Some gatherings may appear simple on the outside, yet they touch the heart with profound depth. Such was the case yesterday afternoon, when our community came together for a very special Krishna-Balaram Abhishek – not in the temple, but in the old farmhouse of Sucitra Devi Dasi and Akhila Das, just about two kilometers from Simhachalam.
Upstairs, tucked beneath the roof where you might least expect it, lies a colorful, lovingly decorated temple room – a sacred space where Krishna and Balaram are worshipped daily with great care and devotion.
When Bhakti Finds a Home
About twice a month, our community gathers here for the Krishna-Balaram Abhishek. What makes this place so special is not only the atmosphere, but also the unique history of the Deities themselves:
Over 20 years ago, these Deities were personally gifted to Sucitra Devi Dasi by HG Mukunda Datta Prabhu, Head Pujari of the Krishna-Balaram Mandir in ISKCON Vrindavan. That moment took place in Vrindavan, the sacred land of Krishna’s pastimes.
Yesterday, Mukunda Datta Prabhu returned as a special guest and with visible joy witnessed how these small Deities are still worshipped today – with one of the highest standards of home worship we know.
Kirtan, Abhishek & Gaura Arati
The afternoon began with lively Kirtan, carried by the beat of the mṛdaṅga, the voices of the devotees, and their devotional hearts. This was followed by the Abhishek – the ceremonial bathing of Krishna and Balaram with water, milk, yogurt, honey, and flower petals.
What makes this Abhishek especially sweet: every guest is invited to bathe the Deities personally, making the ceremony deeply intimate and participatory.
After the bathing, Mukunda Datta Prabhu gave a private lecture on the transcendental pastimes of Krishna and Balaram – full of wisdom, humor, and heartfelt memories from his decades of service in Vrindavan.
Prasādam from the Heart – as Always with Krishna-Balaram
As with every such gathering, the evening concluded with a lovingly prepared feast – featuring Sucitra Devi’s legendary cake. Everything was first offered to Krishna and Balaram and then shared with the devotees. This is what makes prasādam so special: it nourishes both the body and the soul.
Where Bhakti Lives, There Is Always a Temple
These afternoons are not only a reminder that Krishna consciousness can be practiced anywhere – they also reveal how richly our community is blessed: with open-hearted members who welcome everyone as family.
Akhila Das, co-founder of the Simhachalam farm, and his wife Sucitra Devi Dasi, who has also served for over 20 years, embody this spirit of openness in a most beautiful way. With them, we all feel at home.
For where there is love, care, and devotion – Krishna is present.
And where Krishna is, everything is perfect.
Come Along Next Time
The Krishna-Balaram Abhishek takes place about every two weeks, and everyone is warmly welcome – whether it’s your first time or your fiftieth.
The program is held at the home of Sucitra Devi Dasi and Akhila Das – a place full of light, warmth, and bhakti.
Details are shared in our temple communication groups (WhatsApp/Telegram).
Bring your heart – Krishna and Balaram are already waiting for you!
