Devotees and guests ring a bell beside the door and then enter the temple room. They bow their heads to the floor and then stand to offer prayers. Aromatic incense purifies the air. Music is played, or the devotees sing melodious songs in praise of Lord Krishna. The hearts of the devotees and visitors become pacified. Feeling calm and free from anxiety, everyone is happy to be with the Lord.
On the altar, Lord Krishna, the all-attractive person, stands smiling and playing His flute. Next to Him stands His eternal consort, Radharani, who also smiles, happy to see the devotees absorbed in chanting prayers. Present on the altar are also the majestic forms of Lord Ram, His consort, Sita, His brother Laxman and their dearest servant, Hanuman. In a mood of worship the devotees daily offer their respect, service and thanks to the Lord. Their simple Hare Krishna chant means 'Please let me serve You.'
Lord Krishna, the Supreme Personality of Godhead, reciprocates with His devotees. Although impartial to all living beings, He has a special loving relationship with those devoted to serving Him. This relationship is established by service to the Deity. Worship of the Deity is an important spiritual experience for all devotees. Devotees daily bathe the Lord and adorn him with outfits, jewelry and flower garlands. It's a meditation.
'The Lord kindly accepts our service,' explains Gadadhar Das, the head priest, 'through this form made of marble.' The devotees decorate the Lord with care and enthusiasm. They also cook multi-course meals for the Deities.
People bring flowers, fruits, vegetables, or money as offerings. Some come with problems, looking for shelter. They submit their worries, chant the Lord's names, and return home, confident that the Lord will protect them. Letters are received regularly addressed to the Deities, describing miracles and thanking the Lord.
Devotees come for guidance or to offer the results of their practical service: 'I hope my service will please you, Lord Krishna.' Parents bring their new-borns to the temple. People also like to have marriages performed at the temple. The couples appreciate the spiritual atmosphere and feel blessed by making their vows in the temple room.
A visit to the temple is always pleasing. It makes one feel closer to Lord Krishna, and it inspires everyone to render devotional service to Him.
| INTERESTING FACTS: Read and listen to the lecture delivered by Srila Prabhupada on the day Sri Sri Radha Gokulananda were installed at the Manor The Manor functions from 4.30am in the morning to 9.30pm every day Bhaktivedanta Manor has its very own registered and independent day school. |
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© Bhaktivedanta Manor 2008
UK Headquarters of the International
Society for Krishna Consciousness
Founder-Acarya His Divine Grace A.C.
Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada
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