What our students have written:
Giving and Accepting Shelter, given in Mayapur January 2016
Gopal Das, Hillsborough/North Carolina
As a preaching mission, with it's goal being to bring those interested BACK TO GODHEAD, this understanding of accepting and giving shelter is ESSENTIAL
in ISKCON. Ajnata-sukriti, book distribution, prasadam distribution, etc. are all important programs to make first contact with sincere souls. But then what? The beautifully realized and thoroughly researched information provided so generously by Mother Devaki is so important to enliven all the yatras around the world that I think this should be an essential class for all devotees to take. As we have very brilliantly required the Disciple Course recently, so also should we require all the devotees, young and old, to take this shelter course. If the goal is to lovingly give one's heart to Krishna, this course gives practical knowledge and deep realization on how to accomplish that by knowing how to lovingly interact with devotees on all levels. Krishna says: 'For one who explains this supreme secret to the devotees, pure devotional service is guaranteed, and at the end he will come back to Me. There is no servant in this world more dear to Me than he, nor
will there ever be one more dear.' (BG 18.68-69) So, since preaching is the essence, it is incumbent upon us to learn how to take that preaching to the
highest level we can achieve. This course makes it not only possible, but joyful, easy, and sublime.
Men and Women in Spiritual Culture, given in various parts of the world:
Dvijamani Gaura Das, Rupanuga Vedic College, Kansas City/USA
Dear Mother,
Please accept my humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
I have nearly finished watching your entire seminar on Men and Women in Spiritual Culture (I'm on the final session). This feels like the best
education I've received since birth, with the exception of my first reading the words from the lotus mouth of Srila Prabhupada. It's as if I am finally
receiving the mercy of *adi-guru* (one's own mother). I understand it to be the mercy of my Gurudeva and the Holy Name that I am able to hear and
comprehend your realizations to a great degree, even after a wasted life of unbridled sense gratification.
I wish to express my gratitude for your selfless work of teaching this most difficult subject in the modern era. The fact that it's so difficult for
many to digest speaks to the irony of our time, since such lessons should be completely natural for human understanding. Somehow, you are able to
remove the cloud of confusion and redirect us to a pure and simple understanding of gender relations. Although these understandings are there
in Srila Prabhupada's books, they are powerfully delivered when coming from a European female devotee who clearly takes Chaitanya Mahaprabhu's movement as her life's essence.
I feel much greater peace within now that I've carefully understood many of the points you present, such as the fact that men and women have different
vehicles - tractors and sports cars - and that their purifying duties must be observed in order to produce a culture and atmosphere conducive to
spiritual upliftment. You make the subtleties of this understanding accessible to a wide audience.
I was raised by a European mother (Finnish) and Middle Eastern (Arabic) father in a secular American setting. I've always felt compassion for my
mother, who couldn't really express the tender affection she kept bottled up inside because she had to go to the workplace and compete with so many
materialistic men and women. She didn't have the chance to be a mother in the full sense. I sent her your videos and I hope she can find greater
peace. As you say, women are the backbone (spine) of human society, and without their supportive energy and nurturing influence, life's mission is
lost to everyone.
I can't thank you enough. I am humbly bowing down at your feet and begging that you please continue to enlighten many others the way you've done for
me. Thank you for your unflinching dedication to Srila Prabhupada. Hare Krishna.
Your humble servant and son,
Dvijamani Gaura das,
August 2016
Mayapur - January 2015
Laksmipati Das, Mayapur
I feel that the importance of this course in our society cannot be overemphasised, and I can confidently say that attending this course has had a profound effect on my understanding of Krsna consciousness, the man/woman relationship and the nature of men. Thank you very much.
Radhika Nagara Das, Mayapur
Devaki mataji’s seminars touch on very essential and practical aspects of Krishna consciousness. They address the need for devotees to imbibe the roots
of spiritual culture in order to establish it as the foundation of their lives. The seminars are interactive with enlivening discussions on brilliant quotes
from Srila Prabhupada.
Goloka Dham - Germany, October 2014
Advitya Baladev Das, Goloka Dham/Germany
This course 'Men in Spiritual Culture' opened my eyes to what spiritual culture is actually all about. It should be taken by every devotee in a men's body and should be included in the Bhakta Program in each ISKCON temple.
Purna Tattva Das, Antwerpen/Belgium
Back to the future!
Devaki Mataji's course 'Men in Spiritual Culture' is indeed wonderful. Although I have read Srila Prabhupada's books already for 37 years my understanding of the principles of spiritual culture is now greatly extended. Her words are like a magnifying glass giving deep insights into Srila Prabhupada's words and showing us how we as mankind have deviated from real culture - spiritual culture. We have to turn around and go back to the point where we have deviated. The past is our future - Vedic spiritual culture.
Rama Gopala Das, Gauradesh (Cologne), Germany
Dear Mother Devaki, I would like to thank you from the bottom of my heart for this deep and wonderful inspiration you have given me. With your two seminars 'Giving and Accepting Shelter' and 'Men in Spiritual Culture' you have given me great hope in regards to the future of my relationship with Lord Krsna. These two seminars made it easy for me to discover subtle anarthas within my heart, and by the mercy of Sri Guru and Gauranga I want to transform and uproot them now.
Also I want to beg with sincere heart forgiveness from all the women who I may have disrespected or hurt due to my ignorance, with the desire to transform my attitude and behavior and take blessings from my mothers.
Thank you kindly for this extraordinary gift.
Radha Madhava Das, FFL Vrindavan/India
Devaki Mataji's course 'Men in Spiritual Culture' gave me deep insights into the psychology of men and women. She could very nicely connect it with our process of devotional service and its culture, based on the teachings of Srila Prabhupada - in an amazing and deep way I have never heard before. Therefore this course brought me much closer to Srila Prabhupada and helped me to understand what he is actually saying in his purports in the Bhagavatam.
This course also gave me a great foundation to my dealings, attitude and association with women which will be beneficial for my entire life in Krsna consciousness. The valuable and most important role of women within this society was presented in a most wonderful way.
This course is a 'must' for all those devotees who want to get deeper insights into the subtleties of the complicated relationship between men and women, and who want to live it successfully - not only in married life, but in all dealings with the other gender.
Thank you very much, Devaki Mataji, for your wonderful service.
Please keep it up....!
Dandadhrk Das, Cologne/Germany
Devaki Mataji was not afraid to hit into a bee hive: Why do the relationships between men and women often seem so incredibly complicated, with almost unsolvable problems? Is there an understanding beyond "Men are like butter and women are like fire?" Why is the role of women so amazingly important and why, if neglected or misunderstood, human society basically goes to hell? These and many other relevant thoughts and questions were adressed during her course "Men in Spiritual Culture".
We were twenty participants assembling at Goloka Dham in Germany on the first weekend of October, embarking on a three-day spiritual adventure. Some of us had been practicing Krsna consciousness for many years, and some of us were young bhaktas. Nevertheless, for all of us it was a highly transformational experience, if not to say a true paradime shift.
The schedule was tight - no time to space out. After the standard morning program in the presence of Sri Sri Radha Madana Mohan we met in our bhajan kutir for three hours during the morning, and two and half hours in the afternoon.
First I had my doubts. Why should a woman give a seminar for men? This thought was very soon dissolved. Based on her preaching experience in Bangladesh where Vaisnava culture is still practiced today, and based on many wonderful quotes from Srila Prabhupadas books, Devaki Mataji gave us deep insights into the underlying principles of true spiritual culture and the urgent need for us to practice and implement them in our daily life.
I am amazed about Devaki Mataji's vast frame of knowledge, her uncompromising and humble attitude to present Vaisnava principles and to show us how far human civilisation has meanwhile gone off the track by neglecting spiritual culture and literally living an animal life. But that is only where the seminar starts. It also offers answers and solutions. Her course will help us to readjust our internal compass and code of behavior regarding our relationships with women. I am amazed about the deep psychological insights Devaki Mataji is giving.
All participants received a nice folder with printed materials, and we were invited to put little role plays together, demonstrating the topics of the previous day's discussions. This added a very humerous side to the course and deepened the learning experience.
Devaki Mataji's seminar was not easy to digest since it was not meant to offer spiritual entertainment. Rather it is aiming at transformation - transformation of the heart, our consciousness, our world view, our tastes, our habits, our likes and dislikes and our patterns of behavior. It clearly explains why there is a need for an urgent change not only for society at large but especially for us ISKCON devotees to apply these eternal and universal principles and teach them. Every male who considers himself a member of ISKCON should participate in this course. It is very deep, sometimes breath taking, and at times also humerous. It will make you re-think your relationship with women. I can only highly recommend it!
Advitya Baladev Das, Goloka Dham/Germany
This course 'Men in Spiritual Culture' opened my eyes to what spiritual culture is actually all about. It should be taken by every devotee in a men's body and should be included in the Bhakta Program in each ISKCON temple.
Purna Tattva Das, Antwerpen/Belgium
Back to the future!
Devaki Mataji's course 'Men in Spiritual Culture' is indeed wonderful. Although I have read Srila Prabhupada's books already for 37 years my understanding of the principles of spiritual culture is now greatly extended. Her words are like a magnifying glass giving deep insights into Srila Prabhupada's words and showing us how we as mankind have deviated from real culture - spiritual culture. We have to turn around and go back to the point where we have deviated. The past is our future - Vedic spiritual culture.
Rama Gopala Das, Gauradesh (Cologne), Germany
Dear Mother Devaki, I would like to thank you from the bottom of my heart for this deep and wonderful inspiration you have given me. With your two seminars 'Giving and Accepting Shelter' and 'Men in Spiritual Culture' you have given me great hope in regards to the future of my relationship with Lord Krsna. These two seminars made it easy for me to discover subtle anarthas within my heart, and by the mercy of Sri Guru and Gauranga I want to transform and uproot them now.
Also I want to beg with sincere heart forgiveness from all the women who I may have disrespected or hurt due to my ignorance, with the desire to transform my attitude and behavior and take blessings from my mothers.
Thank you kindly for this extraordinary gift.
Radha Madhava Das, FFL Vrindavan/India
Devaki Mataji's course 'Men in Spiritual Culture' gave me deep insights into the psychology of men and women. She could very nicely connect it with our process of devotional service and its culture, based on the teachings of Srila Prabhupada - in an amazing and deep way I have never heard before. Therefore this course brought me much closer to Srila Prabhupada and helped me to understand what he is actually saying in his purports in the Bhagavatam.
This course also gave me a great foundation to my dealings, attitude and association with women which will be beneficial for my entire life in Krsna consciousness. The valuable and most important role of women within this society was presented in a most wonderful way.
This course is a 'must' for all those devotees who want to get deeper insights into the subtleties of the complicated relationship between men and women, and who want to live it successfully - not only in married life, but in all dealings with the other gender.
Thank you very much, Devaki Mataji, for your wonderful service.
Please keep it up....!
Dandadhrk Das, Cologne/Germany
Devaki Mataji was not afraid to hit into a bee hive: Why do the relationships between men and women often seem so incredibly complicated, with almost unsolvable problems? Is there an understanding beyond "Men are like butter and women are like fire?" Why is the role of women so amazingly important and why, if neglected or misunderstood, human society basically goes to hell? These and many other relevant thoughts and questions were adressed during her course "Men in Spiritual Culture".
We were twenty participants assembling at Goloka Dham in Germany on the first weekend of October, embarking on a three-day spiritual adventure. Some of us had been practicing Krsna consciousness for many years, and some of us were young bhaktas. Nevertheless, for all of us it was a highly transformational experience, if not to say a true paradime shift.
The schedule was tight - no time to space out. After the standard morning program in the presence of Sri Sri Radha Madana Mohan we met in our bhajan kutir for three hours during the morning, and two and half hours in the afternoon.
First I had my doubts. Why should a woman give a seminar for men? This thought was very soon dissolved. Based on her preaching experience in Bangladesh where Vaisnava culture is still practiced today, and based on many wonderful quotes from Srila Prabhupadas books, Devaki Mataji gave us deep insights into the underlying principles of true spiritual culture and the urgent need for us to practice and implement them in our daily life.
I am amazed about Devaki Mataji's vast frame of knowledge, her uncompromising and humble attitude to present Vaisnava principles and to show us how far human civilisation has meanwhile gone off the track by neglecting spiritual culture and literally living an animal life. But that is only where the seminar starts. It also offers answers and solutions. Her course will help us to readjust our internal compass and code of behavior regarding our relationships with women. I am amazed about the deep psychological insights Devaki Mataji is giving.
All participants received a nice folder with printed materials, and we were invited to put little role plays together, demonstrating the topics of the previous day's discussions. This added a very humerous side to the course and deepened the learning experience.
Devaki Mataji's seminar was not easy to digest since it was not meant to offer spiritual entertainment. Rather it is aiming at transformation - transformation of the heart, our consciousness, our world view, our tastes, our habits, our likes and dislikes and our patterns of behavior. It clearly explains why there is a need for an urgent change not only for society at large but especially for us ISKCON devotees to apply these eternal and universal principles and teach them. Every male who considers himself a member of ISKCON should participate in this course. It is very deep, sometimes breath taking, and at times also humerous. It will make you re-think your relationship with women. I can only highly recommend it!
Kharkov - Ukraine, July 2015
Madanasundari DD ,Simferopol/ Russia
Devaki Mataji conducts the course in a very inspiring style, involving the participants to actively take part, rather than being a passive listener.
We were inspired to think and to make conclusions. The role plays were very helpful since they involved our emotions and thus created deep samskaras which will appear in our memory whenever the situation is accordingly.
The course is very systematically developed and leaves deep impressions in the mind, which allows us to apply this knowledge and share it with others. It is great that Devaki Mataji gives this knowledge without applying pressure on her audience, and we can choose how we want to apply it in our lives.
I am impressed how all the participating matajis were changing during the course as they were receiving this knowledge. No need to wait for a long time to see results - it became so obvious during the course, and all the ladies became so happy. It is not an external transformation, but their hearts are being transformed.
We can apply all this knowledge in our daily life - the course is so relevant and practical for all women, no matter in which age group they may be.
Spreading this knowledge will help us to preserve the mood and spirit which Srila Prabhupada wanted us to keep in our families and temples.
Thank You very much, mataji Devaki, for everything You are doing!
Mayapur - India, January 2015
Nityarupini DD, Kolkata/India
I am really indebted to Devaki Mataji for transforming my life through her course "Women in Spiritual Culture." The course came exactly at the right time. Now my life has become more blissful because after attending this course I realised what is my actual position and how should I serve my husband and my family. Thank you very much for this amazing course.
Phalini DD (ACBSP), Udupi/India
Although I have been studying and preaching these principles of spiritual culture for over thirty years, Mother Devaki has given me new insights and perspectives that have enriched my interest in the topic and strengthened my resolve to practice and promote patni-dharma. I strongly recommend "Women in Spiritual Culture" for every woman in ISKCON - married or unmarried.
I am really indebted to Devaki Mataji for transforming my life through her course "Women in Spiritual Culture." The course came exactly at the right time. Now my life has become more blissful because after attending this course I realised what is my actual position and how should I serve my husband and my family. Thank you very much for this amazing course.
Phalini DD (ACBSP), Udupi/India
Although I have been studying and preaching these principles of spiritual culture for over thirty years, Mother Devaki has given me new insights and perspectives that have enriched my interest in the topic and strengthened my resolve to practice and promote patni-dharma. I strongly recommend "Women in Spiritual Culture" for every woman in ISKCON - married or unmarried.
Ujjain - India, October 2014
Jamuna Priya Devi Dasi, Ujjain
This kind of course should be made mandatory by the GBC for all temples across ISKCON in order to promote a healthy, balanced, progressive atmosphere for our society to blossom in. I never realised how important the role of a woman actually is until I participated in this course! Eye opening, fun, realistic and honest yet thought provoking and deepening. I would like to thank HG Devaki Mataji for her sincere and successful endeavour.
This kind of course should be made mandatory by the GBC for all temples across ISKCON in order to promote a healthy, balanced, progressive atmosphere for our society to blossom in. I never realised how important the role of a woman actually is until I participated in this course! Eye opening, fun, realistic and honest yet thought provoking and deepening. I would like to thank HG Devaki Mataji for her sincere and successful endeavour.
Radhadesh - Belgium, September 2014
Visakha Devi Dasi, Radhadesh
I found the entire course 'Women in Spiritual Culture' extremely interesting and relevant. For the first time I could deeply understand the controversial topics about women, relationships between men and women, behavior, dress codes, etc. Everything just made so much sense and it was a relief to get insights into the proper perspective. I really liked the explanation about the powerful female energy and how it can be destructive to ultimately the entire society, or, on the contrary inspire and empower the men. The whole topic of women submitting to men simply became so wonderful - it completely lost this bitter taste it often had before. I feel totally at ease now being in a woman's body, having the privilege of being a mother and striving to become a chaste and submissive wife. I feel really excited to apply everything I learnt in order to bring more harmony and stability into my life.
I very much appreciated how Devaki Mataji shared her personal experiences and also the mistakes she made herself in the past, before gaining insights into this lost and forgotten knowledge of spiritual culture. I really appreciate that she encouraged us where we stand without putting pressure or judging those who have not come up to a higher level yet.
Sri Kumari Devi Dasi, Kuwait
Devaki Mataji's course in its entirety is very illustrative and practical. I was especially impressed by the concept that women are meant to be the auspicious source of energy to men. It also tremendously helped to understand that when women, consciously or unconsciously choose to not be the auspicious source of inspiration, and instead compete with men - it throws them off balance first, and then their relationships with women, and finally how on a communal and global scale the imbalance leads to mistreatment of women in the form of exploitation: physically, financially and even emotionally. For months I have been quite disturbed about the mistreatment of women - rape, violence, etc - and I would wonder whether Krsna consciousness has the answer to everything. I was hoping and praying for a practical answer firmly based in Krsna consciousness, which could explain and perhaps even provide solutions to the afore mentioned global issues. Devaki Mataji's course gives this answer and the solutions - for women and men alike. I am thankful for her enlightening seminar which came at a time when I was quite frustrated of blaming the other gender. I am convinced, with her blessings and mercy, that girls and women have this power and energy to turn in themselves to Krsna and in the process also serve and inspire their families and communities to do just the same.
Bhaktin Lara Orlic, Croatia
The topic that affected me the most is the understanding how a woman should behave towards men, how she should be the source of auspiciousness for them, and not a seductive and cosmopolitan girl. I wish I had heard about this knowledge as a young girl which would have spared me from wasting many years of my life which I have spent in trying to be a hip modern Western urban girl. Modern lifestyle has spoiled me in so many ways. No matter how much I tried to adjust to the modern lifestyle, people would tell me: "This is not you. You are trying to be somebody who you are not."
Only now I understand what they meant.
And at least with the help of this seminar today I can make a new list of my values and priorities.
I had no idea that the tools to a woman's beauty and being herself are the qualities of tolerance and shyness, resulting in chastity. And that these are the qualities which ultimately make a woman most attractive and desirable for men. I am happy to learn these things, and I secretly hope they will bring some changes to my life. At least I can stop hankering to be something which I am not. I find that some restriction, correction and discipline works as a kind of protective fence - like in a garden where beautiful flowers can grow. I see this knowledge of the principles of spiritual culture as a challenge for me to become more mature, responsible and selfless, and more mother-like. I pray that the weaknesses in my character can become a source for spiritual growth leading to a beneficial transformation.
Madan-mohan Mohini Dasi, Radhadesh
This course "Women in Spiritual Culture" is a wonderful tool women can utilize in discovering, realizing and expressing their nature being in a woman's body. It is a challenging journey into the inner corners of ourselves. It clears away many of the misconceptions, fears and brings relief.
Especially interesting was to hear and understand the differences between materialistic and spiritual culture and our roles. I was affected the most by the deeper explanations of the position of the mother. The fact that the position and role of women is so important - at home and within society at large, that they create the whole atmosphere through their powerful energy was very new to me.
My realization is that we women hold the key to our happiness, and the happiness of others around us. What a great responsibility!
I found the entire course 'Women in Spiritual Culture' extremely interesting and relevant. For the first time I could deeply understand the controversial topics about women, relationships between men and women, behavior, dress codes, etc. Everything just made so much sense and it was a relief to get insights into the proper perspective. I really liked the explanation about the powerful female energy and how it can be destructive to ultimately the entire society, or, on the contrary inspire and empower the men. The whole topic of women submitting to men simply became so wonderful - it completely lost this bitter taste it often had before. I feel totally at ease now being in a woman's body, having the privilege of being a mother and striving to become a chaste and submissive wife. I feel really excited to apply everything I learnt in order to bring more harmony and stability into my life.
I very much appreciated how Devaki Mataji shared her personal experiences and also the mistakes she made herself in the past, before gaining insights into this lost and forgotten knowledge of spiritual culture. I really appreciate that she encouraged us where we stand without putting pressure or judging those who have not come up to a higher level yet.
Sri Kumari Devi Dasi, Kuwait
Devaki Mataji's course in its entirety is very illustrative and practical. I was especially impressed by the concept that women are meant to be the auspicious source of energy to men. It also tremendously helped to understand that when women, consciously or unconsciously choose to not be the auspicious source of inspiration, and instead compete with men - it throws them off balance first, and then their relationships with women, and finally how on a communal and global scale the imbalance leads to mistreatment of women in the form of exploitation: physically, financially and even emotionally. For months I have been quite disturbed about the mistreatment of women - rape, violence, etc - and I would wonder whether Krsna consciousness has the answer to everything. I was hoping and praying for a practical answer firmly based in Krsna consciousness, which could explain and perhaps even provide solutions to the afore mentioned global issues. Devaki Mataji's course gives this answer and the solutions - for women and men alike. I am thankful for her enlightening seminar which came at a time when I was quite frustrated of blaming the other gender. I am convinced, with her blessings and mercy, that girls and women have this power and energy to turn in themselves to Krsna and in the process also serve and inspire their families and communities to do just the same.
Bhaktin Lara Orlic, Croatia
The topic that affected me the most is the understanding how a woman should behave towards men, how she should be the source of auspiciousness for them, and not a seductive and cosmopolitan girl. I wish I had heard about this knowledge as a young girl which would have spared me from wasting many years of my life which I have spent in trying to be a hip modern Western urban girl. Modern lifestyle has spoiled me in so many ways. No matter how much I tried to adjust to the modern lifestyle, people would tell me: "This is not you. You are trying to be somebody who you are not."
Only now I understand what they meant.
And at least with the help of this seminar today I can make a new list of my values and priorities.
I had no idea that the tools to a woman's beauty and being herself are the qualities of tolerance and shyness, resulting in chastity. And that these are the qualities which ultimately make a woman most attractive and desirable for men. I am happy to learn these things, and I secretly hope they will bring some changes to my life. At least I can stop hankering to be something which I am not. I find that some restriction, correction and discipline works as a kind of protective fence - like in a garden where beautiful flowers can grow. I see this knowledge of the principles of spiritual culture as a challenge for me to become more mature, responsible and selfless, and more mother-like. I pray that the weaknesses in my character can become a source for spiritual growth leading to a beneficial transformation.
Madan-mohan Mohini Dasi, Radhadesh
This course "Women in Spiritual Culture" is a wonderful tool women can utilize in discovering, realizing and expressing their nature being in a woman's body. It is a challenging journey into the inner corners of ourselves. It clears away many of the misconceptions, fears and brings relief.
Especially interesting was to hear and understand the differences between materialistic and spiritual culture and our roles. I was affected the most by the deeper explanations of the position of the mother. The fact that the position and role of women is so important - at home and within society at large, that they create the whole atmosphere through their powerful energy was very new to me.
My realization is that we women hold the key to our happiness, and the happiness of others around us. What a great responsibility!
Kharkov - Ukraine, August 2014
Anonymous
This course completely changed my attitude towards many topics. The understanding of how important it is to take one's position in our society dawned upon me. I discovered so many amazing and interesting things in being a woman, a wife, and a mother. Now I have a sincere desire to leave my life in the outside world and to fully concentrate on my so important role within my family. I want to perfectly do my duties within my family, to invest all my efforts and energies in my husband and children. I am very inspired by the information about the importance of the first 5 years in a child’s life, and how important it is to give all my love and care to my children during this period. The fact that a child’s future depends on this period gives me great inspiration to make maximum efforts to give the best spiritual foundation and conditions to the future life of this soul. Also I am inspired by the understanding that the future of our whole society depends on our children. I never realized that men receive inspiration and energy through us women. If we serve with the right attitude and care, then they will be inspired to
do so many things - materially they will give care and protection, and also they will be responsible in taking charge of various services within ISKCON. It is very satisfying to see men who have a clear goal in life, who have determination and also power in their words and actions. Now I know that all these things are in the hands of a chaste woman! And this is a great impetus or me. Now I also realize that serving a husband is Krsna's most natural system for a woman to purify her heart and become a selfless servant, develop humility, learn how to put herself below and become dependent. I want to use this gift for Srila Prabhupada, for the satisfaction of Guru and Krishna! Thank you very much for giving us all these wonderful and deep insights into spiritual practice.
Varshani Devi Dasi, Ukraine
In this course I finally understood how important it is to wear a sari. I will always wear it now while going to the temple or to our namhatta program. And I WON`T ARGUE WITH MY HUSBAND ANY LONGER!!! I will do everything to make him happy, and I will create an auspicious atmosphere for his spiritual progress. I will try to create Vaikuntha atmosphere in our house. And I will accept MY position in our relationship. THANK YOU! Devaki Mataji, you have truly saved my family life! Hare Krishna!
Alyona Shevtsova, Ukraine
I am so happy that I had the opportunity to attend this course. Even before I could feel that my understanding of the women’s duties were not very developed, but now everything has completely changed in my consciousness. Only now I know how to develop myself as a wife and mother, and I will try and make all efforts. Therefore, matajis of all ages, please come and attend mataji Devaki's course, and you will receive insights in how to use this woman's body in the best way, how to perform your roles and purifying duties, and how to become truly happy and satisfied. Thank you very much for this knowledge! Hare Krishna.
Ramini Devi Dasi, Ukraine
This course brought a big revolution to my consciousness! I have been looking for this knowledge throughout my whole life - knowledge which would deeply touch my heart. The way Devaki mataji conducted this course was simply great – she applied a good system of giving knowledge and connected everything with Srila Prabhupada`s quotes and mission. I like the following topics the most:
1. The cultivation of a motherly mood of service in cooperation among devotees.
2. The difference between spiritual and materialistic cultures.
3. The deeper understanding of chastity and being an auspicious source of energy to men.
4. A woman's position within relationships in the temple community and family.
5. Women`s false ego and how to dissolve it.
6. The secrets of having a successful marriage in spiritual culture.
7. Bringing up children in spiritual culture.
Most relevant for me now is how to develop the mood of a mother within a temple community – how to take care and inspire. And I will gradually apply all other topics in my life.Thank you very much, Devaki Mataji, for this revolutionary knowledge.
This course completely changed my attitude towards many topics. The understanding of how important it is to take one's position in our society dawned upon me. I discovered so many amazing and interesting things in being a woman, a wife, and a mother. Now I have a sincere desire to leave my life in the outside world and to fully concentrate on my so important role within my family. I want to perfectly do my duties within my family, to invest all my efforts and energies in my husband and children. I am very inspired by the information about the importance of the first 5 years in a child’s life, and how important it is to give all my love and care to my children during this period. The fact that a child’s future depends on this period gives me great inspiration to make maximum efforts to give the best spiritual foundation and conditions to the future life of this soul. Also I am inspired by the understanding that the future of our whole society depends on our children. I never realized that men receive inspiration and energy through us women. If we serve with the right attitude and care, then they will be inspired to
do so many things - materially they will give care and protection, and also they will be responsible in taking charge of various services within ISKCON. It is very satisfying to see men who have a clear goal in life, who have determination and also power in their words and actions. Now I know that all these things are in the hands of a chaste woman! And this is a great impetus or me. Now I also realize that serving a husband is Krsna's most natural system for a woman to purify her heart and become a selfless servant, develop humility, learn how to put herself below and become dependent. I want to use this gift for Srila Prabhupada, for the satisfaction of Guru and Krishna! Thank you very much for giving us all these wonderful and deep insights into spiritual practice.
Varshani Devi Dasi, Ukraine
In this course I finally understood how important it is to wear a sari. I will always wear it now while going to the temple or to our namhatta program. And I WON`T ARGUE WITH MY HUSBAND ANY LONGER!!! I will do everything to make him happy, and I will create an auspicious atmosphere for his spiritual progress. I will try to create Vaikuntha atmosphere in our house. And I will accept MY position in our relationship. THANK YOU! Devaki Mataji, you have truly saved my family life! Hare Krishna!
Alyona Shevtsova, Ukraine
I am so happy that I had the opportunity to attend this course. Even before I could feel that my understanding of the women’s duties were not very developed, but now everything has completely changed in my consciousness. Only now I know how to develop myself as a wife and mother, and I will try and make all efforts. Therefore, matajis of all ages, please come and attend mataji Devaki's course, and you will receive insights in how to use this woman's body in the best way, how to perform your roles and purifying duties, and how to become truly happy and satisfied. Thank you very much for this knowledge! Hare Krishna.
Ramini Devi Dasi, Ukraine
This course brought a big revolution to my consciousness! I have been looking for this knowledge throughout my whole life - knowledge which would deeply touch my heart. The way Devaki mataji conducted this course was simply great – she applied a good system of giving knowledge and connected everything with Srila Prabhupada`s quotes and mission. I like the following topics the most:
1. The cultivation of a motherly mood of service in cooperation among devotees.
2. The difference between spiritual and materialistic cultures.
3. The deeper understanding of chastity and being an auspicious source of energy to men.
4. A woman's position within relationships in the temple community and family.
5. Women`s false ego and how to dissolve it.
6. The secrets of having a successful marriage in spiritual culture.
7. Bringing up children in spiritual culture.
Most relevant for me now is how to develop the mood of a mother within a temple community – how to take care and inspire. And I will gradually apply all other topics in my life.Thank you very much, Devaki Mataji, for this revolutionary knowledge.
Goloka Dham - Germany, August 2013
Kanupriya Devi Dasi, "Veden Akademie" near Berlin
When I came to Krsna consciousness fifteen years ago, the process seemed very simple to me: "Chant Hare Krishna and be happy....". However, in due course of time I came to realize that not only I but so many devotees around me are repeatedly disturbed and distracted by difficulties within relationships - so much so, that it can be almost impossible to deeply concentrate on one's spiritual practice. Problems with one's partner, conflicts with friends, colleagues and other devotees, difficulties with one's children, and, and, and..... - all this makes spiritual life tiring and cumbersome, and sometimes we might even come to the point where we want to simply withdraw from relationships altogether. In the beginning of August I participated in the course "Exploring The Roots Of Spiritual Culture" which Devaki Mataji held in Goloka Dham, Germany. Around fifty ladies assembled, and we all experienced a simply amazing transformation. In the association of serious and like-minded devotees I was able to learn how spiritual culture helps us to build relationships where we give mutual support, respect and appreciation to each other. Furthermore, spiritual culture is designed to help us subdue and ultimately dissolve our false ego, and thus we learn to become true humble servants. It was extremely valuable for me to deeply understand how the nature of men and women are so different, and yet they perfectly complement each other! These days we don't so often hear such things....
Devaki Mataji taught us by her personal example, how Krsna has equipped us women with very special qualities and abilities, which can be of irreplacable value for the entire society if we cultivate and use them properly.
Furthermore I gained a deeper understanding of Srila Prabhupada's statements on the role and nature of women, and this nourished my faith in Prabhupada and the process of devotional service immensely.
In this seminar Devaki Mataji presents all the topics in a very nondogmatic way - something I especially appreciated. Her main goal is to give insights into the eternal underlying principles of (any) spiritual culture, and she entirely leaves it up to us to decide how much we want to apply in our personal life.
I could clearly observe my views on many things entirely changing, and I indeed experienced a deep internal transformation. I sincerely hope that I will be able to participate in many more such seminars, and I can only highly recommend it to any devotee in a female body.....!
Kanupriya Devi Dasi, "Veden Akademie" near Berlin
When I came to Krsna consciousness fifteen years ago, the process seemed very simple to me: "Chant Hare Krishna and be happy....". However, in due course of time I came to realize that not only I but so many devotees around me are repeatedly disturbed and distracted by difficulties within relationships - so much so, that it can be almost impossible to deeply concentrate on one's spiritual practice. Problems with one's partner, conflicts with friends, colleagues and other devotees, difficulties with one's children, and, and, and..... - all this makes spiritual life tiring and cumbersome, and sometimes we might even come to the point where we want to simply withdraw from relationships altogether. In the beginning of August I participated in the course "Exploring The Roots Of Spiritual Culture" which Devaki Mataji held in Goloka Dham, Germany. Around fifty ladies assembled, and we all experienced a simply amazing transformation. In the association of serious and like-minded devotees I was able to learn how spiritual culture helps us to build relationships where we give mutual support, respect and appreciation to each other. Furthermore, spiritual culture is designed to help us subdue and ultimately dissolve our false ego, and thus we learn to become true humble servants. It was extremely valuable for me to deeply understand how the nature of men and women are so different, and yet they perfectly complement each other! These days we don't so often hear such things....
Devaki Mataji taught us by her personal example, how Krsna has equipped us women with very special qualities and abilities, which can be of irreplacable value for the entire society if we cultivate and use them properly.
Furthermore I gained a deeper understanding of Srila Prabhupada's statements on the role and nature of women, and this nourished my faith in Prabhupada and the process of devotional service immensely.
In this seminar Devaki Mataji presents all the topics in a very nondogmatic way - something I especially appreciated. Her main goal is to give insights into the eternal underlying principles of (any) spiritual culture, and she entirely leaves it up to us to decide how much we want to apply in our personal life.
I could clearly observe my views on many things entirely changing, and I indeed experienced a deep internal transformation. I sincerely hope that I will be able to participate in many more such seminars, and I can only highly recommend it to any devotee in a female body.....!
Kharkov - Ukraine, June 2013
Irina Savostianova, Russia
When I first heard about this course and listened to the recordings in 2012 I felt very inspired because I think we are missing this knowledge about culture, which leads us matajis to serious spiritual development and is so beneficial for the society at large. Now, in 2013 I had an opportunity to attend the course
in Kharkov, and it was so wonderful! There was a serious and strict mood, and the whole atmosphere was very nice. The materials are systematically presented, and day after day it develops from more intense to less intense topics. The skits were also very nice and helped us to work as a team.
Being in a woman's body, our roles and duties differ from the roles and duties of a soul in a male body. It is so important to deeply understand this, and to apply it in one's life. I am very grateful to Devaki Mataji for her revolutionary and relevant presentation of this topic. It is really something that everyone needs to know:
Sannyasis, Gurus, grihasthas and brahmacharis.
Genuine understanding of one's roles and functions in the society will help us to make life and spiritual practice easier for all ashrams and orders of life. I express my sincere gratitude from the bottom of my heart to Devaki Mataji and her wonderful team for the mercy of association and instructions!
When I first heard about this course and listened to the recordings in 2012 I felt very inspired because I think we are missing this knowledge about culture, which leads us matajis to serious spiritual development and is so beneficial for the society at large. Now, in 2013 I had an opportunity to attend the course
in Kharkov, and it was so wonderful! There was a serious and strict mood, and the whole atmosphere was very nice. The materials are systematically presented, and day after day it develops from more intense to less intense topics. The skits were also very nice and helped us to work as a team.
Being in a woman's body, our roles and duties differ from the roles and duties of a soul in a male body. It is so important to deeply understand this, and to apply it in one's life. I am very grateful to Devaki Mataji for her revolutionary and relevant presentation of this topic. It is really something that everyone needs to know:
Sannyasis, Gurus, grihasthas and brahmacharis.
Genuine understanding of one's roles and functions in the society will help us to make life and spiritual practice easier for all ashrams and orders of life. I express my sincere gratitude from the bottom of my heart to Devaki Mataji and her wonderful team for the mercy of association and instructions!
Vadhu Rupa Dasi, Russia
This course "Exploring the Roots of Spiritual culture" is simply brilliant!
Devaki Mataji has a wonderful ability to give deep spiritual knowledge and realizations to her audience. The topics are very systematically presented in the hand-outs, and the discussions were profound and gave us deep insights into the eternal principles of spiritual culture. I liked the atmosphere during the course - centered around discipline mixed with the spirit of respect and care. Everything was so nicely organised, with a wonderful service attitude.
I have been battling with my own false ego for the past twenty years, and it has not given me much success. In 2012 I listened to the recordings of this course, and my consciousness changed by receiving some understanding of the position of a woman within spiritual culture. Due to this transformation within my heart, and without any further external endeavor I could observe with great joy and surprise that the attitude of some senior men with whom I had had difficulties, had changed towards me!
And now after attending the whole course, I understand that the key to good relationships with men aswell as with women - the key to happiness and peace lies in getting rid of envy and pride. The key lies in the consciousness of becoming a true servant - to give, give, give..... And spiritual culture promotes and supports this transformation of consciousness towards becoming a humble servant. I would like to apply all the principles of spiritual culture in my life as far as possible, and help those who are ready to accept them, and who are open to hear and discuss them. With deep gratitude to Devaki Mataji and her assistants....,
your servant, Vadhu Rupa Dasi
Devaki Mataji has a wonderful ability to give deep spiritual knowledge and realizations to her audience. The topics are very systematically presented in the hand-outs, and the discussions were profound and gave us deep insights into the eternal principles of spiritual culture. I liked the atmosphere during the course - centered around discipline mixed with the spirit of respect and care. Everything was so nicely organised, with a wonderful service attitude.
I have been battling with my own false ego for the past twenty years, and it has not given me much success. In 2012 I listened to the recordings of this course, and my consciousness changed by receiving some understanding of the position of a woman within spiritual culture. Due to this transformation within my heart, and without any further external endeavor I could observe with great joy and surprise that the attitude of some senior men with whom I had had difficulties, had changed towards me!
And now after attending the whole course, I understand that the key to good relationships with men aswell as with women - the key to happiness and peace lies in getting rid of envy and pride. The key lies in the consciousness of becoming a true servant - to give, give, give..... And spiritual culture promotes and supports this transformation of consciousness towards becoming a humble servant. I would like to apply all the principles of spiritual culture in my life as far as possible, and help those who are ready to accept them, and who are open to hear and discuss them. With deep gratitude to Devaki Mataji and her assistants....,
your servant, Vadhu Rupa Dasi
Mayapur, Jan 2013
Vrindadevi Dasi, Swizzerland
"What is night for all beings is the time of awakening for the self-controlled, and the time of awakening for all beings is night to the introspective sage"(BG.2.69).
The day of the ordinary materialist has to become night to me, if I truly want to progress in my spiritual life. The worldview and culture of the materialist and that of the transcendentalist are as opposite as day and night. In the ultimate sense they are incompatible. Understanding this fact more deeply, I can consciously choose how much uplifting spiritual culture I want to integrate into my daily life.
Krsna has endowed the female form with a very powerful energy. I have the choice to use it as an instrument of maha-maya which bewilders and exploits, or I can use it to become an auspicious source of energy to men and thus uplift others around me (SB 4.21.4.). In this way I can greatly influence the atmosphere of my surroundings and have a tremendous responsibility within society. I can choose to either use everything and everyone for my enjoyment in a gross or sublte way, or to nourish all with my service and care. "Actually, a woman is supposed to be the energy of the man. Historically, in the background of every great man there is either a mother or a wife." (SB.4.26.15.) The spine gives the main support to the entire body and keeps it upright. But the spine is in the back - not visible from the front. Women who know the art of being the auspicious source of energy to men are like the backbone of society: they keep things
together and upright. Men could be compared to the face of society. Just imagine what would happen when the spine wants to be in the front....! It seems to be a forgotten dignity and honour to serve in the background.
In spiritual culture women are considered to be mothers. They are the care givers and nurturers within society. They balance the forces and harmonize the relationships. Mother's mood is 'I am last - everybody else comes first.' ISKCON needs more true mothers and grand-mothers.....
In the name of progress, freedom and independence I lost respectability and real shelter - and I wasted so much time and energy by constantly competing with men and women for the highest position of control and influence. But "the hand that rocks the cradle rules the world." Our children need good mothers who can empower them to become emotionally strong adults one day. Men need my uplifting energy rather than the bewildering one, and thus they will be inspired to make the sacrifice of protecting and sustaining a family or a community. And in order to take charge of things they need my encouragement, rather than
one more competitor. This is an eternal principle which I can observe within family life, but also within society at large. Hierarchy means "divine order" with Krsna being on the top. But if Krsna is removed, the divine order turns into exploitation. Rather than rejecting the idea of hierarchy and throwing out the 'baby with the bath water' I want to put Krsna back on the top. Being protected as a wife and mother will be a blessing for me, not a curse.
I want to deeply understand the eternal and universal underlying principles of spriritual culture. Spiritual culture is Krsna's culture, which He has made available to me to derive tremendous support on my path back to Godhead. I am not so interested in the details of application of the remnants of Indian or even Vedic culture. I need to understand the eternal underlying principles. Then the application will follow. I need to be convinced of the beauty and joy of serving and preaching in the mood of a mother, rather than an agent of the prison keeper Durgadevi. I sincerely pray to Srimati Radharani that She may help Devaki Mataji and others to dive deeply into the subject of spiritual culture. I feel it can indeed give the root and foundation to a more caring and happy International Society for Krsna Consciousness. This course clarified many of my misunderstandings I had grown up with in the sometimes confused family of ISKCON.
Carla, Sydney/Australia
I want to thank Devaki Mataji from a very deep place in my heart for conducting the course "Exploring the Roots of Spiritual Culture". It has been a very inspiring and indeed life changing source of information that I hope to be able to somehow integrate into my daily life as a devotee. Her realisations were so vivid and relevant and have had a profound impact on my outlook on the Lord's devotees and life as it indeed was meant to be lived. The roles of men and women and their purifying duties within the grhasta ashram and within society at large were so clearly and intelligently outlined. I was often thinking to myself... "of course - that's it!" Everything just made so much sense. I felt strongly that modern psychology would find all the answers to current relationship disturbances by hearing about these eternal principles and wisdom underlying spiritual culture. It is just so enlivening to realise that every behaviour and role has a greater, divine purpose - all designed to facilitate our training in the service of Krishna. This course nicely outlined how it all starts with giving and accepting shelter, up to raising children in a Krishna Conscious household, and then progressing through the ashrams. The realisations I gained were priceless! Thank you, Devaki Mataji!
Stritama Dasi, ACBSP, Hawaii
This course "Exploring the Roots of Spiritual Culture" gives knowledge and realizations which are applicable to our everyday lives. And the worksheets and skits made it a lively learning experience. The content was simply refreshing and so needed in our Krsna conscious society at large. I am now sharing this "new" level of realizations with everyone I meet. What I really appreciate is Devaki Mataji's methodology of teaching the principles, and not the details. This is so therapeutic, so we as students had to really process the information to apply it to our own lives. Thank you very much to Devaki Mataji. I pray I can be of some service to her in any way.
Sadhana Devi Dasi, Mayapur
Dear Devaki Mataji,
thank you so much for giving generously your time and facilities. Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge and realizations. Thank you so much for helping me to boil the milk within myself, so I can become a deeper and sweeter devotee. You have a big heart - thank you for everything!
Merudevi Dasi, Argentina
Devaki Mataji presented the course "Exploring the roots of spiritual culture" with a clear structure and very concise hand-outs, and her personal experience made it very lively and practical. She was teaching with genuine concern and strong conviction about the importance of this topic. And this topic is indeed very relevant for my own life and so very needed for ISKCON at large. Thank you very much.
"What is night for all beings is the time of awakening for the self-controlled, and the time of awakening for all beings is night to the introspective sage"(BG.2.69).
The day of the ordinary materialist has to become night to me, if I truly want to progress in my spiritual life. The worldview and culture of the materialist and that of the transcendentalist are as opposite as day and night. In the ultimate sense they are incompatible. Understanding this fact more deeply, I can consciously choose how much uplifting spiritual culture I want to integrate into my daily life.
Krsna has endowed the female form with a very powerful energy. I have the choice to use it as an instrument of maha-maya which bewilders and exploits, or I can use it to become an auspicious source of energy to men and thus uplift others around me (SB 4.21.4.). In this way I can greatly influence the atmosphere of my surroundings and have a tremendous responsibility within society. I can choose to either use everything and everyone for my enjoyment in a gross or sublte way, or to nourish all with my service and care. "Actually, a woman is supposed to be the energy of the man. Historically, in the background of every great man there is either a mother or a wife." (SB.4.26.15.) The spine gives the main support to the entire body and keeps it upright. But the spine is in the back - not visible from the front. Women who know the art of being the auspicious source of energy to men are like the backbone of society: they keep things
together and upright. Men could be compared to the face of society. Just imagine what would happen when the spine wants to be in the front....! It seems to be a forgotten dignity and honour to serve in the background.
In spiritual culture women are considered to be mothers. They are the care givers and nurturers within society. They balance the forces and harmonize the relationships. Mother's mood is 'I am last - everybody else comes first.' ISKCON needs more true mothers and grand-mothers.....
In the name of progress, freedom and independence I lost respectability and real shelter - and I wasted so much time and energy by constantly competing with men and women for the highest position of control and influence. But "the hand that rocks the cradle rules the world." Our children need good mothers who can empower them to become emotionally strong adults one day. Men need my uplifting energy rather than the bewildering one, and thus they will be inspired to make the sacrifice of protecting and sustaining a family or a community. And in order to take charge of things they need my encouragement, rather than
one more competitor. This is an eternal principle which I can observe within family life, but also within society at large. Hierarchy means "divine order" with Krsna being on the top. But if Krsna is removed, the divine order turns into exploitation. Rather than rejecting the idea of hierarchy and throwing out the 'baby with the bath water' I want to put Krsna back on the top. Being protected as a wife and mother will be a blessing for me, not a curse.
I want to deeply understand the eternal and universal underlying principles of spriritual culture. Spiritual culture is Krsna's culture, which He has made available to me to derive tremendous support on my path back to Godhead. I am not so interested in the details of application of the remnants of Indian or even Vedic culture. I need to understand the eternal underlying principles. Then the application will follow. I need to be convinced of the beauty and joy of serving and preaching in the mood of a mother, rather than an agent of the prison keeper Durgadevi. I sincerely pray to Srimati Radharani that She may help Devaki Mataji and others to dive deeply into the subject of spiritual culture. I feel it can indeed give the root and foundation to a more caring and happy International Society for Krsna Consciousness. This course clarified many of my misunderstandings I had grown up with in the sometimes confused family of ISKCON.
Carla, Sydney/Australia
I want to thank Devaki Mataji from a very deep place in my heart for conducting the course "Exploring the Roots of Spiritual Culture". It has been a very inspiring and indeed life changing source of information that I hope to be able to somehow integrate into my daily life as a devotee. Her realisations were so vivid and relevant and have had a profound impact on my outlook on the Lord's devotees and life as it indeed was meant to be lived. The roles of men and women and their purifying duties within the grhasta ashram and within society at large were so clearly and intelligently outlined. I was often thinking to myself... "of course - that's it!" Everything just made so much sense. I felt strongly that modern psychology would find all the answers to current relationship disturbances by hearing about these eternal principles and wisdom underlying spiritual culture. It is just so enlivening to realise that every behaviour and role has a greater, divine purpose - all designed to facilitate our training in the service of Krishna. This course nicely outlined how it all starts with giving and accepting shelter, up to raising children in a Krishna Conscious household, and then progressing through the ashrams. The realisations I gained were priceless! Thank you, Devaki Mataji!
Stritama Dasi, ACBSP, Hawaii
This course "Exploring the Roots of Spiritual Culture" gives knowledge and realizations which are applicable to our everyday lives. And the worksheets and skits made it a lively learning experience. The content was simply refreshing and so needed in our Krsna conscious society at large. I am now sharing this "new" level of realizations with everyone I meet. What I really appreciate is Devaki Mataji's methodology of teaching the principles, and not the details. This is so therapeutic, so we as students had to really process the information to apply it to our own lives. Thank you very much to Devaki Mataji. I pray I can be of some service to her in any way.
Sadhana Devi Dasi, Mayapur
Dear Devaki Mataji,
thank you so much for giving generously your time and facilities. Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge and realizations. Thank you so much for helping me to boil the milk within myself, so I can become a deeper and sweeter devotee. You have a big heart - thank you for everything!
Merudevi Dasi, Argentina
Devaki Mataji presented the course "Exploring the roots of spiritual culture" with a clear structure and very concise hand-outs, and her personal experience made it very lively and practical. She was teaching with genuine concern and strong conviction about the importance of this topic. And this topic is indeed very relevant for my own life and so very needed for ISKCON at large. Thank you very much.
Mayapur, January 2012
Syamali Devi Dasi, USA:
"These were such amazing weeks in my education for spiritual life. I am very grateful to Devaki Mataji for sharing her research and realizations on these often confused topics. I hope that many devotees will have the opportunity to receive these same lessons in the future, as they have the power to shape our movement in a very powerful way.
The lessons were very engaging - excellent connection with all of us students, taught with enthusiasm, strength and conviction, compassion and wisdom. The classes felt like a discussion or conversation, even when we were mostly listening. So many great opportunities to ask questions and share observations - very interactive. The skits were also very illustrative and fun. The only improvement could be extending the length of the course!
Sejal Patel, London:
"This was the best course I have ever taken. From every single class I have ever heard - nothing compares to this! It is very practical - every single woman in our movement NEEDS to take this course. The materials and hand-outs are great. Devaki Mataji truly practices what she preaches as she shared through her realisations. Thank you."
Kanti Anand, South Africa:
"This course is very relevant, essential and unique. And it is not offered anywhere else. It is frank and to the point, and it helps me to realize my actual position as a woman. It made me understand that material success, e.g. independance; career etc is not spiritual success. Infact, I have specific duties and specific qualities for specific purposes, which I would like to follow. Thank you very much."
Samkalpa Devi Dasi, Mayapur:
"The course gave a lot of insight about the positive qualities of women. It gave the understanding that women are qualitatively, as servants of the Lord, equal to men, but at the same time we play certain roles in Society, especially as mothers and nurturers. I think the points Devaki Mataji makes about being the positive energy for men, in family life or in temple life, is very encouraging and makes us want to embrace this role more. She presented the Vaisnava culture very clearly and in a very balanced manner. It was a profound learning experience. Understanding the principles of the culture more deeply makes me less confused about how to behave. It taught me to have a more caring mood towards male devotees with whom I deal.
I found the facilitation style very dynamic and interesting, with all her personal experiences and stories woven into the classes. Everything was very thoughtfully and carefully presented. A lot of food for thought. Thank you."
Yadurani Devi Dasi, Radhadesh:
"I liked the practicality of the course and that it was so nicely supported by sastra and the personal examples of Devaki Mataji. The course touches very relevant issues, which are normally left up to individuals to decide upon. And thus in most cases it ends up being a 'personal opinion', which leads to confusion and disappointment in the temples.
This course was very clear, consistent and very satisfying to the intellect and the heart. The role of a woman in Krsna consciousness, as it was taught, is very empowering and inspires care and service. I learnt to set my mind in a position of a mother and to serve the devotees in this mood. I also learnt to see my interactions during preaching as those within "Krsna's family", and thus it taught me to take care and interest in this frame of mind. Thank you very much."
Kharkov - Ukraine, June 2012
Ishvari dd, Odessa/Ukraine:
One of the most important things I received in this course is a deeper understanding of how a mataji should preach. I used to believe that in order to preach a mataji has to reject her feminine nature. Or at least she should be able to overcome it. That's what we ladies tend to think.
But preaching also means that we use our natural position and qualities and accept those conditions that are available. According to Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu, everyone must accept his/her natural position and use it in preaching, and only then will we be able to preach effectively. We ladies become effective preachers only when we preach by engaging our feminine nature. Srila Prabhupada's famous phrase comes to my mind: "My followers are real ladies and gentlemen".
This is confirmed by the experience of mataji Devaki herself. HH Bhakti Vidya Purna Swami once told her: "Yes, as a mother you can control 120 brahmacharis! But if you will try to be Prabhu - how many can you control then? Not a single one...!"
One of the most important things I received in this course is a deeper understanding of how a mataji should preach. I used to believe that in order to preach a mataji has to reject her feminine nature. Or at least she should be able to overcome it. That's what we ladies tend to think.
But preaching also means that we use our natural position and qualities and accept those conditions that are available. According to Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu, everyone must accept his/her natural position and use it in preaching, and only then will we be able to preach effectively. We ladies become effective preachers only when we preach by engaging our feminine nature. Srila Prabhupada's famous phrase comes to my mind: "My followers are real ladies and gentlemen".
This is confirmed by the experience of mataji Devaki herself. HH Bhakti Vidya Purna Swami once told her: "Yes, as a mother you can control 120 brahmacharis! But if you will try to be Prabhu - how many can you control then? Not a single one...!"
Giving and Accepting Shelter given in various parts of the world:
Sridham Mayapur - India, January 2015
Haripada Das & Phalini DD (ACBSP), Udupi/India
The course "Giving and Accepting Shelter" was fantastic. A definate "must experience" for all ISKCON members. Mother Devaki has revealed deep insights
into the solutions we need as a society.
The course "Giving and Accepting Shelter" was fantastic. A definate "must experience" for all ISKCON members. Mother Devaki has revealed deep insights
into the solutions we need as a society.
Marriage in Spiritual Culture given in various parts of the world:
Sridham Mayapur - India, January 2015
Anandamayi dd, Villa Vrndavan/Italy
This education is most essential and urgent in our ISKCON society. Understanding the culture of how to behave before and after entering marriage, how to maintain our commitments and raise children in a loving spiritual environment is the essential training for having stable relationships and protected, balanced individuals. Thus we can practise spiritual life with a peaceful mind and bring forth a new generation which will continue to push forward Srila Prabhupada's mission by practically applying the principles of Vedic culture. Devaki Mataji is uncompromisingly re-establishing spiritual culture in our society. I am convinced that applying these principles will actually be the building blocks of materially and spiritually balanced Vaisnava Communities all over the world. Then there
is a good chance that we won't miss our target!
Kasi Priya Das, Christchurch/New Zealand
Devaki Mataji shared amazing realizations, tools and concepts. It is all very practical and eye opening. It inspired me to share this knowledge with others.
Acyuta Bhava DD, Christchurch/New Zealand
In Devaki Mataji's course "Marriage in Spiritual Culture" she shares essential spiritual principles which are both very practical and very much needed in our ISKCON society. Delivered in a compassionate, yet straight forward and sometimes humerous way, we were all kept engaged with discussions, hand-outs and role plays making it a very active learning experience. I think this course will be so beneficial to all devotees! Thank you very much.
This education is most essential and urgent in our ISKCON society. Understanding the culture of how to behave before and after entering marriage, how to maintain our commitments and raise children in a loving spiritual environment is the essential training for having stable relationships and protected, balanced individuals. Thus we can practise spiritual life with a peaceful mind and bring forth a new generation which will continue to push forward Srila Prabhupada's mission by practically applying the principles of Vedic culture. Devaki Mataji is uncompromisingly re-establishing spiritual culture in our society. I am convinced that applying these principles will actually be the building blocks of materially and spiritually balanced Vaisnava Communities all over the world. Then there
is a good chance that we won't miss our target!
Kasi Priya Das, Christchurch/New Zealand
Devaki Mataji shared amazing realizations, tools and concepts. It is all very practical and eye opening. It inspired me to share this knowledge with others.
Acyuta Bhava DD, Christchurch/New Zealand
In Devaki Mataji's course "Marriage in Spiritual Culture" she shares essential spiritual principles which are both very practical and very much needed in our ISKCON society. Delivered in a compassionate, yet straight forward and sometimes humerous way, we were all kept engaged with discussions, hand-outs and role plays making it a very active learning experience. I think this course will be so beneficial to all devotees! Thank you very much.