Page 16 - Patropadesa (English)

4 PATROPADEÇA

our preaching is for all classes of people. Our first instruction
(the first instruction of Lord Krsna in Gita) is that we are not
these bodies. We are not Hindus or Muslims. Religion without
philosophy is sentimentalism or fanaticism. Human life is meant
for cool headed consideration of the Absolute Truth. No one has
ever thought of discussing philosophy in this whole issue. So we
are not to put ourselves at the disposal of fanatics.

Another point is that the movement has been highly politicized
for the gain of a few individuals. ISKCON also cannot be party
to this.

Another point is that spiritual heads of these movements are
all Mayavadis who do not actually believe in the supremacy of
Rama and who do not accept the Deity in the temple as being
the Supreme Lord Himself. What kind of temple will they build?

Another point is that ISKCON’s mission is to spread pure love
of God as taught by Lord Caitanya. We cannot divert all our
energies into this issue—we have the most important work to do.

This issue does, however, show that devotional feelings are
still strong in many Indian people, despite the atheistic and
materialistic leaders who always want to stifle Indian culture and
religion. It is a fact that the Hindus had to make some reaction
to the government-abetted Islamization and Christianizaton of
India; otherwise Vedic culture in India was doomed. This issue
could be a turning point in the social and religious life of India.
Unfortunately, it is in the hands of the Mayavadis; so we cannot
hope for anything ultimately auspicious from it.
This letter is a private letter meant for your reading only.

By the way, your writing of “Sri Sri Sri Radha Krsna Balaram”
is technically a rasabhasa, a mixing of devotional sentiments not
approved by Lord Caitanya or His followers. This a complex
subject explained in the concluding chapters of Nectar of
Devotion. You may write: