On July 13 and 14, 2025, we had the honor of welcoming HH Sacinandana Swami to Simhachalam for a short but deeply inspiring visit. Although Maharaj was only passing through, he took generous time to share valuable inspiration with us.
His presence was a wonderful reminder of how much strength lies in personal encounters and direct exchange – both for experienced devotees and for the younger members of our community.
Bhagavad-Gita Class in the Temple Room
On the evening of July 13, the visit began with a one-hour Bhagavad-Gita class, which started at 5:30 pm in the temple room. Maharaj spoke about the special importance of the relationship between the disciple and the spiritual master.
He shared how, as a young devotee, he had attended a lecture by Srila Prabhupada in Stockholm. At the time, he had taken many notes – which were later lost. Some time ago, he rediscovered the recording of this lecture, listened to it again, and took fresh notes. Many of the points he shared with us were either the exact words of Srila Prabhupada or paraphrased by Maharaj in his own words.
One central theme was:
The spiritual master is the one who ultimately leads us to Krishna – the “transmigrator”.
Another important thought:
When we feel fear in life, it helps to deepen our relationship with the spiritual master.
This class can be watched on our YouTube channel Simhachalam Live:
YouTube – Simhachalam Live – HH Sacinandana Swami – Bhagavad-gita 4.34 (13.07.25)
Online Simha Flow with the Simha Sena Group
Later that evening, at 7:00 pm, there was an online gathering with the Simha Sena Group, our network of young adults who regularly host the Simha Flow – discussing spiritual topics that touch their daily lives. These sessions are often guided by senior ISKCON devotees or Swamis.
Sacinandana Swami spoke on the topic:
Overcoming Doubts in Material and Spiritual Life
One key idea he shared was:
Having doubts is not a sign of weakness, but of intelligence. Faith becomes strong when it is shaped by questions and personal experience.
After the talk, participants had the opportunity to ask personal questions, including how Maharaj dealt with the loss of Srila Prabhupada – and how that relationship remains alive for him to this day. It was a precious chance to ask experienced Vaishnavas the questions many hold in their hearts.
Srimad-Bhagavatam Class in the Morning
On the morning of July 14, Sacinandana Swami gave another Srimad-Bhagavatam class for everyone present in the temple room. The topic was “fire tests” in spiritual life – the trials and challenges that deepen and purify our practice.
This lecture is also available on our YouTube channel.
Gratitude for Shared Moments
We are deeply grateful to Maharaj for these inspiring hours that brought so much spiritual nourishment and encouragement, despite the short visit.
Anyone who would like to listen again can find all the recordings here:
YouTube – Simhachalam Live
May these words and encounters continue to inspire and strengthen us for a long time to come.