Back on the road—are you ready to continue the journey with me, leaving Asia behind for Russia, America, and Switzerland?
These eight weeks of travel—one week in Russia, two weeks in America, and five weeks in Switzerland—took place between June and August 2025.
How did I end up in Russia?
Here in Mayapur, in front of the Pancha-tattva Deities, I was dancing enthusiastically together with another Vaisnavi. Later, while I was chanting in the park at the grihastha area, she walked straight up to me and joyfully said, “I was hoping to find you. I was praying for this—and here you are!”
I told her about my book, and she came to my home to purchase a copy. Her name is Vrinda Kunda Devi Dasi, and she is from Krasnodar, Russia.
We spoke for some time, and then she said, “Please come to Russia. There will also be a Kirtan Mela.” I already knew about it, since my granddaughter Madhurika had been invited. I replied, “No, I won’t travel so far for a Kirtan Mela.”
But the very next day, I felt as if Paramatma (Supreme Soul) was urging me again and again: “Go to Russia, go to Russia… go, go, go!” Gradually, the thought arose that this journey might be pleasing to my spiritual master, and if I do go, I would also like to have my book translated into Russian.
Only six weeks remained, but I decided to give it a try—also to gain experience for future translations into other languages—with the help of “ChatGPT.” Guru Dutt Sharma kindly completed that task, and dear Vasanta Rangini Mataji started proofreading.
Meanwhile, I visited the DNMITRA Printing Press in Ranaghat to discuss the publication. It was truly inspiring to meet the printer, Pikku, and especially his daughter Anuradha, who spoke fluent English.
At first, Vasanta found only a few small mistakes. But when she compared it carefully with the English version, she realized the translation would require much more time. Since she was soon traveling to Kazakhstan, she couldn’t complete it. I tried to find others to help with the translation. But after several attempts, nothing worked out.
Vasanta: “Your book is so personal, so sweet—it should be translated by a devotee who knows you and who is also experienced in book distribution.” I replied, “Well, then that’s YOU!” In this way, I decided to wait for her and put the project on hold.
Visiting the printing house on Aksaya Tritiya—such an auspicious day to begin new projects—I assume that only the element of time separates us from its manifestation, for it is all arranged by Krishna Himself.
Knowing that I would soon travel to Switzerland as well, where not everyone speaks English, I spent my last ten days in Mayapur recording an audiobook of my book in German. I understood that the final editing and compiling of the recordings would have to be done later. The book had been translated from English into German some time ago, but was never properly edited, which was a bit of a challenge.
Meanwhile, the planning for Russia was also moving forward—arranging flight tickets and visas. Apart from preparing for the trip, I was also involved in an apartment renovation.
During this time, I received messages from Vrinda Kunda:
“A program is planned for June 11. The devotees have organized it. Please, let’s coordinate the schedule.
10:30 — we leave the ashrama
12:00 — a short walk-through of beautiful places
14:00 — lunch and a short rest
15:00 — a kirtan program. Will you sing kirtan?
“And dear Guru Seva, can we prepare for katha together, so that it will be easier for me to translate? We can prepare in advance. There is a lot of text from your book. The devotees are inspired by the theme of preaching in the mood of Srila Prabhupada and our parampara. What do you think? Can we prepare something—maybe take verses from Srimad-Bhagavatam or Bhagavad-gita?”
*****
My longstanding friend Anandini Devi Dasi was concerned when she heard about my plans to travel to Russia.
“Have a nice trip… Moscow??? During the war?”
“Russian aviation authorities restricted flights at Moscow regional airports on Friday night as the capital came under threat from Ukrainian drones. It was the third suspension since the night of Thursday, 5 June.
“Russia was attacked with at least 82 Ukrainian drones in areas including the Moscow region over eight and a half hours, the Russian Defence Ministry said early on Saturday. The Moscow mayor, Sergei Sobyanin, said another six drones had been headed for the capital.”
Vrinda Kunda: “The devotees decided to protect both you and themselves, so they did not post the invitation in public chats. Please take only five to ten books with you to give to the devotees.”
*****
On my flight from Abu Dhabi to Moscow, while walking down the aisle toward my seat, I noticed a gentleman reading a book in English. After placing my luggage in the proper spot, before takeoff, I went back to him and said, “Oh, you read in English! I’ve written my own story in English as well. Today is the second anniversary of my book, so I would love to gift you a copy.” Without hesitation, he accepted it. Beside him were two children, presumably his, which inspired me even more to give him the book.
When I arrived in Moscow/Russia, and reached passport control, they refused to let me through—simply saying, “Go back!”—without even looking at my visa. I asked why, but the only response was the same: “Go back.”
I began to wonder if it might have been because I had given my book to that gentleman on the airplane. Who knows who he was? I wanted to better understand the situation, so I approached other employees walking around, but hardly anyone could speak English. The atmosphere felt very tense.
Finally, I turned to the young man behind me, who also had not been allowed through. Pointing at the lady who had checked us, he said, “She is a bad girl.” I couldn’t help but laugh quietly to myself, because the officer he referred to was actually an elderly woman.
About a hundred of us were stuck in the passport control area, waiting for our names to be called. In such a situation—so much time, so many people—it felt like a missed opportunity to remain silent and not share a little spiritual wisdom. Sometimes, when someone asked where I was from, I would also mention that I am a Hare Krishna.
To my surprise, one student told me he had never even heard of Hare Krishna before. At least now he had heard the holy name Hare Krishna! I hesitated to give him my QR code. But my being “stuck” started to make a little more sense. In the meantime, with the help of someone, I managed to contact Vrinda Kunda to let her know my situation, as she was waiting for me outside.
Finally, after hours of waiting, my name was called. I followed the man who was holding my passport, but when he entered an office, and I tried to step inside, he told me, “Wait.” After another hour, I heard my name announced over the loudspeaker, along with the room number where I was supposed to go. Nobody around me knew where this room was, so I entered another office and asked for directions. At last, I reached the room, but there an employee behind the desk said, “Your passport is not here,” without even looking at me.
Bewildered, I left the office and sat down beside a young girl who was also detained. She wanted to visit her parents, whom she hadn’t seen for years, and had already been stuck there for ten hours. We enjoyed each other’s company. I shared as much Krishna-conscious philosophy as I could, and she was grateful for the exchange. As far as I remember, she had heard of the Hare Krishna movement before—or perhaps not—but in any case, I gave her the QR code to my blog. Soon her name was called, and we said goodbye.
By then, I was starting to feel hungry and realized I had nothing with me—something unusual, as I normally always carry prasadam. I reminded myself that this was nothing compared to what the Russian devotees had to endure during the time of communism.
I reflected on what might happen to me and prayed earnestly to Krishna: “Please spare me the tortures our spiritual sisters and brothers endured in the past—then better just let me be killed with a gunshot.” I believe that by Lord Caitanya’s mercy, I would remember Krishna and inwardly cry, “Guru Maharaja, please help me!”—and that cry would lead me to perfection.
After five long hours, my passport was suddenly handed back to me—without a single word. At last, I was reunited with my suitcase. Then came customs. One officer, speaking in an authoritative tone, demanded, “Open your suitcase!” I was just about to do so—wondering what they might say when they saw the ten books inside—when another officer interjected, “I think she is a Hare Krishna.” With that, they waved me through without checking further.
Finally, I was free to leave the airport and greet the patiently waiting Vrinda Kunda.
My daughter, Jahnavi, and my granddaughter, Madhurika, traveled a day later—fortunately, they had no problems entering Russia. Since we stayed in different places, we only met at the Kirtan Mela and again at the end for a joyful boat ride and a walk together with the kirtaniyas.
I stayed about an hour away (by car) from the Hare Krishna temple, where the Kirtan Mela was held, in a beautifully renovated house that now serves as a Mataji ashram. There, I was lovingly served and cared for with nourishing prasadam, which truly supported my health. I even had my own room with a washroom, which meant a great deal to me.
Here I am with Vrinda Kunda Bhaktin Margarita
During the Kirtan Mela, Bhaktin Margarita joined the ashrama—such an enthusiastic servant of the servants. (AS I WRITE THIS BLOG, I happily announce that by now she has been initiated and is named Ragavalli devi dasi—Sri Krishna’s gunja-necklace.)
We also held a small, intimate program at the ashram, where the neighboring devotees gathered with sincere eagerness to hear. Their attentiveness and heartfelt interest created a very sweet and uplifting atmosphere.
The previously organized house program at Tulasi Rasa Mataji’s home was truly an unforgettable event. Usually, I feel nervous speaking in front of many people, but the beautiful, homely setting and the presence of so many gentle and sweet devotees—especially the youth—deeply touched my heart. I felt completely at home.
Many devotees offered their time and energy to make everything possible. Some even stood for hours in the kitchen, lovingly preparing a wonderful feast for everyone. Their service mood added a special warmth to the entire gathering.
In the exchange of gifts, Mataji received a Narasimha Pavitra, and I received a beautiful chaddar.
Apart from the house program a visit to the Orthodox monastery of Sergiev Posad Lavra was arranged. Somehow, I felt a good connection with the tour guide—a monk dressed in a black robe. I sensed that he was pleased with my attentive listening, and in the end, I felt obliged to offer him a gift. But I had nothing with me and said, “I should have brought my book…” Then, by Krishna’s arrangement, Vrinda Kunda took her copy of my book out of her bag, and he respectfully accepted it. At that moment, everything made more sense to me—that I had visited that place. Indeed, it was truly impressive.
At the temple of Sri Sri Doyal Nitai–Saci Suta, an abhiseka ceremony was held. If I remember correctly, it was to mark the 30th anniversary of the installation of the Gaura-Nitai Deities. I had the desire to meet the temple president, Sadhu Priya Prabhu, and by Krishna’s arrangement, someone kindly made it possible. I offered him my book, and we had a long, meaningful conversation. I felt truly blessed that he gave me so much of his time. As I was leaving his office, he accompanied me, and nearby stood an older devotee. Sadhu Priya immediately began to glorify him in front of me, explaining that this devotee had been severely tortured yet never lost his faith in the process—and is still steadfastly serving. Touched by this, I greeted him, and with the heart of a compassionate mother, I couldn’t hold back from embracing him. I believe he was even dressed in saffron robes—a brahmacari. I felt blessed, and he was transcendental, undisturbed.
*****
At the ashrama, during a small gathering, I read from my book and recited the verse:
mūkaṁ karoti vācālaṁ
paṅguṁ laṅghayate girim
yat-kṛpā tam ahaṁ vande
śrī-guruṁ dīna-tāraṇam
“I offer my respectful obeisances unto my spiritual master, the deliverer of the fallen souls. His mercy turns the dumb into eloquent speakers and enables the lame to cross mountains.”
Truly, by the mercy of the spiritual master, everything becomes possible—even my journey to Russia.
I won’t go into further detail. The video clips that Vrinda Kunda kindly put together at my request will reveal and speak for themselves, at least to some extent.
Remembering Srila Prabhupada’s visit to Russia.
What I especially liked was the bhajan she chose for the video—the joy in it beautifully reflects what I experienced during my stay in Russia. In the recording, you can hear only a few words spoken by me, as I pointed to myself and said, “the lame—to cross mountains.”
At the end of the video, you will see Prahlad Prabhu, who took a picture of me. I want to point him out because he helped my family and me so much—especially at the airport in Moscow, when we learned about our delayed flight. He kindly arranged and even paid for a dormitory cabin where I could rest. Together with his friend Nakul, they stayed until our rescheduled flight and even helped us check in our luggage.
Jahnavi and Madhurika were both deeply impressed by the Russian devotees and the organizers, who showed such a sincere attitude of service and ensured that everything was well managed. Madhurika even said, “I am surprised they invited me to come here… they have so many more qualified kirtan leaders than me.” Yet, she also expressed her hope to receive another invitation in the future.
I hope that you all will relish the video clips and the bhajan Bhaja Gaurāṅga, Kaha Gauranga, Laha Gaurangera Nama Re—sweetly sung by Madhuri Pura Dasa.
“Worship Gauranga! Speak about Gauranga! Accept the name of Lord Gauranga! Those who worship Gaurāṅga are indeed my life and soul.
Chanting Gauranga, go out with your arms raised, dancing and dancing. By chanting Gauranga and worshiping Him, one’s miseries will end.”
*****
After the delayed flight, we missed two connecting flights, to Boston and Pittsburgh, and had to spend a night in a hotel in Abu Dhabi, arranged and paid for by the airline. In a way, it turned out to be a blessing for me, as I finally managed to catch up on some much-needed sleep.
America / New Vrindavan
Last year, Jahnavi and Madhurika were invited for the first time to New Vrindavan for the 24-hour Kirtan. At that time, they told me I should also go there one day. So, I took the opportunity to accompany them, and I sent three boxes of my book (150 copies) in advance to Anuradha Mataji, the wife of the temple president, Jay Krishna Prabhu.
At first, I had the privilege of staying with Her Grace Malati Mataji, and on the path to the temple, I was greeted by the beautiful peacocks. Later, I moved to the Mataji ashram right at the temple, where I came to know new Vaishnavis from different countries—a truly enriching experience.
As always, I had my book with me. One day, during the Srimad-Bhagavatam lecture, five of Srila Prabhupada’s disciple Matajis were sitting in chairs right in front of me. Since I had exactly five books in my bag, I thought it was a wonderful opportunity to gift one to each of them—and so I did after the lecture. Their Graces Gopalasya Priya, Kutila, Lajjavati, Ruci, and Krishna Bhava Mataji were all surprised and grateful. In this way, I began a good connection with them, which unfolded in different ways during my stay at the New Vrindavan farm. How much I wished I had taken a photo of all five together—but I caught up with that desire as best I could by meeting some of them again after breakfast.
At the New Vrindavan project, I mainly distributed my book to Indian visitors, often choosing families with teenagers. Some of them were, of course, very cultured, but sadly, many of the children—especially those born in America—seemed quite influenced by American materialism.
Still, I regretted not meeting American people who had not yet heard anything about Krishna. I also had half of my books still left to distribute. One morning at Mangala-arati, I felt Krishna confirming my desire, and the Srimad-Bhagavatam lecture only intensified it—so strongly that no one could dissuade me from going. Some devotees were concerned about my going alone to a city where I knew no one, considering me too weak and too old.
Her Grace Jaysri Mataji, truly like a mother to all, was very helpful in doing the needful—even at the last minute, so to speak. She kindly arranged a car for me and shared thoughtful suggestions on where I could go in Pittsburgh, for which I felt deeply grateful.
Bhagavad Gita Prabhu, who joined ISKCON in 1979, was the driver, and I felt blessed by this caring gentleman devotee. I had wanted to stay in a cheaper hotel, but he advised me to choose a safer one instead. The fare was $95—until my book joined the negotiation team and secured a discount.
Later, I received a message from him: “Thank you so much, and I hope you are doing well in selling a lot of books. I read your book, and I liked it.”
I was aware that what I was doing was a bit crazy—not knowing at all what would happen, apart from spending a lot of money on the ride and hotel, just to be in Pittsburgh. But it made me pray very intensely to my Guru Maharaja and seek shelter in one of his powerful lectures, listening to it again and again. In this way, I remained inspired and felt safe. The ‘cutting’ statement by Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura—‘If you want any pleasure for yourself by performing devotional service—that is not devotional service’—deeply struck me and gave me strength. It inspired me to be ready to tolerate any suffering. On the first day I arrived, I went a bit out in the evening, walking in the neighborhood beside the hotel Hampton I stayed in. It was already dark, but a petrol station was nearby,y so there were more people to approach. My heart felt already jubilant that I was in Pittsburgh.
This gentleman from Iraq stayed at the same hotel as me.
The next day I went out early, carrying 16 books—some in my backpack, others in a side bag, and a few in my hands. I walked along the roads, stood in front of shops, at the entrance of a hospital, and in parking lots. I also entered a restaurant. Although I was not allowed to sell anything during their working hours, a kind young lady, a waitress, offered me a drink, so I gifted her a book in return.
Near the entrance of the hospital, a gentleman immediately bought a book from me. Since I had forgotten to tell him about the QR code, I walked a few steps alongside him as he continued. Suddenly, his companion—or whoever he was (perhaps influenced by a demonic mood?)—burst out angrily and shouted: ‘DON’T FOLLOW ME!’
I calmly replied: ‘Don’t worry, you will be the last person I would ever follow.’ He was so taken aback by my response that he had no words left and simply continued walking in silence.
At one point, a police officer came up to me and said harshly, ‘What are you doing here? Go from here!’ Not a single friendly word. I believe I know which lady had complained about me, because from beginning to end, she seemed nothing but frustrated. Anyway, such things can be expected, so I left the place without arguing.
On the third day (already the last day in Pittsburgh), I took a bus a bit further, and the driver—a kind Black man—didn’t mind that I didn’t have a ticket. That became my opportunity to reciprocate by giving him a book.
I reached ‘Carnegie Mellon University’. At a shaded spot, I took off my shoes and stood on the grass, feeling the need to be more grounded. From time to time, I took my medicine, while also approaching people—and everything felt super sweet! The last book I brought to the university library, and to the lady working there, with whom I had a pleasant conversation, I gifted the card of Sri Sri Radha-Krishna on the swing—which is included in the book—so that it would not get lost.
In Pittsburgh, I met many nice people, but also some who were quite demonic—and more than ever, I encountered truly disturbed souls. Kali-yuga is advancing rapidly.
Out of the 150 books, I had only four left, which I donated to the temple for them to distribute.
My favorite part of New Vrindavan was hearing the lectures, mainly from Srila Prabhupada’s disciples. Banabhatta Prabhu also gave a wonderful lecture. He performs Mangala-arati at the Golden Palace, and once I happened to be there alone with him. Besides doing the puja, he led the Sri Gurv-astakam, Samsara-prayers with such devotion and deep absorption in Srila Prabhupada. In between the singing, he asked me to play the kettledrums. I truly felt blessed to witness and take part in his devotion.
Srila Prabhupada’s paraphernalia—well preserved at the Golden Palace.
Sankirtan Prabhu gave another outstanding lecture. They wanted to invite me to their home, but time was too short. Still, through his wife, Prabhu kindly gifted me two beautiful pictures of Srila Prabhupada—one of them taken on their porch, where Srila Prabhupada was giving a lecture.
Jay Krishna Prabhu (from Switzerland) kindly drove me through the whole project. I felt mixed emotions—joy in being there, yet some heaviness when reminded of the past ……
In front of Sri Sri Radha Vrindaban Chandra, sometimes tears came to my eyes, but also deeply moved by the realization of Srimati Radharani’s power to protect and drive away Her devotees’ enemies. Sri Sri Vrindavan Chandra ki jay!
Switzerland
In Switzerland, we all stayed in Vanamali’s son’s flat in Herzogbuchsee, near Bern, for which we were very grateful. Being within walking distance of the train station was a great advantage for us. I could simply step out of the house and begin distributing my book along with various paraphernalia—such as incense and beautiful handmade cards created by Madhurika.
One day, Madhurika joined me, and we walked through the charming little town. Many balconies and windowsills were decorated with pots of colorful flowers, and there were fountains from which you could drink the cool, refreshing water directly. It was a joyful experience to serve together. At one point, Madhurika remarked, “Dida (Grandmom), this activity is really your thing—you’re good at it. But as for me, I prefer my service in kirtan.” Her honest and sweet comment made me smile.
I also deeply appreciated the opportunity to take japa walks near the forest, where a gentle little stream flowed peacefully. I spent many hours there. Being in nature means a great deal to me—it nourishes my heart and helps me chant with deeper gratitude and focus.
Jahnavi and Madhurika attended the Bhakti Retreat in Kienthal every day for a week. I truly appreciated their determination to be in the association of many exalted devotees as much as possible. Since it was about two hours from where we were staying, they spent nearly four hours traveling each day.
I joined them for one day, when the special kirtan day was scheduled. On that day, unfortunately, someone committed suicide by running under a train, which caused delays. In one of the trains, it felt as crowded as in India—we could hardly move around. By Krishna’s arrangement, I ended up next to a young couple from Kolkata who were visiting Switzerland for a few days. They were very delighted to meet me, especially when they learned that I live in Mayapur, and they quickly bought my book.
Two young men were also beside us and listened to our conversation. They began challenging everything we discussed. I came to know that one of them had just celebrated his birthday a few days earlier, so I took the opportunity to offer him a small book by Srila Prabhupada as a gift. He hesitated and at first rejected it, but his friend told him, ‘Hey, you should accept that gift!’ Still reluctant, I said, ‘Alright, then I’ll give it to your friend, and if you like it later, you can take it from him.’ In this way, everyone was satisfied.
I could understand that our being stuck together was Krishna’s special mercy for those two young friends, and meeting the beautiful couple from Kolkata made the whole situation more bearable. I feel deep compassion for the person who committed suicide, and I sincerely hope that he or she had the opportunity to hear the holy name at least once in life, which would certainly bring lasting spiritual benefit.
One highlight in Switzerland was the Sunday program at the Zurich temple, in the association of His Holiness Sacinandana Swami. There was so much joy in the kirtans, and I still remember his gentle reminder: “Kirtan, kirtan—very good. But it is also good to read the Krishna Book.” I am always grateful for such balanced guidance—reminders that bring nourishment to the heart and lasting peace to the soul.
My good fortune was to receive a personal darshan with Sacinandana Swami. During that sacred meeting, I offered him my book along with a wooden foot massage roller. He kindly accepted both with genuine appreciation, which deeply touched my heart.
Besides book distribution, I continued working with the editor/designer Diptimoy Gauranga Prabhu, and the project ‘Audiobook in German’ was finalized and uploaded to SoundCloud. Through my blog and by distributing the QR code, people can easily access and download the audio for free. That is exciting!
Vanamali updated a lady who had already received my book earlier, speaking to her about me:
She is an amazing personality 😇😇😇 Although she only weighs 45 kilos and has to spend three to four hours caring for her body with medicine and yoga exercises, her most outstanding quality is her true compassion for souls who lack spiritual knowledge. With great joy and love, she shares her wealth of knowledge in her book or via a QR code, where Madhurika sings so sweetly, and where you can now listen to her audiobook. It is spoken by her herself, with all her imperfections 😉
*****
One of my aunts, Margrit, turned seventy, and we were invited to a family gathering of about sixty people. Most of them had never met Jahnavi, let alone Madhurika. So, we decided to attend for a short while and bring a gift, which felt important to us.
We had for all some prasadam in the form of a heart-shaped cookie, beautifully decorated in red and white with a cross like the Swiss flag and carefully packed in transparent foil. By Vanamali’s mercy—and at my request—she set aside 60 pieces for us, while the rest she distributed on August 1st, Swiss National Day.
My brother, Urs, kindly picked us up at the train station. We reached the right time, when everyone was standing around little tables and chatting. As we arrived, all eyes turned toward us. A few minutes later, my aunt’s husband greeted everyone and said, ‘We also have guests from India’—meaning us. At that moment, I stretched out my arms with a cookie in each hand and said, ‘Haribol! You will all receive one of these yummy homemade cookies made in Herzogenbuchsee!’ (Purposely, I announced the name ofthe town we stayed in—not making them think the cookies are done in India.)
A beautiful atmosphere was created, and I felt that not only Krishna was pleased with my spontaneous announcement, but everyone else was as well. Another aunt, my dearest since childhood, burst into tears of happiness while holding my hand.
While I was busy talking with aunts, uncles, cousins, and others, Jahnavi and Madhurika went into the restaurant and placed one heart-shaped cookie beside each ‘name’ on the tables. This enhanced the decoration, and the waitress was touched. The three of us left the gathering with content hearts, excited to go to the Zurich temple and honor the ‘Tamil Sunday Feast’ on time.
*****
With only a few days left in Switzerland, I focused on spending as many hours as possible going out with my book. By Krishna’s arrangement, I met many nice people—one book went out while waiting for the train, two more on the train, and later several on the road. It felt like a festival and made me eager to return to Switzerland.
Dear Vanamali, kindly accompany me to Zurich Airport on 6 August 2025.
And where will Part Three of Five, Looking Back on the Year 2025, take us next? Do you remember?