IN JAIL

Bhaktimarga Swami
May 4
2 min read

Updated: 6 days ago

Sunday, May 4th, 2025

Sparta, New Jersey

Fifty years ago, I was arrested along with two companions for distributing or selling religious books without a permit. It was standard for brahmacharis (monks) to end up so in the early day s of ISKCON in the US. The three of us spent a night behind bars. We went to court. The judge through the charge out thought it ridiculous and we were set free after a colourful night and day in prison in a town in North Carolina.

At the US customs in the Ottawa Airport enroute to New Jersey, I had to explain what I could about my story. They determined I wasn’t a criminal (I hadn’t even distributed a book, I didn’t have time when an officer nabbed me). I got on the flight – smooth sailing and arrived at La Guardia when Haripad and Sandamani, a couple, greeted me in anticipation for their second disksha (initiation).

In addition to the havan (fire ceremony) for this sweet couple, I also performed a simple annaprasana for a five-month-old baby. Murari received his first anna (grains) with a partial spoonful of kheer, a sweet rice/milk preparation.

See, I’m a priest, not a criminal.

In the city of Persiphany, where a new temple is ¾ of the way structurally completed, I led a chanting session with a group of 25 enthusiasts throughout the building on all floors. It really was holy – and fun. The project requires funding to complete the job, which is located in western New Jersey, the Garden State, as license plates here indicate.

PLEASE HELP OUR YOUTH IN NORTH AMERICA TO CONTINUE TO ENGAGE THEMSELVES IN PIOUS ACTIVITIES AMIDST THE DARK DUALITIES OF THESE DAYS AND TIMES. PLEASE DONATE. IT WILL BE FINISHED WITHOUT YOUR HELP.

Additionally, as mentioned in previous blogs regarding the Youth Bus Tour, let's get it back on the road again! It's urgent! This is such an important program for establishing a Krishna consciousness foundation for our youth, particularly in North America including Mexico. I personally travelled with the group for 10 consecutive summers, especially helping with the drama portions.

A new bus is badly needed. Please donate: https://www.gofundme.com/f/donate-for-iskcon-youth-ministrys-new-bus