The Bhaktivedanta Players celebrated their 40th anniversary in grand and dramatic style, packing the Haveli to the brim.
Praghosa das, the ISKCON GBC for the UK and Ireland, flew in from Dublin especially to MC the event.
Proceedings took off with the Junior Bhaktivedanta Players, who charmed and impressed the audience with a story from within the Mahabharat: Draupadi’s Svambara.
After the opening performance, Praghosa das took everyone on a journey through the history of drama at Bhaktivedanta Manor. It all began when two disciples of Srila Prabhupada staged an impromptu version of the Boatman and the Scholar, for the Sunday congregation. After the audience learned about some of the highlights since those days, Praghosa das moved onto the section representing 1985 onwards. The achievements and dedication of Jaya Krsna das and Dwarka Puri das, who headed the team over the last 40 years, was emphasised.
So it was time for the main drama, performed by the adult Bhaktivedanta Players: The spectacular Ramayana- The Musical, which received a standing ovation. The evening concluded with the presentation of gifts and the cutting of two 40th Anniversary cakes!
All who attended were in a very joyous state of mind, and lots of great feedback was received. Bhaktivedanta Manor’s Temple President, Her Grace Visakha dasi, said:
“Thank you for all you’ve done for the Bhaktivedanta Players over many years. Your steady enthusiasm of presenting Krishna consciousness through dramas, and especially for engaging the youth in that service, is an inspiration for our entire Bhaktivedanta Manor community. We are most grateful to you and your team.”
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