Cancer. A word which no one wants to hear let alone experience. Unfortunately, this disease is becoming more and more widespread and affecting so many people – both those directly diagnosed as well as their loved ones. One of Bhaktivedanta Manor’s very own monks, Janakinath Das (‘JD’), was diagnosed with colon cancer in 2017. He felt fortunate to have spiritual knowledge and practice to keep him anchored in his journey but he simultaneously saw firsthand the struggles of those suffering without any spiritual shelter. Overflowing with compassion and concern, he decided to start an initiative called ‘Smiling Soul’ aimed at helping those affected by cancer. He organised day retreats at Bhaktivedanta Manor which were attended by cancer patients and healthcare staff – all of whom had never been acquainted with the temple nor the teachings before.

Whilst JD is no longer with us, his legacy lives on in the form of Smiling Soul. On 27th March 2026, a team relaunched this initiative with the blessings of the Temple President Her Grace Visakha Dasi and His Holiness Candramauli Swami.

What is Smiling Soul about? The team wants to build a community bringing together those affected by cancer – whether you are or have suffered from this disease personally or are supporting someone through it, this community is for you.

They’ve kicked off monthly Smile Spaces which are facilitated sessions for the community to come together, connect, reflect, and build relationships with others who are going through similar challenges. And we have plans to reach out to those outside the temple congregation too.

If you or anyone you know would benefit from this initiative, sign up to the mailing list and join their Whatsapp group to keep updated on all future events:

https://chat.whatsapp.com/KrkqZMkHchtIqdT0dudxF0?mode=gi_t

Or get in touch with us by emailing smilingsoul@schoolofbhakti.com. Cancer’s tough – but we hope we can smile together on this journey.