Letters
We welcome your letters. Write to BACK TO GODHEAD 51 West Allens Lane Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19119
I've just read the article by Mrs. Debarati Datta (19/4), "The Magic of a Real Guru" and I greatly appreciate her analysis. I have two questions, however. First of all, how would you suggest that Westerners find a bona fide way of inquiring into the Vedic tradition? And secondly, have the teachings of the "liberal gurus" actually had any bad effects on Indian society today?
Dave Trivedi Orlando, Florida
Our reply: Mrs. Datta directly answers your first question in her article. She says that she refers all her Western acquaintances to the books of His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupāda, which she has found sufficient to answer all her questions about spiritual life.
As for the effect of "liberal gurus," Mrs. Datta's article stresses more the overwhelmingly positive effect of Śrīla Prabhupāda's life and teachings. But she strongly implies, of course, that a mere show of magic tricks, while temporarily impressive, won't help anyone fulfill the all-important human mission of cultivating knowledge of God and developing love for Him.
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I just want to express my gratitude to the devotees of the Hare Kṛṣṅa movement. After becoming friends with the devotees, my whole outlook on life has changed for the better. If people would just try to become friends with the devotees there would be a drastic change for the good of society. I am not saying this out of sentiment—it's a fact. Everyone on this planet is looking for happiness and peace. After reading your books and BACK TO GODHEAD magazine, I think they will find it in your movement.
Clyde Chisolm Long Island, N.Y.
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We like BACK TO GODHEAD very much because it gives us so much information about the Hare Kṛṣṅa movement, as well as practical advice on how to handle day-to-day problems. We have lost interest in all other magazines, which only waste time and money, and tell you nothing interesting. So we thank you very much, and look forward to getting the next issue.
Karin and Carlos Kukahn Denver, Colorado