In the Heart of Jagannatha: A Day of Devotion, Art & Remembrance 

by Kārttika Candra Dāsa

Date:        Sunday 13 July 2025

Time:       10:00 AM – 16:00 PM 

Location: Nitai Room, Above the Bulls in Goshalla (Cow Barn), Bhaktivedanta Manor, Dharam Marg, Hilfield Lane, Watford, WD25 8HE

Course Description

Join us on Sunday, 13th July, from 10 AM to 4 PM, for a soul-nourishing workshop in honour of Lord Jagannatha—a day steeped in devotion, storytelling, music, and sacred creativity.

Guided by the wise and warm-hearted Kartik Chandra Das, we’ll journey through the delightful and profound pastimes of Lord Jagannatha, rediscovering the joy and beauty of simply remembering Him. These timeless stories—infused with humour, depth, and devotion—offer more than inspiration; they invite us into deeper connection.

The day begins with soul-stirring bhajans offered by the ashram residents, filling the space with a devotional atmosphere that opens the heart. As our inner mood deepens, Shreya will lead a creative offering session where you’ll be invited to express your reflections and devotion through guided art-making—a personal and heartfelt gift for Their Lordships.

We’ll close with gentle reflection and shared silence, honouring what has moved within us throughout the day.

Whether you’re new to Lord Jagannatha or have long walked this path, this workshop is an opportunity to immerse yourself in love, remembrance, and sacred expression—a true celebration of divine presence in our lives.

Schedule:

10:00 – 12:00 PM Talk by Kārttika Candra Dāsa

12:00 – 12:30 PM: Q&A

12:30 – 12:45 PM: BHAJANS

13:00 – 14:00 PM: LUNCH in Haveli Sunday Love feast

14:00 – 15:30 PM: Art Session with Shreya in Haveli Kirtan Hall C

15:30 – 16:00 PM: Closing words

.Teacher Profile

Kārttika Candra Dāsa was born into a devout Vaiṣṇava family with spiritual roots stretching back sixteen generations. Immersed in the profound traditions of Vaiṣṇavism from a young age, he received early training in sacred texts such as the Śrīmad Bhāgavatam and its commentaries, the Bhagavad Gītā, Vaiṣṇava Vedānta, and Pāṇini’s Aṣṭādhyāyī, the foundational text on Sanskrit grammar. A dedicated disciple of H.H. Rādhānātha Swāmī Mahārāja, Kārttika Candra Dāsa has practised Gauḍīya Vaiṣṇavism since September 1992. He holds a Śāstrī degree in Sanskrit, a Bachelor’s in Engineering (Hons), and an Executive MBA.
Throughout his journey, Kārttika Candra Dāsa has taken on a variety of roles, contributing to numerous spiritual initiatives. In his early years, he joined as a resident monk, engaging in book distribution, temple cleaning, and managing the festival shoe-stall. From 1995 onwards, he served by offering transcription services, writing inspiring articles for youth, and contributing cartoons to the Marathi Back to Godhead magazine. During this time he also wrote spiritual articles for national Indian newspapers. By the early 2000s, he became a regular contributor at London, playing a key role in organising the temple’s fortieth-anniversary festival in November 2009, giving frequent talks on the Bhagavad Gītā, managing festivals, and advising on temple operations. From 2009 to 2019, he served as an adviser to the Managing Director and Temple President at Bhaktivedanta Manor, while also holding leadership roles as a trustee of the Avanti Trust and Chair of Governors at Avanti Schools and Bhaktivedanta Manor Gurukula. He also supported spiritual authors by editing and translating Sanskrit texts for various publications.

Currently, Kārttika Candra Dāsa is a permanent member of the GBC’s Śāstric Advisory Committee (SAC). Alongside his wife, he offers spiritual mentorship to the wider community and continues to teach at the School of Bhakti at Bhaktivedanta Manor, where he is a beloved teacher. His passion lies in studying and sharing the wisdom of ancient sacred texts, especially the Śrīmad Bhāgavatam and Śrī Caitanya Caritāmṛta, exploring the Gauḍīya Vaiṣṇava tradition in Vraja, and delving into Sanskrit etymology, aesthetics, and grammar. He also draws personal inspiration from deepening his connection with the Lord through chanting His Holy Names, cooking for the deities as a devotional offering, affectionately worshipping Śrīmatī Tulasī devī in her holy plant form, visiting sacred pilgrimage sites, and serving senior Vaiṣṇavas. He frequently travels across the UK and Europe, sharing spiritual teachings.

Proficient in nine languages and equally attuned to both Western and Indian cultural perspectives, Kārttika Candra Dāsa offers a compassionate, balanced and thoughtful approach to ancient wisdom. He creates a welcoming environment where students can explore and deepen their understanding of Vaiṣṇava philosophy and practice. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced practitioner, his courses and retreats offer an authentic and inspiring journey towards spiritual growth.

Kārttika Candra Dāsa lives in North West London with his wife and two children, balancing family life with his service and his unwavering commitment to sharing Vaiṣṇava wisdom.