Poison confirmed, pt 6

CHAPTER 29: HEALTH CHRONICLE:

SEPTEMBER 1977

There are no tape recordings for August 18 through October 1.

SEPTEMBER 1: A favorable newspaper clipping arrived from Mauritius written by a reporter who had met Srila Prabhupada on the train to Rishikesh months earlier. (TkgD.77) Abhiram reports that Srila Prabhupada ate well, took bath and His swelling (AK17) went down.

SEPTEMBER 2: Abhiram Prabhu noted that over just some little thing or other, Srila Prabhupada would immediately begin crying very easily (A11). This was characteristic of this time, that at least once or twice a day Srila Prabhupada would become choked up or cry because He "was so sensitive (A11)." Each morning in the Bhaktivedanta Manor temple room, Srila Prabhupada would sit before the Deities while the devotees had enthusiastic kirtan. Abhiram presented a new pair of high-quality Zeiss sunglasses to Srila Prabhupada that were purchased by his wife, Srutirupa dasi. These new sunglasses replaced the old ones, which looked like "biker shades." Abhiram notes that Srila Prabhupada's "eyes would hurt in bright lights and He would always wear sunglasses (A1)." Abhiram Prabhu said, "He ate better today than for as long as I have been with Him,"and that Srila Prabhupada was passing urine easier now (AK14). (Abhiram)

SEPTEMBER 3: Abhiram notes that Srila Prabhupada's feet are swelling (AK17) again and that He was in a very "upbeat mood,"expecting to tour the U.S. soon. (Abhiram) He asked about His party's future itinerary, showing He was thinking of moving again. (TkgD. 178)

Srila Prabhupada's emotions, reports TKG, "are much more noticeable recently. Whereas before, he would always check his sentiments, now he no longer does so completely, perhaps because of his physical weakness. He cries frequently and with only slight provocation (A11)." Tamal interprets this as due to Srila Prabhupada's being immersed in Krishna prema, and that he would look more beautiful with tears flowing from his eyes (A8) while experiencing transcendental ecstatic symptoms. Tamal says, "All glories to Srila Prabhupada… who is enabling the devotees to relish these drops of transcendental love of God, which now pour forth from his person!" Srila Prabhupada had only a little maha-prasadam for lunch, assisted by Abhiram. Srila Prabhupada shed tears (A11) when Jayatirtha Prabhu took his leave and again when He received a telegram from Siddha Swarupananda Swami. (TkgD.178-9)

Satsvarupa's biography states that after arrival in London, Srila Prabhupada's emotions were more prominent (A11) and that they were noticeably unchecked now as differentiated from previously, when they were rarely displayed (A11). "He frequently cried in ecstasy… at any moment tears might come… The tears would pour down his cheeks…(A8)"(Sat:6.376-7)

AUTHOR'S COMMENT: There is definitely some parallel between Satsvarupa's and Tamal's words in their biographical accounts, even though they were published 16 years apart. The accounts of Srila Prabhupada's crying and displaying ecstasy are so similar that either Satsvarupa took his account from Tamal or his diary in 1983, or Tamal has taken it from Satsvarupa's biography since then. Again, it is difficult to know what comes from Tamal's actual physical diary, what comes from other sources, and what might be "doctored." Without an examination of Tamal's original diary, TKG's Diary fails to put to rest rumors and suspicions about Tamal and the poisoning of Srila Prabhupada. END COMMENT

SEPTEMBER 4: Today, Srila Prabhupada did not eat anything (AK1). (Abhiram) Ghanashyam came out from behind the Iron Curtain in Eastern Europe and gave his report of preaching there. Srila Prabhupada was very pleased and stroked his neck and head for a long time. In the evening, Srila Prabhupada had pain in His left kidney (AK15), and a hot salt compress was applied for relief. (TkgD.181)

SEPTEMBER 5: Srila Prabhupada had trouble again in passing urine today (AK14). (Abhiram)

When Harikesh Swami arrived, Srila Prabhupada became very emotional, and shedding tears with a choked voice (A11), rubbed his head. When He was shown color photos of the Los Angeles Rathayatra, Srila Prabhupada again began to shed tears (A11). Then He sat meditatively in silence for two hours (AK18). (Sat:6.378-9)

He had eaten practically nothing for days (AK1) except some "7-Up", but today frequently took some royal jelly with honey from Upendra Prabhu. His digestion was not improved (A15), His appetite was still lacking (AK1), and He had been having pains in the kidney area (AK15). (TkgD.182-4)

Tamal wrote to Srutadeva: "Your suggestion for Srila Prabhupada's improved health by the use of chicory is very kind. But Srila Prabhupada prefers now to depend upon Krishna, and therefore your prayers to the Lord for Prabhupada's recovery will actually be the most effective medicine." (Archives)

Tamal wrote to Swarup Damodar: "Srila Prabhupada will probably be coming to the US quite soon, perhaps in a weeks time…" Tamal wrote to Siddhaswarupananda in Hawaii: "Srila Prabhupada is getting very nice rest here at Bhaktivedanta Manor. There were so many things to worry about in India, but here there is no difficulty for Prabhupada to get unbroken, peaceful, recuperative rest and He is taking full advantage of the very serene atmosphere." (Archives)

SEPTEMBER 6: Today was Janmastami, and Srila Prabhupada took milk and rested throughout the day, but had diarrhea (AK3). (Abhiram Memoirs)

Today was Janmastami and Srila Prabhupada went to see the Deities at the Bury Place temple. Carried on a palanquin, Srila Prabhupada came before the altar, slowly removed His sunglasses (A1) and tears flooded from His eyes (A11). The journey totally exhausted Srila Prabhupada. He slept until midnight upon His return to the manor (AK5). (Sat:6.379 & TkgD.185)

Srila Prabhupada wrote to Vasudeva in Fiji: "Now I have come to the West in a broken condition of health. In such condition no one would think of touring. An ordinary man would prepare for death. But I am not afraid of death, so why not let me see once again all of my beloved disciples and the Temples all over the world." (the last letter signed by Srila Prabhupada; Letters Books)

SEPTEMBER 7: On Vyasa-puja day, Srila Prabhupada went to the temple room where Tamal gave a 45 minute speech on Srila Prabhupada's life history and achievements, during which Srila Prabhupada shed many tears (A11). Srila Prabhupada had swelling (AK17) again, and acute pain in the genital area. (TkgD.186)

SEPTEMBER 8: Both the swelling (AK17) and genital pain had increased by the next morning due to complete inability to pass urine (AK14). Consultations by phone revealed that this inability was very critical and could lead to coma and death within hours. (TkgD.186) Abhiram describes that Srila Prabhupada could not pass urine (AK14). While being carried by Abhiram and another devotee to the bathroom, Srila Prabhupada began to shake, His eyes rolled up and He had a seizure (AK7), His body stiffening. He fainted (A16) and His breathing stopped. Lying Him down on His bed, Abhiram noted that Srila Prabhupada's heart was "violently palpitating (AK22)." Srila Prabhupada regained external consciousness, took bath and explained that His urinary tract was blocked completely. He could not pass urine. Srila Prabhupada ordered an ambulance and Srila Prabhupada was taken to the public Peace Memorial Hospital in Watford.

Abhiram's memoirs explain that Srila Prabhupada was able to pass urine while at the hospital, and that a circumcision was performed by a young Dr. McIrving, who was mystified at the unusually and extremely thickened, long foreskin (A5) removed from Srila Prabhupada's body. The skin had made a total blockage of the urinary tract. The doctor "had never seen such a thing in his life (A5)," but apparently no lab analysis was done. The bladder and prostate gland were found to be not excessively enlarged. (Abhiram & TkgD.186-7) This phenomenon is suggestive of the thickening of skin due to arsenic poisoning, and a similar incident occurred in another case history in Chapter 35.

The doctor's analysis, according to Abhiram's November 1978 recollections, was that Srila Prabhupada's difficulties in passing urine had produced a back pressure on the kidneys, causing gradual damage and a buildup of uric acid in the body, weakening the body, causing the nausea, non-digestion and a malnutritioned body of only 60 to 70 pounds. (Abhiram) AUTHOR'S COMMENT: This is a misdiagnosis. END

Abhiram's wife, Srutirupa dasi, recalls that Dr. McIrving had commented that his medical opinion was that Srila Prabhupada "was living on his will alone."

From the Internet statement submitted by Abhiram Prabhu on November 5, 1997, we excerpt this portion from the whole which is found under Appendix 4:

"Dr. McIrving, made a very clear and definitive diagnosis of Srila Prabhupada's condition, namely that he,

1) had, due to diabetes (and dropsy) suffered swelling which affected the flow in his urinary tract over many years

2) That he had since birth a slightly constricted urethra which further reduced the urinary flow. (This was the reason for surgery and gave a great deal of relief to Srila Prabhupada)

3) The combination of these two major factors had put a constant and harmful back pressure on his kidneys, which along with a general deterioration due to age had inflicted serious renal damage. (Srila Prabhupada complained to me that he had difficulty urinating and finally was blocked completely leading to this surgery.)

4) The kidney failure would naturally cause an increase in uric acid in his system, which would probably affect digestion and appetite. Both being prominent symptoms in Srila Prabhupada's condition.

5) The loss of digestion and appetite led to malnutrition which caused an already aged and intensely taxed system to go into a total collapse.

The above is, I believe, an accurate account of the diagnosis of the doctors who examined Srila Prabhupada at Peace Memorial Hospital on 8th September of 1977, and all of my/our observations prior and subsequent to this generally confirmed this diagnosis."

Returning to the Bhaktivedanta Manor the day of the operation, Srila Prabhupada was examined and checked by an Indian life member, Dr. Kanodia, who confirmed the success of the operation. (TkgD.187)

Satsvarupa's biography glaringly omits any reference whatsoever to Srila Prabhupada's emergency visit to the hospital and His operation there, and simply reports, "The next day Srila Prabhupada's health suddenly became much worse… suddenly his plans changed… he now requested that he be taken back to India... The health crisis seemed to pass…" (Sat:6.379)

SEPTEMBER 9: Dr. McIrving (McIrwin ?) came to visit Srila Prabhupada and stressed plenty of liquid and some protein would be necessary for healing, advising against Dr. Kanodia's antibiotics. At the urging of Abhiram, Srila Prabhupada decided to live on juices alone. He fainted once more (A16) while being carried to the bathroom later that night. (Abhiram; TkgD.187-8)

SEPTEMBER 10: Abhiram began keeping a record on the amount of liquids ingested and passed by Srila Prabhupada, about one liter a day. By the use of a urine bottle, total volumes in and out of the body were checked to guard against dehydration. (Abhiram & TkgD.188)

Swarup Damodar came and Srila Prabhupada became very tired preaching to him, having heart palpitations (AK22) worse than when in Vrindaban. After resting several hours, Srila Prabhupada asked Tamal to review the astrological readings now that the critical days had come. Srila Prabhupada said, "Let us have a laugh." Tamal says the discussion revealed that "Prabhupada had hoped to see an improvement in his health, which would have encouraged him to go on to America. Unexpectedly the situation grew critical, necessitating an operation. Now, being weaker (AK5) than ever before, he was thinking of not going to America. Rather he felt that he might die soon and wished, therefore, to see the Bombay temple opening."(TkgD.188)

Tamal tried to encourage Srila Prabhupada to continue with the plan to go to America, and they "decided to wait a few days to see whether his condition improved." Srila Prabhupada "was not appearing well," and had little control over bowel movements (A19) or passing urine (A19). Srila Prabhupada was adamant about following Dr. McIrving's recommendations, taking plenty of liquids and now an all-purpose food supplement called Complan. (TkgD.189)

Tamal wrote to Giriraj: "Srila Prabhupada has just undergone a minor surgical operation which seems to have come out successfully. His Divine Grace is resting but is very very weak (AK5), at least as weak as He was in Vrindaban." (Archives)

Tamal wrote to Hansadutta: "His health however has not very much improved and two days ago He developed a block in passing urine. After about 12 hours of not being able to pass urine, we had to rush Him to a hospital on His insistence, where a minor surgical operation was performed in which they opened the hole of the urinary tract wider so that He could pass urine. After a few hours He returned to the Manor and it appears that the operation was successful. It is impossible for Him to stand up even with assistance (AK11). Last night He attempted to go to the toilet but fainted (A16). So He is more or less completely bedridden." (Archives)

SEPTEMBER 11: It is to be noted that after the circumcision on September 8, Srila Prabhupada could not have further difficulty in passing urine because of physical blockage in the lower urethra tract. Yet we see in Abhiram' s memoirs that three days later, on the 11th: "Srila Prabhupada says there is still difficulty in passing urine (AK14) - He blames it on the protein supplement." (Abhiram)

Amounts of urine passed in the last three days were decreasing (AK13), not a good sign. Tamal, Pradyumna and Abhiram discussed at length about whether to go on to America, stay in England or go back to Bombay for the upcoming temple opening. At night, in a darkened room (A1), Tamal was told by Srila Prabhupada, "My brain is not working now (A12). You are very intelligent; so whatever you decide, I will do. Practically, I came here on your advice." (TkgD.190)

Satsvarupa describes that the health crisis seemed to pass, and yet Srila Prabhupada was dubious of His ability to go to New York. Srila Prabhupada thought He had traveled as far as possible, and wanted to return to Bombay and Vrindaban. Srila Prabhupada, meanwhile, resumed His visits to the temple room every morning. (Sat:6.379)

SEPTEMBER 12: Brahmananda had arrived back from Africa and pleased Srila Prabhupada by dancing nicely in the morning kirtan. The amounts of urine had increased again and Srila Prabhupada looked better, saying, "Probably because I am thinking of returning. I am homesick." He made a final decision to leave for Bombay on the 15th , saying, "If I survive this time, we shall do Vrindaban parikrama. You can carry me in a palanquin." Later, Srila Prabhupada told Tamal to arrange for going the very next morning, and by staying up much of the night, all was made ready for a party of four on British Airways, first class seating. (TkgD.190-1)

SEPTEMBER 13: Srila Prabhupada and party left London for Bombay, boarding the plane by forklift. Srila Prabhupada took the trip without difficulty and rested well on the plane. (TkgD.192-3)

SEPTEMBER 14: Arriving today in Bombay, Srila Prabhupada rested soundly the whole day. Measurements of urine were not possible as Srila Prabhupada was using the toilet. He refused the Complan, saying it was not a fresh food, and gave up the regimen He had agreed upon with the English doctor saying, "I shall try to live on milk and fruit juice. Nothing artificial." Srila Prabhupada made note about the English doctor: "I could understand when he wanted blood that he would begin his allopathic treatments."

(TkgD.193-4; Sat:6.380-1)

Abhiram, having arrived from England separately, notes that "Srila Prabhupada appears to be getting stronger," and that the massages by His servants are giving Him relief (AK12, AK8).

SEPTEMBER 15: Abhiram reports mucus buildup, much spitting and coughing, and that Srila Prabhupada's sleeping at an angle while propped up on pillows was introduced to help cope with the mucus interfering during rest (A3). Satsvarupa notes that Srila Prabhupada took only a little fruit juice and mung bean water (AK1). Tamal relates that Srila Prabhupada remained almost motionless and silent (AK18) in bed all day, with no strength (AK5) despite taking juices, milk and Complan. Satsvarupa states that when Tamal asked how Srila Prabhupada was feeling, the reply was "Crisis." (TkgD.194; Sat:6.381)

SEPTEMBER 16: Tamal notes that Srila Prabhupada seemed weaker, similar to yesterday. The passing of urine was adequate, more than half of the liquids taken. (TkgD.194-5)

SEPTEMBER 17: Srila Prabhupada appeared to be getting worse every day, now using a bedpan for passing urine. When Srila Prabhupada wanted to call a certain Bombay doctor who had cured a Mrs. Wallior's father from the same ailment, Tamal response was: "I presented a number of arguments against calling another doctor and told why I felt at this time it was not necessary." Tamal says, "Srila Prabhupada said, 'Your advice is always very nice,' and he decided not to call anyone."(TkgD.195)

Late in the day, Yadubara Prabhu showed Srila Prabhupada some projected movies, and even though Srila Prabhupada put on His sunglasses (A1), He kept His eyes shut because the light hurt His eyes (A1). Srila Prabhupada could not see the movies anyway (A9), neither could He recognize those who came before Him (A9) except by recognizing their voices. "His eyes were almost completely failing him (A9)." (TkgD.196)

SEPTEMBER 18: When Karttikeya Mahadevia came to visit, he was shocked at Srila Prabhupada's condition (AK1). Srila Prabhupada sat up and took interest in the report on Indian politics, preaching against the bodily concept of life. (TkgD.196-7)

SEPTEMBER 19: Tamal states, "Prabhupada's condition having grown worse, we now attend to him constantly."Up till now, Tamal spent half his shift with Srila Prabhupada; now it is constant. (TkgD.197)

SEPTEMBER 20: That night, Srila Prabhupada became very congested with a bad cough (A3) which he blamed on being given buffalo milk instead of cow milk. Abhiram remembers that Srila Prabhupada sent him out to find topa-kul berries from Bengal in downtown Bombay, a difficult task. Finally he found some from a street vendor. Mixed with flowers of the drumstick tree, a tea would be made tomorrow for increasing Srila Prabhupada's appetite (AK1). Meanwhile Srila Prabhupada also took some tulasi tea. Srila Prabhupada also agreed to try some vegetable broth that Abhiram would make. Today Srila Prabhupada could only manage to sit up in His wheelchair for a minute before returning to bed (AK5). (TkgD.198, Abhiram)

SEPTEMBER 21: Srila Prabhupada had no longer been able to go for the daily morning greetings of the Deities in the temple, and instead had a photo of the Deities fixed onto the bedpost to see always. (Sat:6.383-4) Abhiram notes that "Srila Prabhupada is not well today; Srila Prabhupada said "I feel that at any moment I could die." Srila Prabhupada has no strength (AK5) and started taking vegetable broth every day."

Srila Prabhupada passed liquid stool (AK3), stating, "I may pass away at any moment, because there is no vital force." (TkgD.199)

SEPTEMBER 22: Later Srila Prabhupada became emotional in speaking with Gargamuni, and began to cry (A11). In the afternoon, Srila Prabhupada spoke to His servants and Brahmananda: "The whole machine has gone bad. You cannot expect a young body like yours. Besides it is material. When I was younger, I would always recover." (TkgD.199-200)

SEPTEMBER 23: Srila Prabhupada "was not at all well today." Srila Prabhupada took Horlicks, a food supplement made from grains that His mother had given Him as a child, but a cough was the result (A3). Sitting in a wheelchair and wrapped with a chaddar (large shawl), Srila Prabhupada was still "shaking slightly (A7)," even though it was warm. His face was colorless (A7), and His extremities were swollen (AK17) more than usual. Srila Prabhupada's health had turned worse still. The massage was skipped due to the cough (A3). "We felt that the remedy of vegetable juice, Complan, etc. was unsuccessful." Srila Prabhupada called a meeting and it "was obvious we had to take a new direction in Prabhupada's care." It was decided to find the best Ayurvedic physician in Bombay and that Ram Gopal vaidya, another Ayurvedic physician, would also be brought. Srila Prabhupada spent the day lying quietly in bed. (TkgD.201-2)

SEPTEMBER 24: Sri K.J. Somaiya brought Ram Gopal vaidya in the afternoon, who quickly diagnosed Srila Prabhupada's ailment as liver (A18) and kidney (AK15) problems. He prescribed some Ayurvedic medicine and a diet. Tamal was not pleased with this doctor, as he states:

"We were not very satisfied with this vaidya, whose manner of acting was not appealing. After he left, I expressed my doubt to Srila Prabhupada, saying that I wanted nothing to do with him. Since the vaidya spoke only Hindi, Srila Prabhupada asked Yasomatinandana to remain. I said that Yasomatinandana should deal with him, since I did not want to do so. Prabhupada reproved me, saying that this mood of non-cooperation was not good."

Srila Prabhupada urged cooperation and following the treatment the Bombay vaidya had recommended for eight days. Tamal continues: "I pointed out that the vaidya would be out of town for five days, during which time his disciples would attend Srila Prabhupada. Furthermore, he had asked about cardiograph tests, and he chewed pan while taking Prabhupada's pulse."

Srila Prabhupada took some sandesh made by Kuladri, and also a few spoonfuls of chiku and papaya. (TkgD.202-3)

Abhiram notes that Srila Prabhupada was weaker (AK5) and took no vegetable broth this day, but took Horlicks and Complan instead.

SEPTEMBER 25: Abhiram says Srila Prabhupada was constipated (A13) and coughing (A3). Tamal notes that the whole previous night Srila Prabhupada's sleep was interrupted by constipation (A13) and too much mucus (A3). Thus Srila Prabhupada rejected this Ram Gopal vaidya since apparently his treatments were problematic. Tamal coaxed Srila Prabhupada to cough up much of the mucus (A3) and then gave him Phillips Milk of Magnesia (A13). Srila Prabhupada's limbs were swollen (AK17) "more than ever," and Tamal assesses that due to mucus, there was difficulty in passing urine (AK14). Mr. Somaiya had supplied a hospital bed, which was installed in the sitting room. In the early afternoon, Abhiram and Upendra gave Srila Prabhupada an enema, "completely cleansing his bowels (A13)." After all this, Srila Prabhupada was left extremely weak (AK5). (TkgD.203)

About Srila Prabhupada's enema, Abhiram noted in his diary, "Srila Prabhupada felt relieved… and seemed to be more alert externally."

SEPTEMBER 26: During the afternoon, Srila Prabhupada sat up and put on His spectacles, holding a photo of Radha Rasabihari, the Bombay Deities, in His hand. Tamal had to point out Their lotus feet (A9), and Srila Prabhupada meditated in this way a long time while Tamal read Srimad Bhagwatam. That night, however, Tamal relates that Srila Prabhupada could not sleep at all, having mucus and cough (A3), which even the cough syrup did not help with. (TkgD.204)

Satsvarupa noted that in Los Angeles: "Now we hear again that Srila Prabhupada's health is in crisis, 'the worst.' He is lying on his back and even to turn is a great effort. His secretary has called saying that all GBC men should come to Bombay at the end of October for the grand opening of the temple there." (Isk70,311)

SEPTEMBER 27: Srila Prabhupada stopped taking Horlicks until His mucus lessened (A3). (Abhiram)

Tamal writes: "Prabhupada was completely exhausted (AK5). Mucus was filling his whole system (A3), and his legs and hands were very swollen (AK17). Even his eyes had much mucus (A8). I felt nearly hopeless, seeing his condition. He asked for caranamrita from the Deities." K.J. Somaiya brought the governor of Madras, Mr. Potwari, and they were "amazed to see Prabhupada's condition." At night, He said that his condition had progressed from bad to worse, and He had Abhiram attend Him all night. Also, Srila Prabhupada resumed taking Ram Gopal's medicine. (TkgD.204-5)

SEPTEMBER 28: "Most amazingly," Srila Prabhupada's condition suddenly became much better, with hardly any mucus, and He had awoken well rested after a night's sound sleep. He met with K.J. Somaiya and the governor, and at their urging, agreed to see Ram Gopal vaidya again. Tamal notes that Srila Prabhupada's signature "was very unsteady," (A19) and that He was very weak (AK5). Tamal suggested that Srila Prabhupada give power of attorney "to someone to sign on his behalf."Srila Prabhupada agreed. (TkgD.205)

Tamal wrote to Hansadutta: "Since coming back to Bombay His health has steadily deteriorated and He is very ill now. He has requested that every GBC man must come to Bombay for the opening ceremony which will take place on October 22. Thereafter Srila Prabhupada plans to go to Vrindaban Dham where He intends to make a grand parikrama of the entire Vrindaban area..."(Archives)

SEPTEMBER 29: Srila Prabhupada convened His leading disciples to discuss His idea of returning to Vrindaban to be treated by the Bonamali kaviraja. (TkgD.206)

Satsvarupa's biography chronicles how Srila Prabhupada called the GBC men present in Bombay and others before him to discuss about whether He should stay in Bombay and wait three or more weeks until the temple opening, or go early to Vrindaban for parikrama while still able. It was decided by Srila Prabhupada to go on to Vrindaban. Srila Prabhupada also invited discussion on the best course of treatment. Tamal read out loud a recent letter from Srila Prabhupada's friend Dr. G. Ghosh, who advised going to a good hospital for a thorough check-up and treatment. Tamal warned of the spectre of intravenous feeding, something he knew Srila Prabhupada wanted to avoid. Tamal said that modern doctors were at least more effective than most Ayurvedic doctors. Abhiram protested strongly against going to a hospital. Upendra suggested that Srila Prabhupada could be treated in His own house without having to go to the hospital. (Sat:6.386-7)

Tamal relates how there was discussion about the negative effects of many devotees' going to Vrindaban to be with Srila Prabhupada in His last days. Construction in Bombay and preaching worldwide would be disrupted, but Srila Prabhupada asked that all His disciples be called to come stay with Him in Vrindaban. Apparently, however, Tamal or someone sent a different message to Rameshwar in the USA: "send only the leading disciples." Hari Sauri was sent ahead to Vrindaban to prepare things there in advance of Srila Prabhupada's arrival, and in Bombay preparations were made for Srila Prabhupada's departure for Vrindaban. (TkgD.206-8)

Tamal wrote to B.D. Joshi of El Cerrito, CA: "His Divine Grace is very ill at present. While in London he underwent a minor surgical operation and afterwards he returned to India. His return to India was to see the opening of the Bombay temple, but it was also determined by his failing health. Now he is completely bedridden (AK5) and cannot even turn in his bed without the help of an assistant. His condition is most precarious. His Divine Grace has stated that if He is able to survive this very trying disease, then after Vrindaban He will return to America." (Archives)

SEPTEMBER 30: Due to road closure between Delhi and Vrindaban, it was decided Srila Prabhupada would take the first-class section of the 11:00 AM "Deluxe" train to Vrindaban tomorrow morning. In the evening, Mr. Asnani and a notary came, and Srila Prabhupada gave power of attorney to Tamal and Giriraj. (TkgD.209)

CHAPTER 30: HEALTH CHRONICLE:

OCTOBER 1977

OCTOBER 1: In the early morning, Srila Prabhupada signed letters, and then came downstairs at 9:30 AM, to leave behind hundreds of tearful devotees as He left Juhu for the last time. Srila Prabhupada took the train for Vrindaban. Brahmananda carried Srila Prabhupada in his arms in and out of the car and train. (TkgD.211; Sat:6.389-390)

OCTOBER 2: Arriving the next morning at 7:30 AM in Mathura, Srila Prabhupada came back to Vrindaban in a much more deteriorated condition than when He had left only a month ago. Srila Prabhupada's first order of business was that His servants "closed the curtains and dimmed the lights (A1)." Srila Prabhupada again had called all His GBC men to Vrindaban, as He had in May, except now it was for the purpose of His final pastimes, and gradually they began to arrive. Tamal asked whether the previous kaviraja should be recalled, and Srila Prabhupada agreed. (Sat:6.389)

Srila Prabhupada took some mung water and spinach water (AK1) and requested Bhagatji to keep a cow ready to supply Him with fresh milk. Tamal reports that Srila Prabhupada's hearing had dimmed (A14) so that He could not hear the temple bells ringing. Srila Prabhupada gave instructions on memorials and a museum to honor Him after His departure. Srila Prabhupada instructed Kuladri Prabhu not to allow anyone to cook for Him without His permission. Did Srila Prabhupada suspect foul play? Tamal opines that this refered to Pranava's wife, who cooked that day. (TkgD.212-3)

Srila Prabhupada slept well for 3 hours, awakening about 12:45 PM. There was cooling rain and Tamal secured Srila Prabhupada's agreement to call the Bonamali kaviraja tomorrow. Srila Prabhupada's voice was very weak and low (A2). Srila Prabhupada agreed to take darshan of the temple Deities, Krishna-Balaram, starting tomorrow. Srila Prabhupada took some mung dal water and spinach water, and asked for some watered down milk later (AK1). Srila Prabhupada's eyes were so bad (A9) He could not tell Akshayananda Maharaj's presence several times today already. Neither could He hear the temple bells ringing (A14). "In this condition, even I cannot move my body on the bed (A20, AK11). Only chance you should give me- let me die peacefully, without anxiety. I have given in writing everything… Disaster will happen if you cannot manage it. Hm?" Hari Sauri was present. In the evening, after Srila Prabhupada had drunk milk for the second time today, Tamal repeats, "Prabhupada said scratch hard (AK8)." (Con:35.72-82)

Satsvarupa Goswami: "We arrived and heard that there is a slight improvement. They thought he was going to leave his body at any moment. Everyone was called to be here at the end. Now it is a little different. The kaviraja came today, looked at Srila Prabhupada, and said his life is finished, but Srila Prabhupada himself has said Krishna may continue his life if He desires. TKG showed me a daily log they keep of what "food" he takes and what he passes as urine. He drinks about two glasses of liquid a day. Has not had more than that daily or any solid food for month (AK1). I'll be doing some of His Divine Grace's correspondence. TKG says that without a shirt on, Srila Prabhupada is so thin you can see the thumping of his heart. Hardly any flesh (AK1). I saw him lying in bed, very thin, but they are more hopeful today than they were. He is more diminished in his body than ever. Talk of a big Vrindaban parikrama here around October 15. He has four servants: Abhiram, Upendra, Kuladri, and Bhakticharu Maharaj or Hari Sauri- and one is always with him." (ISK70.311-2)

OCTOBER 3: The Vrindaban kaviraja (Bonamali) came and after examining Srila Prabhupada, ascertained that there was total weakness (AK5), but no illness. The prescription was for taking Complan, milk, pomegranate and grape juices mixed with honey, plus some medicines. Milk was producing much mucus (A3), causing Srila Prabhupada to cough (A3) at night and disturbing His rest. The kaviraja insisted, though, that the "cough should come out. When the cough (A3) comes out, it will take out the disease." Powdered milk was nixed; only pure cow's milk should be taken. Srila Prabhupada should be covered by woolen cloth, not to be exposed, and bathing should be by damp towels only. Srila Prabhupada then instructed Tamal, "The kaviraja said my life is finished, now by the grace of Krishna. So under the circumstances, whatever medicinal instructions he gives, strictly follow properly… so if you are trying for my life, try very seriously. That is my formula. No negligence. Whatever he advises, that is good." Tamal did not like Bhagatji or Sacidananda for translating with the kaviraja and helping with the medicines. Tamal said, "Whoever does this medicine with the kaviraja should be intelligent person." Tamal recommended and Srila Prabhupada approved that Bhakticharu be telegrammed and recalled to Vrindaban to help. Srila Prabhupada said the Bombay kaviraja was "hopeless," and Tamal commented how he was a materialist businessman, chewing pan.

Hansadutta arrived and gave a report on his preaching and the political situation in Sri Lanka. "After speaking more animatedly than he had for days, Srila Prabhupada lay down, exhausted (AK5)." When Tamal asked if he could go to check on Srila Prabhupada's rooms at the Radha Damodar temple, permission was denied. Then Srila Prabhupada was taken to see the Krishna Balaram Deities in His chair, which exhausted Him so much (AK5) that He returned to bed soon. Tamal discussed banking problems with Srila Prabhupada, and Tamal and Giriraj, with their new power of attorney, went out to the bank to deal with those problems. (TkgD. 214-5, Con:35.83-94)

"Srila Prabhupada is far less active than a month ago. No longer speaking, no walking (AK5), no solid food (AK1), no positive will to go and preach in the West, no expression of fervent desire to live. We're doing all-night chanting vigils by his bed. Not to mention no more walks, no more work on the Srimad Bhagwatam, no touring temples, nor answering mail. Hansadutta and Brahmananda cried, because if he doesn't eat or even drink, how can he continue to live? His body, as he said, is a bag of bones, and he is not eating anything (AK1), so how can he continue for long?" (ISK70.314-5)

OCTOBER 4: Abhiram Prabhu notes that Srila Prabhupada slept poorly the night of October 3, coughing and spitting mucus (A3) all night. Tamal relates that on the morning of October 4, Srila Prabhupada declared in an almost inaudible voice (A2) that the kaviraja's medicines were a "complete failure." Srila Prabhupada was "drowsy" from the expectorate taken during the night, and His "whole body was more swollen (AK17) than in many months." The kaviraja came in the morning, and it was quite difficult to understand what was being advised for Srila Prabhupada's problematic cough and mucus (A3). The kaviraja suggested massaging with a hot cloth soaked in ginger juice. (Con:36.94-101)

There were two cough medicines, one of which, it turned out, deliberately was increasing the cough, as the kaviraja thought this to be necessary to remove mucus. Srila Prabhupada said, "The havoc caused, the medicine." Tamal then observed, "The swelling (AK17) has increased since yesterday. It was never so much as today. The mucus (A3) was never so much as today." Srila Prabhupada said He could not even digest (A15) the medicine. There was some talk of chloroform and drowsiness. Tamal said, "What we want is to stop the coughing (A3), not an expectorant," protesting about experiments with medicines and questioned why the kaviraja should give musk, which supposedly would give strength to the heart and body. But the heart was good, as shown by the pulse. Abhiram asked, "But where do we get real musk?" Upendra was told by Srila Prabhupada to no longer awaken Him for taking medicine, but to let Him sleep. (TkgD.215, Con:35.94-96)

At 10 AM, Upendra bathed Srila Prabhupada and changed the sheets. Hansadutta returned to talk more about Sri Lanka and how Indira Gandhi was arrested the previous night. Srila Prabhupada said, "Hm, don't touch politics,"refering to Hansadutta's public political criticisms he had made in Ceylon. Later, after Hansadutta's kirtan, Giriraj and Tamal gave the results of their meeting with local bankers. Bali Mardan said, "Scratch with your nails (AK8),"explaining how to scratch Srila Prabhupada's back. Hansadutta said, "Srila Prabhupada, you've become so thin (AK1)." A little later, Srila Prabhupada said, "Back side itching (AK8)."Srila Prabhupada asked for four raisins ground with honey. Bali Mardan confirmed that the GBC men would start arriving in the coming few days. (Con:35.97-101)

Today, Srila Prabhupada abstained from all medicines. Tamal states that after learning Bonamali had raised his fees, Srila Prabhupada said he should not be called again. Srila Prabhupada had earlier declined Dr. Ghosh's offer (Kodaikanal) to prescribe treatment, and opted for kirtan "treatment" over any local doctors as well. (Sat:6.392) But now, Srila Prabhupada had Tamal write to Dr. G. Ghosh of Allahabad, inviting him to come and treat Him personally, not in a hospital, but in His own quarters. (TkgD.215)

OCTOBER 5: At 7 AM Srila Prabhupada awoke and asked for His bath. Tamal told Srila Prabhupada, "We should depend on Krishna, not on these kavirajas." Tamal bathed Srila Prabhupada and rubbed calcium carbonate mixed with honey on His back to assist with the healing of bed sores. Srila Prabhupada was too weak (AK5) to visit the Deities, and to try to reduce the lingering and persistent swelling (AK17), He instructed that slake lime be combined with newly ground tumeric and water, making a paste to apply to the swollen parts of His body. (TkgD.216-217)

The GBC men began to arrive in Vrindaban. Srila Prabhupada drank milk three times without getting mucus, and thought that this was perhaps due to the enema (A13) given earlier.(Abhiram)

When Hari Sauri spoke about how an astrologer in Delhi would be studying Srila Prabhupada's chart, Srila Prabhupada advised, "Don't waste money for this astrology,"and asked for, "Bhagwatam reading and kirtan."Srila Prabhupada requested more kirtan to be held in His quarters. Again, Srila Prabhupada asked Upendra to scratch His itching back (AK8). There was talk of the powder being rubbed on Srila Prabhupada's body. Some telegrams were read about how devotees all over the world were increasing their service and making prayers to Krishna, in hopes of Srila Prabhupada's recovery. Tamal took rest at 9:30 PM.(Con:35.101-105)

Satsvarupa Maharaj saw an entry in the medical logbook, "I'm not hungry. Let me hear kirtan." When Srila Prabhupada sat up and asked that His back be scratched, Satsvarupa volunteered, doing so too softly at first and told by Srila Prabhupada to "actually scratch (AK8)." His back was "so thin and bony" and His hands and feet were covered with tumeric. (ISK70.316)

OCTOBER 6: Srila Prabhupada's cough was back (A3). (Abhiram) Paramananda, president of the Gita Nagari farm project in Pennsylvania, arrived and Srila Prabhupada expressed His regret for not having been able to go there. Paramananda's wife, Satyabhama, had made a woolen shawl "from scratch" for Srila Prabhupada from their own sheep's wool, and Srila Prabhupada immediately wrapped Himself completely in it (A7). Srila Prabhupada went for deity darshan and then circumambulated the temple, followed by an enthusiastic kirtan. Then Srila Prabhupada met with Gopal Krishna, and they discussed book printing and distribution. (TkgD.217-9)

In the early afternoon, Srila Prabhupada complained to Tamal, "Although drinking nothing, cough is coming (A3)."Tamal answered, "Swelling (AK17) is not very much reducing. Why you're not drinking anything, Srila Prabhupada? I noticed yesterday you did not drink much." Srila Prabhupada answered that He was not inclined and, further, it would only result in coughing (A3), which, , Upendra said, "It's just starting again."

Tamal: Maybe when Dr. Ghosh comes he can give some relief from the coughing.

Srila Prabhupada: You have written him?

Tamal: Yes. The real problem is the digestion (A15). There's no digestion. Anything you take… instead of forming blood, it forms mucus (A3). You're not as warm as you were yesterday, but you're still a little warm. The rest of your body is not warm. Your head is not so warm. Your pulse is very fast (AK24). I don't know what to say, Srila Prabhupada. It's certainly bewildering. I can only expect somehow Krishna has to do something, unless Dr. Ghosh with some Western-type medicine can do something.

Srila Prabhupada: This oil massage is pleasing (AK12, AK8).(Con)

Around 2 PM Srila Prabhupada asked for Yogendra rasa,an Ayurvedic medicine that He was taking years until a year ago. Hari Sauri then went to prepare rice water, honey and "smashed" cardamon at Srila Prabhupada's detailed request. Srila Prabhupada asked Tamal to send a second telegram to call Bhakticharu back to Vrindaban for personal service. Srila Prabhupada: "Kaviraja's, his mentality I did not like." (The kaviraja apparently had doubled the fee for a visit from 5 to 10 rupees, and the cost of the medicine, 55 rupees, for two days was too much, opined Tamal.)

Srila Prabhupada: We are not hesitating to pay, but this mentality…

Tamal: Yes, exactly. The point is if that a man has this mentality, then how much can we trust him for medicine? It means he's dishonest man. He's becoming dishonest… (Con:35.106-113)

Then Tamal gave Srila Prabhupada a powder massage (AK17) for half an hour. Srila Prabhupada then called for Sacidananda to discuss doctors. Srila Prabhupada thought of a Vrindaban doctor He knew, who practiced allopathic medicine with his son in Loi Bazaar, Vrindaban. Tamal records that Srila Prabhupada decided to call for them, but then postponed it until tomorrow as it was inauspiciously a Thursday afternoon. (TkgD.217-9)

AUTHOR'S COMMENT The following conversation took place at 3:10 pm, supposedly October 8, but it appears to be most probably on the 6th instead. Conversations Book 35, pages 121-124 seems to belong right after page 105, and pg 125 should come after pg 138, due to chronological error. This can be quite clearly ascertained from studying the texts carefully, noting sequence of events and speakers and the content of the conversations. The great significance is that it demonstrates that tapes were not always recorded from start to finish with consecutive sections after each "break." Somehow sections were recorded on one tape, the next on another, and then back to the first, etc. The tape recordings are "time-line jumbled." END COMMENT

Srila Prabhupada said, "Why not consult with father and son?", referring to the Vrindaban allopathic doctors He had thought of yesterday. Sacidananda noted they had a Raman Medical Store in Loi Bazaar. Then:

Tamal: He's a doctor, famous doctor. Cures people.

Sacidananda: He has medical store.

Tamal (reconsiders): I don't advise it, Srila Prabhupada. I don't think it's a good idea to do. Because I don't see why we don't consult all 20,000 doctors. I mean, why is he… Sacidananda just happened to be… He goes to the shop and he sees the man's shop. Why not wait for Dr. Ghosh or call Dr. Ghosh here? I mean, what I'm trying to say is that if I go to Mathura, I'll also pass many medical shops, so I could consult any one of those men, probably, just as well.

Sacidananda: That's a fact.

Tamal: That's a fact, huh.

Srila Prabhupada: They have got good practice.

Tamal: Because Vrindaban is small, so everyone has to go to whoever is the doctor here. They are kaviraja or allopathic?

Sacidananda: He also using both, kaviraja also.

Tamal: He's both. He says can do either one with him. You can take allopathic or kaviraja. He gives both. Whatever the patient likes. Right?… Allopathic. I think we're letting ourselves in for trouble when we call these doctors… My personal opinion is that when you call these doctors, you're simply…, we are simply letting ourselves in for more trouble, because they're not going to study the case very carefully. They're just going to start prescribing. Your case is so delicate that the slightest wrong diagnosis and medicine creates havoc.

Srila Prabhupada: No, they have good practice.

Tamal: But the same thing, as they were recommended, similarly, this kaviraja in Bombay was recommended. We can call him, but…

Srila Prabhupada: Consult him.

Tamal: I've lost hope with these doctors, Srila Prabhupada. I'll consult if you insist, but I… I mean… I've lost hope.

Srila Prabhupada: And they also know me very well.

Tamal: So you want me to bring them here?

Srila Prabhupada: No, he'll (Sacidananda) bring.

Tamal: He can bring them here, and then they can examine you.

Srila Prabhupada: Yes.

Tamal: All right. Sometimes you were doing business with them?

Srila Prabhupada: No, no. As Vrindaban inhabitant. This father came to speak here last year.

Tamal: Oh. Should I send another telegram for Bhakticharu? I think it might be helpful.(Con:35.106-113)

There is no record of the father and son allopathic doctors ever coming to see Srila Prabhupada, as apparently Tamal had discouraged that idea sufficiently to abandon it. Srila Prabhupada asked Tamal if he had written to Dr. Ghosh requesting him to come, and Tamal confirmed that he had. Tamal quotes Srila Prabhupada as saying, "These doctors will come and give something to try and save. I don't want to be saved. Dr Ghosh may come for the clinic he wants to develop, but not for treatment." Tamal writes, "I asked whether the two doctors from Vrindaban should come. Prabhupada answered, 'No. Better to take your advice for kirtan… Better you don't pray to Krishna to save me. Let me die now.' Prabhupada lay there for some time; then sitting up, he suddenly said, "Anything to ask before I depart?"

Srila Prabhupada only drank once all day. (TkgD.217-219)

Srila Prabhupada also discussed the expense of the new gates on the road, lately renamed Bhaktivedanta Marg, and took some mint tea with honey. Srila Prabhupada was still able to sit up regularly, but soon would lie back down to rest (AK5). Late that night, Kirtanananda arrived, and Srila Prabhupada spoke with him briefly about Prabhupada's Palace and New Vrindaban. Srila Prabhupada said, "Hm. Let us see which palace I am going." Then Srila Prabhupada took rest. (Con:35.106-113)

Satsvarupa noted: "The doctor says he has no particular disease now. He is exhausted. His internal organs aren't working. The body is coming to an end. When Srila Prabhupada awoke at 4:45 AM, Abhiram moved Him onto His side, and Satsvarupa scratched His back (AK8) for half an hour. Brahmananda said the kaviraja said Srila Prabhupada's life is finished. He is so weak He cannot even make His signature (A19). He can't turn in bed." (ISK 70.318-9)

AUTHOR'S COMMENT In the morning of the 8 th, as we shall see, Bhakticharu was sent to consult with Narayan Maharaj. However, in contradiction, the Conversations Books shows the above discussion about the two allopathic Vrindaban doctors occurring at 3:10 PM on the 8 th, ending with information that Bhakticharu had not yet arrived and needed to be telegrammed again. Thus we believe this discussion took place on the 6 th, as TKG's Diary confirms. This means that the sections of tape recordings, between two "breaks" or one on-off cycle, are not in chronological order ! Several tapes may have been in use at the same time, being removed and re-inserted into the tape recorder out of order, resulting in a "jumbled time-line." Also several tapes may have been labeled October 8, but be out of order (i.e., 2, 3, 1 or 1, 3, 2)

Other possibilities to explain this time-line mix-up are that Side A could have been re-recorded after Side B, thinking that Side B was Side A, or that Side B was simply labeled afterwards as Side A. At any rate, by examining the events, the times mentioned in the recordings, and the persons involved, we can see quite clearly that the chronological order of the tape recordings in the Conversations Books are very mixed up, not only in this instance, but in others as well. This probably is at least partly due to sloppy labeling and recording practices. Consulting Ranjit Prabhu, senior editor at the Bhaktivedanta Archives, it was learned that he also is aware of repeated "time-line jumblings" in the Conversations Books, having been involved in preparing the transcriptions years ago before the books went to press. For example, the tape marked as February 18 is actually March 18, as on the tape a news article dated March 18 is being read to Srila Prabhupada. Thus we have instances where the tape's date is wrong by 2 days or 30 days.

One significance of this discovery will become more obvious when examining the location of the poison whispers. "Poisoning for a long time… you're taking it now," may not actually take place on November 11, but on the 13 th, indicating a possible final poisoning. Admittedly, this is conjecture, but definitely very possible. END COMMENT

OCTOBER 7: While Tamal was absent, apparently very early in the morning, Kuladri, Kirtanananda Swami's right hand man from New Vrindaban, came in and delivered gifts and a check. "…dakshina, eight thousand dollars… With the new system of initiation that you've initiated, he asked them to write you a check for $111 for each devotee he's initiating for you." A silver thread crocheted bead bag, precious jewelry, onyx boxes, a new set of silk clothes, and a star sapphire ring were presented to Srila Prabhupada as gifts. Srila Prabhupada, putting on the ring, said, "So, why don't you find out some bride?" and the devotees laughed. It was decided to return most of the gifts to the Deities of New Vrindaban, and the money for developing New Vrindaban. Srila Prabhupada tasted some ice cream Kuladri had brought and expressed concern for the safekeeping of the valuable gifts. A little later, Tamal asked Srila Prabhupada, "…so how will you live, Srila Prabhupada? If you stop drinking everything, how will you get any strength? You're tired of trying anymore?" (Con:35.113-119)

Srila Prabhupada called for Kirtanananda and explained, "I have accepted your gifts, and now you can utilize for developing.(New Vrindaban)" Srila Prabhupada was shown photographs of His New Vrindaban palace, and admired the artistic workmanship, offering to provide money for New Vrindaban, which Kirtanananda gratefully declined. Srila Prabhupada said, "You are fulfilling my dream, New Vrindaban…He is the first student… When I was in the storefront, he was bringing carpet, bench, some gong, some lamp. In this way… service attitude. Jaya. Live long, serve long." (Con:35.113-119)

AUTHOR'S COMMENT: The Conversations Books show the course of events as described above, however, Tamal describes, to the contrary, that Kirtanananda himself presented the gifts. We would be very interested to look at Tamal's actual diary to see what sort of entries he made and how he made this error. END COMMENT

Srila Prabhupada had mucus (A3) and was restless (A4), His transcendental words were "sometimes difficult to understand (A2)." A bronze bust of His Divine Grace was brought for inspection, and Srila Prabhupada appreciated it very much, although He had great difficulty in seeing it due to His weakened vision (A9). (Abhiram)

Taking Complan in the morning, Srila Prabhupada declined to drink again all day even though there was no coughing. Srila Prabhupada said, "Survive?"and laughed. Tamal responded, "Yes. We're not ready to let you go yet." Hari Sauri changed Srila Prabhupada's mattress with a special one sent from America which was supposed to be better for bed sores. (TkgD. 219-221)

Just before morning parikrama, Bhaktiprema Swami visited. He had been away for some time, but now had shaved up and returned to ISKCON. Srila Prabhupada rubbed his head while sitting in His wheelchair, crying a little, and said, "By Krishna's grace you have come. Good for us, good for you."Srila Prabhupada rode in His palanquin around the temple, took darshan of the Deities, and then sat under the courtyard's tamal tree during kirtan. Tamal says, "He seemed very weak (AK5) and his eyes had a tendency to roll up (A19). Gaining control of his body, he moved his head very slightly to the rhythm of the kirtan."Circling the temple again, Srila Prabhupada went back to His quarters for another powder massage for the swelling (AK17). (Con:35.113-119, TkgD. 219-221)

Asked about medicine by Tamal, Srila Prabhupada said, "I am taking Yogendra rasa, which is the strongest Ayurvedic medicine. I want strength for hearing the prayers. Otherwise, if my senses become weak…?"Tamal said, "We want you to live,"to which the response was, "I have no objection." Later, Tamal reports, Srila Prabhupada said it "was too difficult to make the effort any longer." (TkgD. 219-221)

Srila Prabhupada spoke so weakly and hoarsely (A2) that Brahmananda Swami had to bring his ear almost to Srila Prabhupada's mouth to hear. (Sat:6.393)

OCTOBER 8: Srila Prabhupada awoke after passing the previous night "fairly well," but by early morning, it required the taking away of the special American mattress before Srila Prabhupada could become comfortable. At night either Abhiram or Kuladri attended to Srila Prabhupada, and in the day, either Hari Sauri, Tamal or Upendra were present. Other devotees would also always be there for having kirtan. (TkgD.221-23)

Tamal wanted to read the astrological report that Hari Sauri had gotten from Delhi to Srila Prabhupada because he thought the analysis and predictions to be accurate and that Srila Prabhupada would want to know the negative indications. It was done devotionally and at no charge by Gopesh Kumar Ojah, whose son Asutosh Oja had done a reading earlier in the summer. The entire period up until April, 1978, was very negative, due to Saturn's effect, especially October 8, 11, 24, 25, November 20 to 22 and December 3 and 4. The chanting of Shiva mantras was inappropriately advised, but Srila Prabhupada said, "Chant Hare Krishna. It is finished." (Con)

Tamal quotes Srila Prabhupada as saying, "We have the maha-mantra." (TkgD.221-23)

Tamal reports that Srila Prabhupada now looked very "serene," and in an apparent resolve to prepare for departure, is eating and drinking little to nothing. On October 7 and 8, only one glass of liquid per day were taken plus some drops of caranamrita every few hours. Today Srila Prabhupada sat up only twice, briefly (AK18), and in the afternoon took His second dose of 100cc of grape juice that day. (TkgD.221-23)

Late in the morning, Hansadutta consulted with Srila Prabhupada about how to develop preaching in Sri Lankha, and was told to do as Kirtanananda had done in New Vrindaban. Srila Prabhupada began coughing (A3), and temporarily forgot Tamal's name (A12) when He wanted his assistance. (Con)

Tamal claims that then Srila Prabhupada called for Brahmananda and encouraged him to preach enthusiastically in Africa. Srila Prabhupada requested that especially two songs would be chanted in His room: Brahma Samhita and the maha-mantra. He asked not to be taken to the hospital, saying He came back from London to avoid hospitalization. Upendra dropped the small Sony tape recorder on Srila Prabhupada's shoulder (TkgD.221-23), who said, "Be very careful." Srila Prabhupada asked again which were the critical days by astrological calculation, and Tamal offered, "I think this program of kirtan and just taking very little drink whenever you are thirsty, this is the right program, because I am seeing how peacefully you are resting, more than in many days. And now you should not struggle so hard. If Krishna wishes, then He will do." (Con)

Tamal wrote, "Prabhupada rested throughout the day, completely peaceful and quiet (AK18), hearing the kirtan. Guru Kripa Maharaj chanted for three hours in the afternoon. Now, there was no difficulty and no struggle for bodily existence." (TkgD.221-23)

Bhakticharu Swami, back in Vrindaban and on Srila Prabhupada's request, in the morning went to Narayana Maharaj for getting details on the burial ceremony of Vaishnava acharyas. At 6:30 PM (TkgD.221-23) in the evening, Srila Prabhupada asked that Narayana Maharaj be picked up by car and brought to Him tomorrow. Bhagwat arrived and spoke with Srila Prabhupada briefly. Srila Prabhupada's hearing was failing (A14), as He usually could not recognize or hear devotees in His room. Bhakticharu telegrammed for Jayapataka, Bhavananda and Satadhanya Maharajs to come from Mayapur at once. (Con)

Narayana Maharaj was brought tonight instead, with some of Srila Prabhupada's godbrothers, and the discussions centered on making funeral arrangements and preparations for Srila Prabhupada's departure. On Srila Prabhupada's request, Narayana Maharaj pledged to give all advice and assistance necessary, and upon feeling Srila Prabhupada's pulse, which he said was all right, he took his leave. (Con)

In his diary, Tamal apparently translates some Bengali portions and also re-phrases the English portions of the conversation that evening between Srila Prabhupada, Narayan Maharaj and Tamal. Srila Prabhupada asked about using the salt in the burial and instructed that flowers from the funeral ceremonies be taken to Mayapur for a "puspa-samadhi," or memorial shrine containing sacred flowers. (TkgD.221-23) "Prabhupada looked at us all and lifted his hand, palm open, and said "Don't fight amongst yourselves." (Con)

Satsvarupa Maharaj supplements this account, saying that Srila Prabhupada appeared resigned to His imminent departure, and advised consultations with Narayan Maharaj about arrangements and ceremonies for departed Vaishnavas. Srila Prabhupada chose the site for His samadhi, the place for entombment of His physical body. Srila Prabhupada asked pardon from some visiting godbrothers for any offenses He might have made in the course of preaching. (Satsv)

Jayatirtha arrived at 11:30 PM with Harikesh, Hridayananda Swami and Balavanta. Bhagwat spoke more about preaching in Orissa and building construction in Bhubaneshwar with Srila Prabhupada at 2 AM. (TkgD.221)

AUTHOR'S COMMENT: Tamal notes Narayan Maharaj's visit before Jayatirtha's arrival, whereas the Conversations Books have that order reversed. Also, Tamal records that right after discussing Sri Lankha with Hansadutta, telling him to develop it like New Vrindaban, that Srila Prabhupada called Brahmananda from the back of the room and told him to develop Africa and try to bring back Pusta Krishna. However, in the Conversations, these two events are separated by 12 pages and a dozen "breaks," even though the two incidents appear that they should go together. Thus again we can conclude that the Conversations Books are "time-line jumbled," due to sloppy recording and labeling procedures. END COMMENT

It is noted that Srila Prabhupada's room "was very dark except for a nightlight behind the head of Srila Prabhupada's bed (A1)." Srila Prabhupada had not eaten or drunk anything for days (AK1) and the devotees were becoming full of anxiety and agitation, feeling that Srila Prabhupada was resigned to departing this world soon. Srila Prabhupada even refused to drink anything. (Sat:6.390-401)

Abhiram Prabhu noticed that bags of salt had been stocked behind the temple and realized they were meant for an imminent use when Srila Prabhupada's body would be placed in His samadhi. (Abhiram)

Satsvarupa wrote: "Some say there are still questions we haven't asked about who will initiate in the future, but actually, he has said it. Politics lurking among the devotees for sure… the patience of vultures. Waiting in the wings for the aftermath." (ISK70.323-4)

(Con:35. 119-120, 129-138, 125)

OCTOBER 9: Srila Prabhupada slept long last night (A10) and His pulse was weak in the morning. Srila Prabhupada's care involved doing almost everything for Him as He lay in His bed. Srila Prabhupada was bathed as much as possible while lying down, then sat up against some pillows to finish bathing. Srila Prabhupada suddenly said, "Yasomatinandana…" and Guru Kripa immediately began to chant that transcendental song. As Srila Prabhupada hardly had the strength (AK5) to sit up, there was no possibility of going for Deity darshans or temple parikrama. He declined to drink anything more after just taking a few spoonfuls of caranamrita, and, as was done regularly, He had His back scratched (AK8) for up to 15 minutes or longer. He also complained of cough (A3) in the chest. (TkgD)

Satsvarupa noted that Srila Prabhupada's eyesight had deteriorated so much that He could only see a few feet in distance (A9) and would not be able to recognize the devotees sitting in the room except by their voice. "His arms and legs are very thin. He lies back and his voice is small (A2), but his face can still be expressive. Only very minor movements by Srila Prabhupada. He mostly seemed peaceful." Laborers were tearing down an old brick building in the front of the temple, preparing a samadhi site. "I saw Srila Prabhupada being bathed with a sponge. His body is like the picture of Rantideva- ribs sticking out, hip bones, no extra skin anywhere. To move any limb at all requires a servant's assistance (AK11, A20). The question is how can he gain weight (AK1)." (ISK70.324-7)

Srila Prabhupada: Let me drink hari nama amiya vilasa… and charanamrita, (?) - diet. Diet and medicine. Let me depend on these.

Srila Prabhupada asked about the guesthouse and prasadam arrangements, being pleased with the report. (Con)

AUTHOR'S COMMENT: At this point we find that Tamal's diary quotes a particular conversation, 27 lines long, which follows the corresponding one in the Conversations Book, but includes wording and sentences that were not spoken in the tape recording. In this instance and innumerable others, compared to the tape recordings, it appears as though Tamal took the wording from the tape recordings and then changed it a little to make it look different. Any ninth grade English teacher can recognize unoriginal work. Sorry, but that's what it looks like. If we had the original diary, we would know. But, will Tamal let us see it? END COMMENT

When Srila Prabhupada spat out some heavy mucus (A3), Hari Sauri observed that this was just as "the doctor said would happen. Without strength the body cells weaken; the blood turns to mucus and the body clogs up (A3)."Srila Prabhupada expressed concern about developing mucus (A3) if He drank more liquids, and frowned on both the Complan and Shaklee protein drink. (TkgD.)

At 11:15 AM, Srila Prabhupada awoke from a nap and asked Tamal about the meeting he and others were having. Tamal explained they were discussing how to set up the Gita Nagari farm as an ideal community based on Srila Prabhupada's teachings. Srila Prabhupada said, "So go on… Let us make some community… Do it nicely." (Con)

About 12:30 PM, devotees failed to persuade Srila Prabhupada to drink anything. Upendra thought that Srila Prabhupada would become dehydrated. Srila Prabhupada complained of mucus (A3), and said, "I feel no inconvenience. I am afraid of cough (A3)." When Abhiram asked if He would take water, Srila Prabhupada replied, "You discuss amongst yourselves and decide what you want me to do." Abhiram asked, "About recovery?"and Srila Prabhupada replied, "I don't want."(TkgD)

At 1:25 PM Srila Prabhupada called for Tamal. (TkgD) Srila Prabhupada, speaking very weakly and with great difficulty (A2), said: "If I want to survive, of course, I'll have to take something. It is not possible to survive without taking any food. But my survival means so many, one after another, as you say… It requires… Therefore I have decided to die peacefully in…(Vrindaban)" (Con) His voiced had trailed off, and everyone sat stunned for several minutes. (TkgD) Tamal reassured Srila Prabhupada that He had provided for everyone, including His ex-family. (Con) Srila Prabhupada heard a devotee sniffling, and asked, "Why do you want me to survive." (TkgD) Tamal answered, "They want you to survive."Srila Prabhupada replied, "If I want to die, this is the way of peaceful death." Tamal: "Yes." Srila Prabhupada: "Go on chanting." Kirtan resumed again. (Con)

Then Tamal chronicles further discussions not found in the tape recordings: "I told Prabhupada that everything was in the hands of Krishna. Prabhupada then opened his eyes.

Prabhupada: Krishna wants me (to do) as I like. The choice is mine. Krishna has given me full freedom.

Brahmananda: It doesn't matter whether you live or die, you will always be with Krishna; and we will be with you because we will follow your instructions.

Prabhupada: Whether I live or die, I will always be Krishna's servant. If Brahmananda has assured me that this movement will go on, then better let me die peacefully. (TkgD)

Some GBC and sannyasis met in the next room to discuss the situation and the meaning of Srila Prabhupada's words, "The choice is mine." Kirtanananda encouraged his godbrothers to go back to Srila Prabhupada and to ask that He stay, noting that recovery would be no problem for a great yogi such as Srila Prabhupada. At 3:30 PM, all crowded around the bed and Kirtanananda broke down sobbing, head on the side of the bed.(TkgD)

Srila Prabhupada said, "Who? " and someone answered, "Kirtanananda." "So what you want? Eh?"Finally, crying but gaining his composure a little, Kirtanananda pleaded emotionally, "If Krishna gives you the choice, don't go. We need you."

Srila Prabhupada: That is your trouble now, distress.

Tamal: Yes, Prabhupada.

Brahmananda: We have all met together, Srila Prabhupada. We want you to remain and lead this movement and finish the Srimad Bhagwatam.

Srila Prabhupada considered and uttered several "Hmmm" sounds, then yawning, very casually said, "All right." (Con) "It was the most completely casual decision on life or death ever made. At that moment, we understood Prabhupada's supremely independent position. He could stay or go as he chose." (TkgD)

Srila Prabhupada: So give me something to drink.

Kirtanananda: All glories to Srila Prabhupada!

Srila Prabhupada: That is real affection. (Con)

Srila Prabhupada sat up to drink a full glass of grape juice. Later that day Srila Prabhupada took vegetable broth, speaking stronger and longer. The dreary mood changed to one of hope and optimism, as the news spread that Srila Prabhupada decided to stay. (Sat:6.405-7)

Tamal characterizes the occasion with, "The entire atmosphere completely changed… Instead of withdrawing his energy as he has done steadily for the last few days, he came to life again."(TkgD.) Abhiram also noted that on October 9, after taking no liquids for days due to fear of cough, Srila Prabhupada began eating again and decided to stay longer. Shaklee protein and vitamins as well as Complan and barley water became part of Srila Prabhupada's diet. (Abhiram)

As Tamal and Giriraj had power of attorney from Srila Prabhupada, there was much discussion in these final months about transfer of funds and dealings with various banks. Some accounts were also being arranged to provide stipends to Srila Prabhupada's ex-family members. (TkgD)

Srila Prabhupada ate some fresh strawberries and received reports from Tejiyas about Hyderabad and Rameshwar about preaching in the royal palace to the Shah's family. Later Srila Prabhupada asked, "Why not scratch hard?"Tamal: "Why not scratch with nail?" Srila Prabhupada, "Whole area… Anyone can scratch very hard (AK8)?" Kirtanananda: "I'm afraid you won't have any back left."Jayatirtha reported on book distribution in England and there was enthusiastic talk of worldwide preaching activities. When Brahmananda spoke that Srila Prabhupada and His teachings were greater than Christ, and that, "So if you remain here more, more years, then certainly this Krishna consciousness movement will spread all over the entire world." Srila Prabhupada: "I am willing."Brahmananda: "Actually we can make this whole world Krishna conscious."Srila Prabhupada confirmed: "Yes. It is not difficult." (Con)

Thus, late in the day, Srila Prabhupada retired and slept well that night. (TkgD)

(TkgD.234-246; Con:35.125-128, 139-151)

OCTOBER 10: Srila Prabhupada spoke with Tamal and Bhavananda at 7 AM (TKG says PM, but this appears to be an error). Bhavananda gave news from Mayapur, including how the court case was reversing in their favor regarding the Muhammedan attack.

Tamal: Your pulse is strong and nice.

Srila Prabhupada: What is the attitude of our godbrothers?

Bhavananda: Favorable and helpful.

Bhavananda said it was time to send out the Hare Krishna Boat along the Ganges again, and that there were 160 devotees in Mayapur, 86 of them Gurukula boys. Subhaga and Bhakticharu also gave preaching reports. Asked if He would like something to drink, Srila Prabhupada said, "I have no thirst (AK20)."(Con)

Srila Prabhupada said, "So, for myself, I may live or not live. It doesn't matter." Tamal responded with a protest that Srila Prabhupada had already agreed to live, and that He had so much to do to strengthen the movement and ensure its success for 10,000 years. As was Tamal's standard style, he was always the most vocal of Srila Prabhupada's servants, regularly praising Srila Prabhupada, repeating what he thought to be the appropriate mood of the time. Tamal: "Everything is still incomplete, what to speak of the fact that we are all very much neophyte still. We need you more than anything else. This movement has to last 10,000 years. We're not ready yet. We're still very much conditioned and contaminated… Due to your being in this condition, I am not seeing very… I've not been very alert to looking at those things because I was worried about you."And then, shortly afterwards, "Actually, Srila Prabhupada, the motive behind which we do everything is to please you. You must be present to accept whatever service… We are not very good servants, but whatever little we do, we do for you. Without you being present, we would lose our very reason for working hard and serving." (Con)

Later, Srila Prabhupada asks if it was cloudy outside, but Tamal pointed out that even though the weather was clear with the sun shining, the room was very dark due to the windows being covered by curtains to accommodate Srila Prabhupada's sensitive eyes (A1). Tamal and Upendra discussed with Srila Prabhupada what He should eat without causing a cough or mucus (A3). (Con) Srila Prabhupada took some Complan and barley water, but then coughed for quite awhile as the drink at once turned to mucus (A3). (TKG)

A Hindi woman named Shaktimata came from Vancouver and offered to make non-mucus forming drinks and liquid foods for Srila Prabhupada, Who, after speaking with her, said, "Give her to prepare. I cannot take thick. Only thin…" A little later, Tamal said to Srila Prabhupada, "I have no idea. I want you to know that I don't know. I don't know what to say medically what to do." (Con)

Talking was very tiring, and Srila Prabhupada complained of weakness (AK5). After a sponge bath, Dr. Kapoor arrived and asked if a doctor named Hakeemji had come. Told no, he said, "You should call some good doctor from Agra, from Mathura. Dr. Vyas of Mathura is good… Isn't there any doctor amongst the disciples of Prabhupada who can stay here for some time?" Then:

Giriraj: Well, there are doctors, but actually it's very difficult to find a doctor that the treatment is effective. So it's very difficult.

Dr. Kapoor: But there should be some qualified doctor who stays here permanently for the purpose of checking him out from time to time, because you are all laymen. If there is any complication, you don't understand it. So if there doctor by his side always… In the present condition of Prabhupada it is necessary that you always have some good medical advice available here. So if you had one of the disciples of Prabhupada… There was one Dr. Batnagar, I think, who retired as civil surgeon of Mathura…

Srila Prabhupada: Sometimes they recommend hospitalization, and I don't like that.

Dr. Kapoor: No, that wouldn't be good for you… If you want a vaidya, an old vaidya, experienced one, I can bring Raj Vaidya Pandit Lakshmi Narayan.

Srila Prabhupada: Where is he?

Dr. Kapoor: He's here in Vrindaban. He was principal of Ayurvedic College in Jaipur… He's a good friend of mine. I think he would come.

Srila Prabhupada said that His old Allahabad friend, Dr. G. Ghosh, had been summoned to Vrindaban. Srila Prabhupada recounted how the politician J.P. Narayan was admitted to a Bombay hospital and, "Again he was sent to foreign country. This is the difficulty. They want up-to-date scientific treatment, which means taking blood, injection, operation, like that."

Dr. Kapoor: Yes, yes. No, you can't stand all that… I think Raj Vaidya Pandit Lakshmi Narayan. Let him examine… he can feel the pulse and say exactly what is wrong.

Srila Prabhupada: He can be brought now?

Dr. Kapoor: I can try.

Srila Prabhupada: So give him…

Giriraj: I'll arrange a car. (Con)

Tamal describes that when Dr. Kapoor went outside and was waiting to go by car with Sridhara Swami to try to fetch the Lakshmi Narayan vaidya, another old Ayurvedic doctor was called in. He had taken a vow of silence, and wrote medicinal prescriptions on a slate. "As Dr. Kapoor was leaving, the Agra doctor (Lakshmi Narayan) happened to be passing by in a car. Prabhupada said it was Krishna's arrangement." (TKG)

There was a lengthy session and discussion while the vaidya Lakshmi Narayan examined Srila Prabhupada and made recommendations. The vaidya agreed injections would be cruel, and recommended checking the blood pressure and sending a urine sample for examination at a laboratory. He suggested breathing exercises would help to reduce the cough (A3). He suggested changing posture every two hours and regular massage. He thought that there was a Vitamin B complex deficiency and urged Abhiram to start giving the vitamin supplements on hand already. "But it will only be effective if given." (Con)

Upendra referred to the medical journal and saw that about 275 cc of liquid were being taken and passed over the last four days. The doctor did not want anything done for the "edema," saying the swelling (AK17) would naturally reduce when Srila Prabhupada regained some strength. Upendra: "Same thing the doctor in London said." The vaidya said, "It is mainly a question of improving the appetite (AK1)," and suggested some salt would help. Upendra told the vaidya, "But Prabhupada hasn't got any taste (AK20)." Srila Prabhupada admitted He liked lemons, so the vaidya said lemons would help in restoring appetite (AK1). (Con)

The vaidya said Srila Prabhupada should drink as much fluid as possible, and that treatment for the edema, or swelling, could be ascertained after obtaining a urine test report. The vaidya prescribed three syrups, Neurovian, Santivini, and Digiplex, one tablespoon of each thrice daily with whatever juices being taken. The vaidya suggested 100 to 150 grams of glucose daily and avoiding water since it had no nutrition. Upendra said, "But Prabhupada doesn't feel thirsty either (AK20)." The vaidya said, "That is due to deficiency of the…, and ulcers of the mouth. (AK9) They are there. They are in intestines…(AK4)"Srila Prabhupada said, "I have no desire for water." Finally, the vaidya encouraged some protein intake, at least some whey perhaps, if Srila Prabhupada did not like anything else. (Con)

Satadhanya came to speak with Srila Prabhupada, begging Him to stay with the devotees for some time longer, "because we are very weak and are still attached to material sense gratification." Due to "strain" in His left leg (A20), Srila Prabhupada had some Vicks salve applied and rested His bent leg on a pillow for support.(TkgD) Upendra asked if there was some pain. Srila Prabhupada answered, "Not pain, but veins straining.(A20)"(Con)

The GBC met, deciding they all would stay at least another week and chant for Srila Prabhupada. Harikesh showed Srila Prabhupada seven new books he had just published, including a Yugoslavian Sri Isopanishad. Jayatirtha, Rameshwar and Harikesh gave competing reports of book printing and distribution in their different zones. Then both Srila Prabhupada and Harikesh began to cry (A11) as Srila Prabhupada spoke, "He was rotting here, typewriting. I said, "You go." I had ten servants... He thought that I am degrading him. No. Now you understand?" Harikesh replied, "Yes, I understand, Prabhupada." Harikesh Swami thanked Srila Prabhupada, and said, "Now you just have to become better, more healthy." To this, Srila Prabhupada replied, "Healthy? I have nothing to do with this body. Have to do with your work." (Con)

In this way Srila Prabhupada showed His complete dependence on Krishna and how He wanted to save His time and energy for preaching. (Satsv) Next, Bhagavan arrived and described the book distribution marathon in progress in his zone which was meant to encourage Srila Prabhupada to stay with the devotees longer, to which Srila Prabhupada said, "Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati will give them blessing." Asking again which days were astrologically critical, Srila Prabhupada quipped, "I think every day is crisis (laughs). Things becoming bad… Things becoming bad to worse." There was discussion about the upcoming scientific conference being held at the Vrindaban temple in a few days, and Brahmananda showed some books printed in Africa. (Con)

It was noted that Srila Prabhupada increased consumption of liquids (some glucose), totaling 450 cc for the day. That night was restful. (TkgD)

(TkgD.246-251; Con:35.152-181; Sat:6.393)

Paramananda came to say farewell, as he was returning to the USA tomorrow. Dhristadyumna introduced his architect brother, Bill: "He's helping us to design the community plan for the small village and the temple… to help set up an ideal Vedic community." Srila Prabhupada said, "Keep always engaged yourself in Krishna activity." At 9:30 PM Srila Prabhupada asked for two teaspoons of glucose. Swarup Damodar explained that conference guests were arriving for tomorrow's conference, and that already there were suggestions and support for a Bhaktivedanta Institute in Delhi or Bombay. (Con)

Kirtanananda asked if Srila Prabhupada wanted to take the urine pills. Srila Prabhupada said, "No. That much, warm glucose, that much, and nothing more possible. You don't increase or decrease… And preserve those sweet lemon…And chant Hare Krishna." Tamal asked, "Should we have some chanting now, Srila Prabhupada?"

Srila Prabhupada: Yes, chanting twenty-four hours. (Con)

Srila Prabhupada seemed determined to decline any medications, wanting glucose and sweet lemon juice only as medication. (TkgD)

(Con:35.213-241; TkgD.257-265)

OCTOBER 14: Upon awakening, Srila Prabhupada called for Pishima and asked her to chant Nrsinghadeva mantras over Him while massaging His chest. Srila Prabhupada, confined to His bed, had two paintings put at the foot of the bed, one being Krishna Balarama, the other Radha and Krishna. Amazingly, in the morning, the first urine for ten hours turned out to be once again clear and free of blood. (TkgD)

Srila Prabhupada inquired about the conference, and Tamal gave a glowing report of the decorations, inaugural fire sacrifice, prasadam, and seating arrangements. The devotee scientists were dressed very formal and everyone wore badges.

Tamal: …if anyone else dared to do such a thing as this, to prove by science that life comes from life, it would be a very immature attempt… it would not have very much weight. But here they are coming face to face with people who are actually scientists, and they will not be able to deny our arguments. I think that your Guru Maharaj is very pleased with this program, Srila Prabhupada.

Srila Prabhupada: I have given the ideas. Now you give the shape.

Tamal: We want some more ideas also. You have to give enough ideas for at least 10,000 years.

Srila Prabhupada: (chuckles softly) (Con)

The conference began a little late, but was well attended. Bhagatji had a lunch program at his house and he invited all the senior devotees, and Srila Prabhupada allowed Tamal to go as well. (Con) Atreya Rsi and Parivrajakacharya chanted for Srila Prabhupada for hours before returning to Tehran. Srila Prabhupada asked for and looked at a photo of Krishna Balaram for a long time, although Tamal had to show where Their lotus feet were due to Srila Prabhupada's very poor eyesight (A9). Throughout the day, Srila Prabhupada would ask for a spoonful or two of sacred Yamuna water while lying down. Later in the morning, a strong oil massage was given, and Srila Prabhupada preferred to take prasadam before His bath. "But unlike yesterday, he had no taste (AK20) and hardly ate anything." (TkgD)

Srila Prabhupada: Up-to-date gentlemen, they hate to come, Vrindaban. They know it is a place for gundas. Pandas means gundas Thugs). (laughter)

Tamal: But Srila Prabhupada, you are expert at preaching to the gundas… We were all gundas. I think that your coming to America was no less fearless than Lord Chaitanya when He went into the Jharikhanda forest to preach, Srila Prabhupada. In fact, we were worse than the animals that Lord Chaitanya had to deal with. At least an animal keeps to his nature… Animals you can expect something… (Con)

While Srila Prabhupada was speaking with Bhavananda, He looked at him and said, "Just now I am forgetting your name. This is the position (A12)." Asked whether He would like to sometimes hear Bhagwatam rather than kirtan, Srila Prabhupada said Bhagwatam hearing was a little straining. Srila Prabhupada asked Bhakticharu to go and see Bonamali, the Vrindaban kaviraja who had cared for Srila Prabhupada last summer, and, explaining the current condition, see if he would come again. (TkgD)

Swarup Damodar and the other devotee scientists came to report to Srila Prabhupada during a break in the conference. There did not seem to be much debate due to a lack of opposition speakers, but Dr. O.B.L. Kapoor's Mayavadi lecture was defeated very expertly by Madhava. Bhavananda noted that Srila Prabhupada had only taken 200 cc of liquid so far today, so Srila Prabhupada agreed to take some sweet lemon juice. A telegram arrived to report the results of the French week-long book distribution marathon. A total of over 25,000 hardcover Bhagavad Gitas! Srila Prabhupada then commented: "Yes. We do not want liberation. We want to serve the purpose of the Goswamis, in association with pure devotees. To stop birth and death is not our purpose. Tandera carana sebi bhakta sane bas, janame janame hoy ei abhilas." (Con)

About 5:30 PM, Srila Prabhupada asked Hari Sauri whether He should start taking some milk tomorrow, but Hari Sauri discouraged the idea out of fear for the mucus (A3). Srila Prabhupada again said He could not taste anything (AK20).Hari Sauri asked if He would like soup and vegetable juices, and the answer was: "Cannot take. No taste (AK20)." Thus Srila Prabhupada would not eat because to do so was very unpalatable (AK20). The devotee scientists again came to see Srila Prabhupada while the visiting scientists were in the evening temple services. Five radio and newspaper reporters had come, and the first day of the conference was deemed a success. (Con)

After 8:30 pm, Upendra said: "Whatever you say, Srila Prabhupada, is being recorded, and then Tamal Krishna and Hari Sauri, they're all busy copying down, rewriting into their diaries, because your words are so nectarine."

Srila Prabhupada said, "Where is…? What is his name? Come from Mayapur (A12)." A second time, Srila Prabhupada could not remember Bhavananda's name. (Con)

Late in the evening, Pradyumna helped Tamal review with Srila Prabhupada the Delhi astrological report once again but in much greater detail, and Srila Prabhupada asked what was the predicted "fatal" day. The indications from September 1977 through April 1978 were all very negative, as were the prashna chart and annual chart. Disease, ineffective medicine, hospitalization, and no recovery were indicated. The recommendation was for japa and havana.

Srila Prabhupada: So this japa, maha-mantra japa, and Bhagawat patha, that I am doing.

Tamal: And you should try to drink and eat whenever you have a little desire… You shouldn't try to fast until death.

Srila Prabhupada: No. That is useless. Do you recommend that?

Tamal: No, definitely not… You shouldn't artificially fast or stop eating.

Srila Prabhupada: No, no. That is suicidal.(Con)

Then Srila Prabhupada instructed Pradyumna to start reading from the Bhagwatam "from the point where I have stopped," and with Jayadwaita, He again resumed His translation work. Srila Prabhupada told Upendra to keep the honey close by and, miraculously, began translating and composing purports to the Bhagwatam while lying prostate in bed. Srila Prabhupada asked Pradyumna to sit on the bed because "I cannot hear properly (A14)," and Tamal brought out a flashlight (A1) for Pradyumna. Tamal held the tape recorder, and word for word translations were followed by commentary of the verse. Srila Prabhupada said to go slowly, and asked for discussion, and then expert editing. (Con) "We gathered around Prabhupada's bedside, as he gave the immortal nectar of Bhagwatam at the point of death. We were reminded of Krishna das Kaviraja who, on the request of the Vaishnavas, completed Chaitanya Charitamrita despite so many physical disabilities." (TkgD)

Satsvarupa Goswami, "visiting secretary to Srila Prabhupada," wrote to Ms. Anna Pashel of W. Los Angeles: "Out of your loving concern for Srila Prabhupada you have invited him to come to the US and go under the care of your physician. But now he has become too weak to travel. Be assured he is getting all medical advice, what is more important, personal care and prayers from his devotees. After so many doctors tried to prescribe cures for Srila Prabhupada and mostly failed, she (Pisima) has come and given Srila Prabhupada prasadam cooked by herself and it is the first solid food he has been able to eat in months." (Satsv. letter)

(TkgD.265-8; Con:35.242-274)

OCTOBER 15: During the previous night Srila Prabhupada received massage with hot mustard oil from Rupanuga, and had asked that a special oil be prepared from smashed mustard seeds and camphor. Heated on a charcoal stove and applied all over the body with massage, it would warm and stimulate him. "If this rubbing goes on, I think I can eat." Srila Prabhupada said that by the devotees keeping His body fit, He could work, and He asked Bhagatji to bring a masseur to use the special oil. Bhagatji brought Nathiram from Vrindaban, who added some opium to the oil and proceeded with the massage treatment. Nathiram found a knot in the intestines and thought this was the reason there had been no hunger. "He applied a hot water bottle as well as neem leaves to keep the heat." Bonamali came and checked the pulse, saying it was good and that there was only weakness (AK5), no complaint in the body. Srila Prabhupada asked Pishima to make chana dal, a soup. Srila Prabhupada could not even click the button for the dictaphone (A20); He has almost no body left. (TkgD; ISK 70.331-2)

In the morning Tamal observed that Srila Prabhupada's urine was "very colored again (AK16)." Tamal explained to Srila Prabhupada that the cure to His disease was simply to drink sufficient liquids for cleaning out the "bodily poisons." "If you take no liquid, then it's very dangerous. You don't have to eat anything." Thus Srila Prabhupada agreed to drink a half cup every four hours or so. Tamal asked why Srila Prabhupada had been drinking so little the last few days, and Srila Prabhupada answered, "I cannot…" and coughed up mucus (A3). Tamal: "I don't think this milk should be given again… it has caused maybe this mucus (A3)." Srila Prabhupada could not hear very well at all, and Bhagavan had to say his name thrice before being recognized (A14). (Con)

Navayogendra Swami came from Africa with many nice presentations and gifts, including a large silver cup and a sandalwood Deity of Krishna. Giriraj entered the room and presented Srila Prabhupada with a coat worn by the Sri Nathji deity, donated by the Maharaj of Udaipur. The Maharaj had converted a palace into a deluxe hotel, ordering 301 Bhagavad Gitas to put in the rooms. Giriraj and Tamal reviewed the current bank business of fund transfers out of the Vrindaban Punjab Bank to Bombay and Delhi. Srila Prabhupada said, "Hm? What is that pish-pish?", referring to some whispering in the room. Tamal and Giriraj were whispering about how they had been instrumental in the transfer of the local bank manager. (Con)

Srila Prabhupada gave instructions about banking matters. "Very carefully deal, and as far as possible, don't keep money in the bank. Invest in books and expansion. That is my request. If you keep money, there will be so much trouble." Nathiram's massage was appreciated by Srila Prabhupada, who at one point complained of some pain in one hip. Jayapataka complained that one of his preaching parties had gone from Bihar to Bombay to Delhi to Vrindaban to try to find some books to distribute. This upset Srila Prabhupada and He repeatedly emphasized that the money in the bank should be converted into books. "Why depend on one printer? …arrange many printers. Never mind the price. Huge stock should be maintained. Why unnecessarily keeping in the bank? Hindi books can be distributed all over the world. Similarly Gujarati, and English to Australia. Why money should be kept in the bank?" (Con)

Visvambhara offered his youth to Srila Prabhupada, Who said, "No… you live on."Visvambhara then asked that He stay and complete His Srimad Bhagwatam, and Srila Prabhupada responded, "That is my desire also."

Visvambhara: Will Krishna not fulfill your desire?

Srila Prabhupada: Oh, Krishna is independent.

Giriraj then read to Srila Prabhupada a prayer to Lord Krishna he had composed asking for Srila Prabhupada to receive a new body. Srila Prabhupada said, "Excellent… I am getting little glimpse. He may agree to your prayer, yes… Now stock books immediately. There is no question of becoming miserly. So why stock lacking? Why this mismanagement? I give you open order. Print more than necessity." When the discussion turned to the Bhubaneshwar temple, Srila Prabhupada again re-emphasized, "That construction is not so important as printing of books." (Con)

After the second day of the Bhaktivedanta Institute conference, Swarup Damodar reported the program's success to Srila Prabhupada, who replied, "Yes. Make it an ideal institution." Srila Prabhupada could not see well, saying, "Who are you (A9)?" and the reply was, "Abhiram, Srila Prabhupada."

Srila Prabhupada: Massage.. There is oil?

Bhagwat: Dry the oil into the skin by rubbing.

Srila Prabhupada: Whose hand is cold?

Bhagwat: Oh. My hand. Bhagwat. I am sorry. I will not touch you. I am very cold.

Srila Prabhupada: (laughs) (Con)

Bhagwat asked Srila Prabhupada if He had taken some of the dal and roti prasadam yesterday, and Abhiram said, "Just tasted."

Bhagwat: Oh. Just tasted.

Srila Prabhupada: Simply touch (AK1).

Bhagwat: How was it tasting?

Srila Prabhupada: It was very tasteful, but my tongue has no taste (AK20). Maybe gradually by stimulating the body…

A little later, Swarup Damodar translated Srila Prabhupada's Bengali, "Prabhupada says by activating his muscles, by massaging, that will generate energy. That will bring appetite (AK1)."(Con)

Srila Prabhupada said that in spite of all their scientific advancement, the scientists could still not "capture the real thing," the soul. Then he told a story:

"When Socrates was condemned to death, the judges inquired that "How Mr. Socrates wants to be entombed?"… Socrates (said): "First of all capture me. Then to the question of entomb me." (Con)

When the urine cleared up, Srila Prabhupada asked what it was that had caused the change. Upendra, Hari Sauri and Tamal then spent a long time discussing and speculating on various factors of the past few days. Hari Sauri simply thought that the Persian citrus drinks were too strong for the kidneys, causing the blood and pus to come out and make the urine cloudy (AK16). (Con)

Tamal wrote to Vidyananda: "Srila Prabhupada is lying very ill in His bed and is being chanted to 24 hours a day…" (Archives)

(Con:35.275-297; TkgD.268-270)

OCTOBER 16: At 3 am, Srila Prabhupada translated one Bhagwatam verse with a long purport. Beforehand, He had told Abhiram, "It is a nasty world. The only safety is to take shelter of Rama… When there are so many inconveniences. Very nasty world." At the end of the translation session, Srila Prabhupada instructed Pradyumna that he and his wife Arundhati should take great care to edit the translation and purport of one verse a day. Then Pradyumna said, "I think your commentary on Srimad Bhagwatam will go down in history as one of the best commentaries." Srila Prabhupada replied, "Let us try for that… In this way let us pull on. Fight between maya. Sit up for while and chant beads." (Con)

Srila Prabhupada's cough (A3) returned this morning, maybe due to a little milk He had drunk the day before. Srila Prabhupada took cough syrup and drank pomegranate juice with His gold straw, and was concerned about possible pneumonia (A3). Nathiram was now giving massage twice daily (AK8). Bonamali kaviraja analyzed Srila Prabhupada's very discolored urine (AK16) as due to a gonorrhea-type disorder which could possibly block the ureter completely, the urine containing semen. Srila Prabhupada had a lunch of vegetable broth and fruit paste. Lokanath Maharaj returned with Dr. G. Ghosh after tracing him all the way to Darjeeling and undergoing a grueling, bone-breaking journey back to Vrindaban. (TkgD)

Dr. G. Ghosh examined Srila Prabhupada, asking many questions and giving many instructions. There had been no bowel movement for six days (A13) and daily glucose and salt enemas were recommended. The previous urinalysis report was not available, but Tamal said "It will just be coming. Just coming." Dr. Ghosh then went to bathe in his quarters at the guesthouse. Lokanath Swami told Srila Prabhupada that Dr. Ghosh liked Him very much, and had dropped everything at once to come, even though his daughter had protested. Srila Prabhupada: "He is the only person remaining. Otherwise all my contemporary friends gone." (Con)

Upon returning, Dr. Ghosh stressed the importance of getting a new urinalysis and reducing the swelling (AK17). Dr. Ghosh thought that the citrus juices had not been responsible for the bloody and cloudy urine (AK16). He demonstrated the correct massage techniques to all those who did massages for Srila Prabhupada. The posture should be changed every hour or two; grape juice, some Horlicks, chana and some dahi. He opened the window for more oxygen and fresh air, saying less people should be in the room. Srila Prabhupada complained of coughing and mucus (A3), which Bhakticharu said resulted from as little as the 60 cc of milk taken last night. The car was readied and took Dr. Ghosh to obtain the urinalysis. (Con)

Abhiram sought Srila Prabhupada's permission to leave His service, turning over his responsibilities to Bhavananda and Satadhanya. (Abhiram)

Satsvarupa Goswami's biography gives practically no details about Srila Prabhupada for the months of October and November save a few pages of philosophizing over His impending departure. Thus, coupled with the mid-October departure of Abhiram Prabhu, we are left to rely on the accounts within TKG's Diary and the Conversations Books.

In the evening, Bharadvaj and Jayatirtha described to Srila Prabhupada the plans for a doll exhibit in either Washington or London. Srila Prabhupada was encouraging: "So you have made the outline first class. Now, if it is carefully done, at least in the Western country, it will be a very, very wonderful thing." (Con)

(TkgD.270-2; Con:35.298-317)

OCTOBER 17: Dr. G. Ghosh stressed that reducing the number of persons in Srila Prabhupada's room would increase oxygen and decrease the spreading of germs, so the kirtan party moved into the next room. Srila Prabhupada met with Acyutananda Swami, who was on his way to preach in America. Govardhan came from Detroit and gave a report. Tamal took permission to bathe in the Yamuna, but Srila Prabhupada asked for him twice while he was gone, saying He felt alone (A11). Also, Upendra had been laid up with a cold. (TkgD)

Dr. Ghosh also found no problem with the liver or stomach, and asked Srila Prabhupada to eat more solids and lots of liquids. Pishima cooked many wonderful preparations such as puris and fried eggplant which Srila Prabhupada "ate very heartily. Dr. G. Ghosh gave vitamin C, B-complex and Lassix tablets." Dr. G. Ghosh brought a young doctor specialist, Dr. Gopal, from the local Ramakrishna Hospital. Dr. Gopal appeared very expert and was well mannered. Srila Prabhupada's pulse was 96 (AK24) and a full array of medications was prescribed for what was diagnosed as a serious chronic kidney infection (AK15). The two doctors agreed on this diagnosis. Dr. Gopal was better versed in the latest available medications, however. (TkgD.272-4)

The Conversations Books record the examination of Srila Prabhupada by Dr. Ghosh and Dr. Gopal and their recommendations. Excerpts are :

Bhavananda: He's been taking glucose in fruit juices. He hasn't taken today very much.

Dr. Ghosh: Every hour, a sip, sip. If he can't take at one time, let just him sip every half an hour a teaspoon. Otherwise it is very low.

Srila Prabhupada: Teaspoonful I can take. ******

Bhavananda: Would you like a blanket around you, Srila Prabhupada? (A7) (Around noon)

Dr. Ghosh: (indistinct)

Tamal: Urine, urine? To do what? Take blood pressure?

Dr. Ghosh: Stomach is all right. Liver is all right. So then only what have got to do is to eat. ******

Srila Prabhupada: I saw you yesterday.(? )

Dr. Gopal: I examined you yesterday.

Bhavananda: There's bad cough (A3) when he takes any milk. Give him very deep cough.(Con)

Bhavananda discussed with the doctors about the prescribed medications, which could be all mixed together and given thrice a day.

Srila Prabhupada: So, what doctor says?

Bhavananda: I was just discussing with them. They've given a, a series of medicines. That one doctor, Dr. Gopal, said that you have a chronic kidney infection (AK15), and they both, Dr. Ghosh and Dr. Gopal, say it is very serious, that if it's not treated, that it could develop into uremia (AK15), which could be fatal. So he's given a whole group of medicines. However, the medicines can be combined. They say everything is functioning well, but the kidneys are not. Renial, they call it renial infection.

Tamal: Renal. Renal damage (AK15).

Bhavananda: Chronic. And Dr. Gopal, just like all the other doctors, both Ayurvedic and allopathic, they all insist that you have to take more liquid. They said you should measure how much you pass urine today. Say you pass 250 cc's of urine. That means tomorrow you should take that amount plus 400 more in liquid. Each day.

Tamal: Always 400 more than the urine passed.

Bhavananda: …You should take any sort of liquid- milk, juices, water, anything. He also said that you have to take rich protein foods. Milk, curd, chana, Proteinex, fruits, juices…

******

Tamal: Bhagatji says that this Dr. Gopal is the best doctor in Mathura district. Very, very expert doctor, he said. He seemed pretty competent.

Bhavananda: Everyone… All the doctors agree that your liver and digestion, spleen, is all in good working order.

Tamal: And also the blood pressure is normal. It's 130.

Bhavananda: But he said that your pulse is so weak that every 18 beats it skips a beat, misses (AK23), because you're in such weakened state.

Tamal: But he was hopeful in general.

Srila Prabhupada: So do it. (Con)

Lassix tablets and hydrogen peroxide mouthwash were not approved by Dr. Gopal, and Dr. Ghosh subsequently agreed. Thus the program was outlined: a mixture of medicines three times a day, more liquids and more nutrition. In the midst of all the medical hub-hub, Srila Prabhupada discussed with Tamal and Giriraj a final opening date of December 29 for the Bombay temple, using a few local brahmanas instead of a whole troupe of fifteen or more South India brahmanas. (Con:35.318-326)

Comments

Tamohara dasa ADMIN. May 8, 2015 5:00

OCTOBER 11: Dr. Kapoor came in the morning with the vaidya Lakshmi Narayan, and Srila Prabhupada began taking some of the prescribed medicinal syrups. Srila Prabhupada felt intoxicated (Con), and this was analyzed as due to taking glucose and protein after several days of fasting, (TkgD) although Brahmananda at first thought there was codeine or alcohol in some of the medicines. (Con)

            Dr. Kapoor questioned Rupanuga about his over-sized, six foot long set of japa beads, asking why they were not Tulasi wood as required by tradition. Rupanuga and Brahmananda said that since Srila Prabhupada had chanted on them, now the beads were Tulasi. Dr. Kapoor then observed, "Prabhupada seems to be slightly better today. He takes interest in other things and wants to speak." They then discussed the upcoming scientific conference, and Srila Prabhupada noted that matter, when mixed, produces some reaction, just like acid and soda make effervescence, and then said, "It is nonsense that matter gives life. That we want to prove… Life is superior energy. Apareyam. Matter is useless. The scientists are speculators, most of them…" About 150 guests were expected. Dr. Kapoor felt Srila Prabhupada was being strained by the discussion, so he decided to leave. (Con) Srila Prabhupada had been speaking only with great effort. (TkgD)

At noon, Atreya Rsi and Parivrajakacharya Swami arrived with a large plate of fresh fruits and juices from Tehran, and Srila Prabhupada took some sweet lemon juice. The first Parsi language magazine, called Bhakti, was shown to Srila Prabhupada, Who then asked, "I understand that you go to the royal family and talk with them for hours. So it is very good sign." Srila Prabhupada preached encouragingly to them, and asked about the Tehran restaurant program.

Atreya Rsi: You should come and visit us, Srila Prabhupada.

Srila Prabhupada: I am ready to go immediately.

Atreya Rsi: Jaya. You will come, Srila Prabhupada. There are millions of people waiting for you.

Srila Prabhupada: And now you have to take a bundle of bones. That is the difficulty… Persians, they are Aryans. When they were attacked by the Muhammedans they fled from Persia to India. (Con)

            Tamal relates that Srila Prabhupada called for Parivrajakacharya to come forward to the bed, and then stroked his head, saying, "Thank you very much. You are a great rajarshi. Do it very nicely. Don't commit mistake. Present the philosophy. Make them rajarshis." (TkgD)

Parivrajakacharya: These people, they are the door to people all over the world who are rulers, because they are the closest friends of King Khalid of Saudi Arabia, King Hussein of Jordan, King Constantine and Queen Tina of Greece. They… have great opulence and great intelligence and who simply lack spiritual knowledge.

Srila Prabhupada: Raja. And if we turn them rishi, then our mission is fulfilled. (Con:35.183-199)

            Around 6 PM, Srila Prabhupada called for Tamal, who explained that he was just attending a big meeting for planning how to nicely develop the Gita Nagari farm. Dristadyumna Swami's brother, a prominent architect, had come to Vrindaban also. But Srila Prabhupada responded with how He had been impressed that high class customers at the Tehran restaurant were volunteering to wash dishes and serve the tables, saying, "They are so gentle." Next Giriraj reported some banking business he had done today. (Con)

Total liquids for the 11th was noted to be 620 cc, more than in two weeks. Kirtanananda Swami convinced Srila Prabhupada to sit up and breathe deeply. (TkgD.251-256)

OCTOBER 12: Early, Srila Prabhupada took more Persian sweet lemon juice, but was coughing (A3) more again and had trouble sitting up due to a sore on His seat. Lokanath arrived and gave a report from Bengal. (TkgD, Conv)

Unexpectedly, Dr. Ghosh from Kodaikanal came at mid-day, and appeared shocked at Srila Prabhupada's condition, but Srila Prabhupada was not interested in his treatments and said nothing. Hari Sauri and Upendra filled Dr. Ghosh in with a brief health history of the last several months. When Dr. Ghosh went out, Srila Prabhupada called for Tamal and asked, "Did you send telegram to this doctor?" But Tamal did not know who called for this Kodaikanal Dr. Ghosh, but he suspected someone in particular.

Srila Prabhupada: I said you don't ask him about anything.

Tamal: …I would never communicate (with him). We already had our business with him four or five months ago. We already rejected him.

Kirtanananda: It seems that someone has to be in charge of your care. One day it's this allopath, one day this quack, that quack. That's not good. I'd like to see you ask one of us… I'll be glad to do it. Anyone… Take charge of your care, and we can do the best we can…

Srila Prabhupada: But we have already asked Dr. Ghosh of Allahabad, but he has not yet come.

Tamal: No, he hasn't. We received a letter from him. I think he may have missed our letter, but he said that any correspondence should be sent to Allahabad and would be forwarded to him. But he hasn't come yet.

Srila Prabhupada: You can see that letter. He is qualified man.

Tamal: Dr. Ghosh's letter, you remember, he suggests that we immediately take you to that Bombay hospital.

Hari Sauri: He wanted to do that last March when he saw you there at Mayapur. (Con)

            The above section concerning the two different Dr. Ghosh's is at the end of the October 10 tape (as marked), yet Tamal shows it taking place around noon on the 12 th. Perhaps the space at the end of the October 10th tape was used up after the October 11th tape, which itself ends with the beginning of October 12. Thus, the Conversations Book has the parts of October 12 conversations out of chronological order. The order is pages 199-200, then 181-182, then 201-212. Again, time-line jumbling with the tapes.

Soon thereafter, Kirtanananda Swami, who has assumed the role of chief health caretaker, and Tamal spoke with Srila Prabhupada further on the question of whether to pursue bringing the Allahabad Dr. G. Ghosh to Vrindaban for medical evaluation and possible treatment.

Srila Prabhupada: He is qualified man.

Kirtanananda: He's qualified. He's your friend. He's very understanding. But, of course, putting ourselves under his care means we have to follow his instruction.

Srila Prabhupada: He instructed hospitalization.

Tamal: Yes, hospitalization.

Kirtanananda: Ultimately, whatever he says we have to do if we're going to accept him. But he's also very understanding, and I think in your condition there may be no need for hospitalization. We need to get some regular care established. There has to be a regimen for recovery.

Srila Prabhupada: No, that I have already explained. I don't want to go to the hospital.

Kirtanananda: So that is not necessary. (Srila Prabhupada coughs heavily) (A3) (break)

Srila Prabhupada: Come here. (heavy coughing) Mucus is generating (A3), either you take milk or fruit juice. I have given my opinion in that correspondence. And he's qualified man. If you want him, then somebody may go to him and talk.

Kirtanananda: Yes, that should be done. We'll do that today.

Srila Prabhupada: He wanted to retire and start a clinic here.

Kirtanananda: So he can come now.

Srila Prabhupada: So we can help.

Kirtanananda: Yes. It's a very good idea.

(unknown what opinion, correspondence Srila Prabhupada referred to) (Con)

            Tamal wrote on this matter: "Dr. Ghosh from Allahabad was also discussed and Prabhupada said a man should be sent to see him. He wanted Prabhupada to go into a nursing clinic, which Prabhupada absolutely rejected. However, he was willing to receive some personal treatment. Later, about 2:30 PM, Prabhupada suggested to try by telephone first as it might be quicker. Eventually Lokanath Swami left by train."(TkgD)

            Jayapataka arrived about 1 pm (TkgD) and gave Srila Prabhupada a report on preaching in Bengal and Orissa and also how the Mayapur attack court case was reversing in their favor. The Muhammedans wanted to have the charges against them dropped, but Srila Prabhupada said that was up to the government, not us. Jayapataka also described the prasadam distribution in Bengal, and mentioned how he and Bhavananda had consulted a "tantric"astrologer who said after November 28 Srila Prabhupada would recover and live another seven years. Pishima, Srila Prabhupada's sister, arrived with her son from Calcutta, and she spoke in Bengali to Srila Prabhupada. (Con) Rumors have been heard repeatedly that Srila Prabhupada told Pishima in Bengali that He was being poisoned. (Author)

Srila Prabhupada spent most of the afternoon sitting up to avoid the coughing of mucus (A3) that occurred as soon as He lay down. Asked if He wanted anything to drink, again Srila Prabhupada said, "Let me drink harinama abhilasa," and again Hari Sauri replied, "That is the sweetest nectar." (TkgD)

For October 12, Satsvarupa reports that Srila Prabhupada had mucus and cough (A3) again, very badly all day. Srila Prabhupada began translating again with the help of Pradyumna Prabhu and Jayadwaita Swami. Kirtanananda Swami took charge of feeding Srila Prabhupada specified and increasing amounts of liquids, hoping to lead Srila Prabhupada to recovered health. (Satsv)

(Sat:6.415; TkgD.256-7; Con:35.199-200, 181-2, 201-7)

OCTOBER 13: Speaking more with Jayapataka, Srila Prabhupada said of the Mayapur incident, "Everything will be settled up. Don't be disheartened… Yes, they are gundas (thugs)" They discussed the purchase of neighboring land in Mayapur and Srila Prabhupada instructed how to build a canal next to the long guest building. (Con)

            On page 210 of Conversations Book 35, we read, "Prabhupada: (Bengali with Bhakticharu and Pishima)." Tamal recounts this in English in his diary, that Srila Prabhupada asked Bhakticharu to ask His sister for forgiveness for any offenses, as she was also His godsister, being initiated also by Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati. Bhakticharu protested, "You can't ever commit offenses, Srila Prabhupada…" But Srila Prabhupada responded, "I am a little temperamental person. Often I used to use words like rascal, etc. I never compromised. They used to call it kurul niye prachara. Preaching with a pickaxe. Kurul in one hand and Bhagwatam in the other hand. That's how I preached." Srila Prabhupada also announced that Pishima would cook for Him today, whether for good or bad. (TkgD) It is wondered who translated these Bengali portions for Tamal and when.

Hridayananda arrived from Brazil with newly printed Krishna Book trilogies in Portuguese, reporting that 100,000 had been printed.

Srila Prabhupada: Ah. Hridayananda has come… Thank you very much. Printing of book is our real work… Print more books… This is life. This material world and the bones… The bones are not our… This is life. We are not concerned with bones and stones. Our real concern is the living force… So there is a science by which you can sustain life - only bones. Hiranyakasipu did it, practically.

Tamal: You are also doing it, Srila Prabhupada.

Srila Prabhupada: So take care of the bones as long as possible… Print books, and as I have given in my will, half, print again, and half spent for propaganda as you like. In this way go on. In this way, in all languages, distribute. Thank you very much. Hare Krishna. (Con)

In the morning, Tamal opened the curtains and window to get fresh air. (Con) Tamal makes note: "When Bhakticharu mentioned that Lokanath Maharaj had gone to get Dr. Ghosh of Allahabad, Prabhupada said it was not really necessary but that there was no harm." Apparently Kirtanananda hoped Dr. G. Ghosh would be able to enforce some discipline of medical treatment. (TkgD)

Abhiram Prabhu notes that Srila Prabhupada's urine was milky and reddish, with small particles of blood clots (AK16). Abhiram took a sample to a local lab for testing and the results showed the presence of both blood and pus. Srila Prabhupada ate a handful of food, and the next day the urine had cleared. That night Srila Prabhupada slept well, having His itchy back (AK8) relieved earlier by some oil. (Abhiram)

            Tamal recounts that Srila Prabhupada's urine from the previous night was full of pus and blood clots (AK16), and that Bhagatji took the urine sample for analysis, returning with a doctor's prescribed pills, reporting that otherwise death could be the result within days. Srila Prabhupada declined to take the pills. (TkgD)

Srila Prabhupada received and spoke with Krishna das Babaji and Ashrama Maharaj. Rameshwar showed photos from the Bhagwatam and the Fiji temple opening, and the Los Angeles and New Vrindaban temples to Srila Prabhupada's godbrothers, who very much appreciated the wonderful activities around ISKCON. Then:

Srila Prabhupada: I have given them the philosophy of "American money and Indian culture." Combined together, the face of the world will change. Don't keep Indian culture airtight, and don't keep American money for sense gratification. Use it for Krishna. (Con)

            Just then Gopal Krishna arrived with a copy of the new Scientific Basis of Krishna Consciousness in Hindi meant for the upcoming Bhaktivedanta Institute conference. Srila Prabhupada approved of Rameshwar's proposal to compile books from Srila Prabhupada's lectures and talks. Kirtanananda, trying to nurse Srila Prabhupada back to health, began to be more aggressive, saying, "Drink. This is to be drunk, not spit out. Drink it, whole thing. Please, Prabhupada! How will you ever get well? Come on! (laughs) Get a cloth."

Upendra: He rinses his mouth.(AK20)

Kirtanananda: He can take a little more. Your body needs more, Prabhupada. Srila Prabhupada, you know, mother Yasoda, she was very fortunate because she could completely forget that Krishna was God, and she would simply tell Krishna, "You have to do it." Unfortunately, my love is not that great, because I can still remember you are my spiritual master.

Srila Prabhupada: I am doing your order.(laughter)

Kirtanananda: Thank you very much. One more? Half water. Thank you… Srila Prabhupada, you're not really going to try and eat that khicori are you?

Srila Prabhupada: Really? Why not?(Con)

Kirtanananda opposed Srila Prabhupada taking suddenly such rich food as Pishima was cooking for Him, fearful there would be some negative reaction. But Srila Prabhupada was fixed, saying: "So my body is now dead according to medical point. You cannot give life. So let it be doomed…. This is a dead body." Upendra announced, "Prasadam has come, Srila Prabhupada." Srila Prabhupada said, "So you can for the time being, disperse. Let me… Whatever possible, I'll take." (Con)

            Tamal elaborates that Pishima cooked five preparations with great love: kichori, shukta (stew), fried eggplant, cauliflower, chutney. "Srila Prabhupada ate quite heartily for the first time in many months." He took some lavan bhaskar and lay down again. Kirtanananda came back into the room. (TkgD) Satsvarupa noted that some devotees were worried that eating like this after fasting so long could cause a severe reaction. (ISK70.329-330)

Srila Prabhupada said, "Medical science finished."Hari Sauri added, "When all these doctors come, they can't understand how it is that you're still here." Kirtanananda explained the need for taking the tablets given by the doctor for clearing up the blood and pus in the urine. Srila Prabhupada asked, "Who is the doctor?"Bhagatji replied, "Dr. Gopal in Rama Krishna Seva Ashram. Physician. He's an M.D. He is the best doctor in Mathura district." There were tablets and a syrup, after which a blood sample for testing was requested. Srila Prabhupada said, "But that is the difficulty… Let me taste the tablet."(Con) But Srila Prabhupada never took the tablets. He appeared determined not to take further medicines. (TkgD)

Srila Prabhupada was anxious for Swarup Damodar's return, which occurred today. The two spoke at length about the arrangements for the scientific conference starting tomorrow. Srila Prabhupada asked for Kirtanananda, who stated during the discussions: "Srila Prabhupada, even the astrologers all say that you are transcendental, that if you want, you can change your horoscope. And that's what you told us, that Krishna said the choice is up to you."

Srila Prabhupada soon replied, "So something to eat. What shall I eat?" Swarup Damodar reviewed some of the guests he had lined up to speak at the conference, and Srila Prabhupada was very pleased, saying, "…arrange for such conference one after another, many… Do something for that before my departure. I can see something." Srila Prabhupada asked about the prasadam standard, concerned about the coming guests.

Tamal: I personally feel that the prasadam here at lunchtime is some of the nicest prasadam I have eaten ever.

Srila Prabhupada: So kindly maintain this standard. That is very important item. I am not eating (AK1), but I am hearing (laughter) and getting the appetite. (Con)

            Late in the afternoon, Puri Maharaj, Ashrama Maharaj, Ananda Prabhu and a group of other Gaudiya Vaishnavas came to visit Srila Prabhupada. "They talked and sang for Srila Prabhupada, and even massaged his body." The public defeat by Hansadutta of Dr. Kavoor in Ceylon was relished, and when Puri Maharaj asked how Kavoor could be called a "doctor,"Srila Prabhupada told a joke. (Con)

            "A bridegroom was selected. So, the other party, bride's party, they inquired how the bridegroom was quite qualified. So they said, "He's a doctor." Then they inquired, "What kind of doctor? Doctor of philosophy, doctor of medicine, or…?" So he said, "No, no, no. He's not all these nonsense. He's a big doctor." What is that? "Conductor." (laughter) (Con)

            Srila Prabhupada asked for his godbrothers forgiveness for any offenses he might have committed, saying He was maha-patita(most fallen). His guests immediately protested, saying, "No. You are maha-patita-pavana (deliverer of the most fallen)." (Con) Puri Maharaj said, "Your body is divine. You are fully conscious. Tirtha Maharaj was unconscious for fifteen days in the hospital. This is the symptom of your divinity."(TkgD)

            Tamal showed the guests the standard photo package of ISKCON preaching around the world, and then sumptuous prasadam was served. Later, Tamal spoke to Srila Prabhupada: "At noontime you seemed to be getting a little taste (AK20). Did you have a little? You said gradually." Srila Prabhupada replied, "And now… Just now, I have no taste (AK20)." Tamal: "So I don't think there is any problem. I mean, what you ate today was more than I saw you eat in three months, Srila Prabhupada. You ate a Love Feast today." Srila Prabhupada asked that the Persian sweet lemons be saved aside to make juice whenever He desired some. Then He asked, "Where is Kirtanananda? He is annoyed?" Tamal laughed (Con), knowing that Kirtanananda was upset about Srila Prabhupada's refusing allopathic medicines and breaking the regimen he had prescribed. Later in the day, Srila Prabhupada took some sandesh. (TkgD)
Tamohara dasa ADMIN. May 8, 2015 5:01

Paramananda came to say farewell, as he was returning to the USA tomorrow. Dhristadyumna introduced his architect brother, Bill: "He's helping us to design the community plan for the small village and the temple… to help set up an ideal Vedic community." Srila Prabhupada said, "Keep always engaged yourself in Krishna activity." At 9:30 PM Srila Prabhupada asked for two teaspoons of glucose. Swarup Damodar explained that conference guests were arriving for tomorrow's conference, and that already there were suggestions and support for a Bhaktivedanta Institute in Delhi or Bombay. (Con)

Kirtanananda asked if Srila Prabhupada wanted to take the urine pills. Srila Prabhupada said, "No. That much, warm glucose, that much, and nothing more possible. You don't increase or decrease… And preserve those sweet lemon…And chant Hare Krishna." Tamal asked, "Should we have some chanting now, Srila Prabhupada?"

Srila Prabhupada: Yes, chanting twenty-four hours. (Con)

Srila Prabhupada seemed determined to decline any medications, wanting glucose and sweet lemon juice only as medication. (TkgD)

(Con:35.213-241; TkgD.257-265)

OCTOBER 14: Upon awakening, Srila Prabhupada called for Pishima and asked her to chant Nrsinghadeva mantras over Him while massaging His chest. Srila Prabhupada, confined to His bed, had two paintings put at the foot of the bed, one being Krishna Balarama, the other Radha and Krishna. Amazingly, in the morning, the first urine for ten hours turned out to be once again clear and free of blood. (TkgD)

            Srila Prabhupada inquired about the conference, and Tamal gave a glowing report of the decorations, inaugural fire sacrifice, prasadam, and seating arrangements. The devotee scientists were dressed very formal and everyone wore badges.

Tamal: …if anyone else dared to do such a thing as this, to prove by science that life comes from life, it would be a very immature attempt… it would not have very much weight. But here they are coming face to face with people who are actually scientists, and they will not be able to deny our arguments. I think that your Guru Maharaj is very pleased with this program, Srila Prabhupada.

Srila Prabhupada: I have given the ideas. Now you give the shape.

Tamal: We want some more ideas also. You have to give enough ideas for at least 10,000 years.

Srila Prabhupada: (chuckles softly) (Con)

            The conference began a little late, but was well attended. Bhagatji had a lunch program at his house and he invited all the senior devotees, and Srila Prabhupada allowed Tamal to go as well. (Con) Atreya Rsi and Parivrajakacharya chanted for Srila Prabhupada for hours before returning to Tehran. Srila Prabhupada asked for and looked at a photo of Krishna Balaram for a long time, although Tamal had to show where Their lotus feet were due to Srila Prabhupada's very poor eyesight (A9). Throughout the day, Srila Prabhupada would ask for a spoonful or two of sacred Yamuna water while lying down. Later in the morning, a strong oil massage was given, and Srila Prabhupada preferred to take prasadam before His bath. "But unlike yesterday, he had no taste (AK20) and hardly ate anything." (TkgD)

Srila Prabhupada: Up-to-date gentlemen, they hate to come, Vrindaban. They know it is a place for gundas. Pandas means gundas Thugs). (laughter)

Tamal: But Srila Prabhupada, you are expert at preaching to the gundas… We were all gundas. I think that your coming to America was no less fearless than Lord Chaitanya when He went into the Jharikhanda forest to preach, Srila Prabhupada. In fact, we were worse than the animals that Lord Chaitanya had to deal with. At least an animal keeps to his nature… Animals you can expect something… (Con)

            While Srila Prabhupada was speaking with Bhavananda, He looked at him and said, "Just now I am forgetting your name. This is the position (A12)." Asked whether He would like to sometimes hear Bhagwatam rather than kirtan, Srila Prabhupada said Bhagwatam hearing was a little straining. Srila Prabhupada asked Bhakticharu to go and see Bonamali, the Vrindaban kaviraja who had cared for Srila Prabhupada last summer, and, explaining the current condition, see if he would come again. (TkgD)

            Swarup Damodar and the other devotee scientists came to report to Srila Prabhupada during a break in the conference. There did not seem to be much debate due to a lack of opposition speakers, but Dr. O.B.L. Kapoor's Mayavadi lecture was defeated very expertly by Madhava. Bhavananda noted that Srila Prabhupada had only taken 200 cc of liquid so far today, so Srila Prabhupada agreed to take some sweet lemon juice. A telegram arrived to report the results of the French week-long book distribution marathon. A total of over 25,000 hardcover Bhagavad Gitas! Srila Prabhupada then commented: "Yes. We do not want liberation. We want to serve the purpose of the Goswamis, in association with pure devotees. To stop birth and death is not our purpose. Tandera carana sebi bhakta sane bas, janame janame hoy ei abhilas." (Con)

            About 5:30 PM, Srila Prabhupada asked Hari Sauri whether He should start taking some milk tomorrow, but Hari Sauri discouraged the idea out of fear for the mucus (A3). Srila Prabhupada again said He could not taste anything (AK20).Hari Sauri asked if He would like soup and vegetable juices, and the answer was: "Cannot take. No taste (AK20)." Thus Srila Prabhupada would not eat because to do so was very unpalatable (AK20). The devotee scientists again came to see Srila Prabhupada while the visiting scientists were in the evening temple services. Five radio and newspaper reporters had come, and the first day of the conference was deemed a success. (Con)

            After 8:30 pm, Upendra said: "Whatever you say, Srila Prabhupada, is being recorded, and then Tamal Krishna and Hari Sauri, they're all busy copying down, rewriting into their diaries, because your words are so nectarine."

Srila Prabhupada said, "Where is…? What is his name? Come from Mayapur (A12)." A second time, Srila Prabhupada could not remember Bhavananda's name. (Con)

            Late in the evening, Pradyumna helped Tamal review with Srila Prabhupada the Delhi astrological report once again but in much greater detail, and Srila Prabhupada asked what was the predicted "fatal" day. The indications from September 1977 through April 1978 were all very negative, as were the prashna chart and annual chart. Disease, ineffective medicine, hospitalization, and no recovery were indicated. The recommendation was for japa and havana.

Srila Prabhupada: So this japa, maha-mantra japa, and Bhagawat patha, that I am doing.

Tamal: And you should try to drink and eat whenever you have a little desire… You shouldn't try to fast until death.

Srila Prabhupada: No. That is useless. Do you recommend that?

Tamal: No, definitely not… You shouldn't artificially fast or stop eating.

Srila Prabhupada: No, no. That is suicidal.(Con)

Then Srila Prabhupada instructed Pradyumna to start reading from the Bhagwatam "from the point where I have stopped," and with Jayadwaita, He again resumed His translation work. Srila Prabhupada told Upendra to keep the honey close by and, miraculously, began translating and composing purports to the Bhagwatam while lying prostate in bed. Srila Prabhupada asked Pradyumna to sit on the bed because "I cannot hear properly (A14)," and Tamal brought out a flashlight (A1) for Pradyumna. Tamal held the tape recorder, and word for word translations were followed by commentary of the verse. Srila Prabhupada said to go slowly, and asked for discussion, and then expert editing. (Con) "We gathered around Prabhupada's bedside, as he gave the immortal nectar of Bhagwatam at the point of death. We were reminded of Krishna das Kaviraja who, on the request of the Vaishnavas, completed Chaitanya Charitamrita despite so many physical disabilities." (TkgD)

Satsvarupa Goswami, "visiting secretary to Srila Prabhupada," wrote to Ms. Anna Pashel of W. Los Angeles: "Out of your loving concern for Srila Prabhupada you have invited him to come to the US and go under the care of your physician. But now he has become too weak to travel. Be assured he is getting all medical advice, what is more important, personal care and prayers from his devotees. After so many doctors tried to prescribe cures for Srila Prabhupada and mostly failed, she (Pisima) has come and given Srila Prabhupada prasadam cooked by herself and it is the first solid food he has been able to eat in months." (Satsv. letter)

(TkgD.265-8; Con:35.242-274)

OCTOBER 15: During the previous night Srila Prabhupada received massage with hot mustard oil from Rupanuga, and had asked that a special oil be prepared from smashed mustard seeds and camphor. Heated on a charcoal stove and applied all over the body with massage, it would warm and stimulate him. "If this rubbing goes on, I think I can eat." Srila Prabhupada said that by the devotees keeping His body fit, He could work, and He asked Bhagatji to bring a masseur to use the special oil. Bhagatji brought Nathiram from Vrindaban, who added some opium to the oil and proceeded with the massage treatment. Nathiram found a knot in the intestines and thought this was the reason there had been no hunger. "He applied a hot water bottle as well as neem leaves to keep the heat." Bonamali came and checked the pulse, saying it was good and that there was only weakness (AK5), no complaint in the body. Srila Prabhupada asked Pishima to make chana dal, a soup. Srila Prabhupada could not even click the button for the dictaphone (A20); He has almost no body left. (TkgD; ISK 70.331-2)

            In the morning Tamal observed that Srila Prabhupada's urine was "very colored again (AK16)." Tamal explained to Srila Prabhupada that the cure to His disease was simply to drink sufficient liquids for cleaning out the "bodily poisons." "If you take no liquid, then it's very dangerous. You don't have to eat anything." Thus Srila Prabhupada agreed to drink a half cup every four hours or so. Tamal asked why Srila Prabhupada had been drinking so little the last few days, and Srila Prabhupada answered, "I cannot…" and coughed up mucus (A3). Tamal: "I don't think this milk should be given again… it has caused maybe this mucus (A3)." Srila Prabhupada could not hear very well at all, and Bhagavan had to say his name thrice before being recognized (A14). (Con)

            Navayogendra Swami came from Africa with many nice presentations and gifts, including a large silver cup and a sandalwood Deity of Krishna. Giriraj entered the room and presented Srila Prabhupada with a coat worn by the Sri Nathji deity, donated by the Maharaj of Udaipur. The Maharaj had converted a palace into a deluxe hotel, ordering 301 Bhagavad Gitas to put in the rooms. Giriraj and Tamal reviewed the current bank business of fund transfers out of the Vrindaban Punjab Bank to Bombay and Delhi. Srila Prabhupada said, "Hm? What is that pish-pish?", referring to some whispering in the room. Tamal and Giriraj were whispering about how they had been instrumental in the transfer of the local bank manager. (Con)

            Srila Prabhupada gave instructions about banking matters. "Very carefully deal, and as far as possible, don't keep money in the bank. Invest in books and expansion. That is my request. If you keep money, there will be so much trouble." Nathiram's massage was appreciated by Srila Prabhupada, who at one point complained of some pain in one hip. Jayapataka complained that one of his preaching parties had gone from Bihar to Bombay to Delhi to Vrindaban to try to find some books to distribute. This upset Srila Prabhupada and He repeatedly emphasized that the money in the bank should be converted into books. "Why depend on one printer? …arrange many printers. Never mind the price. Huge stock should be maintained. Why unnecessarily keeping in the bank? Hindi books can be distributed all over the world. Similarly Gujarati, and English to Australia. Why money should be kept in the bank?" (Con)

            Visvambhara offered his youth to Srila Prabhupada, Who said, "No… you live on."Visvambhara then asked that He stay and complete His Srimad Bhagwatam, and Srila Prabhupada responded, "That is my desire also."

Visvambhara: Will Krishna not fulfill your desire?

Srila Prabhupada: Oh, Krishna is independent.

Giriraj then read to Srila Prabhupada a prayer to Lord Krishna he had composed asking for Srila Prabhupada to receive a new body. Srila Prabhupada said, "Excellent… I am getting little glimpse. He may agree to your prayer, yes… Now stock books immediately. There is no question of becoming miserly. So why stock lacking? Why this mismanagement? I give you open order. Print more than necessity." When the discussion turned to the Bhubaneshwar temple, Srila Prabhupada again re-emphasized, "That construction is not so important as printing of books." (Con)

            After the second day of the Bhaktivedanta Institute conference, Swarup Damodar reported the program's success to Srila Prabhupada, who replied, "Yes. Make it an ideal institution." Srila Prabhupada could not see well, saying, "Who are you (A9)?" and the reply was, "Abhiram, Srila Prabhupada."

Srila Prabhupada: Massage.. There is oil?

Bhagwat: Dry the oil into the skin by rubbing.

Srila Prabhupada: Whose hand is cold?

Bhagwat: Oh. My hand. Bhagwat. I am sorry. I will not touch you. I am very cold.

Srila Prabhupada: (laughs) (Con)

            Bhagwat asked Srila Prabhupada if He had taken some of the dal and roti prasadam yesterday, and Abhiram said, "Just tasted."

Bhagwat: Oh. Just tasted.

Srila Prabhupada: Simply touch (AK1).

Bhagwat: How was it tasting?

Srila Prabhupada: It was very tasteful, but my tongue has no taste (AK20). Maybe gradually by stimulating the body…

A little later, Swarup Damodar translated Srila Prabhupada's Bengali, "Prabhupada says by activating his muscles, by massaging, that will generate energy. That will bring appetite (AK1)."(Con)

            Srila Prabhupada said that in spite of all their scientific advancement, the scientists could still not "capture the real thing," the soul. Then he told a story:

"When Socrates was condemned to death, the judges inquired that "How Mr. Socrates wants to be entombed?"… Socrates (said): "First of all capture me. Then to the question of entomb me." (Con)

            When the urine cleared up, Srila Prabhupada asked what it was that had caused the change. Upendra, Hari Sauri and Tamal then spent a long time discussing and speculating on various factors of the past few days. Hari Sauri simply thought that the Persian citrus drinks were too strong for the kidneys, causing the blood and pus to come out and make the urine cloudy (AK16). (Con)

            Tamal wrote to Vidyananda: "Srila Prabhupada is lying very ill in His bed and is being chanted to 24 hours a day…" (Archives)

            (Con:35.275-297; TkgD.268-270)

OCTOBER 16: At 3 am, Srila Prabhupada translated one Bhagwatam verse with a long purport. Beforehand, He had told Abhiram, "It is a nasty world. The only safety is to take shelter of Rama… When there are so many inconveniences. Very nasty world." At the end of the translation session, Srila Prabhupada instructed Pradyumna that he and his wife Arundhati should take great care to edit the translation and purport of one verse a day. Then Pradyumna said, "I think your commentary on Srimad Bhagwatam will go down in history as one of the best commentaries." Srila Prabhupada replied, "Let us try for that… In this way let us pull on. Fight between maya. Sit up for while and chant beads." (Con)

Srila Prabhupada's cough (A3) returned this morning, maybe due to a little milk He had drunk the day before. Srila Prabhupada took cough syrup and drank pomegranate juice with His gold straw, and was concerned about possible pneumonia (A3). Nathiram was now giving massage twice daily (AK8). Bonamali kaviraja analyzed Srila Prabhupada's very discolored urine (AK16) as due to a gonorrhea-type disorder which could possibly block the ureter completely, the urine containing semen. Srila Prabhupada had a lunch of vegetable broth and fruit paste. Lokanath Maharaj returned with Dr. G. Ghosh after tracing him all the way to Darjeeling and undergoing a grueling, bone-breaking journey back to Vrindaban. (TkgD)

Dr. G. Ghosh examined Srila Prabhupada, asking many questions and giving many instructions. There had been no bowel movement for six days (A13) and daily glucose and salt enemas were recommended. The previous urinalysis report was not available, but Tamal said "It will just be coming. Just coming." Dr. Ghosh then went to bathe in his quarters at the guesthouse. Lokanath Swami told Srila Prabhupada that Dr. Ghosh liked Him very much, and had dropped everything at once to come, even though his daughter had protested. Srila Prabhupada: "He is the only person remaining. Otherwise all my contemporary friends gone." (Con)

Upon returning, Dr. Ghosh stressed the importance of getting a new urinalysis and reducing the swelling (AK17). Dr. Ghosh thought that the citrus juices had not been responsible for the bloody and cloudy urine (AK16). He demonstrated the correct massage techniques to all those who did massages for Srila Prabhupada. The posture should be changed every hour or two; grape juice, some Horlicks, chana and some dahi. He opened the window for more oxygen and fresh air, saying less people should be in the room. Srila Prabhupada complained of coughing and mucus (A3), which Bhakticharu said resulted from as little as the 60 cc of milk taken last night. The car was readied and took Dr. Ghosh to obtain the urinalysis. (Con)

Abhiram sought Srila Prabhupada's permission to leave His service, turning over his responsibilities to Bhavananda and Satadhanya. (Abhiram)

            Satsvarupa Goswami's biography gives practically no details about Srila Prabhupada for the months of October and November save a few pages of philosophizing over His impending departure. Thus, coupled with the mid-October departure of Abhiram Prabhu, we are left to rely on the accounts within TKG's Diary and the Conversations Books.

            In the evening, Bharadvaj and Jayatirtha described to Srila Prabhupada the plans for a doll exhibit in either Washington or London. Srila Prabhupada was encouraging: "So you have made the outline first class. Now, if it is carefully done, at least in the Western country, it will be a very, very wonderful thing." (Con)

            (TkgD.270-2; Con:35.298-317)

OCTOBER 17: Dr. G. Ghosh stressed that reducing the number of persons in Srila Prabhupada's room would increase oxygen and decrease the spreading of germs, so the kirtan party moved into the next room. Srila Prabhupada met with Acyutananda Swami, who was on his way to preach in America. Govardhan came from Detroit and gave a report. Tamal took permission to bathe in the Yamuna, but Srila Prabhupada asked for him twice while he was gone, saying He felt alone (A11). Also, Upendra had been laid up with a cold. (TkgD)

Dr. Ghosh also found no problem with the liver or stomach, and asked Srila Prabhupada to eat more solids and lots of liquids. Pishima cooked many wonderful preparations such as puris and fried eggplant which Srila Prabhupada "ate very heartily. Dr. G. Ghosh gave vitamin C, B-complex and Lassix tablets." Dr. G. Ghosh brought a young doctor specialist, Dr. Gopal, from the local Ramakrishna Hospital. Dr. Gopal appeared very expert and was well mannered. Srila Prabhupada's pulse was 96 (AK24) and a full array of medications was prescribed for what was diagnosed as a serious chronic kidney infection (AK15). The two doctors agreed on this diagnosis. Dr. Gopal was better versed in the latest available medications, however. (TkgD.272-4)

The Conversations Books record the examination of Srila Prabhupada by Dr. Ghosh and Dr. Gopal and their recommendations. Excerpts are :

Bhavananda: He's been taking glucose in fruit juices. He hasn't taken today very much.

Dr. Ghosh: Every hour, a sip, sip. If he can't take at one time, let just him sip every half an hour a teaspoon. Otherwise it is very low.

Srila Prabhupada: Teaspoonful I can take. ******

Bhavananda: Would you like a blanket around you, Srila Prabhupada? (A7) (Around noon)

Dr. Ghosh: (indistinct)

Tamal: Urine, urine? To do what? Take blood pressure?

Dr. Ghosh: Stomach is all right. Liver is all right. So then only what have got to do is to eat. ******

Srila Prabhupada: I saw you yesterday.(? )

Dr. Gopal: I examined you yesterday.

Bhavananda: There's bad cough (A3) when he takes any milk. Give him very deep cough.(Con)

            Bhavananda discussed with the doctors about the prescribed medications, which could be all mixed together and given thrice a day.

Srila Prabhupada: So, what doctor says?

Bhavananda: I was just discussing with them. They've given a, a series of medicines. That one doctor, Dr. Gopal, said that you have a chronic kidney infection (AK15), and they both, Dr. Ghosh and Dr. Gopal, say it is very serious, that if it's not treated, that it could develop into uremia (AK15), which could be fatal. So he's given a whole group of medicines. However, the medicines can be combined. They say everything is functioning well, but the kidneys are not. Renial, they call it renial infection.

Tamal: Renal. Renal damage (AK15).

Bhavananda: Chronic. And Dr. Gopal, just like all the other doctors, both Ayurvedic and allopathic, they all insist that you have to take more liquid. They said you should measure how much you pass urine today. Say you pass 250 cc's of urine. That means tomorrow you should take that amount plus 400 more in liquid. Each day.

Tamal: Always 400 more than the urine passed.

Bhavananda: …You should take any sort of liquid- milk, juices, water, anything. He also said that you have to take rich protein foods. Milk, curd, chana, Proteinex, fruits, juices…

******

Tamal: Bhagatji says that this Dr. Gopal is the best doctor in Mathura district. Very, very expert doctor, he said. He seemed pretty competent.

Bhavananda: Everyone… All the doctors agree that your liver and digestion, spleen, is all in good working order.

Tamal: And also the blood pressure is normal. It's 130.

Bhavananda: But he said that your pulse is so weak that every 18 beats it skips a beat, misses (AK23), because you're in such weakened state.

Tamal: But he was hopeful in general.

Srila Prabhupada: So do it. (Con)

            Lassix tablets and hydrogen peroxide mouthwash were not approved by Dr. Gopal, and Dr. Ghosh subsequently agreed. Thus the program was outlined: a mixture of medicines three times a day, more liquids and more nutrition. In the midst of all the medical hub-hub, Srila Prabhupada discussed with Tamal and Giriraj a final opening date of December 29 for the Bombay temple, using a few local brahmanas instead of a whole troupe of fifteen or more South India brahmanas. (Con:35.318-326)

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