NOVEMBER 6: Srila Prabhupada asked Tamal at 3 AM to read the Bhaktivedanta Swami Charity Trust document to Him, and an error was found, which Giriraj corrected the same day at the registrar's office (the word Swami had been omitted in error). "Srila Prabhupada sat up for bathing his face; but in the middle of bathing, he had to lie down, he was so weak (AK5). When it was time for him to eat, he said he could no longer sit up; however, he would (be able to) take very little prasadam while lying down. We could understand Prabhupada's condition was becoming very serious, that unless we did something immediately, Prabhupada would soon stop eating altogether." Thus Satadhanya and Bhakticharu were sent to Mathura to call Adridharana for bringing the Calcutta kaviraja immediately. The phone in Vrindaban had been disconnected for over a week due to an unpaid bill. Adridharana was reached. Later in the day, Tamal and Bhavananda were able to convince Srila Prabhupada to continue taking the medicine and drinking liquids until Sastriji arrived. (TkgD.329)
Conversations Book 36.315-331:
Srila Prabhupada: Wherever you kept, keep, I shall remain. The institution depends on the GBC.
Tamal: Yes. I think that the time that you always were looking forward to- of the GBC managing things- has come, and that if you can survive, then you can simply be free to translate… (and) chant.
Srila Prabhupada: Yes.
Tamal again summarized for Srila Prabhupada the plan for dealing with His health crisis. They would follow Sastriji's treatment for some more days, then when Sastriji returned from Calcutta, it might be time to start the strength-giving medicine if the kidneys and liver are sufficiently restored. Then Srila Prabhupada might be able to go to Mayapur, and if the medicine was not effective, they would fall back on hari-nama medicine. Meanwhile, Tamal observed, Srila Prabhupada's liquid intake and urine have recently doubled. Srila Prabhupada responded: "There is no alternative." (Con)
Tamal: No. There's no alternative. There's no question of going to any more kavirajas. This is the last one. He's the best we've found, and if his medicine doesn't work, then let us simply depend on Krishna… We're all praying to take some disease from you. We're all praying to take over your disease on us.
Srila Prabhupada: What is that sound?
Tamal: That's one of the brahmacharis shaking out the dust in the rugs. In my office we have some rugs, so he takes them outside and shakes them. He's a nice brahmachari, young boy from the Gurukula, from Mexico. (Con)
AUTHOR'S COMMENT: It is this Mexican Gurukula boy that is the same Bhaktavatsala das who overheard up to 8 senior disciples discussing about the poisoning of Srila Prabhupada. See Chapter 12. END COMMENT
Then Tamal goes on: "So I think it's nice that he (Sastriji's local assistant) comes. There should be someone with a little bit of knowledge who we can consult each day. He may not be as expert as the Calcutta kaviraja. Still, he is more expert than we are. And he was appointed by the Calcutta kaviraja to come and check up on you and see how you are doing, see if there were any side effects. The real question is that your kidney (AK15) and liver (A18) should be getting better. There's no doubt that you're getting weaker now. That I can see. I've never seen you this weak."
Srila Prabhupada: Very weak (AK5). I sit up, oh, everything…
Tamal: Finished. No, I could see that when you were sitting up, everything was becoming dislocated…(A19) You can't sit up very much… (Con)
Thereafter, Srila Prabhupada did not want to be sat up for drinking any more. He would drink what He could while lying down, although Tamal observed that it would be difficult for Srila Prabhupada to drink as much as He had been while lying down. Bhakticharu, Bhavananda and Tamal then tried to get Srila Prabhupada to drink more than the mere 50 cc of barley water that Srila Prabhupada had taken. Srila Prabhupada: "No more… I cannot." (Con)
Tamal: It's difficult. This means you will stop practically getting any nourishment at all now. So then we should call the Calcutta kaviraja. Prabhupada's not being able to maintain his program. So we'll call the kaviraja from Calcutta, Srila Prabhupada, because now you are not able to keep up the program which he fixed up. And this other kaviraja, he can't do anything this difficult. Usually by this time (of the day) you've drank about 400 cc's of liquid or more. Today you haven't even drank 100 cc's yet. So in this way you will go back to about two or three weeks ago, when you were planning to depart…
Srila Prabhupada: What is the use of calling him?
Tamal: …the main problem you're feeling is that you have no strength.
Srila Prabhupada: So how he can give strength?
Tamal: …Just like makharadhvaja is for giving strength.
Srila Prabhupada: Makharadhvaja was not giving strength.
Tamal: No, that was not makharadhvaja. That kaviraja said that was not makharadhvaja. (Is Tamal confusing Bonamali's with Chandra Swami's makharadhvaja?)
Bhavananda: And he also said that in your condition now you can't take makharadhvaja.
Srila Prabhupada: I cannot take anything. I feel comfort only lying down. (Con)
Further discussion confirmed that Srila Prabhupada did not have the strength to drink more than just the little He would take, and that Sastriji should be called back from Calcutta at once to see what could be done to increase Srila Prabhupada's strength. Srila Prabhupada stated regarding His willpower to remain, "That strong desire has now disappeared." (Con)
Tamal: One thing is that this kaviraja's medicine has never had any adverse effects. Everybody else's medicine has had some adverse effects except for his… He did not say that the medicine he gave you would make you stronger… So what is the harm if we call him and let him give the medicine which he says will give you strength?… You are feeling hopeless… But as we are hopeful still… He is our last hope. We have to admit, if his medicine does not work, then we simply have to depend solely on Krishna… We also accept that if this kaviraja is not successful, then finish with all kavirajas and medicines... (break) *****
Tamal: Bhakticharu and Satadhanya have gone to Mathura, Srila Prabhupada, to call the Sastriji from Calcutta. (Con)
The assistant kaviraja came again, saying that the heartbeat had increased (AK24) a little. There was some confusion about the medicines.
Upendra: Did we give him medicine so far today?
Bhavananda: Yes.
Swarup Damodar: Which medicine?
Upendra: I don't know. Bhakticharu never writes which one it is.
Bhavananda: That one that you boil up.
Upendra: Oh. What's it say? It's the one you boil, cook for some time. Maybe he knows… It's the one you cook for some time.
Bhavananda: Where is the prescription? (Thank goodness, they knew what they were doing!)
Kaviraja assistant: (Hindi)
Swarup Damodar: He's saying that among those medicine, first one or second one has some ingredients that give some little strength… Actually Prabhupada rested very well from nine to two o'clock last night. (Hindi) Prabhupada said, 'No appetite (AK1).' (Con)
Tamal emphasized that Sastriji's treatment program should be followed strictly until the kaviraja arrived from Calcutta, thus enabling him to analyze the results of his medicines and treatment program. Srila Prabhupada agreed. Tamal said that Srila Prabhupada would only be inconvenienced for sitting up when it was time for eating or taking medicine, and then only briefly for a minute or so. In this way Srila Prabhupada would not be strained or discomfited.
Srila Prabhupada: If there is no appetite, how there will be strength? (Con)
When Upendra wanted to sponge-bathe Srila Prabhupada, he remarked that, "We can't use hot water." This was a regimen followed due to a particular health condition. Tamal said: "And we will not ask you to do anything exerting. Sometimes only Bhavananda and I will personally sit you up for a minute only to drink something. And then the kaviraja will be here very shortly. Then he can give the advice what to do. We simply want to give one try with this kaviraja. If it doesn't succeed, then we simply… I'll lock my office and we'll simply chant hari-nama. But as we are a little hopeful… (Con)
Bhagatji visited with Srila Prabhupada, and there was discussion about visiting Manipur devotees and a lecture Swarup Damodar was to give at Agra University. (Con)
(TkgD.329-332; Con:36. 324-331)
NOVEMBER 7: Sastriji arrived at 4 AM with Jayapataka Swami, who had accompanied him from Calcutta on an all-night sleepless journey. Jayapataka gave a report about Mayapur. "When we asked Prabhupada to drink, he retorted, "How can I drink? There is no thirst, no hunger (AK1, AK20). I cannot sit up." (TkgD.332-3)
"Prabhupada was becoming increasingly weaker, despite the medicine. The kaviraja said all organs, except for the kidneys (AK15), were all right. There was no blood, marrow, flesh or muscles (AK1)." Sastriji had decided to stay with Srila Prabhupada for the time being, even though he had patients dying back in Calcutta. (TkgD.332-3)
Jayapataka brought a champa flower garland, the sweet smell of which Srila Prabhupada was able to appreciate somewhat. Thus Tamal said that there must be some taste as well, so Srila Prabhupada agreed and asked for very thin dal (bean soup) and Gujarati rotis (flat bread). Vishnutattva and his wife, both Gujaratis, cooked the rotis, dal, mashed potatoes, dhaniya (coriander) and tomato chutney. Srila Prabhupada ate a little, complimented the cooks, and asked about malpoora. (TkgD.332-3)
Tamal writes: "Everything in Srila Prabhupada's body was drying up. Although the kaviraja had high hopes, improvement would be slow, because Prabhupada's getting better would mean that he would be perfectly well for ten years. At present, his body was unable to tolerate the really strong medicine because of the kidney trouble (AK15). Since the kaviraja wanted to see Srila Prabhupada every two or three days, he had to take him to Mayapur. If the medicine worked that was now being given, Prabhupada would be able to leave in one week; but he would have to go to Mayapur even if the medicine didn't work, because the kaviraja, wanting to see Prabhupada almost daily, was unable to remain in Vrindaban for three months." (TkgD.332-3)
Upon arrival early in the morning, Sastriji took note that Srila Prabhupada's swelling (AK17) was much less than before, and that there was no weakness in the heart. Tamal noted that since Sastriji had left, Srila Prabhupada had not gone on parikrama. Srila Prabhupada asked Jayapataka for a report on Mayapur. (Con:36.331-353)
Srila Prabhupada: "My lifetime… (laughs) It is now very brief. At any moment I can…"
Jayapataka: "We're all praying that Krishna will give your strength back."
The flight from Calcutta was delayed three hours, and Jayapataka and Sastriji had been up all night coming to Vrindaban through Delhi, so they then went to take rest. (Con:36.331-353)
Later Sastriji came to see Srila Prabhupada again, discussing Srila Prabhupada's diet with Bhakticharu and Tamal. Srila Prabhupada did not appear interested in eating rotis, dal or malpooras, but expressed interest in shrikand (thick sweet milk). Sastriji wanted to wait three more days before starting his strength-giving medicines. After some time, Tamal inquired from Srila Prabhupada as to how He was feeling. Srila Prabhupada replied to the negative, as again there were loose bowels (AK3).
Tamal: We'll bring that to his notice. Now that he's here, all of these things can be adjusted. Actually, Srila Prabhupada, he explains that because of the fact that you have not eaten for so many months, all of your inside has become dried up and shriveled, and therefore you cannot expect that you'll be healed very quickly. He says it will take time, but it can be done. (Con:36.331-353)
Satadhanya related that the bowel movements were small, once the previous morning and then this day in the afternoon. Tamal reassured Srila Prabhupada that the bowel movements were normal, although perhaps a botheration. While Tamal wrote letters in the next room, Srila Prabhupada rested while being attended by Satadhanya and Bhavananda. Pancadravida came and gave a report about Latin American preaching. Srila Prabhupada resisted sitting up to drink grape juice, wanting to simply stay lying down. Tamal returned later to report a number of points he discussed with Sastriji:
1. Srila Prabhupada was brought to him at the last possible moment; six months earlier would have made a cure so much easier.
2. The main problem was the kidneys (AK15), which were working, however, otherwise there would be no urine.
3. The medicine over the last week has been working to improve the kidneys, resulting in the increase of urine.
4. There is very little blood due to no eating for so long, resulting in great weakness and practically no muscles left.
5. Due to weakness, strong medicines must be avoided or given very gradually in small amounts, very carefully.
6. A new medicine was started today for making new blood, the effectiveness of which would be noted from the pulse, even if increased strength was delayed.
7. Sitting up to eat would strain the heart; better to eat while lying down.
8. Solid food was not necessary, and certain foods were restricted, such as ghee, dahi, malpoora.
9. Sastriji believed Srila Prabhupada's chances of full recovery were quite good if the treatment was followed for three or four months.
10. Sastriji had seen worse cases who survived, and would work very slowly with the treatment plan, encouraging Srila Prabhupada to keep up good spirits. (Con:36.331-353)
NOVEMBER 8: Sastriji found Srila Prabhupada to have a strong pulse, and said that in four or five days, Srila Prabhupada would be fit for parikrama. Sastriji recommended the wheat supplement, Horlicks, be resumed now. Sastriji worked very hard, being dedicated to the healing of Srila Prabhupada, and searched for five hours in the forests for specific herbs without success. The swelling (AK17) had increased by evening, and Srila Prabhupada had four bowel movements (AK3) and passed urine 14 times, a little each time (AK13). Srila Prabhupada observed, "I think I am feeling a little strength."A urinalysis report was returned from Dr. Gopal at the Ramakrishna Mission Hospital. There were much too many pus cells due to very poor kidney functioning (AK15), where blood was being converted into pus. This was a very serious situation; there was pain in the left kidney (AK15), but no kidney stones were detected. (TkgD.334-5)
After another discussion with Jayapataka and Tamal about the ISKCON preaching successes around the world, Sastriji again visited Srila Prabhupada, speaking in Hindi, translated by Bhakticharu or Swarup Damodar. Yesterday's report: 1000 cc's liquid taken, 475 cc of urine. Tamal noted that Srila Prabhupada's eyes felt better after being washed with rosewater (A8). Sastriji predicted that his new medicine would enable Srila Prabhupada to resume going on temple parikrama in about four or five days. Jagadish and Tamal related that the passing of urine was somewhat painful, and coming "in installments (AK13)." Bhakticharu noted that the distilled arak medicine for the kidneys (AK15) would need to be increased. The curtains were closed (A1) again, and Srila Prabhupada requested soft kirtan, taking rest. (Con:36.344-353: listed as Nov. 7)
NOVEMBER 9: "The kaviraja asked Srila Prabhupada how he was feeling this morning. Prabhupada said, "I want to die. Someone said I have been poisoned." I asked who said that; and Prabhupada answered, 'I do not know, but it is said.'" (TkgD)
A certain Balaram Mishra came and wanted to offer Tulasi leaves to Lord Narayan for Srila Prabhupada's health. Tamal read a report from Jitarati about preaching in China. "I asked Srila Prabhupada again about the poisoning. He explained, "These kind of symptoms are seen where a man is poisoned. Not that I am poisoned. I read something." I said, "We cannot allow anyone else to cook for you." Prabhupada agreed. I mentioned that one Sankaracharya had been poisoned. Prabhupada said, "My Guru Maharaj also." "You were so merciful," I stated. "You took prasadam cooked by so many different people." Prabhupada warned, "That should be stopped." (TkgD)
Tamal discussed with Srila Prabhupada about His family's stipend arrangements, and later, the project in Bombay. Srila Prabhupada signed the amendment to His will, which He could hardly see (A9), requiring Tamal to place His hand in the right spot. "At night, the kaviraja examined Srila Prabhupada and found the pulse to be very weak. Prabhupada has felt cold all day, asking to be covered by a quilt (A7). This condition was due to so little blood. Prabhupada's urine was very cloudy and brown (AK15). Though he has taken about 800 cc of liquid, much of it was in the form of medicine." (TkgD.335-8)
AUTHOR'S COMMENT See Chapter 16: Someone Has Poisoned Me, wherein we have two full translations of Bengali and Hindi conversations of Srila Prabhupada's last days wherein He Himself speaks of being poisoned. Herein we will provide a summary only. END COMMENT
Conversations Book 36.354: An acquaintance of Srila Prabhupada, Balaram Mishra, came with Sastriji to see Srila Prabhupada. Balaram Mishra asks if Srila Prabhupada recognized him since they had not met in a long time; Srila Prabhupada said yes. Then there was a conversation in Hindi.
Srila Prabhupada: Someone says that I've been poisoned. It's possible.
Kaviraja: What are you saying?
Srila Prabhupada: Someone says that someone has given poison.
Kaviraja: To whom?
Srila Prabhupada: To me.
Kaviraja: Who said?
Srila Prabhupada: All these friends.
Bhakticharu: Who said, Srila Prabhupada?
Srila Prabhupada: Everybody's saying it.
Kaviraja: Who would give you poison? Why would anyone do that?
Then, in English:
Tamal: Who said that, Srila Prabhupada?
Srila Prabhupada: I do not know, but it is said.
Then, in Hindi, Bhakticharu and Sastriji ask Srila Prabhupada whether some astrologer has caused Srila Prabhupada to feel that His life was ending. They then tried to encourage Srila Prabhupada, saying He would live another ten years. Then, still on Page 354, the conversation continues:
Srila Prabhupada: Uncut, yes.
Tamal: Okay.
Indian man: (Hindi)
Kaviraja: (Hindi) Maharaj, how did you say this, that someone has said that someone has poisoned you? Have you felt something?
Srila Prabhupada: (Hindi) No, not said, but when one is given poison, it happens like this. It's written in book.
Kaviraja: (Hindi) If you take raw mercury, it can happen, or several other raw things. But who would do such a thing to you? For a saintly person like you, even if someone thinks such a thing, then he is a demon.
Later, Tamal read a letter to Srila Prabhupada from Jitarati about China. After a pause, Conversations Book 36, page 359, Tamal brings up the poison subject again.
Tamal: Srila Prabhupada? You said before that you… that it is said that you were poisoned?
Srila Prabhupada: No. These kind of symptoms are seen when a man is poisoned. He said like that, not that I am poisoned.
Tamal: Did anyone tell you that, or you just know it from before?
Srila Prabhupada: I read something.
Tamal: Ah, I see. That's why actually we cannot allow anyone to cook for you.
Srila Prabhupada: That's good.
Tamal Krishna: Jayapataka Maharaj was telling that one acharya, Sankaracharya, of the Sankarachary line - this is a while ago - he was poisoned to death. Since that time, none of the acharyas or the gurus of the Sankaracharya line will never take any food cooked except by their own men.
Srila Prabhupada: My Guru Maharaj also.
Tamal Krishna: Oh. You, of course, have been so merciful that sometimes you would take prasada cooked by so many different people.
Srila Prabhupada: That should be stopped.
There is discussion about one of Srila Prabhupada's sons, who seems to think he is being cheated in the matter of his stipend and inheritance.
(TkgD.335-338; Con:36.354-363- shown as Nov.8 in error)
NOVEMBER 10: There was a discussion about Balaram Mishra and a temple that he wanted money from Srila Prabhupada to repair. "During Bhavananda's shift, Srila Prabhupada was very restless (A4). "Now it has become unbearable. Why am I suffering like this?" Srila Prabhupada threw off his covers. Bhavananda Maharaj asked, "Are you feeling some pain?" Prabhupada responded, "No, it is all mental (A12)." Bhavananda called for Sastriji and Tamal, and some medicine was quickly given that "immediately relieved the pain." Sastriji noted that Srila Prabhupada's "pulse was missing some beats (AK23). Privately, the kaviraja said to us that since last night, he has become hopeless about Prabhupada's condition." At noon Sastriji came to see Srila Prabhupada again. That morning he had spent hours in vain in the forests looking for special medicinal herbs. The pulse was 90 per minute, stronger than the 115 earlier that morning (AK24). Blood pressure was read as 140/75, which was very normal. "Now the heart was in order." Sastriji was amazed to witness the extraordinary fact that Srila Prabhupada was "suddenly able to become better." Sastriji went to Delhi to procure the medicines which he wanted to help Srila Prabhupada pass urine "all at one time, rather than in small amounts (AK13)." (Con:36.331-353)
Nitai Chand visited from Mayapur and spoke with Srila Prabhupada. However, the detail with which Tamal chronicles the conversation between Srila Prabhupada and Nitai Chand would almost lead us to believe there was a record of the conversation on tape, as it was lengthy and detailed. However, it is not included in the Conversations Books. "We asked Srila Prabhupada later what was the cause of his mental disturbance (A12). Prabhupada disclosed his thoughts that someone has poisoned him." (TkgD.338-340)
According to Tamal, it was now the morning of November 10, and Sastriji arrived and Bhakticharu noted that Srila Prabhupada's restlessness (A4) and pain were less than in the night. Later (Tamal says at noon), Sastri found the pulse to be stronger at 90 beats per minute. The blood pressure was normal, taken at 140/75. The color of stool indicated the liver was working, and Sastriji found the heart to be good, summarizing that pathologically there was nothing wrong and the general condition was good. (Con:36.363)
Then, on Tape 19 (of the last 20), Side B, the conversation continued:
Tamal Krishna: But what did Prabhupada just say?
Bhakticharu: Prabhupada just said that I mean, this morning his condition was bad, not now.
Bhavananda: Prabhupada was complaining of mental distress (A12) this morning also.
Bhakticharu: Srila Prabhupada?
Srila Prabhupada: Hm?
Bhakticharu: What was that all about, mental distress? (A12)
(Some noise)
Srila Prabhupada: Hm hm.
Kaviraja: Say it. Say it.
Srila Prabhupada: That same thing I said, that someone has poisoned me.
Bhakticharu: Accha. He's thinking...
Bhavananda: Hmm?
Kaviraja: Look, this is the thing, that maybe some rakshasa gave him poison...
Bhakticharu: He's saying that someone gave him poison.
Kaviraja: It is possible some demon has given it. It is not impossible. Just like Sankaracharya was poisoned over six months with powdered glass, etc. But the poisoner after twelve months got leprosy… one has to suffer one's karma. But whatever medicine I've given will counteract either the effect of bad planets or poison on the body. Now we cannot catch who may have poisoned. And if his kidneys are bad from disease, curse or poison, my medicine will counteract.
Tamal Krishna: Prabhupada was thinking that someone had poisoned him.
Bhakticharu: Yes.
Tamal Krishna: That was the mental distress. (A12)
Bhakticharu: Yes.
Kaviraja: If he says that, there must be some truth to it. There's no doubt.
Tamal Krishna: What did Kaviraja just say?
Bhakticharu: He said that when Srila Prabhupada is saying that, there must be something truth behind it.
Tamal Krishna: Tssh.
Jayapataka: What did the Kaviraja say about Sankaracarya?
(People all speaking at once)
Bhakticharu: Someone gave him some poison powdered glass...
Tamal Krishna: Srila Prabhupada, Sastriji says that there must be some truth to it if you say that. So who is it that has poisoned?
(PAUSE: 13 seconds: Srila Prabhupada never answered Tamal )
Kaviraja: The strongest poison is mercury.
Bhakticharu: …which was given to him [Prabhupada]
Kaviraja: No, no. Swamiji, did you read about Svarupa Guha? In Calcutta.
Bhakticharu: He known nothing of this. He has never heard.
Kaviraja: The husband poisoned the wife, gave a dose of raskapoor. There is no medicine for it.
Bhakticharu: Mercury was in the makharadhvaja.
??: Before that.
Kaviraja: No, no. Not that mercury. Another form of mercury.
Bhavananda: What did he say?
Bhakticharu: He's saying that it is quite possible that mercury, it's a kind of poison...
Tamal Krishna: That makharadhvaja.
Bhakticharu: No, he's saying not that.
Kaviraja: It is very poison.
Bhakticharu: Makharadhvaja aisha hota hai, kya?(Translation unavailable)
Bhavananda: What was he taking, Prabhupada?
Kaviraja: Makharadhvaja is like nectar, although not suitable for him. But that (raskapoor) is poison for everybody.
Bhavananda: What medicine was he taking before that?
Bhakticharu: Kon sa (?)
Bhavananda: Jagen (?)
Bhakticharu: (repeating Bhavananda) (?)
Kaviraja: Kuch nahin. (No translation available)
Bhakticharu: He was referring to a case, a big murder case, in Calcutta. The husband poisoned the wife...
Bhavananda: Guha, yes.
Kaviraja: Swarupa Guha, ami uska case... (No translation available)
Bhakticharu: Sankar Das Banerjee.
Bhavananda: Oh, yes. Our lawyer is the...
Tamal Krishna: Bhagatji doesn't think...
Kaviraja: But his [Prabhupada's?] body is such that it is like a thunderbolt. You can beat it a thousand times, but nothing will happen.
Bhakticharu: When the Lord protects, just like Prahlad Maharaj…
Kaviraja: Swamiji. I know a Sanskrit verse about this: 'Without protection, one remains fixed if protected by fate, whereas one who protects himself but is condemned by fate is destroyed. Without a protector, one person can live carelessly alone in the forest, whereas another takes all precautions in his home, and still dies.' You know this truth, Maharaj, so don't be afraid.
Tamal Krishna: No poison is strong enough to stop the Harinam, Srila Prabhupada.
Kaviraja: Don't doubt Meera drank so much poison; one drop could have killed, but because it was the Lord's prasad, nothing happened to her. Even poison when offered to the Lord becomes nectar.
Unknown: Prahlad Maharaj.
Bhakticharu: Prahlad Maharaj.
Kaviraja: More than Prahlad, Meera was given such strong poison.
Srila Prabhupada: [sighs, breathes]
Kaviraja: In allopathic medicine there are some poisons that nobody can recognize the taste of.
Tamal Krishna: You want some more kirtan Srila Prabhupada? Lokanath can lead. Lokanath, you lead! (Con:36.367-368- shown as Nov.8)
Tamal wrote to Jitarati in Hong Kong: "…So this is the fourth time that Srila Prabhupada has told me to forget about preaching in China. You may stay there and do as you like, but I will not go to China. I have my directions from Srila Prabhupada, so I cannot disobey them." (Archives)
AUTHOR'S COMMENT: This reporter received information that a Hindi speaking devotee had listened to the "poison tape" and very clearly heard Srila Prabhupada speaking in Hindi to the kaviraja: "Yes, they are trying to poison me; Krishna appeared to me in a dream and told me this." This is not verified - Hindi speakers please confirm. END COMMENT
Bhakticharu Swami, in an interview with this reporter, said that after Srila Prabhupada said He was being poisoned, the devotees discussed this statement, after which Tamal asks Srila Prabhupada who it is who is poisoning Srila Prabhupada. Bhakticharu Swami said this was the end of the matter, and he cannot explain why the matter was not pursued and settled. He believes it is unfortunate that the matter was not raised with Srila Prabhupada again so that there would be no questions about the matter today. He also stated that if there was some foul play, of which he had no knowledge, it could have happened through Srila Prabhupada's kitchen, which was completely unguarded. Anyone could have easily tampered with Srila Prabhupada's food or cooking ingredients. (Interview)
NOVEMBER 11: Early in the morning, Srila Prabhupada spoke with Bhavananda and Giriraj. Calling for Tamal, He said: "I am not getting strength. Even to lift my leg, I need help. Practically my left leg is not working (A20). What should be done now, you consider." Tamal called for Sastriji, who then recommended milk, but not yogurt. Yesterday Sastri had gone to Delhi and consulted Sri Ramduttji, whom he considered the best kaviraja in India. Ramduttji, a specialist in kidney and heart problems, said that Srila Prabhupada's "disease could definitely be cured and that the most immediate necessity was to increase his strength (AK5). For that purpose, milk was very important." Sastri told Srila Prabhupada that he would "give medicine to control the cough (A3) and the passing of stool (AK3). The kaviraja said that he was not afraid of the disease, rather of Prabhupada's weakness." Sastri asked Srila Prabhupada for his cooperation for one week, saying he would cure Him by then, and that He could go to Mayapur in 15 days if He took the medicines he was prescribing. Srila Prabhupada noted that there was very little space in His stomach; Sastri advised eating a little bit many times. Srila Prabhupada complained that devotees were avoiding Him, so more devotees began to stay in His room at all times. (TkgD.340-348)
TKG's Diary says Lokanath Swami did not arrive until the 11th, but according to the Conversations Books Tamal asks him to lead kirtan at the end of the mental distress/ poison conversation which Tamal shows as being on the 10th. Thus we believe Lokanath arrived on the 10th. Lokanath explained to Srila Prabhupada that, "we just had a big kirtan, but I could chant some more. I have come a long way to see you and chant for you. So if you allow I will chant." Srila Prabhupada said, "Yes." Then there is a break in the recording. As best we can piece things together, Lokanath returned sometime the next day, as Tamal verifies, to give book distribution and preaching reports as well as talk about his trip to Badarinath. This is recorded on pages 368-9 as November 8, but is assumed to be November 11. Lokanath then left the room, but Tamal says Srila Prabhupada called Lokanath back and asked him to return at 4 o'clock, presumably in the afternoon of the 11th. We thus list the event of Srila Prabhupada proposing Vrindaban parikrama as taking place on November 11, as does TKG's Diary. (TkgD, Con)
TKG's Diary notes that Srila Prabhupada said, "Lokanath, I want to discuss something very important with you. What time is convenient?" Four o'clock was set as the time to meet, but shortly thereafter, Srila Prabhupada called for Jayapataka and Bhavananda Maharajs, and spoke of going on parikrama. (TkgD)
Conversations Book: We read that Srila Prabhupada proposed that He be taken on pilgrimage to various holy places, camping at night and cooking outdoors. Srila Prabhupada did not want to expire in His room, locked up, and said: "I wish that you GBC manage very nicely and consider I am dead and let me travel all the tirthasthana, without any responsibility… You have tried doctor, kaviraja, medicine, everything. Everything has failed. Now suppose I am taking the risk of death (by going on parikrama), what is wrong?… I have bequeathed, properly you can manage. Hm. It is to be admitted failure, the so-called medical treatment, failure… All seriously consider this submission and let me go." Thus Srila Prabhupada seemed to reject the attempts to restore His health and to go on a final parikrama. Bhavananda seemed to think this would happen after Srila Prabhupada recovered; Jayapataka expressed concern for Srila Prabhupada's health; Hansadutta and Giriraj approved of the plan. (Con:36.369-372)
The devotees left Srila Prabhupada's room to discuss the parikrama proposal. Lokanath left for Mathura to find a suitable bullock cart for hire, while some discussed how to dissuade Srila Prabhupada from going on parikrama in a cart, thinking it would jeopardize His frail life. Then the devotees return to Srila Prabhupada for more discussion. On page 373, Conversations Book 36 (Tape 19), during this discussion, there are found in the background a series of extraordinary and incriminating whispers. These whispers have been forensically analyzed and verified as to their content. Srila Prabhupada said, "Hm. (pause) You make me flat." During the pause someone slowly and emphatically whispers, "Push real hard, it's going down him. The poison's going down." (Con, CAE)
AUTHOR'S COMMENT: The phrase "The poison's going down" is probably the most audible and clear of all the controversial "poison tape" whispers, and almost anyone can hear it very clearly. Naveen Krishna in Florida has been regularly bringing devotees into a sound studio to listen to these whispers. Invariably his guests are shocked by the clarity and content of what they hear. END COMMENT
Then the recorder is turned off and later, back on. Jayapataka talks about Srila Prabhupada's dream. Srila Prabhupada replied, "No no, he's sincere. I'll drink milk. Whatever strength is obtainable, there will be." In the middle of His statement, there are undecipherable whispers. Jayapataka then said, "Like to follow the same treatment, only while traveling." Then follows the whisper which sounds like, "Is the poison in the milk?" A few minutes later, at 1:30 PM, Bhakticharu gives Srila Prabhupada something to drink, which Srila Prabhupada said was too sweet after Bhakticharu asked if it was too hot (only milk is hot; not juices or water). Was there poison in Bhakticharu's milk? (Con, Blackwell, Balavanta, Perle)
BBT Tape 46 side A,: page 373, provides the exact whisper locations:
Bhavananda: We should begin the parikrama in Vrndavana.
Srila Prabhupada: Yes.
Bhavananda: Because quite honestly, Srila Prabhupada, I think most of us are very worried. If you go off down the road and send us all back to our different assignments, we would not be able to serve with our full attention, knowing that our beloved father and spiritual guide was in such weak condition. So if we begin in Vrndavana, we're all here now, we can see so that we know what arrangements to make for the future when you want to leave.
Srila Prabhupada: Hm. You make me flat. (break) (Whisper: Push real hard. The poison's going down. (Giggle) Poison's going down.)
Jayapataka: We heard that Your Divine Grace had a dream that a kaviraja of the Ramanuja-sampradaya would treat you and bring you back to strength, and this kaviraja says that in a very short time, following the treatment, you would regain your strength. Although he hasn't got all of the medicines yet, but within a day or two they'll all be prepared, and he says within fifteen days you should be quite improved in strength. So far, he seems to have been quite sincere.
Srila Prabhupada: No, no, he's sincere. I'll drink milk. Whatever strength is obtainable, there will be.
Jayapataka: Like to follow the same treatment, only while traveling.
(Whisper: Is the poison in the milk? )
Hamsadutta: So we should meet and make a program for going around Vrndavana.
Srila Prabhupada: Yes.
Hamsadutta: You want to begin tomorrow morning?
Srila Prabhupada: Yes.
Page 374:
Tamala Krishna: You sound like you are very determined to go, Srila Prabhupada.
Srila Prabhupada: Day time we expose in the sunshine, and (Whisper: Poison's (?) going down..) camp underneath a tree at night. That has to be arranged.
Bhakti-caru: Srila Prabhupada, shall I offer you some milk now?
Srila Prabhupada: Yes, give a little hot.
(Srila Prabhupada drinks milk)
Bhakti-caru: Is it hot enough?
Srila Prabhupada: It's too sweet.
Bhakti-caru: Please wipe you hand, Srila Prabhupada.
Srila Prabhupada: Inaudible.
Bhakti-caru: Would you like a little water, Srila Prabhupada? You don't want to drink water?
Srila Prabhupada: No.
Then Tamal asked Srila Prabhupada if the devotees in the room could go to take lunch prasadam and return at four o'clock to discuss the parikrama plans. It was agreed Lokanath would also come to the afternoon meeting to organize parikrama starting the next day, the 12th. (Con)
Conversations Books: The devotees return to Srila Prabhupada's room. Tamal said, "Spiritually he (kaviraja) is in complete agreement. So from a medical point of view, he said that you would not at all be able to withstand this kind of trip. He said that in a bullock cart, moving around, bumping on the road, you might not be able to live more than a couple of hours. He's here now. He wanted to speak to you." The kaviraja discouraged the parikrama idea, and Tamal, Bhavananda and Swarup Damodar tried to dissuade Srila Prabhupada also, deeming it too strenuous an endeavor. Srila Prabhupada proposed to experiment by doing a shorter, local Vrindaban parikrama, one that would be a two hour fast walk or, by bullock cart, maybe five to six hours. Srila Prabhupada then asked that His godbrothers Krishna das Babaji and Indumati be brought from Madhava Maharaj's mandir. (Con:36.75-378)
Conversations Books: After a break in the recording:
Tamal: This seems like suicide, Srila Prabhupada, this program. It seems to some of us like it's suicidal."
Srila Prabhupada: And this is also suicidal. (Why is it suicide to stay?)
Tamal: Hm. Prabhupada said, "And this is also suicide." Now you have to choose which suicide.
Srila Prabhupada: The Ravana will kill and Rama will kill. Better to be killed by Rama. Eh? That Maricha, if he does not go to mislead Sita, he'll be killed by Ravana; and if he goes to be killed by Rama, then it is better. (Con:36.378-380)
What is meant by Srila Prabhupada's comparison about staying in His room would be suicide, like being killed by Ravana, is not known. Some have opined that this indicates Srila Prabhupada knew He was being poisoned, so why not die on parikrama? (Comment)
Tamal explained that Srila Prabhupada was beginning to show improvement from Sastri's treatment, and that Sastri thought Srila Prabhupada would get a heart attack within an hour or two from the rough road on a parikrama. Srila Prabhupada then stated that the parikrama would cure Him. Hansadutta thus observed: "…we have to consider whether Srila Prabhupada's opinion is more or less than the kaviraja's…" In the middle of page 380, while Sastriji is speaking Hindi, someone who sounds much like Tamal is heard whispering, "We know he's trying to trap us." And also, "He's as sly as they come." Then Tamal said, "We're voicing different opinions…", which was previously and erroneously thought to say "Put poison in different containers."(Con: 36.378-380, CAE)
Lokanath returned to inform Srila Prabhupada that he had found a bullock cart in Mathura for 100 rupees, which would be coming that night at 11 o'clock, ready for going at 5 AM in the morning. (Con:36.380)
Then Srila Prabhupada discussed with many senior devotees how the Vrindaban bullock cart parikrama program would be organized. (Con:36.381-389)
Srila Prabhupada's godbrother Krishna das Babaji came later in the evening, who spoke with Srila Prabhupada convincingly about not going on a parikrama (TkgD.347).
Another whisper is found on Conversations Book 36, page 391, just after Jayapataka asked, "Should there be kirtana, Srila Prabhupada? You like kirtan?" There is a Bengali phrase, then, in the background, Jayapataka stated, "Poisoning for a long time…" Srila Prabhupada, sounding surprised, asked, "To me?" Then another voice said, "That's really original." Next, Jayapataka states, "Get ready to go." Some devotees have reported that they hear: "Take it easy, get ready to go," then a few seconds later, "The poison's in you Srila Prabhupada." Then they hear, "He's going under... He's going under." Then we all can hear Hansadutta's kirtan begin. Then there is a break in the recording. (Con, CAE, VNN)
There is no surety, indeed there is substantial doubt, as to the chronological integrity of these tape recordings. It has already been demonstrated in numerous instances how the recordings were "time-line" jumbled as much as several days. Whether "poisoning for a long time " was spoken on November 11 or late on November 13 when Srila Prabhupada entered a coma is anyone's guess. But it certainly is very possible, considering the content of these whispers and the verified fact of previous chronological disparities of tape recordings in 1977. (Comment)
Next on the tape, Tamal and Bhavananda both pleaded with Srila Prabhupada not to go on the parikrama, and Srila Prabhupada relented. "All right… I cannot refuse your request… No, no, I cannot put you in anxiety… So I shall do what you like… Lefthand, righthand. I cannot refuse." Thus it was decided that devotees would take the bullock cart on Vrindaban parikrama the next day on Srila Prabhupada's behalf. (Con:36.391-2) Tamal said, in relief: "Actually, Srila Prabhupada, we're so much attached to you that you practically drive us to madness sometimes. Tonight we were becoming mad." (Con:36.393) Tamal encouraged Srila Prabhupada to continue to follow the kaviraja's treatment, as already Srila Prabhupada was taking a half kilo of milk with no stool, no mucus or adverse effects. Srila Prabhupada called for the kaviraja, who had been very disappointed at the prospect of Srila Prabhupada's parikrama. Srila Prabhupada spoke very kindly to him. Srila Prabhupada had taken 500 cc of milk. (Con:36.394)
Tamal relates: "Tomorrow, he (kaviraja) will give medicine for building muscles. The next day, he wants to go to Jaipur for medicine. For now the kaviraja was giving medicine made from crushed pearls and will be giving crushed emeralds later, which are even more powerful than crushed diamonds." (TkgD.348)
Srila Prabhupada told the joke about a professor from Scottish Churches College who would say "juty" instead of "duty." Srila Prabhupada asked that the "left corner of the waist" be briskly massaged. It was arranged that Krishna das Babaji and Bon Maharaj would be picked up by car to come for prasadam on Sunday evening, two days hence (the 13th). (Con:36.395-8)
We read that the kaviraja came again to see Srila Prabhupada, who admits to feeling stronger. Bhakticharu said, "He's saying that Prabhupada's pulse is ninety, which is normal, and he gave three other medicines for Prabhupada's heart. That missing beat (AK23) that Prabhupada was having- that's no more there… he hasn't seen a body like Srila Prabhupada's. In one moment it is very critical, and the next moment it's in perfect order. And he is now absolutely confident that Prabhupada is going to get well… And he's just requesting Srila Prabhupada that he keeps on taking the milk and the fruit juice and the medicine." (Con:36.398-9)
NOVEMBER 12: TKG's Diary, page 348, relates that the next morning Srila Prabhupada again wanted to go on parikrama, even though the previous night He had agreed not to.
Tamal asked: "You were thinking to travel again, Srila Prabhupada?" Srila Prabhupada replied, "Not now." Lokanath then returned from going into Vrindaban with the Gurukula boys and a large group of devotees doing kirtan with the bullock cart. It was Govardhan Puja day, and a large feast was to be served after noon arati worship service. The time was 11:35 AM. Srila Prabhupada asked Lokanath and Tamal to make up a tour of where to go on parikrama when Srila Prabhupada would be a little stronger. Srila Prabhupada said, "…since a long time I have got a desire." Srila Prabhupada wanted to purchase at least four vehicles for the upcoming tour of India's holy places. Plans were discussed how the preaching tour would distribute books and have evening programs wherever they traveled. (Con:36.400-4)
"The rest of the day passed with Prabhupada taking rest most of the time, and devotees always performing kirtan. In the evening, Prabhupada talked a long time with Swarup Damodar. Around 11:30 PM, he complained of pain in his left thigh, the same leg which he has had us keep elevated on a pillow for so many weeks now. Prabhupada took 900 cc of liquid, including 550 cc of milk, and passed 560 cc of urine, but no stool." (TkgD.350)
The last incident recorded for November 12 was Bhavananda wanting to move Srila Prabhupada to remove the bedsheet. Srila Prabhupada said, "You'll bruise… It is already bruised enough." (bedsores?) Tamal concurs, "It is already rough and bruised." Bhavananda slightly lifted Srila Prabhupada's shoulder and pulled out the sheet. (Con:36.405)
NOVEMBER 13: Srila Prabhupada had severe pain in His left leg (A20). It subsided after awhile, and Srila Prabhupada slept deeply from 2 to 3 AM. At 3 AM the pain resumed, and with help, Srila Prabhupada was moved from side to side. Srila Prabhupada asked for a coal stove on which to heat salt compresses for applying heat to His thigh. Srila Prabhupada moaned from the pain while Tamal found and rubbed on some Sloan's liniment. "…but this did not bring sufficient relief… The devotees had stopped kirtan and were surrounding his bed. The kaviraja was also present. It was concluded that rubbing witchhazel had produced too much coldness. Prabhupada said, 'Upendra wants to give cold to get rid of cold.'" (A7) Hot water bottles also brought little relief. Only when Tamal used a heating lamp, did Srila Prabhupada become calmer. A hot plate was found; Upendra alternated with two hot salt poultices. Srila Prabhupada was now able to rest again. (TkgD.350-1, Con:36.405-6)
Srila Prabhupada felt very cold, wanting many blankets (A7), but then also threw off the blankets (A4). The pain was only in the left leg (A20).
Bhavananda: Prabhupada was saying he is heavy all over his body. Just before all this pain, he was feeling heavy.(A20)
Bhakticharu: (Hindi)
Kaviraja: (Hindi)
Indian devotee: Which side? The left side of the body?
Bhavananda: He said all over.
Srila Prabhupada: (Hindi)
Bhavananda: Also he called me. He was feeling very cold (A7), and so many blankets and quilts.
Bhakticharu: Medicines might have caused some cold in the body. Milk is also quite cooling.
Tamal: Srila Prabhupada? Are you feeling a little relief now? Try and take some rest now, Srila Prabhupada.
Bhavananda: The swelling's (AK17) gone down every day. It's not increasing. Have you noticed? (Con:36.405-6)
Tamal continues by noting that the pain returned again and again, every three hours, at 6 AM, 9 AM, noon and 3 PM. Ironically, during all this, Srila Prabhupada drank 1150 cc, half of it being milk, and He passed urine sufficiently. (TkgD.350) In the evening, as planned, Krishna das Babaji and Bon Maharaj came for prasadam. Bon Maharaj was impressed by the photos and documents shown to him which illustrated ISKCON's preaching around the world. Srila Prabhupada spoke with Bon Maharaj several times in Bengali. (TkgD.351, Con:36.407-9)
Tamal's last entry for November 13 was that Srila Prabhupada spoke with Bhagatji, quoting Bhagavad Gita 2:44. However, in the Conversations Book 36, page 405, this incident is recorded prior to the early morning recording about Srila Prabhupada's pain in the left thigh and being so very cold. (TkgD.351)
Satsvarupa Maharaj wrote: "Don't wish for Srila Prabhupada's departure. Pray he recovers. Hope against hope. The cat meowing… the man shouting on the phone…Why am I writing this as if I am crazy?" (ISK70.334)
NOVEMBER 14: "Today, the attacks (A20) continued in regular three hour intervals. Prabhupada was in deep consciousness, not external. The kaviraja came frequently, but Prabhupada took medicine only with great efforts on behalf of Bhakticharu Maharaj. When the attacks came again, Srila Prabhupada moved his right arm back and forth gracefully in the air, but we could not properly understand him. Although we all wanted to help him, we felt we could not. The kaviraja confirmed that Prabhupada's condition was very serious. No entry was made in the medical journal, because Prabhupada had not passed any urine…(AK14) We could all understand the end was approaching. Thus the room was packed with devotees, and chanting was continuous." (TkgD.351)
The GBC did not approve the kaviraja's request to catherize Srila Prabhupada for emptying of the bladder. Srila Prabhupada had before disliked how Tirtha Maharaj expired with tubes in his body. "Besides, catherization would have prolonged his presence only a short while; and we could now sense that our beloved Srila Prabhupada wished to return back to Godhead, back to home. We tried everything and it failed; thus, we informed the kaviraja of our decision and he agreed and understood, being himself a devotee." (TkgD.351-2)
The devotees crowded around Srila Prabhupada very tightly. Pishima, Srila Prabhupada's sister, came in and repeatedly asked Srila Prabhupada if He had eaten something, but there was no answer. She put Ganges water in His mouth. Bon Maharaj, Krishna das Babaji, Ananda Prabhu and Narayan Maharaj came and sat on benches at the side of the bed. "They sat and watched intently, observing Srila Prabhupada's consciousness. Narayan Maharaj spoke in Srila Prabhupada's ear, but there was no response; but when Bhakticharu Maharaj spoke into Prabhupada's ear, telling him that Narayan Maharaj and others were present, Prabhupada slowly raised his left hand to his head in salutation and started crying." Srila Prabhupada's godbrothers thought the attacks were not painful, being only movements of the body airs, noting that Prabhupada's perfect consciousness. They left after some time, promising to return upon being called. (TkgD.352)
Bhakticharu remembers: "The day he left his body sometime during late morning or early afternoon it seemed that the pain in his left thigh became so acute that he started to writhe. By that time he had stopped speaking. The last time he spoke was the night before, at about 12 o'clock, and he told the Ayurvedic doctor from Calcutta about some discomfort he was feeling. When Prabhupada started writhing in pain, making some faint moaning sound, Bhavananda Maharaja, who was sitting on the bed next to him held him tightly and from that time onwards Srila Prabhupada became very still and practically did not move at all. From time to time he only opened his mouth and I poured some Yamuna water, which he drank with great relish. Although his body became totally still, yet his tongue was constantly vibrating. Srila Krishnadasa Babaji Maharaja, a god-brother of His Divine Grace, pointed out that Srila Prabhupada was chanting the holy name incessantly." (ISKCON statement, May 1998)
Sastriji thought there were only two or three hours left. Devotees chanted and waited. The last attack was at 3 PM, when Srila Prabhupada rubbed his hand quickly back and forth across his heart (AK22). Upendra took the hint and massaged the heart area. For four hours, "Prabhupada was very peaceful. At 7:25 PM, Prabhupada opened his eyes, which were very clear, more so than in many months. His mouth opened, his tongue moved, and then he became still." The kaviraja detected no movement of air by placing a cotton swab under the nostrils. Srila Prabhupada had departed. (TkgD.353)
The time, 7:25 PM, was the most auspicious time of the day. Srila Prabhupada was brought before the temple Deities and kirtan was held all night. At 6:30 AM, on November 15, Srila Prabhupada was taken on Vrindaban parikrama, visiting the seven major temples. He rode sitting up on His palanquin and gave His last darshan to all the Vrijibasis. At 9:30 AM the funeral ceremonies were held and Srila Prabhupada's transcendental body was interred in His samadhi site. Salt was poured nine inches deep around His body, the hole was filled with dirt. Arati was done to Srila Prabhupada's picture, placed on a small mound over His transcendental repose. Later, a glorious memorial shrine was built on that spot. (TkgD.353)
CHAPTER 32:
HEALTH BIOGRAPHY ANALYSIS
GENERAL REVIEW:
There were 21 symptoms listed in Chapter 19 which are unique only to arsenic poisoning and are not found in kidney disease. Out of these 21 "arsenic" symptoms, a few are seen in cases of serious diabetes, which, however, Srila Prabhupada, by symptom analysis, did not have serious enough to display the symptoms thereof. This is reviewed in APPENDIX 7: Diabetes Symptoms. For example, loss of vision or blindness is sometimes seen in diabetes. Srila Prabhupada, however, did not exhibit the signs of an advanced case of diabetes which would produce loss of vision. Further, not one doctor or kaviraja, nor Hari Sauri Prabhu, even mentioned diabetes as a factor in His Divine Grace's health. He also did not require insulin. Diabetes is thus ruled out of the equation, so to speak.
Many of the 21 arsenic poisoning and "not-kidney disease" symptoms listed in Chapter 19 may occur in other medical situations. For example, hearing loss or hoarse voice are found in a variety of ailments. Isolated from the co-symptoms, each symptom may appear usual and will produce no suspicion of foul play, or even that a serious medical condition may exist. However, when all the symptoms are taken together, the unique combination of symptoms then rules out any explanation other than arsenic poisoning.
Then we add to that conclusion another 24 symptoms that are common to both arsenic poisoning and kidney disease, as identified in the health history as well. Arsenic poisoning causes kidney disease, and would be responsible for aggravating an existing situation of already weak kidneys. With 45 symptoms (21 plus 24) of arsenic poisoning identified in Srila Prabhupada's 1977 health history, there is little doubt that Srila Prabhupada was indeed poisoned by arsenic. This now becomes an even more convincing diagnosis. There were no indications in Srila Prabhupada's 1977 health history that are not consistent with arsenic poisoning. Is it clear yet ?
The combination of photophobia, persistent mucus and cough, conjunctivitis, pernicious anemia and lack of appetite, coupled with 40 other supporting symptoms, clearly points to only one correct analysis:
GRADUAL, LOW-LEVEL, EXTENDED ARSENICAL INTOXICATION.
This author has extensively studied the voluminous materials available at major local university medical libraries on the subjects of toxicology, heavy metals poisoning, arsenic, etc. Many case studies as well as in depth descriptions of symptoms were studied in depth. It is the finding of this author that Srila Prabhupada's 1977 health problems most definitely and strikingly conform to a diagnosis of CHRONIC ARSENIC POISONING. It is hoped that many qualified physicians who are professionally trained in the field of toxicology, pathology, and medicine will take up this same study of Srila Prabhupada's 1977 health and render us their carefully considered opinions. This author is confident that they will concur with this diagnosis.
SYMPTOM REVIEW:
Gastrointestinal:
In sub-acute and chronic arsenic poisoning, the onset of gastrintestinal symptoms is so insidious, or gradual and subtle, that they may appear as ordinary loss of appetite and indigestion. Srila Prabhupada's early symptoms of anorexia, loss of appetite, loss of taste, and loss of weight are prominent early signs of low-level dosages of arsenic. His alternating constipation and diarrhea were typical of arsenic poisoning. Abdominal pain would not typically occur unless the amounts of arsenic ingested would dramatically increase to sub-acute or acute levels.
Constipation is a common occurrence and one may wonder why it is significant in Srila Prabhupada's case study. When constipation is found ALTERNATING regularly with diarrhea, and in conjunction with all of the other symptoms of arsenic poisoning, it then becomes recognized as an "arsenic" symptom. Constipation in this landscape of symptoms thus becomes very significant as another confirmation of arsenic poisoning. The integrity and function of the intestinal walls, the digestive bacteria, and overall digestive efficiency is damaged or destroyed in arsenic poisoning cases, resulting in alternating diarrhea and constipation, plus indigestion, vomiting, nausea, etc. Modern arsenic drugs are still used to treat gastrointestinal protozoan infections, common in Africa.
It is the specific combination of various symptoms which point out a particular diagnosis; when reviewed as a set of symptoms and not as simply individual symptoms, one can properly render a correct diagnosis. The result was that Srila Prabhupada did not eat, could not digest food, could not taste food, food would taste very bad, and slow starvation and progressive weakening ensued. Loss of blood flow to the tongue is typical, resulting in loss of taste. Of interest also is a discussion with Dr. Gopal in mid-October 1977 wherein Srila Prabhupada described a "vomiting tendency," where He regularly felt like vomiting but did not. This is another feature of arsenic poisoning, and is documented in the case history on Napoleon.
Cardiac:
Arsenic caused Srila Prabhupada's heart to palpitate, quicken its beat, and become irregular in its beat, all noted in the health biography.
Neurologic:
Many signs of neurologic damage usually seen in long term chronic poisoning cases are not documented in Srila Prabhupada's case, probably in part because He departed before they fully developed. The unusual and persistent itching of the back was a sign of irritation and damage to the skin's nerve endings. Srila Prabhupada's desire for almost continuous massages, increasingly throughout 1977, would have helped with aches and pains in the nerve and muscle tissues that are a result of arsenic damage. Massage also would give relief from the various skin sensations like itching, tingling, burning, etc. Srila Prabhupada repeatedly indicated that massage gave "relief," but we do not have clear indication from the biographical record what is was that required relieving. The amount of massage late in 1977, however, was not typical for Srila Prabhupada to receive or want, and thus definitely indicates the necessity for relieving skin sensations as found in chronic arsenic poisoning.
A symptom of chronic arsenic poisoning is damage to the optic nerve, resulting in decreased vision and eventual loss of vision. Damage to the central nervous system resulted in loss of hearing as well. In Srila Prabhupada's last month we saw paralysis and extreme pain in one leg, a sign of nerve and muscle damage due to arsenic. These symptoms always begin in the extremities, most often the legs, in cases of arsenic poisoning.
The alternation of insomnia and somnolence is another clear indication of arsenic poisoning. Some nights Srila Prabhupada was restless and could not sleep, while other times He would sleep most of the night and day. This is peculiar to arsenic poisoning.
One of the most dramatic and clear indications of chronic arsenic poisoning is Srila Prabhupada's photophobia, or sensitivity of eyes to light. This symptom manifests as a result of arsenic damage to the optic nerve. A more detailed justification of arsenical photophobia is given in Appendix 22.
Cutaneous (Skin):
The only documented change in skin color was one instance noted by Bhavananda as to a yellowing of Srila Prabhupada's skin. No other skin symptoms of arsenical poisoning such as lesions, scales, skin darkening, spotty pigmentation, etc was found in the health biography, other than the bedsores. The one indication of hyperkeratosis or skin thickening was the "unusual" circumcision operation in London which had closed the lower opening of the urethra. A similar phenomenon was noted in the case history of one of Blanche Taylor Moore's victims in Chapter 35. This extremely peculiar instance is a clear indication of arsenic poisoning.
The medical texts reviewed noted several times that cutaneous arsenic symptoms other than darkening of the skin, or melanosis, often does not occur in chronic cases until after one to three or more years. This fact readily explains their apparent absence in the body of Srila Prabhupada. Further, a case of melanosis may not be very noticeable in Srila Prabhupada's case as He naturally had a darker skin complexion already.
Muscular:
Evidence of sudden muscle weakness or collapse in the legs due to the early effects of arsenic poisoning were seen in January and in February 1977 when Srila Prabhupada "suddenly collapsed" on two occasions. The manner in which Srila Prabhupada's leg weakness preceded His physical deterioration has the distinct appearance of being due to arsenic causing fatty degeneration of the calf muscles. This same phenomenon is witnessed in Napoleon's case history as well.
Lack of muscular coordination in the extremities, or ataxia, is noted several times when Srila Prabhupada signed documents with shaky hands. A progression of muscle weakness throughout 1977 is noted by Srila Prabhupada's inability to walk, stand, sit up, and finally even turn over in bed. Late in 1977, Srila Prabhupada required assistance to even move His limbs. Obviously, part of this weakening of muscles can be attributed to lack of energy or general weakness, but the health biography gives the impression of a gradual setting-in of partial paralysis that can better be accredited to declining muscle strength than lack of energy. This occurs due to the effects of arsenic where the muscle tissues no longer receive blood through damaged or ruptured capillaries, beginning in the extremities and moving inwards towards the trunk. Also arsenic "dissolves" muscle tissues into fluids (edema).
Encephalopathic (Brain damage):
Arsenic causes damage to the brain in ways not fully understood by modern medical science. Symptoms of "mental disturbance" have been reported, as well as a reduction of mental functions such as memory, etc. These signs were noted in the health biography.
Several "arsenic" symptoms are the result of insidious or subtle central nervous system or brain damage, such as loss of vision and hearing, mental disturbance and behavioral changes. These things do not occur in kidney disease. It is difficult to analyze mental disturbance or behavioral changes in the pure devotee. Behavioral changes were also noted in Srila Prabhupada, attributable to brain damage. The marked increase in displays of emotion, especially after reaching London, by exhibiting crying, tears, and apparent depression and apparent insecurity were not seen in Srila Prabhupada prior to His befalling the poisoning of His "would-be" assassins. This was very atypical behaviour for Him.These symptoms are part of the effects of arsenic. From the Napoleon case history, we find that the tendency to periods of emotionalism expressed by tearfulness is a clear symptom of arsenic poisoning. The fact that Abhiram, Tamal, and Satsvarupa all noted this period of emotionalism in their writings confirms its prominence and relationship to arsenic poisoning.
We should keep in mind that anything Srila Prabhupada did was, of course, fully transcendental, but variously exhibited according to the physical condition of His body. Srila Prabhupada nevertheless exhibited only pure Krishna conscious emotions even in His debilitated physical condition. Srila Prabhupada departed from this mortal world by the will of Lord Krishna and not by the hand of His poisoners. This is an entire subject that may be the topic of digression at another time, but this author objects to the characterization of this tearfulness as "departure pastimes." When held together with all the other symptoms of arsenic poisoning that were present, and with the other evidence available, it is clear that this emotionalism is also another sign of arsenic poisoning.
Circulatory:
Serious and often irreversible damage is done by arsenic to the blood and the blood manufacturing centers in the spleen and bone marrow. This produces chronic and worsening anemia and extreme weakness with total lack of energy. Vascular disorders include the damage and rupture of the capillaries of the vascular system (veins), beginning at the extremities and progressing towards the heart, resulting in reduced blood flow delivery. Muscle deterioration, tissue atrophy, and gangrene are the eventual result. Hypothermia (coldness) occurs especially in the extremities; this was noted in Srila Prabhupada's health biography. Edema or the swelling of body tissues with serous fluid, or the separated liquid portion of blood, is an early and constant symptom of arsenic poisoning. Srila Prabhupada had prominent on-and-off swelling throughout 1977, each cycle of which meant another loss of blood and the resultant weakness and anemia. The repeated coming and going of edema was remarkably similar in the cases of Srila Prabhupada and Napoleon, and are correlated to each arsenic dose.
Respiratory:
Chronic arsenic poisoning is most commonly identified with the appearances of upper respiratory infection and bronchitis. Typically there is a runny nose, mucus, either a mucus cough or a dry hacking cough, and conjunctivitis producing runny, watering eyes filled with mucus. In Srila Prabhupada's health history we observe the inability of cough suppressants to dispel a cough, the persistent mucus throughout the year, the watery and mucus-filled eyes requiring rosewater eye-washing three times a day, and what appeared to be almost constant head colds. The "head cold" contracted at Kumbha Mela is suspect due to the accompanying degree of weakness and the mucus. Mucus, cough, conjunctivitis, and coryza (acute inflammation of nasal mucous membranes marked by mucus discharge, watering eyes, etc) are classic signs of arsenic poisoning, and are not produced by kidney disease. Arsenic irritates the body's mucous membranes and mucus is the reaction.
A hoarse or weak voice can also commonly occur in many types of health problems, but one in which it does not typically occur is in kidney disease. Arsenic causes damage to and thickening of the vocal chords, resulting in a heavy, weak, slurred voice. Listening to the later tapes of 1977 reveals the dramatic difference in Srila Prabhupada's voice due to the effects of poisoning. A hoarse or weak voice can also be caused by an upper respiratory infection, and arsenic poisoning also produces the symptoms of upper respiratory infections. When the appearance of bronchitis, sore throat, mucus, and cough are seen together with gastrointestinal problems, anemia, anorexia, conjunctivitis and other unusual associated symptoms, a diagnosis of arsenic poisoning becomes highly suspected. Arsenic poisoning is insidious, and is not easily distinguished from common ailments such as colds, bad kidneys or the flu, and is precisely why arsenic became the poison of choice throughout history.
As we study the degree of constancy of the persistent "colds" and mucus in 1977, we become convinced that arsenic is the cause rather than a strange coincidence of Srila Prabhupada being plagued by cough, mucus, and a cold, on and off, for a year! One day there is cough and mucus, the next day not, etc. Colds do not appear and disappear like that. Tamal's offered conclusion was that the food and drink "turned immediately to mucus," which is ridiculous and unscientific. The arsenic produced the mucus and cough! When we see serious conjunctivitis WITH a persistent cough WITH the persistent irritation of mucous membranes, WITH mucus, and WITH the other 42 signs of arsenic poisoning, the diagnosis is very solidly one of chronic arsenic poisoning.
Kidneys:
Arsenic poisoning causes kidney damage, malfunction, and disease. Now that it is established that Srila Prabhupada's hair contained seriously toxic amounts of arsenic, (Chapter 33 ) we can safely conclude that the symptoms of kidney disease and malfunction seen throughout the year 1977 were either aggravated or produced by arsenic poisoning. Difficulty in urination, reduced amounts of urine, discolored urine, casts or blood in the urine, and edema (swelling due to increased fluid retension) can now be correctly understood as the result of arsenic poisoning and not the result of coincidental onset of serious kidney disease as has been proffered in the past.
General:
High blood pressure is caused by arsenic poisoning, coming and going as though correlated to the timing of each administration of poison. Fever was seen in the very serious attack of "illness" in late February in Mayapur. Seizures, dizziness, fainting, languor, listlessness, and lethargy were definitely observed in the health biography, as was stomatitis, or sores and ulcers in the mouth. Srila Prabhupada was at many times noticeably restless or irritable. Srila Prabhupada had (on and off) considerable restlessness and difficulty in sleeping, which was sometimes conveniently blamed on medicines but in actuality is another clear sign of arsenic poisoning. Arsenic causes the victim to thrash and move about restlessly. ("Why am I suffering like this?" - Srila Prabhupada, mid-November, 1977)
There was definite notation of excessive salivation, or drooling, both awake and sleeping. The various doctors often noted liver problems or malfunction. Srila Prabhupada sometimes would be "heavy with sleep" for two or more days as we also observed in the case of Napoleon's poisoning, often seen as a recovery period a few days after another poisoning episode. (Forshufvud) All of these symptoms are typical of arsenic poisoning.
There is a record of Srila Prabhupada's rinsing and washing His mouth with lemon juice and ginger. This is indicative of a reaction to another chronic arsenic poisoning symptom not included in the symptoms list: a coated tongue, as described in the case history of Napoleon.
Just out of curiosity, this author also extensively studied the symptoms produced by mercury, antimony and cadmium poisoning. They proved to be different than those of arsenic poisoning. Srila Prabhupada did not exhibit the signs of these other types of poisoning. The conclusion is: the 45 symptoms identified as signs of arsenic poisoning are a very substantial case for a solid diagnosis without doubt as to its accuracy.
CONCLUSION:
The overwhelming number of prominently exhibited and referenced, biographically-indicated symptoms of chronic arsenic poisoning seen in the physical body of Srila Prabhupada leaves little doubt that Srila Prabhupada was indeed suffering from just that:
CHRONIC ARSENIC POISONING !
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