ANOTHER JANMASTAMI

Saturday, September 12th, 2026

Vaughn, Ontario

Wherever there is Krishna, there will be a crowd. When Indresh Gaura and family put on a party, it is going to be big. To accommodate such an event their large home in Vaughn makes it happen. Police security was there at the entrance of Radha Road, making sure that parking arrangements are efficient space-wise.

I arrived early with members of the Bhakti Academy. Shoe space was ample just because we were ahead of the game. The greeting at the door was cheerful and welcoming, thanks to Kishori. And since time allowed the group of us started a kirtan which always sets a nice tone.

The occasion? Another Janmasthami, the celebration of Krishna’s birth. Yes, another one. We can’t get enough of God.

People, in the hundreds total, began streaming in. I was so delighted to see Trilokanath, my buddy from years ago, as well as Sasvata, another god-brother. Saffron also came floating in. Yes, a panel of sannyasis and brahmacharis sat in chairs, to be seen, while the hundreds or so sat in the lotus position. The messages from the saffron (monk) sector was powerful. Also features were some dances in traditional classical style. A team of mother and young son was interesting. The dance that got everyone participating was the Swami Step moving along with the expressive kirtan was perhaps the icing on the cake. The cherry on top was actually the prasadam, food blessed by the Lord.

Party indeed. We have always been told we are “part and parcel” of God and it is the complete word party that makes the happy connection between the part and the whole through the power of mantra.

MAY THE SOURCE BE WITH YOU

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