From 7th to 11th of August, Simhachalam had the honor of welcoming HH Krishna Kshetra Swami for a five-day retreat that beautifully combined deep wisdom from the scriptures, joyful festivals, and heartfelt devotion.
This year’s theme – Grace, Gratitude, and the Bhagavad-gita – came alive in many forms: through lectures, art workshops, drama, music, and finally in two special highlights – Maharaj’s Vyasa Puja (his birthday celebration as a spiritual teacher) and the celebration of Balaram Jayanti.
A Lifetime of Service
HH Krishna Kshetra Swami has been a disciple of Srila A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada since 1972. Over the decades, he has served ISKCON as a missionary, pujari, counselor, and educator in more than 40 countries.
His contributions include coordinating the Pancaratra-pradipa manual for deity worship and serving as ISKCON’s Minister for Deity Worship, guiding puja standards worldwide.
Academically accomplished, Maharaj earned his Ph.D. at Oxford University in 2004 and later published Attending Krsna’s Image with Routledge. As a Research Fellow at the Oxford Centre for Hindu Studies and lecturer at Bhaktivedanta College, he continues to bridge academia and devotion, making Vaishnava wisdom relevant for both seekers and scholars around the globe.
A Festival of Many Colors
The retreat was vibrant, with many offerings of creativity and devotion. Highlights included:
- Art Workshop on Bhagavad-gita Chapter 11 – “Your Vision of the Universal Form” by Gopi Gita dd.
- Vyasa Puja Ceremony (the birthday celebration of the spiritual master) with Pushpanjali, Guru Puja, and heartfelt offerings from disciples and well-wishers.
- Jhulan Yatra – the beautiful swing festival for Sri Sri Radha-Shyam Gopal and Sri Sri Radhika Giridhari.
- Dramatic and Musical Presentations:
- Sacred Meetings – a dramatic reading in honor of Srila Vyasadeva.
- The Burden of Love – the story of Ramanujacharya and his disciple (by Ananda Vrindavan dd).
- Live Sacred Scenes from the Bhagavad-gita (by Kirtida Nandini dd).
- A choir with skit by Citra Vilasini dd and Kavicandra d.
- The Radhe Shyam Choir by Vraja Monini dd and Mohan d.
Seeking Shelter at Lord Balaram’s Lotus Feet
On August 9, the festival of Balaram Jayanti was celebrated with a beautiful Krishna-Balaram Abhishek, accompanied by ecstatic kirtan.
In his lecture, Krishna Kshetra Swami spoke about the special role of Lord Balaram – the first expansion of Krishna, the eternal companion in all His pastimes, and the original spiritual master through whom we receive Krishna’s mercy.
Maharaj shared inspiring stories of Balarama’s strength, His playful pastimes, and His unwavering devotion to Krishna. These stories reminded us how Lord Balarama’s service embodies the highest ideal of love and dedication.
Gratitude in Action
We offer our heartfelt thanks to HH Krishna Kshetra Swami for sharing his wisdom, warmth, and guidance during these days.
May the seeds of grace and gratitude planted during this retreat continue to grow in our hearts – and guide us ever deeper into the timeless teachings of the Bhagavad-gita.
