAT the Ministry of Finance will provide minimum standards for legal,
tax and accounting procedures for ISKCON, which apply whenever local law does
not require compliance at least to these minimum standards. The Ministry of
Finance shall also give an annual report to the GBC to verify this com-
pliance. Where needed, the local GBC shall assist the Ministry to ensure
that temples in their zone are in compliance.
20) PROPOSAL NAME: TEMPLE DEITY WORSHIP STANDARDS ID# II-6
1. THAT the book “The Method of Deity Worship fir the International Society
for Krishna Consciousness” is approved by the GBC Body.
2. THAT all devotees engaged in Deity worship in ISKCON temples with
installed Deities should study and take guidance from this book.
3. With the approval of this book, the previous 1983 Resolution 25.2.2 may
be updated by the ISKCON Law Revision Committee.
21) PROPOSAL NAME: MANOR CAMPAIGN THANK YOU ID# VI-5
THAT the GBC makes the following statement:
“The GBC would like to thank the devotees and members of the Society in the
United Kingdom who have served so valiantly in keeping Bhaktivedanta Manor
open as a place of public worship. Foremost we would like to thank Akhandad-
hi Das, the Temple President, who made his life one with the Manor Campaign
for the last decade. Thanks also goes to Frank Ward, a friend of the Society
and local councilor; Naresh Chada and the Hare Krsna Temple Defense Movement;
the Patrons Council; Sruti Dharma Das, Pranabandu Das and the United Kingdom
Life Membership preachers; Atmanivedana Swami; Riddha Das Adhikary; all
congregational members; and others not individually mentioned. Their
dedication and determination is an example to the members of ISKCON world-w-
ide and a great source of pleasure to Srila Prabhupada who was concerned that
his followers maintained what he had given them”.
22) PROPOSAL NAME: SANNYASA APPLICATION NO.2 ID# N-15
THAT sannyasa candidates must meet personally with the Sannyasa Committee in
Mayapur before receiving final approval for taking sannyasa, unless exempted
by the Sannyasa Minister.
23) PROPOSAL NAME: MURLI KRSNA DASA REINSTATEMENT ID# N-8
THAT Murli Krsna Dasa be admitted as a member of ISKCON for a one-year
probationary period. He is to maintain regular contact with the ISKCON temple
in Boston during the probationary period. If the Boston temple authorities,
through Niranjana Swami, give a favorable report to the GBC Body in 1996 on
Murli Krsna Dasa, he may be fully reinstated in 1996.
THAT these same conditions apply if Murli Krsna Dasa moves to another
location within the next year, (i.e. he should maintain regular association
with ISKCON devotees in his area). These devotees should submit a report
through their GBC representative.
24) PROPOSAL NAME: SANNYASA APPLICATION NO.1 ID# N-14
THAT candidates for sannyasa must submit their applications in accordance
with the GBC Rules of Order and include along with the statement by a GBC
member listing the candidate’s qualifications to take sannyasa, a letter
written by the candidate explaining his reasons for wanting to accept
sannyasa.
25) PROPOSAL: PRAHLADANANDA SWAMI SANNYASA MINISTER ID# N-5
THAT Prahladananda Swami is re-appointed Sannyasa Minister.
26) PROPOSAL NAME: CONTINENTAL TRAINING SEMINARS ID# V-18
THAT GBC Zonal Secretaries and GBC Global Ministers/Monitors, in cooperation
with Continental Leaders, will organize and personally participate in
training seminars once a year in 1) North America; 2) South America; 3)
Europe/Africa; 4) India/Asia; 5) CIS; and 6) Australasia. Each seminar will
be of approximately four to six days and will be called “ISKCON Conventions.”
ISKCON Foundation and its staff will be the Coordinators of these conven-
tions.
27) PROPOSAL NAME: JAYAPATAKA SWAMI CO-GBC FOR BRUNEI ID# IV-11
THAT Jayapataka Swami be appointed Co-GBC for Brunei.
28) PROPOSAL NAME: CIS GBC CHANGES ID# IV-30
1. THAT Gopal Krishna Goswami be appointed Co-GBC for Southern Russia.
2. THAT Rohini Suta Dasa be appointed Co-GBC for Volga.
3. THAT Bhakti Vaibhav Swami be appointed Assistant GBC to Niranjana Swami
for Belarus to replace Prabhavisnu Swami.
29) PROPOSAL NAME: KRISHNALOKA PROJECT (SURAT) id# IV-14
THAT Krishnaloka Project at Gangapur (Surat) be accepted as an ISKCON temple.
Jayapataka Swami will give advise on the finer legal points to bring the
project under ISKCON authority. Gopal Krsna Swami is the GBC as Surat is in
his zone.
30) PROPOSAL: ISKCON Policies Manual ID # V-16
THAT Kalakantha dasa will review and organize the existing ISKCON law
revisions work thus far done by the Constitutional Committee to form a draft
booklet of ISKCON current law. On May 23rd and 24th, 1996 this draft will be
reviewed in Alachua in person by the Law Revisions Committee including
Kavicandra Swami, Jaya Pataka Swami, Naveen Krishna dasa, Ravindra Swarupa
dasa, and one devotee lawyer such as Balavanta dasa or Sesa dasa. They shall
be empowered to finalize the compilation, including editing, definitions and
whatever else needed to complete the law revision. This review group will
cause this to be published and mailed out to temple’s worldwide as the
official updated booklet of ISKCON law.
THAT after the official booklet of ISKCON laws is published, it shall be
updated after every annual GBC meeting and provided to ISKCON GBC’s, temple
presidents and others within three months of Gaura Purnima.
31) PROPOSAL: ISKCON Leadership Definitions and Constitution ID # V-2
THAT Sesa dasa will join the constitutional team to review the official
ISKCON lawbook and from this create a draft constitution for ISKCON. The
final draft of this constitution will be completed by September 1, 1995. This
draft constitution will be sent to all GBC members by letter, FAX or COM as a
correspondence proposal to be finally voted upon before December 1, 1995,
thus providing ISKCON with a constitution before the centennial year begins.
32) PROPOSAL: Congregational Development Ministry ID # V-7
THAT the GBC body establishes a Ministry for Congregational Development to
help achieve ISKCON’s goals in this vital area. Jaya Pataka Swami shall be
the minister.
33) PROPOSAL: Implementation of Temple Stapak Sastra ID # II-3
THAT it is advised as a guideline that all ISKCON temples with installed
deities may immediately begin and maintain a stapak sastra using a long-last-
ing hard-bound book suitable for establishing a legacy. Each temple’s
historical events should be recorded in the stapak sastra by the Temple
President and Head Pujari after due consideration and mutual agreement. The
stapak sastra should be maintained on the altar as the Deities’ personal
paraphernalia. Suggestions for entries are:
1. Formation of the temple.
2. Special lilas and instructions given by the Founder Acarya, Srila Prab-
hupada.
3. Special history of the Deities e.g.: how They were named, how They came,
Their standard of service, Their extraordinary lilas, etc.
4. Accomplishments of the devotees and temple e.g.: winners of Christmas
marathons.
5. Temple’s annual history.
6. The last words of retiring Temple Presidents.
34) PROPOSAL: Funding Mayapur Panca-Tattva ID # VI-9
THAT Sridhara Swami will do a fund-raiser during the Navadvipa Mandala
Parikrama for the Panca Tattva temple in Mayapur. GBC members and others are
also invited to contribute.
35) PROPOSAL: Sannyasa Waiting List ID #’s IV-24, 26, 31-35
THAT Balabhadra dasa be placed on the three year sannyasa waiting list.
THAT Kadamba Kanana Rasa Parayana dasa be placed on the one year sannyasa
waiting list.
THAT Ramacandra dasa be placed on the five year sannyasa waiting list.
THAT Mahamantra dasa be placed on the two year sannyasa waiting list.
THAT Gauranga dasa be placed on the five year sannyasa waiting list.
THAT Gaura Narayana dasa be placed on the five year sannyasa waiting list.
THAT Paratha Sarathi dasa (French) be placed on the one year sannyasa
waiting list.
36) THAT Vedavyasa Priya Swami be pre-approved to have his sannyasa re-con-
firmed from a bonafide ISKCON guru of his choice. He must also sign an oath
of allegiance to ISKCON.
37) THAT Vrndavana Swami be pre-approved to have his sannyasa re-confirmed
after his accepting a bonafide ISKCON guru of his choice for first and second
initiation. All three initiations are authorized to be given at the same
time, at the discretion of the initiating guru who he accepts. He must also
sign an oath of allegiance to ISKCON.
38) THAT Nityo Dita Swami be pre-approved to have his sannyasa re-confirmed
from a bonafide ISKCON guru of his choice. He must also sign an oath of
allegiance to ISKCON.
39) THAT Umapati Swami be authorized as an initiating guru in ISKCON.
40) THAT Varsana Swami be authorized as an initiating guru in ISKCON after
signing an oath of allegiance to ISKCON and affirming that he has renounced
all allegiance to Kirtanananda.
41) PROPOSAL: GBC Newsletter V-15
THAT the GBC Executive Committee will edit and oversee a quarterly GBC
newsletter to go to all ISKCON temples throughout the world. The newsletter
will be drafted and produced by ISKCON Foundation. Cost to the GBC will be
U.S. $1200. ISKCON Foundation will donate staff, time and equipment.
42) PROPOSAL: Deity Protection I-2
THAT all temples must make arrangements for the protection of installed
Deities immediately. This is to include adequate protection during darsana
times when the curtain and doors are open. Locking iron gates are recom-
mended. All GBC men must include details on how the Deities in each temple in
their zone are being protected in their 1995 Annual Report. [This is already
an ISKCON law but it should be implemented by the 1996 Centennial.]
43) PROPOSAL: France–GBC Question IV-3
THAT Bhakti Charu Swami shall resign as GBC of France. The GBC Executive
Committee requests Bhakti Charu Swami and Bhakti Svarupa Damodar Swami to
encourage their disciples to remain in France and work cooperatively with the
ISKCON institution there.
44) PROPOSAL: Kirtan Melodies II-2
THAT the Minister of Culture, Bhakti Charu Swami, shall organize a committee
of senior devotees to review Srila Prabhupada’s instructions on kirtan
melodies. Then a cassette tape and sheet music shall be made with sample
melodies and songs for specific melodies. An examination shall be prepared
of different melodies for different times.
45) PROPOSAL: Property Improvements N-19
THAT before making any improvements on an ISKCON property the local manage-
ment shall comply (where applicable) with building, health and fire codes.
Building permits shall be obtained as required by local law before commencing
the work. The local Zonal Secretary shall oversee that this guideline is
being adhere to.
46) PROPOSAL: Increasing Correspondence Proposals V-20
THAT In order to expedite GBC business, concentrating on the preaching vision
and avoiding distractions, the GBC Body shall process as many correspondence
proposals as possible, especially in the realm of legal, administrative,
financial, social, behavioral and philosophical areas of discussion. For
1995-1996, these proposals shall be processed through the GBC Secretary,
Naveen Krishna dasa. All proposals first shall be sent to the Chairman who
decides in consultation with the Executive Committee which proposals go to
correspondence and which do not. In accordance with existing policy, any
proposals not completed at the end of the GBC meeting shall be submitted to
the Chairman and his Executive Committee for further action.
47) PROPOSAL: Private Residences N-18
THAT to have a “private” residence on an ISKCON property, someone must have
a written legal agreement signed with the proprietary ISKCON entity. The
agreement shall include the following:
1. The property shall remain legally unencumbered.
2. In case any improvements are ever to be made on the residence, they shall
comply with these guidelines:
a. That they comply with the ISKCON Law on making “property improve-
ments”;
b. That it shall state whether the improvement is a donation, or a
claimed asset of the resident. In the case of a claimed asset, the limit and
nature of any compensation shall be detailed so as to avoid any legal
complication in the future.
c. That the written permission of the competent local authorities shall
be taken prior to making any improvements.
3. The resident shall maintain the spiritual standards of ISKCON.
4. Reasonable clauses for vacating the resident if required.
5. Any other clauses needed for maintaining good relations and avoiding
legal or practical problems between the occupant and ISKCON.
48) PROPOSAL: Debt-Free Temples N-1
THAT :
1. As a general principle of management temple presidents and temple ad-
ministrations shall keep ISKCON temples free from debts. No external debts
should be created by any temple administration. This shall be implemented in
the following manner:
a. Except for BBT book consignment purchases and deferred payment
short-term purchases which can be timely met by the temple from its normal
cash flow, all other purchases and expenses should be made on cash basis,
otherwise prior to incurring a debt one should obtain the written permission
of the local GBC Zonal Secretary.
b. Immovable property purchases on mortgage or time payment done with
concerned property as only collateral and after taking requisite permission
as per ISKCON laws on property are exempt.
c. Purchases of vehicles or other movable assets such as equipment of
machinery should only be done with the concerned vehicle as collateral and
not endangering other assets of default. If purchasing a vehicle will
compromise a major portion of the temple cash flow, or there is danger of
defaulting, then permission of the local GBC Zonal Secretary shall be taken
in writing prior to creating the debt.
d. Any debt which could endanger the immovable properties in case of
default shall also require the permission of the property trustees in writing
prior to creating the debt, and if the property has installed Deities, then
the permission of the GBC body shall be required.
2. GBC Zonal Secretaries shall insure that their temple presidents and
administrations learn to follow the principle of keeping the temple free of
debts, and are following this principle.
3. The GBC Zonal Secretary to the GBC body shall include in his annual
report:
a. Any deviation from following this principle and what steps have been
taken to correct it.
b. Any debts for which permission have been given and current status of
the debt.
4. In urgent cases during the year the GBC Zonal Secretary shall inform the
GBC Executive Committee of any blatant disregard of this principle or action
which is placing the temple entity into significant debt risk for which the
Zonal Secretary is not able to prevent or correct.
5. Temple presidents and administrations which deviate from this principle
shall be liable for remedial or disciplinary action including:
a. Imposing restrictions on ability to spend (additional signers, etc.);
b. Censuring;
c. Placing on probation and/or reducing to an acting status;
d. Removal in extreme or chronic cases.
49) Proposal: Prema Dhvani Correction II-9
THAT the GBC body informs ISKCON temples around the world that if “nitya lila
pravistha” is chanted in the beginning of the Jayadhvani prayers, the words
“paramhamsa” and “parivrajakacarya” should not be used. If “nitya lila
pravistha” is not chanted, the words “paramahamsa” and “parivrajakacarya” are
appropriate.
50) Proposal: Bhaktarupa Prabhu/GBC Dispute III-1
THAT Jaya Pataka Swami draw up a detailed job description for the GBC
Correspondence Secretary. Such description shall include, at the very least,
restrictions similar to those contained in the second half of last year’s
resolution concerning Bhaktarupa dasa.
THAT the GBC Body does NOT accept the resignation of Bhaktarupa dasa as
Correspondence Secretary and encourages him to continue in this service.
51) Fallen Sannyasa Gurus IV-19
THAT those who have taken sannyasa from a sannyasi in ISKCON who was in good
standing but later fell from sannyasa are recommended to take sannyasa
reinitiation by an authorized ISKCON sannyasi.
That anyone who took sannyasa outside of ISKCON whose sannyasa guru has
fallen, but wants to serve as an ISKCON sannyasi must take sannyasa re-initi-
ation from an ISKCON sannyasi.
52) Property Law Revision N-17
THAT the last sentence of Resolution #19 of 1981 be changed as follows:
“The North American Continential Committee is responsible to see that a
standard uniform legal plan is implemented”.
53) M.M. De Case III-13
THAT the GBC:
1) Confirms that the case affects India only
2) Directs the Indian Continental Committee and Indian BBT trustees to
settle this issue
54) Property TRUstee CHange APOProvals N-23
THAT Section 3.2.2. of ISKCON Law 1993-54 be modified as follows:
In the event of the death or failure to act for any reason of any of the said
Property Trustees, a successor initiated disciple of ISKCON who is following
strictly all the rules and regulations of the International Society for
Krishna Consciousness as detailed in Srila Prabhupada’s books, and provided
that there are never less than three or more than five Trustees acting at one
time. No objections to the appointment must be obtained in writing from the
local GBC’s, and the Monitoring Executor for the property in question must
certify in writing that the change is in accordance with ISKCON Law and
Executors Committee Policies. The Trustees shall be responsible to notify
the Executor Committee of any changes so effected by sending copies of all
relevant documents to the Secretary.
55) THAT Sukadeva Swami be pre-approved to have his sannyasa re-confirmed
after his accepting a bonafide ISKCON guru of his choice for first and second
initiation. All three initiations are authorized to be given at the same
time, at the discretion of the initiating guru who he accepts. He must also
sign an oath of allegiance to ISKCON. In the meantime he can remain in the
sannyasa asrama.
56) N.V. Sannyasis O-2
THAT Bhaktisiddhanta Swami, Candra Mali Swami, and Candra Sekhara Swami, all
formerly connected with New Vrindaban, now connected with ISKCON, may carry
on as sannyasis under ISKCON authority, and they should come to Mayapur next
year so that their situation can be discussed.
57) THAT TO live on ISKCON property, Satadhanya dasa must first have a “risk
assessment.” If he receives a “low to no risk” approval, he can live on
ISKCON Mayapur property. The assessment should be done by experts approved
by Yasoda dasi.
58) THAT the GBC approves the compilation of rules called “Gurus and
Initiation” submitted by the ISKCON Rules Revision Committee as follows:
59) THAT the above resolution is amended as follows: “1.3.5. Objecting GBC
Communicates First With Candidate, Council” is deleted. GBC men are only
required to submit their objections regarding a proposed ISKCON initiating
spiritual master to the Executive Committee.
60) New Vrindaban / ISKCON I-5
THAT:
a. the GBC body welcomes back all devotees of New Vrindaban who have
rejected the authority of Kirtanananda Swami and who again wish to be a part
of ISKCON;
b. ISKCON is willing to help the New Vrindaban community in any way pos-
sible;
c. ISKCON World Review will publish an article informing the society how New
Vrindaban is following proper standards;
d. The GBC will send a document to New Vrindaban explaining what it means to
be part of ISKCON and encouraging them to rejoin. It will also state that the
GBC body intends to work in a cooperative and non-disruptive fashion with New
Vrindaban should they want to rejoin ISKCON.
e. Bhakti Tirtha Swami and Radhanath Swami shall be co-GBC for West Virginia.
They shall act as liaison between the GBC body and New Vrindaban during the
transition to full ISKCON affiliation.
61) P.R. Issues VI-4
THAT:
1. Each temple, underground or banned regions excepted, shall produce and
dessiminate a two-page (minimum) newsletter at least monthly which is sent to
all the congregational members. The main elements should be positive presen-
tations of ISKCON’s philosophy and achievements of ISKCON locally, nationally
and internationally and should also include glorificatoin and recognition of:
a. Deserving active members of the congregation, recognizing their
services and contributions.
b. Local ISKCON members and leaders including temple president, preache-
rs, etc.
c. Other ISKCON leaders, gurus, sannyasis, preachers, etc. as thought
appropriate, including their noteworthy achievements.
2. Each newsletter shall also contain a monthly financial report. Expenses
are described in terms of temple functions and projects according to the
principles of functional accounting. (Contact ISKCON Foundation for specifics
on functional budget and newsletter recommendations.)
3. Wherever possible every temple shall form an advisory board according to
the guidelines established by the ISKCON Foundation. Some of the important
advisory board functions include:
a. Monthly meetings to understand the needs, concerns and interests of
the greater ISKCON community and local congregation.
b. To improve the quality and effect of the newsletter, temple programs
and other outreach programs including the congregational preaching, fes-
tivals, Food for Life programs, educational programs and all preaching.
c. To discuss confidentially the detractors and come up with goals and
styrategies to better to deal with reputation mangement and to empower the
advisory board members to work with the greater community on behalf of
ISKCON.
4. Each temple should empower the other mature leaders of the congregation
such as nama hatta leaders, gathering organizers, etc. with ISKCON materials
to answer questions that may arise due to opposing elements.
5. Each temple shall utilize the following and other resource and promotional
materials as far as possible:
a. Back to Godhead
b. ISKCON World Review
c. Hare Krishna Today Video Magazine
d. Centennial Materials
e. International Newsletters
62) New Oath Proposal N-10
THAT the following revised Oath of Loyalty be accepted:
A. OATH OF LOYALTY
As a devotee, officer and leader within the International Society for Krishna
Consciousness (ISKCON), I shall abide by the following:
1. TO accept His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada as the
Founder Acarya and Supreme Authority of ISKCON. To follow his teachings,
instructions and directions.
2. TO accept the Governing Body Commission of ISKCON as the representative
of his will and the ultimate managing authority of ISKCON.
3. TO abide by the Society’s spiritual rules, namely no illicit sex, no
intoxication, no gambling, no meat-eating and chant a minimum of sixteen
rounds of maha-mantra japa every day. To follow the principles set forth in
Srila Prabhupada’s books.
4. TO accept that all ISKCON’s funds, assets and properties under my control
or direction, including anything ISKCON may have acquired under my direction,
is the sole property of ISKCON and in the event of my death, resignation or
other relinquishment of all ISKCON responsibilities, all these shall accrue
solely to ISKCON and at all times I shall have no claim on them whatsoever.
B. PROCEDURES FOR TAKING OATHS:
1. All members of the GBC, ISKCON gurus, Sannyasis, Regional Secretaries,
Temple Presidents, Temple Vice-Presidents, Temple Board of Directors, Project
Leaders (such as ISCOWP, BI, etc.), and other ISKCON managers shall complete
the approved ISKCON Oath of Loyalty in the following manner:
a. A signed Oath certified by the appropriate legal authority prescribed for
giving testimony of a declaration (Notary Public, Judicial Magistrate,
Commissioner of Oaths, etc.) in the locaton shall be deposited with the GBC
Corresponding Secretary. This shall be renewed once in five years or
whenever there is a change in their responsibilities.
b. The GBC’s shall make the above Oath orally, in a group, before the
Deities in Sridham Mayapur during the course of their annual meetings.
c. Every Temple President, Regional Secretary, Temple Officer, etc. shall
take the Oath orally before the Deities of the Temple every year. The Oath
shall be administered by a local GBC Zonal Secretary. Optionally the Oath
may be taken at ISKCON Sridham Mayapur during the Gaura Purnima Festival
period).
d. Other leaders not covered above shall also make an annual oral declara-
tion of the Oath before an ISKCON Deity administered by the GBC authority or
liason assigned.
C. This resolution shall overide and replace all previous legislation on
Oaths for ISKCON leaders. This doesn’t replace the additional Oath that
ISKCON gurus must also take.
63) PROPOSAL NAME: Ministry of Indian Community Relations ID#: IV-29
THAT a portfolio of Indian Community Relations be established under the
direction of Naveen Krishna dasa with the following functions:
(1) To propose guidelines for ISKCON’s dealings with its Life Members,
(2) To receive complaints and suggestions from Indian members and congrega-
tions,
(3) To help resolve disputes and make reports and recommendations to the
GBC Executive Officers involving ISKCON management and Indian Life Members
and congregation,
(4) To establish local committees of ISKCON Indian friends and members to
handle these kind of issues. Committees to be approved by local ISKCON
management.
(5) Initially, for the next two years, pursue the above purposes in a few
particular centers as requested by the local Zonal GBC’s.
THAT Subhavilas dasa be appointed Global Coordinator for Indian Community
Relations for establishing the above portfolio.
64) THAT the GBC gives their approval and blessings for ISKCON devotees to
coolaborate with the Indian Heritage Research Foundation (IHF) in their
production of the Indian Heritage Encyclopedia as proposed by the Bhak-
tivedanta Institute staff. Bhaktisvarupa Damodara Swami will be the chief
co-ordinator and Rasaraja dasa (assisted by Rajahamsa dasa) will be the
liaison with the IHF. The following devotees shall write their respective
articles on ISKCON: Satsvarupa dasa Goswami, Hridayananda dasa Goswami,
Ravindra Svarupa dasa, Garuda dasa, Lokanath Swami, Jayadvaita Swami, Jaya
Pataka Swami, Bhakti Charu Swami, Subhag Swami, Mukunda Goswami, Drutakarma
dasa, Sadaputa dasa, Rasaraja dasa, Rajahamsa dasa and Bhaktisvarupa Damodar
Swami.
65) THAT Gaura Mandala Bhumi dasa be appointed Candidate for GBC for In-
donesia and Indo China (Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam).
66) THAT the GBC approves of the paper entitled “On My Order” which es-
tablishes as ISKCON law the final siddhanta on Srila Prabhupada’s desire for
continuing the disciplic succession after the departure of His Divine Grace.
67) THAT:
1. the acceptance of Vasudeva dasa’s resignation should be rescinded ad he
should be re-admitted to the GBC;
2. Subhavilas dasa should visit Fiji to explore possible means to repair
relations with Vasudeva dasa and his family;
3. Subhavilas dasa shall report the outcome to the GBC body via correspon-
dence;
4. New of this resolution will be carried to Fiji by Subhavilas dasa.
68) THAT Bhakti Bhusana Swami will be GBC for Southern and Central Brazil,
with Dhanvantari Swami as Regional Secretary for the Central Zone. Dhanvan-
tari Swami will be proposed in the future for GBC if accepted by the leaders.
THAT Guru Prasada Swami will be GBC for North and Northest Brazil. Somaka
Swami and Jagat Vicitra dasa will be Regional Secretaries for that area.
THAT this is a temporary arrangement for one year allowing Bhakti Bhusana
Swami and Guru Prasada Swami time to consult with the leaders and presidents
to arrive at a final arrangement next year.
69) THAT:
1. If needed or desired, an ISKCON Rural Community outside India may be
permitted to alienate or encumber a portion of its properties subject to one
or more of the following conditions:
a. The temple project has excess land which ISKCON cannot fully develop
in the foreseeable future;
b. ISKCON property is endangered by a large mortgage, inability to
conform to government regulations, or any other cause.
c. The community needs to facilitate householders in order to build up
the project in a manner which will not be detrimental to the Deity’s inter-
ests.
2. If any of the above conditions exists, approval to alienate or encumber
may be sought as follows:
a. The local administration and zonal secretary must explain to the property
trustees how the Rural Community’s property fits under one or more of the
above mentioned conditions.
b. In their application the local administration and zonal secretary
must also explain how they plan to protect the Deity’s and ISKCON’s interests
providing the following information:
(1) Which properties will remain ISKCON’s and the Deities’
possessions, including lands for Temple, Deity gardens, asramas, brahminical
and other temple devotees’ lodging, non-encumbered rental or income earning
assigned homesteads, temple’s cows, temple’s agricultural lands, temple owned
gurukula, temple administration, preaching facilities, utilities, roads and
any other similar areas. These lands and properties will be designated
“Deity property”.
(2) Which properties are to be alienated from ISKCON and how they
will be used. Such uses could include sale, rental or any encumbered
allotment of land for homesteads, privately owned cottage industries, private
agriculture and dairy, community government, and any other use not against
Krishna conscious principles. These lands and properties will be designated
“Non-Deity property”.
(3) How income earned from the alienation shall only be utilized
for removing danger to the property by paying off pending mortgages or BBT
capital loans, fulfilling government regulations, constructing temple
buildings, etc., to ISKCON’s and the Deities’ capital benefit.
(4) Evidence that there are devotees ready and able to invest in
buying or renting alienated land.
(5) A proposed scheme or covenant on land sale to prohibit use of
land for purposes against the principles of Krishna consciousness (as legally
as possible).
(6) Statement that the land price is equal to or greater than the
local fair market value for such property.
(7) A land use sketch showing where the lands designated in (1)
and (2) above will be situated.
(8) Any other supporting information.
c. If the property trustees unanimously approve of the proposal and the
Deity is situated anywhere on the ISKCON property, the proposal in the above
format must be forwarded with the trustees’ recommendation to the executors
committee. The executors committee may then approve the proposal demarcating
“Deity property” [non-alienable], and “Non-Deity property” [alienable], by
2/3 majority. If a simple majority approve, but less than 2/3, the executors
committee may forward the proposal to the GBC body for resolution.
d. After the proposal is approved, the project may be designated as an
ISKCON Village Community and the property trustees alone can approve propos-
als from the local management to alienate or encumber land not designated as
the Deity’s. The property trustees shall insure that proceeds from the
alienation are invested according to the approved plan.
e. In their order, the executors committee shall give specific instruc-
tions to insure proper execution and provide safeguards to protect the
capital assets as per the approved scheme.
70) THAT the GBC shall send a three man committee to Toronto to investigate
the complaints about the temple management. The Committee shall consist of
Bir Krsna Swami, Naveen Krishna dasa and Bhakti Tirtha Swami.
71) THAT:
1. Someone who has been connected with the Krsna consciousness movement for
more than one year either as a congregational member or a mature child
brought up in a Krishna conscious devotee’s household shall be allowed to
accept an ISKCON guru as a siksa guru and be accepted as an aspirant for
shelter and initiation in the future, provided the temple president or
gurukula principal (for gurukula students) gives his approval and, in the
case of a minor child, a parent gives approval.
2. Someone who has accepted an ISKCON guru as siksa guru and is an “aspirant
for shelter and initiation” may cultivate a personal spiritual relationship
with the spiritual master and by taking personal guidance try to further
progress in Krsna consciousness.
3. Someone who has accepted an ISKCON guru as siksa-guru and is an “aspirant
for shelter and initiation” and who wants to subsequently accept another
ISKCON guru as siksa guru, etc. should inform both gurus and follow the
procedure as provided for in paragraph #1 above.
72. THAT the following statement is accepted as ISKCON’s position statement
on the environment:
Fostering a more simple and natural way of life is one of the founding
principles of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness. The
members of the Society are therefore committed to helping solve the planet’s
environmental problems. These include water pollution, air pollution, toxic
waste, nuclear and chemical accidents, destruction of wildlife, and deser-
tification.
While appreciating the good intentions of those working to solve these
problems by individual and group efforts of a material nature, we believe the
environmental crisis is ultimately a spiritual one requiring a spiritual
solution.
The environmental crisis is a product of a society that has become overly
dependent upon destructive industrial technology. This dependency is rooted
in reductionist science, which has removed God and the soul from the forefr-
ont of human concern. When people forget that nature is the propriety of God,
they are driven to exploit it unlimitedly for their own material gratifica-
tion.
Scholars of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness are
therefore introducing an alternative culture based on the Vedic teachings of
ancient India. This philosophical system acknowledges the fundamental reality
of a nonmaterial conscious self, or soul, present in each individual. All
souls have their source in a Supreme Conscious Self, God. Nature also
emanates from God as a perfectly balanced system capable of sustaining all
living things. When humans fail to properly understand their total identity
as body-mind-soul and the connect of nature with God, the system becomes
unbalanced.
Ultimately, we would like to see society move toward a more natural
economy, in which people are not dependent upon the present environmentally
destructive system. They would instead live in smaller, self-sufficient
economic units, based on simple living and high thinking. These villages,
towns, and small cities would provide for basic needs locally and offer
secure lifetime employment.
To this end, the International Society for Krishna Consciousness is
gradually developing rural communities all over the world and a town for
20,000 in Mayapur, India.
To reduce the urge to excessively exploit and consume material resources,
ISKCON teaches people methods for experiencing nonmaterial happiness from the
soul. Chief among these is the time-honored practice of Hare Krishna mantra
meditation. Without elevating desires from material to spiritual, the basic
impetus to environmentally destructive behavior will remain intact.
We recognize the major detrimental effect of the meat industry, par-
ticularly the cattle industry, has on the environment. ISKCON’s model
programs for protecting cows and using bulls for transport and agriculture,
based on the Vedic spiritual teachings, are thus environmentally beneficial.
Such programs are now operating in ISKCON rural communities around the world.
The spiritual vegetarian diet followed by ISKCON members saves scarce
resources and has a far less negative impact on the environment than a
meat-based diet. Since its founding in 1966, ISKCON has provided over 900
million vegetarian meals through its restaurants, temples, and Food for Life
program (for the homeless, hungry, or disadvantaged). The Society has also
sold over 10 million vegetarian cookbooks.
While working to make this world a better place, ISKCON also encourages
people to understand their identity as spirit souls and return to the
spiritual world, which is the natural environment of the soul.
73. THAT:
1. A: In obedience to the instruction of His Divine Grace A. C. Bhaktivedan-
ta Swami Prabhupada, the GBC directs that the members of ISKCON should
respect all senior Gaudiya Vaishnavas outside ISKCON, but should not in-
timately associate with them, personally or through printed or recorded
media, for guidance, teaching, instruction, or initiation as their presenta-
tion of Krishna consciousness often differs from that of Srila Prabhupada in
emphasis, balance and other aspects of both teaching and practice.
B: This resolution is intended to apply categorically to all ISKCON
members. ISKCON leaders’ first responsibility is to give considerate
direction, guidance, and counseling to any ISKCON devotees personally
affected by this resolution so as to bring them back to the path set by Srila
Prabhupada.
In any case, those who continue to act in violation of this resolution
are subject to sanctions by temple presidents and GBC zonal secretaries, who
may exercise their discretion to prohibit any such devotees from living on
ISKCON properties or participating in ISKCON functions.
Those who persist in violating this resolution are cautioned they may be
reported to the GBC Executive Committee for immediate action or action at the
following year’s annual GBC meeting. The Executive Committee is hereby given
authority for the 1995-96 GBC year to suspend any violator from ISKCON.
2. That the members of ISKCON should regularly study Bhagavad-gita As It Is,
Srimad-Bhagavatam, Caitanya-Caritamrta, and the other books given by His
Divine Grace A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada. The recent proliferation
in ISKCON of literature focusing on “rasika-bhakti,” intimate Radha-Krsna
lila, and other subject matters suitable only for highly advanced souls,
represents a departure from Srila Prabhupada’s orders and obstructs the
smooth spiritual progress of ISKCON devotees. ISKCON members should there-
fore avoid collecting, reading, discussing, or distributing such literature.
3. That the GBC body expresses its appreciation and gratitude to the devotees
around the world who recognized (and impressed upon the GBC body) the need,
in the “rasika bhakti” controversies, to guard ISKCON and its devotees from
swerving even slightly from the lotus feet of His Divine Grace A. C. Bhak-
tivedanta Swami Prabhupada and his unadulterated teachings.
4. The concerned devotees will prepare a document to correct any philosophi-
cal misconceptions that have arisen in ISKCON as a result of their statements
and actions. The paper shall deal with, among others, statements made at the
Visvarupa Mahotsava, Vrndavana Istagosthi, and in Following in the Footsteps,
and will be sent to all GBC members to use in correcting deviations wherever
they may appear. The final draft will be approved by Harikesa Swami,
Jayadvaita Swami, Ravindra Swarupa dasa and Suhotra Swami.
MEMORANDUM FROM THE GBC
The following brief description is offered to GBC members to use at their
discretion. It is the authorized GBC account of how the GBC body has ad-
dressed the “rasika bhakti issue” during this year’s meetings.
The Governing Body Commission considers it necessary to provide some
information to the members of ISKCON concerning a problem which has been
facing our Society and the way that problem is being resolved. Srila Prab-
hupada created the Governing Body Commission to act as the instrument of his
will to protect ISKCON.
1. It was apparent that some ISKCON members had become overly involved in
confidential topics of rasika bhakti under the influence of Gaudiya Vaisnavas
outside of ISKCON. The GBC responded to devotees’ concerns by investigating
and carefully considering the matter during this year’s annual meeting. The
history and findings are detailed below.
2. The GBC discussed the matter in great detail with some involved senior
devotees. It was seen that no unusual or deviant practices, like artificial
siddha pranali, were being engaged in, but in fact some straying from Srila
Prabhupada’s instructions was having detrimental and potentially far-reaching
malefic effects on the movement. Initially the devotees involved didn’t fully
realize the gravity of the matter. Deep philosophical and personal discus-
sions with GBC members led to a change of heart and to profound realizations
about what Srila Prabhupada desired in this regard. The whole matter was then
discussed openly in a very cooperative and positive manner.
3. Initially it may seem astonishing that even responsible and senior
devotees, who are normally quite cautious about anything even slightly
different from Srila Prabhupada’s teachings, could act in this way. In fact
it is not expected that a GBC member or guru would do so. In the course of
the GBC’s investigation, frank and open discussions revealed that over a
period of many years an affectionate relationship can gradually develop with
an outside Gaudiya Vaisnava. Especially when most of what he teaches is not
different from Srila Prabhupada, the significance of gradual shifts in
emphasis and subject matter over the course of time may not be readily
apparent. The GBC found that those senior members with whom they were
concerned were in fact all serious devotees who had a sincere desire to be
Krishna conscious and loyal to Srila Prabhupada, but were gradually, and
almost unnoticeable to them, being led in a way that upset the balance
established by Srila Prabhupada. It was also seen that they were all strict
devotees who carefully observed the regulative principles. The GBC and those
involved all came to the conclusion–a conclusion subsequently endorsed by
the Temple Presidents and other ISKCON managers–that the society requires
clear guidance regarding both the taking of intimate association with Gaudiya
Vaisnavas outside of ISKCON and the giving of undue emphasis to topics
regarding rasika bhakti. This guidance has been offered in the form of ISKCON
laws.
4. When the concerned GBC members realized the gravity of the issue, they
expressed deep regret and offered sincere apology to the GBC and the ISKCON
managers. They offered to resign from the Governing Body Commission, and they
submitted themselves to be engaged in Srila Prabhupada’s service in whatever
manner the GBC saw fit. It was clear that Srila Prabhupada was transcenden-
tally present and that His Divine Grace was personally resolving any dis-
crepancies in his sincere devotees’ hearts. Considering their humility and
sincerity in the light of Srila Prabhupada’s instructions in similiar cases,
the Governing Body Commission requested them to remain on the body and help
push forward Srila Prabhupada’s movement with renewed enthusiasm and dedica-
tion. Srila Prabhupada had acted directly and through his representatives to
maintain the integrity, purity, and spiritual strength of ISKCON.
5. The problem at hand has not, of course, been restricted to those whom
the GBC was able to deal with directly. In its own way, the matter has
gradually spread, affecting devotees in a variety of places. The GBC will try
to do all within its capacity to help such devotees to fully take shelter of
the direct teachings of Srila Prabhupada and the association of Srila
Prabhupada’s followers in ISKCON and to stem any detrimental effects in
ISKCON. The senior devotees who had been involved particularly have volun-
teered to help in this regard. Temple Managers must also be careful that no
subtle influences from outside ISKCON adversely affect the devotees under
their care. Some resolutions in this regard have been passed.
6. The GBC doesn’t want to alarm anyone with this report. The matter seems
to have been resolved on the higher level, but since rumors and concocted
stories may spread, an official account is offered to the ISKCON Managers who
can decide the extent to which it needs to be explained to the devotees in
general. Foreseeing that in a spiritual movement problems are bound to arise,
Srila Prabhupada instituted the Governing Body Commission on the order of his
spiritual master, Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakur, to protect the
movement from danger. Srila Prabhupada said we are in a vast ocean of
kali-yuga and the ocean is filled with dangers. His Divine Grace cautioned us
about taking intimate association and instructions from outside Gaudiya
Vaisnavas. At the same time His Divine Grace said to maintain cordial,
respectful, and friendly relations with a hope for future cooperation. To
balance these two instructions we must deeply study Srila Prabhupada’s
teachings and be firmly grounded in his vision. Association with outside
Gaudiya Vaisnavas should be conducted under authorized supervision and in
conformity with ISKCON law in order to ensure that Srila Prabhupada’s
teachings, practices, emphasis, and respect are uncompromised.
7. The GBC is grateful to the sincere devotees involved for their intro-
spection, their ability to hear from their godbrothers, and for their strong
determination to work unitedly with their godbrothers in carrying on Srila
Prabhupada’s mission. In so doing they have shown their sincerity and
character. Srila Prabhupada said that obstacles are the stepping stones to
success. By the causeless mercy of Srila Prabhupada and dedication to his
instructions we can pass all tests. ISKCON devotees may see these experiences
in a positive light and take good instructions from them. Although detractors
will always criticize, Srila Prabhupada said that we must continue marching
forward.
74) THAT Danavir dasa be placed on the two year sannyasa waiting list.
75) THAT up to ten guests will be invited to attend the GBC meetings in
Mayapur at the annual session. They will be observers in the plenary session
and participants in the committee meetings. The chairman, vice-chairman and
secretary of the ISKCON Managers Meeting elected from the previous years
meeting will be automatically included. The ISKCON Managers shall appoint
five others from among their own members. The remaining guests will be chosen
by the Executive Committee from persons requested by individual GBC members.
Individual GBC members will send a prioritized list of temple president
invitees to the GBC Executive Committee in writing by 31st December in order
to be accepted for consideration. Executive Committee may ask observers to
leave during confidential discussions. Observers pay their own expenses.
76) THAT Radha Govinda Maharaja is hereby authorized to initiate as soon as
the Executive Committee is satisfied that 1) there is no danger of ISKCON’s
name arising from a court case in which he has been named, and 2) he has
delivered a letter of apology to Jayapataka Swami for re-initiating one of
his disciples.
77) THAT Giridhari Swami is accepted as an assistant GBC.
78) THAT the GBC Body requests Mahamana dasa to take up the responsibility of
temple president of the Krishna-Balarama Temple in Vrndavana.
79) THAT:
1. Vaikuntha is that place from which no one ever falls down. The living
entity belongs to Lord Krsna’s marginal potency (tatastha-sakti). On this we
all agree. The origin of the conditioned life of the souls now in this
material world is undoubtedly beyond the range of our direct perception. We
can therefore best answer questions about that origin by repeating the
answers Srila Prabhupada gave when such questions were asked of him:
“The original home of the living entity and the Supreme Personality of
Godhead is the spiritual world. In the spiritual world both the Lord and the
living entities live together very peacefully. Since the living entity
remains engaged in the service of the Lord, they both share a blissful life
in the spiritual world. However, when the living entity, misusing his tiny
independence, wants to enjoy himself, he falls down into the material world.”
(Srimad-Bhagavatam 4.28.54, purport)
No ISKCON devotee shall present or publish any contrary view as conclusive in
any class or seminar or any media (print, video, electronic, etc.).
2. In resolving philosophical controversies, the teachings, instructions, and
personal example of His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada
shall be the first and primary resource for ISKCON devotees. We should
understand Vedic literature, the writings of previous acaryas, and the
teachings of current bona fide acaryas outside ISKCON through the teachings
of Srila Prabhupada. Where we perceive apparent differences, we may attribute
them to our own lack of understanding or (more rarely) to “differences among
acaryas.” When acaryas apparently differ, we shall defer to what is taught by
His Divine Grace, our Founder-Acarya.
3. The GBC rejects the speculation that Srila Prabhupada, while teaching
about the original position of the jiva, did not mean what he said. The GBC
finds this speculation unwarranted, poorly supported, unintentionally
offensive to Srila Prabhupada, and, as a precedent, dangerous.
The GBC therefore directs that, effective immediately, the book In
Vaikuntha Not Even the Leaves Fall shall be prohibited from sale and dis-
tribution at all ISKCON centers and by all ISKCON entities. The GBC members
and temple presidents shall be responsible for carrying out this resolution.
The GBC appreciates Satyanarayana dasa’s willingness to withdraw the book.
80) THAT the GBC suggests that devotees interested in apparent logical
contradictions surrounding the “fall of the jiva” read the following paper on
the topic, which Srila Prabhupada had sent to devotees in Australia in 1972
to resolve controversies that arose among them about this topic. The paper
came as an attachment to a letter from Srila Prabhupada to Madhudvisa dasa
dated June 6, 1972.
Crow And Tal-Fruit Logic
We never had any occasion when we were separated from Krsna. Just like one
man is dreaming and he forgets himself. In dream he creates himself in
different forms: now I am the King discussing like that. This creation of
himself is as seer and subject matter or seen, two things. But as soon as the
dream is over, the “seen” disappears. But the seer remains. Now he is in his
original position.
Our separation from Krsna is like that. We dream this body and so many
relationships with other things. First the attachment comes to enjoy sense
gratification. Even with Krsna desire for sense gratification is there. There
is a dormant attitude for forgetting Krsna and creating an atmosphere for
enjoying independently. Just like at the edge of the beach, sometimes the
water covers, sometimes there is dry sand, coming and going. Our position is
like that, sometimes covered, sometimes free, just like at the edge of the
tide. As soon as we forget, immediately the illusion is there. Just like as
soon as we sleep, dream is there.
We cannot say therefore that we are not with Krsna. As soon as we try to
become Lord, immediately we are covered by Maya. Formerly we were with Krsna
in His lila or sport. But this covering of Maya may be of very, very, very,
very long duration, therefore many creations are coming and going. Due to
this long period of time it is sometimes said that we are ever-conditioned.
But his long duration of time becomes very insignificant when one actually
comes to Krsna consciousness. Just like in a dream we are thinking very long
time, but as soon as we awaken we look at our watch and see it has been a
moment only. Just like with Krsna’s friends, they were kept asleep for one
year by Brahma, but when they woke up and Krsna returned before them, they
considered that only a moment had passed.
So this dreaming condition is called non-liberated life, and this is just
like a dream. Although in this material calculation it is a long, long
period, as soon as we come to Krsna consciousness then this period is
considered as a second. For example, Jaya and Vijaya. They had their lila
with Krsna, but they had to come down for their little mistake. They were
given mukti, emerging into the Brahmasayujya after being killed three times
as demons. This Brahmasayujya mukti is non-permanent. Every living entity
wants pleasure, but Brahmasayujya is minus pleasure. There is eternal
existence only. So when they do not find transcendental bliss, they fall down
to make a compromise with material bliss. Just like Vivekananda founded so
many schools and hospitals. So even Lord Brahma, he is still material and
wants to lord it over. He may come down to become a germ, but then he may
rise up to Krsna consciousness and go back to home, back to Godhead. This is
the position.
So when I say Yes, there is eternal lila with Krsna, that means on the
evidence of Jaya-Vijaya. Unless one develops full devotional service to
Krsna, he goes up only up to Brahmasayujya but falls down. But after millions
and millions of years of keeping oneself away from the lila of the Lord, when
one comes to Krsna consciousness this period becomes insignificant, just like
dreaming.
Because he falls down from Brahmasayujya, he thinks that may be his
origin, but he does not remember that before that even he was with Krsna. So
the conclusion is that whatever may be our past, let us come to Krsna
consciousness and immediately join Krsna. Just like with a diseased man, it
is a waste of time to try to find out how he has become diseased, better to
spend time curing the disease.
On the top of the tree there is a nice tal-fruit. A crow went there and
the fruit fell down. Some panditas–big, big learned scholars–saw this and
discussed: The fruit fell due to the crow agitating the limb. No, the fruit
fell simultaneously with the crow landing and frightened the crow so he flew
away. No, the fruit was ripe and the weight of the crow landing broke it from
the branch, and so on and so on. What is the use of such discussions? So
whether you were in the Brahmasayujya or with Krsna in His lila, at the
moment you are in neither, so the best policy is to develop your Krsna
consciousness and go there, never mind what is your origin.
Brahmasayujya and Krsna lila–both may be possible, but when you are
coming down from Brahmasayujya or when you are coming down from Krsna lila,
that remains a mystery. But at the present moment we are in Maya’s clutches,
so at present our only hope is to become Krsna conscious and go back to Home,
back to Godhead. The real position is servant of Krsna, and servant of Krsna
means in Krsna lila. Directly or indirectly, always we are serving Krsna’s
lila. Even in dream. Just like we cannot go out of the sun when it is
daytime, so where is the chance of going out of Krsna lila? The cloud may be
there, it may become very gray and dim, but still the sunlight is there,
everywhere, during the daytime. Because I am part and parcel of Krsna, I am
always connected. My finger, even though it may be diseased, remains part and
parcel of my body. Therefore, we try to treat it, cure it, because it is part
and parcel. So Krsna comes Himself when we forget Him, or He sends His
representative.
Awakening or dreaming, I am the same man. As soon as I awaken and see
myself, I see Krsna. Cause and effect are both Krsna. Just like cotton
becomes thread and thread becomes cloth, still, the original cause is cotton.
Therefore, everything is Krsna in the ultimate sense. When we cannot contact
Krsna personally, we contact His energies. So there is no chance to be
outside Krsna’s lila. But differences we see under different conditions. Just
like in the pool of water and in the mirror the same me is reflecting, but in
different reflections. One is shimmering, unsteady, one is clear and fixed.
Except for being in Krsna consciousness, we cannot see our actual position
rightly, therefore the learned man sees all living entities as the same parts
and parcels of Krsna. Material existence is impersonal because my real
personality is covered. But we should think that because I am now covered by
this clay, I am diseased, and we should think that I must get to business to
get myself uncovered, not wonder how I got this way. Now the fruit is there,
take it and enjoy, that is your first business. God is not bound by cause. He
can change, He is the Cause of all Causes. Now don’t waste your time with
this “Kaka taliya nyaya,” crows and tal-fruit logic.
81) THAT Lokasaksi dasa’s resignation as GBC is accepted.
82) THAT Jagadisa Goswami’s resignation as GBC is accepted.
83) THAT the GBC Body shall pay Rs. 58,717.80 for the completion of the GBC
conference room.
84) THAT the GBC will replace Bhaktarupa dasa’s services as Legal and
Corresponding Secretary. Naveen Krsna dasa will arrange to cover his GBC
secretarial duties from Alachua; Bhakti Charu Swami and Jaya Pataka Swami
will arrange to cover his legal services from Mayapur. The Executive Commit-
tee is authorized to arrange for Bhaktarupa dasa’s smooth transition to his
next service. Jaya Pataka Swami, Bhaktarupa dasa and Manjari-devi dasi will
compile and send a complete check-off list to the Executive Committee to
insure this smooth transition.
The GBC thanks Bhaktarupa dasa for his seven years of secretarial and legal
services. He has been instrumental in improving ISKCON through his service to
the GBC and we are sure he has greatly pleased Srila Prabhupada.
85) THAT 1996 GBC meetings will end three days before Navadvipa Mandala
Parikrama so that GBC members may have time to oversee the final preparations
for the Hare Krishna World Convention programs and seminars.
86) Every country is encouraged to send one representative to take part in
Srila Prabhupada’s Maha Vyasa-puja celebration in Calcutta.
87) The Sahasra Tirtha Jala sponsorship program is approved as a fund-rais-
ing scheme for the Centennial.
88) Every temple sponsors at least one kalash for the Calcutta Sahasra Tirtha
Jala Maha Abhisheka of Srila Prabhupada (qualification as ISKCON temple to be
certified by local GBC).
89) The GBC suggests that the BBT pays $0.10 to the Centennial Global
Ministry for each Lilamrta book sold to temples.
90) The GBC approves a budget of US $1,000,000 for the Centennial Ministry
for the period from April 1995 to March 1997, subject to review by Sridhara
Swami, Harivilas dasa and Executive Committee.
91) THAT the GBC Zonal Assignments for 1995-96 are as follows:
Badrinarayan Das:
GBC for Southern California, Nevada, New Mexico, Colorado, Idaho, Utah, Iowa,
Nebraska and Kansas
co-GBC with Romapada Swami for Illinois and Missouri
co-GBC with Virabahu for Los Angeles
Bhakti Bhusana Swami:
GBC — Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, Southern and Central Brazil
Bhakti Caru Swami:
GBC for Madagascar, Comoro Islands, and Seychelles
co-GBC with Jayapataka Swami for West Bengal
co-GBC with Jayapataka Swami and Prabhavisnu Swami for Bangladesh
co-GBC with Giriraj Swami and Bhaktitirtha Swami for South Africa, Mauritius
and Reunion
co-GBC for Mayapur and Calcutta (*)
Bhakti Raghava Swami:
GBC — Ontario, Quebec and Maritime Provinces
co-GBC with Hari Vilas for Western Canada, State of Washington, and Alaska
Bhakti Swarup Damodar Swami:
GBC — Manipur, Nagaland, Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh
co-GBC with Jayapataka Swami for Tripura, Assam, Meghalaya
co-GBC with Jayapataka Swami and Prabhavisnu Swami for Tirupati
co-GBC with Prabhavisnu Swami for Burma
co-GBC with Gopal Krsna Goswami for Kuruksetra
co-GBC with Paramgati Swami, for France, except Dole
co-GBC with Jayapataka Swami and Gopal Krishna Goswami for Andhra Pradesh,
except Tirupati
Bhaktitirtha Swami:
co-GBC with Kavicandra Swami for Nigeria, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Sierra Leone,
Benin, Togo, Liberia, Camaroon, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Zaire, Gabon, Rio
Muni, Central African Republic, and Congo
co-GBC with Radhanatha Swami for West Virginia
co-GBC with Ravindra Svarupa for Detroit and Gita Nagari
co-GBC with Bhakticaru Swami and Giriraja Swami for South Africa
Bhaktivaibhava Swami:
Assistant GBC to Suhotra Swami for Czech Republic and Slovakia
Assistant GBC to Prabhavishnu Swami for SIberia and Far East Russia
Assistant GBC to Niranjana Swami for Ukraine
Assistant GBC to Niranjana Swami and Prabhavishnu Swami for Belarus
Bhurijana Das:
co-GBC with Gopal Krishna Goswami for West Uttar Pradesh (including Vrin-
daban), Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh
Giridhari Swami:
Assistant GBC to Tamal Krishna Goswami for Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Hong
Kong, China, Korea, Taiwan, and the Philippines
Giriraj Swami:
GBC — Swaziland, Lesotho, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Mozambique, Malawi,
Zambia, Angola, and Cape Verde Islands.
co-GBC with Bhakti Caru Swami for Mauritius and Reunion
co-GBC with Bhakti Caru Swami and Bhaktitirtha Swami for South Africa
co-GBC with Paramgati Swami for Spain and Portugal
co-GBC with Gopal Krishna Goswami, Radhanatha Swami, and Sridhara Swami for
Bombay
co-GBC with Hari Vilas for Pakistan
co-GBC with Jayapataka Swami for Sri Lanka
Gopal Krsna Goswami:
GBC — Goa, Delhi, Maharashtra (other than Bombay), Punjab, Haryana, Chan-
digarh, Himachal Pradesh, Gujarat, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Burundi, and
Rwanda
co-GBC with Sridhara Swami, Radhanatha Swami, and Giriraj Swami for Bombay
co-GBC with Jayapataka Swami and Bhaktisvarup Damodar Swami for Andhra
Pradesh, except Tirupati
co-GBC with Radhanatha Swami for Poona and Kuruksetra
co-GBC with Prabhavisnu Swami for East Uttar Pradesh and Southern Russia
co-GBC with Bhurijan Das for West Uttar Pradesh (including Vrindaban),
Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh
co-GBC with Ravindra Swarup for Washington DC
co-GBC with Niranjana Swami for Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan,
Tadjikistan, and Kirghizistan
co-GBC with Rohini Suta for Golden Circle cities (Russia), and Azerbaijan
Gour Govinda Swami:
co-GBC with Jayapataka Swami for Orissa
Guru Prasad Swami:
GBC for Colombia, Northern and Northeast Brazil, Arizona, Central America,
Mexico, and Trinidad
co-GBC with Virabahu for Venezuela
Harikesa Swami:
GBC — Germany, Switzerland, Austria, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland,
Iceland, Faroe Islands, Croatia, Slovenia, Bosnia, Macedonia, Yugoslavia,
Lichtenstein, and Dole, France.
co-GBC for Mayapur (*)
co-GBC with Niranjana Swami for Moscow and St. Petersburg
Hari Vilas Das:
GBC — Turkey, Jordan, Syria, Iraq, Iran, North and South Yemen, Afghanistan,
Morocco, Algeria, Tunesia, Libya, Egypt, Ethiopia, Somalia, Djibouti, Gambia,
Senegal, Mauritania, Mali, Burkino Faso, Niger, Chad, Northern California,
Oregon, Jammu and Kashmir, Hardwar and Rishikesh
co-GBC with Bhaktiraghava Swami for Western Canada, State of Washington, and
Alaska
co-GBC with Jayapataka Swami for Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, United
Arab Emirates, and Oman
co-GBC with Harikesa Swami and Rohini Suta for Armenia
co-GBC with Giriraj Swami for Pakistan
Hrdayananda Das Goswami:
Minister of
Jayapataka Swami:
GBC for Bolivia, Karnataka, Kerala, Pondicherry, Maldives, Bhutan, Andaman
and Nicobar Islands, Tennessee, North and South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama,
Mississippi, Louisiana
GBC Minister of Congregational Preaching
co-GBC with Virabahu for Ecuador, Chile, and Peru
co-GBC with Prabhavisnu Swami for Bihar, Sikkim, Nepal, Malaysia, Brunei, and
Tamil Nadu
co-GBC with Prabhavisnu Swami and Bhaktiswarup Damodar Swami for Tirupati
co-GBC with Bhaktiswarup Damodar Swami for Tripura, Assam, and Meghalaya
co-GBC with Prabhavisnu Swami and Bhakticaru Swami for Bangladesh
co-GBC with Kavicandra Swami for Thailand, and Singapore
co-GBC with Bhakti Caru Swami for West Bengal other than Mayapur
co-GBC with Gour Govinda Swami for Orissa
co-GBC with Gopal Krishna Goswami and Bhaktisvarup Damodar Swami for Andhra
Pradesh, except Tirupati
co-GBC with Giriraj Swami for Sri Lanka
co-GBC with Hari Vilas for Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, United Arab
Emirates, and Oman
co-GBC with Radhanatha Swami for Belgaum, Karnataka
co-GBC for Mayapur and Calcutta(*)
Kavicandra Swami:
GBC — Indonesia, Japan, Vietnam, Laos, Israel, Cambodia, Hawaii
co-GBC with Bhaktitirtha Swami for Nigeria, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Sierra Leone,
Benin, Togo, Liberia, Camaroon, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Zaire, Gabon, Rio
Muni, Central African Republic, and Congo
co-GBC with Jayapataka Swami for Thailand, and Singapore
Madhu Sevita Das:
GBC for Italy
co-GBC with Suhotra Swami for Belgium, Luxembourg, Holland, and Cyprus
Mukunda Goswami:
GBC Minister of Communications
Navina Krishna Das:
GBC Minister of Management and Finance
Niranjana Swami:
GBC — New England, Festival of India, Lithuania, Estonia, and Moldova
GBC, assisted by Bhaktivaibhava Swami, for Ukraine
co-GBC with Prabhavishnu Swami for Latvia
co-GBC with Harikesa Swami for Moscow and St. Petersburg
co-GBC with Rohini Suta for Russia west of Nijney Novgorod and north of
Voronesh, except for Moscow and St. Petersburg areas
co-GBC with Gopal Krishna Goswami for Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan,
Tadjikistan, and Kirghizistan
co-GBC with Prabhavishnu Swami, assisted by Bhaktivaibhava Swami, for Belarus
Paramgati Swami:
co-GBC with Bhaktiswarup Damodar Swami for France, except Dole.
co-GBC with Giriraja Swami for Spain and Portugal
Prabhavisnu Swami:
GBC, assisted by Ramai Swami, for Australia, New Zealand, Solomon Islands,
Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea, and New Caledonia
GBC, assisted by Bhaktivaibhava Swami, for Siberia and Far East Russia
co-GBC with Bhaktisvarup Damodar Swami for Burma
co-GBC with Jayapataka Swami for Bihar, Sikkim, Nepal, Malaysia, Brunei and
Tamil Nadu
co-GBC with Jayapataka Swami and Bhaktiswarup Damodar Swami for Tirupati
co-GBC with Gopal Krsna Goswami for Eastern Uttar Pradesh and Southern Russia
co-GBC with Jayapataka Swami and Bhakticaru Swami for Bangladesh
co-GBC with Niranjana Swami for Latvia
co-GBC with Rohini Suta for Ural Mountain Region and Volga Region of Russia
co-GBC with Niranjana Swami, assisted by Bhaktivaibhava Swami, for Belarus
Radhanatha Swami:
GBC for Bombay Chowpatti, Rishikesh
co-GBC with Jayapataka Swami for Belgaum, Karnataka,
co-GBC with Bhaktitirtha Swami for West Virginia
co-GBC with Sridhara Swami, Giriraja Swami, and Gopal Krishna Goswami for
Bombay
co-GBC with Gopal Krishna Goswami for Poona and Kuruksetra
Ramai Swami:
Assistant GBC to Prabhavishnu Swami for Australia, New Zealand, Papua New
Guinea, New Caledonia, and Solomon Islands
Ravindra Svarupa Das:
GBC — Michigan (except Detroit), Pennsylvania (except Gita Nagari Farm),
Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia
co-GBC with Gopal Krishna Goswami for Washington DC
co-GBC with Radhanatha Swami for Ohio
co-GBC with Bhaktitirtha Swami for Detroit and Gita Nagari Farm
Rohini Suta Das:
GBC — Georgia
co-GBC with Niranjana Swami for Russia west of Nijney Novgorod and north of
Voronesh, except for Moscow and St. Petersburg areas
co-GBC with Gopal Krishna Goswami for Golden Circle Region of Russia and
Azerbaijan
co-GBC with Hari Vilas for Armenia
co-GBC with Prabhavishnu Swami for Ural Mountain Region and Volga Region of
Russia
Romapada Swami:
co-GBC with Sridhara Swami for New York and New Jersey
co-GBC with Badrinarayan for Illinois and Missouri
Sesa Das:
Assistant GBC to Guru Prasad Swami for Trinidad
Assistant GBC to Virabahu for Caribbean except for Trinidad
Sivarama Swami:
GBC — England, Scotland, Wales, Channel Islands, Ireland, Hungary
Sridhara Swami:
GBC Minister of Life Membership
co-GBC with Romapada Swami for New York and New Jersey
co-GBC with Giriraj Swami, Radhanatha Swami, and Gopal Krishna Goswami for
Bombay
Suhotra Swami:
GBC – Greece, Cyprus, Poland, Bulgaria, Romania and Albania
GBC, assisted by Bhaktivaibhava Swami, for Czech Republic and Slovakia
co-GBC with Madhu Sevita for Belgium, Luxembourg, and Holland
Tamal Krsna Goswami:
GBC — Polynesia
GBC, assisted by Giridhari Swami, for Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Hong Kong,
China, Korea, Taiwan, Philippines, and Polynesia
co-GBC for Mayapur and Calcutta (*)
Virabahu Das:
GBC for Florida, Guyana, Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic and balance of
Caribbean except for Trinidad
co-GBC with Badrinarayan for Los Angeles
co-GBC with Jayapataka Swami for Peru, Ecuador and Chile
co-GBC with Guru Prasad Swami for Venezuela
* co-GBC’s for Mayapur are Jayapataka Swami, Harikesa Swami, Tamal Krishna
Goswami, and Bhakticaru Swami
