OCTOBER 18: Before mangal arati, Srila Prabhupada had Bhavananda, who was on the "night shifts,"summon Tamal, telling him, "I cannot sleep. (AK21) This allopathic medicine does not agree." Srila Prabhupada had not been able to rest properly all night and was quite exhausted. (TkgD)
When Dr. Ghosh came in the morning, he asked if Srila Prabhupada had taken the Complan yet, and Bhakticharu said no. Dr. Ghosh found the pulse to be definitely improved, and observed that the swelling (AK17) had gone down. But Srila Prabhupada could not rest well, and Srila Prabhupada appears to have suggested discontinuing the allopathic medicines, blaming them for His restlessness (A4), and calling for Bonamali instead.
Tamal: But if I can give my opinion, Srila Prabhupada?
Srila Prabhupada: Hm?
Tamal: But you have been sleeping a lot, Srila Prabhupada… You were sleeping so much yesterday (A10), and even while you're taking these medicines. In other words, the idea with the allopathic medicine is that it does many good things. So I'm sure Dr. Ghosh could recommend something to help you sleep.
Srila Prabhupada: And they will help this, this, this…(Con)
Bhavananda noted that the urine had cleared up (AK16) due to the allopathic medicine, and asked Srila Prabhupada to take it for at least one more day.
Hari Sauri: It definitely seems to be having a good effect.
Tamal: The only bad effect is that you're having a little difficulty last night in sleeping. Is there any other bad effect?
Srila Prabhupada: That is the worst effect.
Tamal: But the kaviraja could give something for inducing sleep, or Dr. Ghosh could give something….******
Bhavananda: We can cut the dosage of the medicine in half.
Tamal: Why not just give something that helps Prabhupada to sleep? (AK21) That's the easiest thing. ******
Tamal: The main thing, Srila Prabhupada, is… You have to get strength, get rid of the disease, and be able to rest nicely (AK21). That we have seen, that the kaviraja's medicine is not so effective, neither simply doing without any medicine is so effective. We have not tried allopathic medicine, because within a few days or two you always stop it. Whenever you take for one day, then you say, "No more." If you want to get better, you have to take some cure. No cure- that is not good. And switching from one thing to the other, that is also not good. Why not follow some series of cure, regular, and stay with it for some time?… So in such a critical condition, why not take help? What can be gained by switching to this Bonamali? (Con)
Next, Tamal and Bhavananda try hard to convince Srila Prabhupada to drink much more than He has been. Srila Prabhupada responded, "I cannot take so much."
Bhavananda: They said that one of the symptoms of this infection - this poisoning - is that you become averse to taking any liquid or any food…(AK20) (Con)
Tamal emphasizes that Srila Prabhupada's digestion was fine; whatever little He did eat had been digested. Tamal also noted in the afternoon that the urine had become darker and cloudy (AK16), because, in over ten hours, only 150 cc of liquid was taken.
Bhavananda: And he (Dr. Gopal) also was able to analyze your inability to eat and drink as a result of this poisoning from the kidney infection (AK15).
Abhiram: They both agreed on it was the same disease.
Tamal: … But as to treatment, Dr. Gopal seems to be more aware of the more modern and up-to-date discoveries that science has made than Dr. Ghosh.
Srila Prabhupada: When I don't take anything, I feel more comfortable.
Tamal: But you don't get better. That is the policy of death.
Srila Prabhupada: So let me die peacefully.
Tamal: But we already explained to you that we don't want you to die.
Hari Sauri: But the other day you said that to fast like this means suicide.
Srila Prabhupada: Now I am puzzled.
Tamal: What, Srila Prabhupada?
Srila Prabhupada: Puzzled.(A12)
After much encouragement, Srila Prabhupada finally agreed to drink a whole glass of Complan and some fruit juice. After calling for Giriraj, Srila Prabhupada said, "And one thing… Just now I am forgetting…(A12)"as though His memory was failing Him.
A little later a conversation took place about rtvik initiation system.
Srila Prabhupada: Hare Krishna. One Bengali gentleman has come from New York?
Tamal: Yes. Mr. Sukamal Roy Chowdury.
Srila Prabhupada: So I deputed some of you to initiate. Hm?
Tamal: Yes. Actually… Yes, Srila Prabhupada.
Srila Prabhupada: So I think Jayapataka can do that if he likes. I have already deputed. Tell him.
Tamal: Yes.
Srila Prabhupada: So, deputies, Jayapataka's name was there?
Bhagavan: It is already on there, Srila Prabhupada. His name was on the list.
Srila Prabhupada: So I depute him to do this at Mayapur, and you may go with him. I stop for the time being. Is that all right?
Tamal: Stopped doing what, Srila Prabhupada?
Srila Prabhupada: This initiation. I have deputed the, my disciples. Is it clear or not?
Giriraj: It's clear.
Srila Prabhupada: You have got the list of names?
Tamal: Yes, Srila Prabhupada.
Srila Prabhupada: And if by Krishna's grace I recover from this condition, then I shall begin again, or I may not be pressed in this condition to initiate. It is not good.
Then Srila Prabhupada spoke about how Dr. Ghosh's proposals for a health curriculum in the gurukula were unnecessary, as health would be natural from rising early and following proper standards of cleanliness. Spiritual training was more important, anyway. (Con)
Srila Prabhupada discussed with Jayapataka about ISKCON's application with the Bengal government for obtaining clear title to some property in Panihati. (Con) Tamal lists this incident on October 19, even though in the Conversations Books it is recorded just prior to the painting gift to Dr. Ghosh, which Tamal shows as being on the 18 th.
Massages also were a regular feature (AK8) of Srila Prabhupada's care. Before the day was over, Srila Prabhupada had drunk more liquids and passed more urine than any other day since record-keeping was begun (1000 cc and 495 cc). Srila Prabhupada regularly asked who was there beside his bed, as He could not see them (A9).
Srila Prabhupada: Who are present here now?
Tamal: Giriraj, Jayapataka, Bhavananda, Hari Sauri, Bhagavan and myself. We are all sitting around you (A9), Srila Prabhupada. (Con) Dr. Ghosh came in and talked with Srila Prabhupada, Who said, "…mind, niveshaya, fix up in Krishna. This is Rupa Goswami method," and then presented an oil painting as a gift to Dr. Ghosh. (Con, TkgD)
(TkgD. 274-9; Con:35.327-349)
OCTOBER 19: There is no recording for the 19th in the Conversations Books, however, Tamal has two pages worth in his diary.
Again Srila Prabhupada complained that the allopathic medicines had prevented sound sleep (AK21) the previous night. There was no visible improvement in the condition, and although the pulse was strong and the taking of liquids and the passing of urine had increased, Srila Prabhupada continued to have no strength (AK5), lying silently (AK18), and not able to move without help (AK11). Bhakticharu Swami cooks, Satadhanya and Upendra attend to Srila Prabhupada's physical needs, and Bhavananda and Tamal struggle to maintain the taking of medicine and drink. Tamal says Srila Prabhupada "lamented throughout the day, 'Why the kaviraja is for everyone, but not for me? (A12,22)'" when Bhavananda and Giriraj both went to see Bonamali for minor ailments. (TkgD)
Dr. Gopal thought strength would come within a few days, and deemed the frequent bowel movements (AK3) as favorable and natural and "indicated the elimination of poison." When Srila Prabhupada was fed mashed potatoes and custard by Bhakticharu Swami, He vomited (AK2) "after hardly a mouthful. So much mucus (A3) and saliva immediately came out." Srila Prabhupada had also vomited yesterday (AK2) when trying to eat solid food, and so Srila Prabhupada became "completely averse to trying." Srila Prabhupada was disturbed by frequent bowel movements (AK3), and argued with Bhakticharu of the use of eating when there was no sign of increased strength. (TkgD)
Srila Prabhupada requested Bharadvaj to sing parama karuna and play the harmonium, which Srila Prabhupada appeared to enjoy greatly. Hansadutta also led a kirtan, during which, Srila Prabhupada "lifted his hands and arms and said, "Jaya! Everyone join together and chant Hare Krishna."Mahamsa Swami came from Hyderabad and reported on the farm project there. (TKG 280-281)
OCTOBER 20: Again Srila Prabhupada had trouble sleeping (AK21) during the previous night, and He vomited again (AK2) when trying to eat in the morning. Srila Prabhupada's "skin has taken on a shiny appearance, as if he were perspiring (A6)." Dr. Gopal fed Srila Prabhupada four spoonfuls of cold custard and reduced the medicine by half due to Srila Prabhupada's complaints: "Constant medicine is disgusting. Constant medicine gives brain trouble." Srila Prabhupada translated early in the morning. (TkgD)
The Conversations Books record Dr. Gopal's visit:
Dr. Gopal: Vomiting? (AK2)
Srila Prabhupada: There was some tendency.
Dr. Gopal: There was some tendency, but you never had.
Srila Prabhupada: Had little.
Dr. Gopal: Do you feel any difficulty during urination?
Srila Prabhupada: Not at all.
Dr. Gopal: It is passing without any hesitation.
Srila Prabhupada: I think so.
Bhavananda then showed the medical journal with a record of only 290 cc urine being passed yesterday. After Dr. Gopal asked what else He could take besides some water and Srila Prabhupada answered, "Harinama," Dr. Gopal said, "Yes, yes, I understand. For your body, I can say. Can you take little bit of ice cream or cold custard?"
Srila Prabhupada: Yes… Best thing is harinama… Let me hear Hare Krishna and peacefully pass away.
Dr. Gopal: But I think I am not making any hindrance in your normal routine. And whatever medicine I am giving you, I will cut it down by fifty percent now.
Srila Prabhupada: If I can pass in that way, that will be very nice. (Con)
Dr. Gopal then observed that the swelling (AK17) had gone done very much, and Bhavananda said that for Srila Prabhupada to keep His legs raised up on pillows for more than a short time was too uncomfortable. Dr. Gopal asked if Srila Prabhupada liked warm or cold foods better, and the answer was cold. Dr. Gopal said not to be concerned about the diarrhea (AK3) and discussed the insomnia (AK21, A10), noting that it had been Srila Prabhupada's tradition not to sleep much at night anyway. After eating the cold custard, Srila Prabhupada said, "I… I'm feeling nicely… after eating." Dr. Gopal asked Srila Prabhupada to eat a little every hour or two if possible. "And a little water, either plain water or with the electro powder, you can do."
Bhavananda: That electro powder will reduce the nausea? (AK2) (Con)
Dr. Gopal asked that a little water be given regularly so that Srila Prabhupada's mouth would not stay dry. Devotees reported that Srila Prabhupada had slept a few hours yesterday and about five hours this morning. Dr. Gopal asked if Srila Prabhupada wanted to change his sleeping hours, and Srila Prabhupada said no.
Dr. Gopal: No. You want to provoke the sleep? You just take little more liquids, number one. Two: whatever you like, you take. I will reduce your medicine by fifty percent. And don't worry for these loose stools. (AK3) (Con)
Srila Prabhupada discussed with Tamal more on the Calcutta apartment (flat) being given to His son Vrindaban Chandra De. Hari Sauri reported that the Gitas printed in India and sent to Australia by Gopal Krishna, 11,000 total, were almost all distributed, so Srila Prabhupada asked Tamal to tell Gopal Krishna to hire more printers, as there was no shortage of funds. (Con)
Srila Prabhupada: Why kirtan has stopped?… Tired?
Upendra: They are hanging on for every word you say, Srila Prabhupada.
Srila Prabhupada: Hanging?
Tamal: They were eager to hear your words.
Srila Prabhupada: Oh. (Con)
(TkgD.282; Con:35.350-358; Con:36.14)
OCTOBER 21: Srila Prabhupada took no medicine this day and was much more relaxed and alert. In the early afternoon, Srila Prabhupada tried to eat from the feast for Lord Ram's victory over Ravana, but was unable due to everything tasting bad (AK20) to Him. (TkgD)
In the morning, Dr. Ghosh came to say farewell to Srila Prabhupada, as he was returning to Allahabad. Srila Prabhupada observed that although His family life was a failure, Dr. Ghosh's was very successful. There was some talk about Dr. Ghosh's opening a dispensary at the Krishna Balaram Mandir, but no conclusions were reached. (Con) Dr. Ghosh felt confident that Srila Prabhupada would be "in good hands with Dr. Gopal." (TkgD)
At about 9:30 am, Tamal comments that Srila Prabhupada had just slept "many, many, many hours (A10)," and that "you slept at night pretty much also, Satadhanya Maharaj reports." Srila Prabhupada said He felt good, but admitted, "But I have no desire to drink even (AK20)." (Con)
Tamal: For some time your urine had become very dark (AK16). So the medicine was supposed to clear it up. Now your urine is clear. And, of course, the medicine was also supposed to help you to recover your strength (AK5), but that has not happened. …the purpose of the allopathic was that during the time when your urine became very dark, we wanted to make it, you know, take away the poisons that were causing the urine to become dark... And the other thing was that we were hoping somehow to get you back to more strength, give you more strength by taking away whatever disease was there. (Con)
Tamal suggested that Pishima cook a feast for Srila Prabhupada since today was the victory day celebration of Lord Rama over the demon Ravana. Srila Prabhupada agreed, saying, "Hm. I'll take." Later, the recorder captured Tamal saying, "…today, Srila Prabhupada? Maybe the medicines are having some good effect." (Con)
Various preparations were suggested to Srila Prabhupada for Pishima to prepare, bundi laddhu, lugdu, luci, etc. Sometimes brahmi oil would be rubbed on Srila Prabhupada's head. At one point, Srila Prabhupada very seriously admonished His servants, saying, "Gravity should be maintained. And laughing means taking things trifling. That is not allowed. This is the etiquette. Understand me right or not?" Tamal answered, "Yes, Srila Prabhupada. We understand very well. We apologize that we were taking too lightly." (Con)
The room was dark, as revealed by Tamal's statement: "Yadubara wanted to film you translating. Is that all right? You don't mind. We can have a little light here (A1) while he films for about half a minute?" Srila Prabhupada consented, and then commented, "Yadubara has freedom to do anything."(Con)
Srila Prabhupada is informed that He has taken no medicines since yesterday, and apparently He asked when this was decided and why.
Bhavananda: Very early this morning… Tamal and all of us have met and thought that "Let us…" Our position is to serve you according to your desire. Since you didn't request any medicines, we felt that we shouldn't try to… From what we've seen, today you've rested very much deep sleep (A10), and the vomitous nausea has disappeared."
AUTHOR'S COMMENT: First Bhavananda and Tamal are fighting to get Srila Prabhupada to take the medicines because that is how He would be cured, then they mysteriously change course without asking and discontinue the medicines. Bhavananda points out that without the medicine there are no more negative effects. What's going on here? END COMMENT
Srila Prabhupada asked what were the present medicines.
Bhavananda: There's so many medicines, but today you haven't taken any. There is medicine for the infection in the kidney (AK15). There's medicine for the heart (AK22). There's medicine for passing urine (AK14). There's medicine for preventing any cough (A3) in the lung. There's vitamin supplement… That's five different medicines. We felt yesterday that your… When the doctor came you told us that to take so many medicines is disgusting, and that it bothers your brain. And I know that I personally feel that my position is simply to follow your instruction and command as my very life and soul. not to try and force my idea or feeling onto Your Divine Grace. So we all of us felt that you had given us so many hints."
Srila Prabhupada: So medicine kirtan.
Tamal continues to explain to Srila Prabhupada that since no medicine was requested at five in the morning when Srila Prabhupada briefly awoke, none was given and that it was up to Srila Prabhupada to ask for it if He wanted to take it.
Tamal: Formerly, even if you didn't ask, we were encouraging you, 'Please take medicine, please take medicine, please take medicine.' So today we decided that whatever you ask, that we will do. So therefore, as you did not ask for medicine, we didn't give medicine… so you direct what you want to be done… It's not good for us to over… to too much push something upon Your Divine Grace. If you want to have the kaviraja, then we can call the kaviraja (Bonamali). Whatever Your Divine Grace considers to be the best course of action… I think we can wait until tomorrow and see the results of NOT taking any medicine are. If you want to, you could do that. (Con)
AUTHOR'S COMMENT: Here we are a week into Dr.'s Ghosh and Gopal's treatment. Why are they trying to show that the medicine is what is causing the negative effects of nausea, diarrhea, and sleeplessness? Is it to precipitate another rejection of doctors and medicines? This episode has the strong smell of manipulation. END COMMENT
Whereas all along the devotees were pressing that medicine and treatment be taken, now they had reversed and are waiting for Srila Prabhupada to ask for it. This was an unusual turnaround of policy. Tamal's account appears to be a continuation of the above conversation. Srila Prabhupada said, "If you are puzzled and I am patient…?
Tamal: We are not puzzled for treatment. It's a spiritual consideration.
Srila Prabhupada: Treatment is material.
Tamal: Yes, and the treatment is having some success, because you are remaining alive.
Srila Prabhupada: So go on with the treatment.
Thus, by Tamal's account, the medicine was to be continued, and also that Dr. Gopal would come only when called. (TkgD)
In the morning, Srila Prabhupada reviewed the edited translation work, instructing those in the room, "You all hear and comment." Tamal characterizes the translation sessions as very different from in the past when Srila Prabhupada would lock the doors to prevent interruption. Now He involved the devotees present, sometimes preaching or lecturing, asking often, "Is it clear?" Jayapataka reported that 14 Muslims had been arrested in Mayapur for the summer attack on the temple; the situation had reversed favorably. (TkgD)
After noon arati the feast was brought to Srila Prabhupada, Who, starting with the laddu, tasted and spit it out, not finding it agreeable at all. One after another, He similarly rejected all the preparations, "being unable to taste (AK20) any of them satisfactorily."(TkgD.282-286)
In the evening Srila Prabhupada translated for more than an hour, and then lectured strongly for another hour.
Jayadwaita: You've been speaking so strongly just now that I was sorry that I suggested that we stop. So now I'm glad that you're continuing. Flashlight? (A1)
Later, Dayananda came from Tehran with a crate of fresh fruit, and spoke with Srila Prabhupada about the restaurant and his job with Univac, a computer company. Bharadvaj described in detail to Srila Prabhupada the almost completed FATE museum in Los Angeles. (Con:36.14-42)
OCTOBER 22: When awakening at 7 AM in the morning, Srila Prabhupada said He had dreamt of a kaviraja wearing large Ramanuja tilak marks who was preparing makharadhvaja. Bonamali had previously been supplied with musk, gold and pearls and had recently delivered to Bhakticharu what was supposed to be makharadhvaja. Srila Prabhupada had not taken any yet, because it was recommended that Srila Prabhupada become stronger first and also wait for cooler weather. (Con)
Gopal Krishna arrived from Bombay, and when Srila Prabhupada asked, "What news?", he gave his report on book printing and distribution. Throughout his report, Tamal often commented negatively on his service.
Srila Prabhupada: Anyway, do things very carefully. I am already dead. But still, I am giving you instruction as far as I can. And this is not life, a bundle of bones.
Gopal Krishna: You are still the inspiration for everything we do. (Con)
When Dr. Gopal came, Bhavananda asked whether it was a problem for Srila Prabhupada to take Bonamali's makharadhvaja. Dr. Gopal seems to have thought the Bonamali medicine was not makharadhvaja, but moti-dristi, although both are prepared from the same ingredients. He said it would not interfere with the medicines he was giving. (Con)
Dr. Gopal seemed perplexed because Srila Prabhupada was not getting strength (AK5) after taking his medicines for almost a week. Srila Prabhupada told him, "Regarding food, anything as soon as I hear the name, I become afraid (AK20,AK1)." Listening to the breathing, Dr. Gopal suggested there may be a lung problem (A3) and prescribed a strong anti-tubercular drug, and further, suggested X-rays. Thus Srila Prabhupada and His caretakers concluded that Dr. Gopal's treatment was a failure, and that the doctor was now simply speculating.
Srila Prabhupada: Eh? What is that? No. This doctor's treatment is failure.
Tamal: Yes, he's starting to guess.
Srila Prabhupada: They will simply guess.
Tamal: Oh, he's guessing.
Bhavananda: On and on.
Srila Prabhupada: So it is failure. Now take makharadhvaja, one dose, and leave everything to Krishna.
Bhavananda: Yes. We felt that your dream, Srila Prabhupada, was very significant.
Srila Prabhupada: Doctor treatment finished. Don't try any… They will simply guess and make huge complication. (Con)
Tamal and Bhavananda gave their opinion that the clearing up of the urine may have been due to the increase in liquid intake and not Dr. Gopal's medicines. Bhakticharu Swami pointed out that the allopathic medicine cleared up the urine. Tamal said: "The urine has been clear for five months in a row, so when it got unclear for three days and Prabhupada wasn't drinking anything, then as soon as he drank it became clear. So I can't conclude that it was the doctor." (Con)
Bhavananda elaborated on how Dr. Gopal "was stumped as to why you (Prabhupada) had no appetite"and how Dr. Gopal thought there might be a lung infection (A3) due to taking less air in the left lung, which "…generally is denoted also by lack of appetite (AK1) - of some tubercular or pleurisy or pneumatic nature." Swarup Damodar added: "So he's prescribing that antituberculin drug called Isotoxin. That's also called Isonayazid." Tamal protested, saying "But he doesn't even know… if it's tuberculosis." Adi Keshava then added, "That is a very, very strong drug, very, very strong. It has a very heavy effect." Srila Prabhupada next states, "Then he'll say, 'Remove to the hospital'... Then who will take care of me? Hm?… Don't move me to the hospital. Better kill me here."(Con)
Swarup Damodar then encouraged taking X-rays to test the tuberculosis theory, but X-rays were never taken. Tamal opposed it, even though the X-ray machine could have been brought to Srila Prabhupada's room. Arsenic is radiopaque and shows well on X-rays. Tamal then adds, "Actually the whole thing only began when Dr. Ghosh came… you didn't want Dr. Ghosh to come, but it was too late. …we were obligated to try these allopathic medicines. It was Dr. Ghosh who brought Dr. Gopal… you always don't like the allopathic. You never like it very much." (Con)
Srila Prabhupada next said, "I'll treat myself. Let the kavirajas come. And makharadhvaja… Then I will give direction. Simply I want to know about the makharadhvaja, consulting both the kavirajas… And stop all medicine." Then Bhavananda said, "His desire was to remove you from here somehow or other. First to remove you for an X-ray, then…" Tamal added, "Another trick they have is that you have one trouble, so they give you a medicine, but the medicine causes a worse trouble. And eventually such bad trouble is created that they get you depending on them, and then they say, 'Now the only thing left, you must come to the hospital for operation.' Then they kill you." Next there was given a long series of medical horror stories told by Bhavananda, Tamal, Swarup Damodar and Adi Keshava, and Srila Prabhupada also recalled an incident of medical bungling. The mood was decidedly very anti-allopathic doctors. (Con)
Next there was discussion on the merits of moving Srila Prabhupada to Mayapur, where the room ventilation was better, and the climate was warmer and there were fresh vegetables grown by the devotees. Plans were discussed on the best method of travel and who should go on the team for Mayapur. Srila Prabhupada said, "And if there is any danger, Bhavananda has got his gun." (laughter) (Con)
Srila Prabhupada sent Bhakticharu Swami to search for a Ramanuja kaviraja, possibly the one from the dream. Late in the day, he found a kaviraja at the Janaki Vallabha temple and brought him back to Srila Prabhupada. Checking the pulse, he diagnosed a mal-functioning of the kidneys (AK15) and the digestion (A15), and agreed to return the next day. (TkgD.287-290)
The Conversations Books (mistakenly under the date October 20) record an interesting discussion, summarized and excerpted as follows:
Srila Prabhupada asked Tamal what he thought of the Ramanuja kaviraja that was brought in. Then Tamal converses with Bhagatji about the situation. Bhagatji clearly wants that Srila Prabhupada's urine be tested by Dr. Gopal and that the X-rays be taken by bringing the machine to Srila Prabhupada's room. In this way he thought a proper diagnosis could be made and proper treatment obtained. However, Tamal vigorously criticized allopathic doctors and medicine, telling more medical horror stories like how someone had a scissors left inside someone after an operation. Bhagatji questions: "Why sometimes pus and blood comes out of the urine (AK16)?" Tamal: "Only for two or three days." Bhagatji: "Why is it? They have to test it. They have to find out. That is the reason of all this." (Con) Again, Tamal had his way, and no Dr. Gopal or X-rays or urine tests were done.
Tamal recounts how the Ramanuja kaviraja that day felt Srila Prabhupada's pulse and immediately diagnosed malfunctioning kidneys (AK15) and a nearly extinguished fire of digestion (A15). They discussed how the Ramanuja kaviraja had looked at the medicine that Bonamali had just recently completed preparing from musk, pearls and gold, and emphatically declared it not to be makharadhvaja. (Con)
Tamal: Prabhupada gave us an opportunity to try this allopathic medicine… And factually you saw he was vomiting (AK2), dizzy (A16), and losing sleep (AK21). Then yesterday we didn't give any medicine, and he was much better off. You heard how he was speaking strongly… So Prabhupada said… "Then no more allopathic. It is finished." …it didn't work… But that whole science of Western medicine is very speculative. It's guessing work… And as soon as we agree to X-ray, X-ray is only the first step… it means you are ready to take his treatment." (Con)
AUTHOR'S COMMENT: Did anyone think that this is not true? One can stop a doctor's treatment anytime, at the beginning, the middle or whenever it is thought that the treatment is becoming unacceptable or erroneous. Did they not reject Dr. Gopal after a week? Tamal's logic is so obviously faulty, one wonders what his real motive was. END COMMENT
Tamal emphasized how even though all doctors and kavirajas had agreed the problem was malfunctioning kidneys (AK15), including the London surgeon, Dr. Gopal was now "guessing" as to the problem, speculating and experimenting with medicines. Tamal explained how there had been no change with Srila Prabhupada's lungs in the last week, so why did Dr. Gopal suspect a lung problem now? Tamal worried whether Bonamali had cheated them with the supposed makharadhvaja and Srila Prabhupada said, "Bonamali is no use." The conclusion, Tamal claimed, was that these allopathic doctors were useless. Tamal encouraged the use of Ayurvedic kavirajas, if a qualified one could be found. Bhagatji offered to bring one from Mathura that he knew to be qualified, but Tamal said it would be best to see what the Ramanuji kaviraja would do tomorrow. (Con)
AUTHOR'S COMMENT: Tamal has now effectively nixed any further involvement with Dr. Gopal. Why? Perhaps he was afraid that further tests and examinations of Srila Prabhupada, such as X-rays, would reveal the 3 parts per million of arsenic in Srila Prabhupada's system ! (see Chapter 33 ) Dr. Gopal knew that there was something unusual taking place, something he was having difficulty diagnosing. Arsenic poisoning is difficult to recognize. Yet, we now KNOW that Srila Prabhupada had 5 to 10 times the normal amount of arsenic, on average, in His body for the month of October 1977. Given the opportunity to continue his tests, Dr. Gopal may have soon found out about the heavy metal poisoning. That Tamal is so much against any further involvement with Dr. Gopal is very suspicious. END COMMENT Tamal then gloatingly described how they had foiled the local bankers' suspected plan of waiting for Srila Prabhupada to die and then keeping the ISKCON deposits. (Con:36.32-57, 1-13)
OCTOBER 23: Early in the morning, Srila Prabhupada's left leg was beginning "to feel very heavy (A20),"and He asked Tamal if he thought it might be paralyzed (A20). His legs were massaged for two hours until the professional masseur came at 8 AM. The Ramanuja kaviraja came in the late morning, again stating that the preparation prepared by Bonamali was not makharadhvaja, thus causing great hesitancy to use it for Srila Prabhupada. The kaviraja was asked by Srila Prabhupada about going to Mayapur, but the kaviraja said that the jerking of the train would damage His internal organs and thus travel would be dangerous. He advised waiting a few weeks. He had patients at his dispensary to attend to every day and thus he could only make fresh makharadhvaja at his own dispensary. It would cost 3500 rupees, but he emphasized that it was the only medicine "that would be effective at this late stage." (TkgD)
The kaviraja left while the devotees tried to decide what to do, as now there was considerable doubt in trusting the authenticity of anyone's makharadhvaja. Srila Prabhupada repeatedly stated that He did not want to be hospitalized under any circumstances. Srila Prabhupada said, "Allopathic treatment is horrible and they are peacefully cheating. I am frankly speaking, becoming afraid of these doctors." He then directed that the devotees try to find a bonafide Ramanuja kaviraja, giving ideas of who and where to contact. Gopal Krishna and Adi Keshava went to Delhi "for phoning," apparently because the Vrindaban phone was still out of service. (TkgD.290-293)
OCTOBER 24: There is no doctor or kaviraja treating Srila Prabhupada at this point. The masseur is still coming daily, however. There was discussion on how to obtain the makharadhvaja and it was decided to send Smara Hari Prabhu to south India on this mission, where the Ramanujas were prevalent. There was also discussion about travelling to Mayapur to stay in a warmer climate, and how they might be able to ensure the reliability and purity of whatever makharadhvaja medicine that might be found and obtained. Srila Prabhupada was concerned that the maker of the medicine be sincere and experienced. When Tamal suggested that the Bonamali-made so-called makharadhvajabe used as medicine until a Ramanuja kaviraja who could make new makharadhvaja was found, Srila Prabhupada said to wait. (Con:36.60-64)
Tamal spoke to Srila Prabhupada about discrepancies his suspected in the ingredients and pricing of the makharadhvaja available from both the Vrindaban Ramanuja kaviraja and Bonamali, calling them cheaters. As a result, Bonamali's makharadhvaja was not used, and none was ordered from the Vrindaban Ramanuji. Adi Keshava and Satadhanya had gone to Delhi yesterday to search for a Ramanuja kaviraja. Thus expectations for makharadhvaja was focused on Delhi and South India. Once again, when it was time for a bath, Srila Prabhupada asked for the light to be turned on. Darkness was all that Srila Prabhupada's extremely photophobic eyes could tolerate (A1). (Con:36.67-68)
Then Adi Keshava called from Delhi, regarding Chandra Swami:
"…a very prominent sadhu friend from New York who happened to be in Delhi. He had called his friend, Candidasa, who knew the best kaviraja available, one of the Ramanuja sampradaya. Candidasa phoned the kaviraja, who amazingly had just completed a ten-day preparation of makharadhvaja. Candidasa had saved seven tolas and was going to donate them to Srila Prabhupada." (TkgD. 294)
AUTHOR'S COMMENT: Why doesn't Tamal's diary have the name Chandra Swami? Why Chandidas? On the tape recordings, Tamal says, "Oh, Chandra Swami..." when Satadhanya brings the makharadhvaja to Srila Prabhupada. We would like to ask Tamal if he knew Chandra Swami, and to see his original diary to see how the name is spelled therein. Or are we being overly suspicious? END COMMENT
From the Conversations Book 36, pages 71-2, we read that Bhavananda brings some news to Srila Prabhupada: "And the other one is that Adi Keshava Maharaj, he has a friend in Delhi named Chandi Das. He's a big yogi, I think? …He has quite a bit of money. And so Adi Keshava called him up, and he had a kaviraja in the Ramanuja sampradaya. And Chandi Das went to see his kaviraja, and his kaviraja had just gotten finished mixing makharadhvaja medicine. He'd been preparing it for the past ten days. And Satadhanya Maharaj and Adi Keshava were just now going over to see this kaviraja. That Chandi Das has purchased seven tolas of the medicine for Your Divine Grace as a gift. They are going over to pick it up." Srila Prabhupada laughed and said, "Just see. Krishna arranges… Very good… So very good news." Then Bhavananda said, "And that kaviraja in Delhi said that no, the gold is absorbed in the medicine." Bonamali had said that the medicine just passes through the gold and does not absorb it. Srila Prabhupada wanted the dosage information to be obtained also. (TkgD.293-295; Con:36.58-72)
AUTHOR'S COMMENT: Chandra Swami was in Madras at the time, but also Chandra Swami "went to see his kaviraja", who was in Delhi. Chandra Swami paid for the medicine, but the kaviraja in Delhi donated it. The contradictions between the accounts of Tamal, Bhavananda, Adi Keshava and Satadhanya leave us wondering. (see Chapter 15) END COMMENT
OCTOBER 25: Tamal's Diary relates that in the morning, Srila Prabhupada was feeling all right, but with no physical energy (AK5). Waiting for Satadhanya and Adi Keshava to bring the makharadhvaja from Delhi, Srila Prabhupada "became anxious," saying that the makharadhvaja dealing was another mystery in that just exactly when the kaviraja was contacted, he coincidentally was just finishing the preparation of the medicine. (A chance out of thousands) Tamal relates, "I reminded him that Candidasa was paying; but Prabhupada said, 'Whether Candidasa or we pay, if the man cheats…' I said, 'Anyway, we have our real medicine- harinama.'" Later Srila Prabhupada asked again not to be taken to a hospital, and decided not to go to Mayapur, but stay in Vrindaban, thinking He might die en route. (TkgD)
The Conversations Books relate Satadhanya's arrival:
"I have brought the makharadhvaja from the kaviraja in Delhi. This kaviraja, he's not Ramanuja-sampradaya, but many people say in Delhi that he's the foremost kaviraja in India. He treats the Prime Minister, Morarji Desai, and all the ministers also. So many people trusted him, and he mixed this medicine… He was mixing it for some other person, but when he heard that you were ill, he gave it to us… There's different kinds of makharadhvaja, six kinds. This is the most potent kind. This is called siddha makharadhvaja. This contains gold and pearl and musk and mica and many other ingredients."(Con) It must be noted that now the story has changed. The medicine was made by Chandra Swami himself and not by a Ramanuja kaviraja.
Srila Prabhupada asked what was the cost, and Satadhanya replied, "Nothing. We got it for free because we got it through one influential man named Chandra Swami."
Tamal: "Oh, Chandra Swami. That's that person Adi Keshava was always working with."Tamal already knew where the medicine came from; why does he say "Oh" as though it's news?
Srila Prabhupada: "That means he is honest, that's all."
Tamal: "You met Chandra Swami?"
Satadhanya: "No, he's in Madras. This is 48 doses, two doses a day… 24 days medicine… But he did say that what the other kavirajas said about dosage was very wrong… it would have been detrimental… One tola. He said that's not sane… He just said it's very powerful medicine." (Now Chandra Swami is not in Delhi, but in Madras. So who did they get it from, where, and who made it?) (Con)
Thus they had received not seven tolas, but 24 packets, each weighing two ratis or half a gram. Srila Prabhupada said, "They charged nothing. Then he is honest." He then put the makharadhvaja in the charge of Tamal and Bhakticharu, the former to keep locked up, the latter for giving to Srila Prabhupada. That evening Srila Prabhupada, encouraged by Bhavananda, took His first dose of makharadhvaja with honey on His gold spoon. A little earlier, Srila Prabhupada had declined His regular massage due to becoming "black and blue," although up till now He had enjoyed the masseur's work. (TkgD.295-9)
Then Srila Prabhupada requested Hansadutta to arrange for parikrama around the temple on the next day, saying, "Instead of dying- train jerking (laughs) or aeroplane jerking- why not parikrama? Die or live, it doesn't matter… Either in palanquin or make a stretcher, but have parikrama… So arrange like that with leading men. Let me have parikrama. If I live, that's all right; if I die, that's all right." (Con:36.73-79)
OCTOBER 26: Srila Prabhupada said He was "puzzled (A12)," and He expressed doubt about continuing the makharadhvaja or any effort to live. He felt that devotees were avoiding Him, saying, "Now I have become poisonous (A11)." (TkgD.299) However, the devotees noted that Srila Prabhupada seemed stronger after two doses of the makharadhvaja and was sitting up for almost an hour, longer than in a long time, and then was not tired after the temple parikrama. (Con)
Then Srila Prabhupada decided to take makharadhvaja only once a day and observe the results. Later, He decided to cease it altogether, complaining that it was causing loose bowel movements (AK3) even though He was not eating. The conclusion, He said, was that the medicine was taking His strength away, not giving it back. (Con:36.86-93)
Tamal asked Srila Prabhupada, "How can we reject the medicine so quickly?" Srila Prabhupada replied, "Because it is reacting so adversely… Don't give me any medicine. Simply chant and parikrama." (TkgD)
Upon questioning, Srila Prabhupada was told by Tamal that the makharadhvaja was being kept locked in His almira "to make sure it was not lost or anything." Srila Prabhupada wanted to see one of the doses, to see the color of the powder. Using a mirror, Tamal showed Srila Prabhupada, Who wanted to know from which kaviraja the makharadhvaja had come. Tamal said it was from the Delhi kaviraja, not Bonamali. Bhavananda said, "The kaviraja said because the gold is oxidized into gold sulphur…"(tape recording turned off). Later Srila Prabhupada mentions a medicine called svarna-sindhu, similar to makharadhvaja, and that His father used to take makharadhvaja. (Con)
AUTHOR'S COMMENT: Srila Prabhupada, being a pharmacist, was familiar with all these medicines, their potency, appearance and reactions. Perhaps Srila Prabhupada, judging from the reaction He experienced to two or three doses of the makharadhvaja, was suspicious of the medicine, thus wanting to examine it. At any rate, Srila Prabhupada decided to discontinue its use after 2-3 doses. END COMMENT
Srila Prabhupada said, "If I can continue this parikrama, that is spiritual cure."There was discussion about expanding the parikrama out into the Vrindaban area, perhaps camping out for several days. In the discussion with Srila Prabhupada about the merits of the makharadhvaja, Bhavananda said: "Srila Prabhupada feels all hope is frustrated. The makharadhvaja medicine is to give strength, but now he's passing stool (AK3), so all the strength he has is lost. At the same time, Srila Prabhupada, you're taking a lot of liquid intake now. There has to be some stool. You're taking almost 1000 milliliters a day, 960, 890, like that. So that's quite a large amount." (Con)
Bhakticharu Swami then said, "Another thing is that this is a very strong medicine, and Bonamali Prabhu was hesitant to give it at this point because it was too strong for his…"
Srila Prabhupada: "Therefore I say stop it.
Bhavananda: Still, we saw some positive signs. Of course, it might not have been from the medicine, but it is… You appear stronger. You went on parikrama, you sat up.
Srila Prabhupada: …But, I mean to say, from medicinal point of view, it is not at all hopeful. All is…"
Bhavananda: ...also that Persian melon. We've been giving you that Persian melon juice. That is a diuretic (AK14). Let us not give that, take one more… See how the night goes. In the morning take another dose of makharadhvaja.
Tamal then opines that it may not be due to the makharadhvaja that Srila Prabhupada has increased his bowel movements. (Con)
Then there is a very interesting excerpt in the Conversations Books (36.92) where Bhavananda says: "Bharadvaja Prabhu was just telling me that he's noticed- he's been massaging your legs- that your legs and feet are warmer today (A7) than they were yesterday. I have noticed over the past three or four days that your feet have been cold. Extremities, your hands and feet, have been very cold…(A7)" (Con)
(TkgD.299-301; Con:36.80-93)
OCTOBER 27: In the morning, Srila Prabhupada again did temple parikrama. Srila Prabhupada was convinced to take a third dose of the makharadhvaja. Srila Prabhupada translated twice, and during the second evening session, there was a bowel movement again. Tamal reports: "The passing of stool has continued to increase to a serious degree (AK3)."(TkgD)
Srila Prabhupada noted that, "Too much sleeping means weakness." Tamal replied, "Yeah. Bhavananda felt it was due to not sleeping at night that you were sleeping during the day. But you slept an awful lot today (A10). But yet…" Tamal noted that there was less urine (AK14) but more stool, which he thought was normal. Bhakticharu wanted to check the clearness and color of the urine in the darkened room (A1), saying, "Can I see it in the light, please?" On another occasion, Srila Prabhupada could not tell that the sun had risen an hour earlier, because the room was so darkened to accommodate His photophobia (A1). When Tamal tried to read a newspaper article to Srila Prabhupada, he said, "Is there a flashlight(A1)?" Bhakticharu noted that, "Even the swelling is down (AK17)." (Con)
Bhakticharu fed Srila Prabhupada some rice and plantain, which was meant to counteract the loose bowels (AK3). (Con) That night, at 1:00 AM, Srila Prabhupada called Tamal and Bhavananda, demanding, "Stop the medicine for one day and consult the kaviraja in Delhi." Srila Prabhupada implied that whatever little blood He had left was being changed into stool by the medicine, robbing His little remaining strength. (TkgD)
The Conversations Books:
Tamal: I agree… Srila Prabhupada. I think it's a good idea to stop the medicine for a day and to consult the kaviraja, and also to try to drink something else besides only fruit juice… Hansadutta… said when he would take this fruit juice diet, he said there's no question of passing stool… So the fact that Prabhupada is passing stool (AK3) is very unnatural, at least for taking fruit juice. He's not eating anything, so how can he pass stool four times? What is the stool coming from if he's not eating?
Srila Prabhupada: Whatever little blood is there.
Bhavananda: I think it's a mistake, Srila Prabhupada, to take this strong medicine without having the kaviraja actually come and diagnose himself and…
Srila Prabhupada: Yes.
Satadhanya: Actually the kaviraja said to me that he never prescribes medicine without first seeing the patient.
Srila Prabhupada: So bring him. And stop medicine. (Con)
First they convinced Srila Prabhupada to start the medicine; now they remembered it shouldn't be taken without the kaviraja's presence. These are the qualified caretakers of the spiritual master of the universe.
There was discussion about Swarup Damodar going to Delhi to try and bring back the kaviraja who gave the makharadhvaja to examine Srila Prabhupada and determine the correct course of action. Then it was thought to bring one of the Bonamali pills to see if the Delhi kaviraja could tell whether it was makharadhvaja or something else useful. Tamal summarized, "Something is amiss, that instead of coming out as urine, it comes out as stool." (Con)
When Bhavananda reminded Srila Prabhupada, "But you did say Krishna advised you through that dream to take that makharadhvaja medicine." Srila Prabhupada responded, "But Krishna directed Ramanuja Vaishnava." (The Delhi kaviraja was a Shiva follower) Then Tamal said, "Jayapataka had called… they have arranged for one Ramanuji kaviraja there in Bengal side…" Bhavananda added that this Bengali kaviraja was recommended by L.M. Bangor. Srila Prabhupada asked if this Ramanuja kaviraja could come to Vrindaban, to be the very last doctor. After one more, then no more. Tamal then asked Swarup Damodar to call Adridharana, the Calcutta temple president, to see about flying the Calcutta kaviraja to Delhi and then bringing him to Vrindaban. Adridharana found the kaviraja and proceeded to try to make arrangements to bring him to Vrindaban. Srila Prabhupada said, "Bring one Ramanuja. He has the makharadhvaja…" (as in His dream) (Con)
Then, reviewing the last two days' experience with the "Delhi" makharadhvaja, Srila Prabhupada said, "It is acting adversely. If still I take, then, knowingly…" Trivikram finished the sentence, "Drinking poison." Swarup Damodar asked whether the Delhi kaviraja should be consulted even though they were now trying to bring in the new Calcutta kaviraja. But it was decided that since he was not a Ramanuji, the makharadhvaja did not match the dream anyway. (Con:36.94-119)
Tamal concludes: "We all sat surrounding Srila Prabhupada. We had waited so long for this makharadhvaja, and now it had turned into poison. We sat silently, confused. Satadhanya Maharaj then called Calcutta and told Adridharana to bring the Ramanuja kaviraja immediately." (TkgD.302-305)
OCTOBER 28: The Conversations Books start this day off with Tamal explaining to Madhava Prabhu how important it is that Srila Prabhupada continue to take as much fruit juices as possible. Srila Prabhupada is noted as again asking for His back to be scratched (AK8). There was parikrama again, which Srila Prabhupada enjoyed. Srila Prabhupada's son came and there was a long discussion about Vrindaban De's book business and his loan from the BBT. (Con)
Whenever someone would enter the room, Srila Prabhupada would either ask or be given the identity of that person, since His eyesight had become so poor (A9). Srila Prabhupada "was in great anxiety"as to why the kaviraja was taking so long in arriving. Satadhanya Swami confirmed that Adridharana had stated he was going to bring the kaviraja by plane that morning, but that no word had been received yet. Throughout the day, Srila Prabhupada seemed very emotional (A11) about the fact the kaviraja had not yet arrived. Srila Prabhupada had a little diarrhea (AK3) in the morning, and was reluctant to drink anything. At the mention of solid food, Srila Prabhupada said, "Rice I cannot touch even. If I hear about rice, any solid food (AK1, AK20), immediately…" Tamal commented, "Vomiting tendency. Hm. Then fasting?" Then there is some discussion with Tamal about bank "passbooks." Tamal recapped the recent events: "First we had that Madhva, not Madhva… Ramanuji came from Sri Rangaji temple, and he seemed to be a cheater. Then this one… We got this medicine from that sakta-kaviraja, and that medicine turned out to be poison. And now this kaviraja who's supposed to be coming from Calcutta…"(Conv )
Just as Adridharana arrived with the Calcutta kaviraja at almost midnight, Srila Prabhupada began to cry (A11) while telling Tamal to guide His former son in the spending of the "inheritance" money. The kaviraja was a Marwari with Ramanuja tilak, middle-aged and named Damodar Prasad Sastri. Srila Prabhupada and the kaviraja spoke extensively in Hindi, and the devotees filled the kaviraja in about urine reports, the record of fluids, eating habits, the dropsy diagnosis and the swelling, when the blood was in the urine, what allopathic medicines were taken, and other bits of relevant information. The kaviraja felt the pulse, used the stethoscope and ruled that makharadhvaja was inappropriate. Bhakticharu related, "He's saying that in this condition, Prabhupada can't take makharadhvaja. That any medicine that contains mercury and arsenic is poison to him." Bhavananda agreed, saying, "That's what Prabhupada said." The kaviraja said a list of medicines would be made, and that he believed that Srila Prabhupada would recover due to having a strong heart. His medicines would repair the bad liver (A18) and kidneys (AK15), then rasayana would increase the strength of the overall body (AK5). In 10 to 15 days he thought Srila Prabhupada might be recovered enough to travel to Mayapur, but not yet, not in His present condition. Srila Prabhupada responded, "Take his chart and strictly follow. I'll not object. I'll strictly follow. This is the last resort. Whatever it may be. No more trials."(Conv, TkgD)
(TkgD.305-307; Con:36.120-154)
OCTOBER 29: Early in the morning, Srila Prabhupada again became emotional and was crying (A11), feeling sorry He could not return His servants' service, saying, "Please excuse me." At 8 AM, the Calcutta kaviraja came and prescribed various medicines, and said that the intestines have no digestion (AK22) or secretions due to extreme shrinking. Bhavananda noted how the kidney malfunctioning (AK15) had caused Srila Prabhupada's skin to shine with salt, a condition called uremic poisoning (AK15). One kidney was in better condition than the other. If the kaviraja's medicine worked, results would be immediate; if not, Srila Prabhupada could expire soon. Makharadhvaja was discussed, and only one kind was recommended as acceptable, that made of mercury, gold and sulfur, costing 200 rupees per tola. Musk was unnecessary; it was usually used for sexual potency. Srila Prabhupada's day was irregular, sleeping until 5 PM, being very weak and tired. Then Srila Prabhupada took the first medicine, being personally prepared by the kaviraja after collecting ingredients himself in the Vrindaban forests. Srila Prabhupada ate three spoonfuls of loki and talked with the kaviraja for an hour in the evening. (TkgD.307-309)
The Conversations Books describe a discussion in the morning between Tamal, Bhakticharu and the Calcutta kaviraja, deliberating how a special apparatus was required for distilling Srila Prabhupada's medicines. D.P. Sastri advised that Srila Prabhupada drink at least a kilo of milk a day and that He stay in Vrindaban for 10 to 15 days to recover sufficiently before undertaking the journey to Mayapur. D.P. Sastri needed to return to Calcutta and wanted to bring a young kaviraja, different from any that were used before, from the Ramanuja Sri Rangaji temple to administer the treatment program while he was absent in Calcutta. (Con)
Later, about 10:30 AM, Tamal, Bhavananda and Satadhanya Maharajs reported to Srila Prabhupada a turn of events. Tamal relates the result of some talks with D.P. Sastri, "…he was thinking to leave, but now he's agreed to stay on for at least five or six days. We convinced him that 'You stay here and you take Prabhupada to Mayapur personally.' …Then he described what's wrong with you and how he's going to be treating it. He said he wouldn't take any money…" Tamal explains that Sastri was wanting to establish a charitable dispensary in honor of his own father, who was a religious man, and Tamal said, "I'm thinking if he cures you we will give him a nice donation towards that charitable dispensary." It was related how Sastri drove in Srila Prabhupada's car to downtown Vrindaban that morning to obtain necessary medicinal ingredients, and how Sastri was very confident of his diagnosis and medicines. (Con)
Tamal explained how Sastri was devotional and first-class, and that he had emphasized that it would be undesirable to leave Srila Prabhupada under the care of the younger kaviraja assistant, stressing how Sastri should personally see to the treatment program. Srila Prabhupada said that He had taken some Horlicks earlier, and Upendra offered some grape juice. (Con)
Later, Swarup Damodar asked, "Light? (A1)" Srila Prabhupada began to speak in Hindi, and Upendra pointed out that there were no Hindi-speaking disciples present just then (A9). Srila Prabhupada responded, "Oh. Just make it dark. (sound of curtains closing) (A1)" Apparently Srila Prabhupada could not recognize by eyesight who was present even when there was light in the room. Tamal said, "We'll put your sunglasses on so you won't be disturbed by the light (A1)." (Con)
There is note how Sastri was chanting mantras constantly while preparing Srila Prabhupada's medicines. Tamal described how Adridharana had preached to Sastriji, as he was to be called from then on, for ten hours on the way from Delhi, and that he was now very favorable towards Srila Prabhupada's mission of saving the fallen souls. Later in the day, Bhakticharu said of Sastriji, "He's saying that the more Srila Prabhupada sleeps, it's better for him." Tamal replies, "Really. He's sleeping a lot. Today you were sleeping a lot (A10), Srila Prabhupada." (Con)
Most of everything spoken by Sastriji was in Hindi, which has not been translated to date. These tapes are available for additional research and translation work from the Bhaktivedanta Archives. (Oct.28 - Nov.14)
Then discussion took place regarding how Srila Prabhupada's diarrhea had ceased, which Tamal again blamed on the makharadhvaja. Tamal asked Sastriji why Srila Prabhupada had no thirst, and Bhakticharu translated the reply, "He says it's not good to have too much thirst. It's better in this condition. He's not eating anything. To have the thirst is a kind of disease when the bile secretion increases." Sastri then said, "No wind." It is then noted how Adridharana was assisting Sastriji, but Srila Prabhupada wanted to know about the young kaviraja assistant. Unknown to Tamal, apparently, Bhakticharu had taken Sastriji to see the Rangaji kaviraja earlier, to consult him and certain medical textbooks. Sastriji liked him for being his assistant, and wanted him to come to see Srila Prabhupada the next day to become prepared to carry on the treatment while he would be gone to Calcutta. (Con:36.155-167)
OCTOBER 30: Srila Prabhupada dealt with His former son, Vrindaban De, quite forcefully, and Pancadravida Swami said, "Srila Prabhupada, your voice is much stronger now." Srila Prabhupada "had a cough (A3) that gradually increased" during the day, "perhaps because of taking Horlicks in the morning." The kaviraja used a herbal medicine to reduce the increased swelling (AK17). The kaviraja had obtained an assistant kaviraja from the Rangaji temple. The assistant would care for Srila Prabhupada when D.P. Sastri had to return to Calcutta, and would also help in the distillation of medicines. D.P. Sastri decided to stay a few days more. Srila Prabhupada ate some solid foods, including sukta and cabbage sabji, but could not eat parathas and eggplant, saying, "No taste. It is desired, but no taste (AK20). The juice has taste. Now if I can just take some milk, I will become strong." (TkgD.309-311)
Srila Prabhupada was still going daily on temple parikrama. Tamal and Bhakticharu discussed with Sastriji:
Tamal: There's a little swelling (AK17) today here, Srila Prabhupada, around the eye (AK17). And the hands are kind of swollen.
Kaviraja: (Hindi)
Tamal: What's that, Bhakticharu?
Bhakticharu: When the skin sags, that means that it's…
Tamal: Going away. Yeah, but here it's…
Bhakticharu: I was telling him that it comes and goes.
Tamal: Yeah, it comes and goes. But in the eye it's very much today. (Con)
Sastriji was informed that Srila Prabhupada had only a small bowel movement "the day before yesterday" and there was discussion in Hindi about milk, Horlicks and coughing (A3). Later Tamal asked, "How do you feel that this kaviraja's medicine is affecting, Srila Prabhupada? Can you feel a change or…" Srila Prabhupada answered, "Yesterday I felt some. But this massage (AK8) is always (welcome)." Then Srila Prabhupada had a Bhagwatam translation session with Jayadwaita and Pradyumna. (Con:36.168-184)]
OCTOBER 31: Srila Prabhupada expressed concern about being possibly left in the care of the assistant kaviraja if D.P. Sastri went back to Calcutta. The kaviraja agreed to allow Srila Prabhupada to leave for Mayapur in two days, and plans were made for travel. Bhavananda said to Srila Prabhupada, "You seem to be better." Srila Prabhupada answered, "Yes." Tamal countered, "I want to see some proof of being better. You should be able to sit up or turn over." Srila Prabhupada took cough medicine (A3) with His milk and barley water, and passed more urine than any other recorded day, clear and 650 cc. Late in the evening, the kaviraja noted good progress in Srila Prabhupada's recovery. For six hours he distilled 22 ingredients to make an extract called brikka-sanjivani-arak, meant to revitalize the kidneys (AK15). (TkgD.311-3)
There was a discussion about Sastriji wanting to return to Calcutta and Tamal strongly expressed reservations about the younger kaviraja's competency and feared his possibly taking Sastriji's place. It was decided to try to keep Sastriji with Srila Prabhupada a few more days and then, in spite of Sastriji's contrary advice, take Srila Prabhupada to Mayapur so that Sastriji could easily come for further treatment by coming and going from nearby Calcutta, where there was already a stock of the required distilled medicines. Tamal was quite emphatic about avoiding the junior kaviraja. Meanwhile, Sastriji was distilling medicines for over six hours at a facility in Mathura. Renewal of strength would come from a return of appetite, and this was the desired result hoped for from Sastriji's treatments. Apparently, due to cough (A3), Bhakticharu elected to not give Srila Prabhupada milk the previous night, although Sastriji had supplied cough medicine to be put in the milk. Bhakticharu said, "Kaviraja is stressing on milk and barley." (Con)
Tamal, Bhakticharu and Srila Prabhupada discuss about persuading Sastriji to stay in Vrindaban as long as possible before going to Mayapur, which would be done when Sastriji returns to Calcutta and only if there are distinct positive effects from the medicines. Srila Prabhupada asks to sit up by leaning on some pillows and Tamal, translated by Bhakticharu, tells Sastriji: "So Srila Prabhupada seems to be feeling a little bit of benefit already from the treatment… He feels a little confident under your care." Earlier (pg. 188) Bhavananda said, "…we're all feeling that you're feeling some effect. You told me the other night." Srila Prabhupada confirmed, "Yes." (Con)
Then Tamal explained to Sastriji how any assistant kaviraja would not be trusted or wanted if Sastriji left, and that Srila Prabhupada would want to go to Mayapur in that event so Sastriji could continue monitoring Srila Prabhupada's recovery by regular visits. Sastriji replied that the drier climate in Vrindaban would make recovery twice as easy, and that Srila Prabhupada's condition had progressed positively over the last three days. It was decided to arrange for going to Mayapur in two days, after Sastriji understood how Srila Prabhupada would be comfortably handled during the 10 hour journey. Then Tamal said, "The urine was a little brown today (AK16)." (Con)
Later, after the visit of Sri Narayan and Rama Krishna Bajaj, Sastriji came to examine Srila Prabhupada and Tamal said, "The main thing we saw today, Prabhupada passed more urine than ever before, and very clear-colored." Bhakticharu translated Sastriji's Hindi, advising that Srila Prabhupada should speak less and, "He is saying it's impossible, that he had cough today (A3), and tomorrow there is no sign of it. So these are all Srila Prabhupada's pastimes…" Tamal was asked to save early morning urine samples for Sastriji's examination, and then said, "Srila Prabhupada, you also ate a little bit of vegetable, and you said there was a little taste (AK1,20) today." Swarup Damodar reported that the urine amount was 500 cc. Sastriji explained that Srila Prabhupada's kidney medicine was difficult and time-consuming to make, prepared from 22 ingredients, carefully distilled. Srila Prabhupada drank the medicine, and Sastriji explained that it was called vrkka sanjivani, an extract for revitalizing kidneys (AK15). Then Srila Prabhupada took rest. (Con)
Later, Sastriji had a long talk with Srila Prabhupada in Hindi and then left the room. Srila Prabhupada, Tamal, Adridharana and Bhavananda discussed the situation. They appreciated Sastriji for making his own pure and undiluted medicines, by his own hand, and how he had immediately offered his services free due to Srila Prabhupada's position as exalted devotee. Adridharana described how he found Sastriji to have many good Vaishnava qualities. (In 1998, Adridharana reported that D.P. Sastri had passed on, having become apparently materialistic in his later years.) Srila Prabhupada said, "This is last resort. Whatever it may be. Is that all right?" Tamal then said, "We might as well try. We've tried everyone else." Then Bhavananda said, "He did agree with your own diagnosis, Prabhupada. He said makharadhvaja at this point would be poison and today you said that it was poison." Adridharana said, "He (Sastriji) said there will be improvement, in a few days, two or three days… His mind is not made up. I'll have to talk to him and ask him to stay longer." Tamal: "At least for a few days he should stay here and see how the medicine is working." Tamal then urged Adridharana, who was staying in the same room with Sastriji, to go and talk to him before retiring. (Con)
After again discussing arrangements for Srila Prabhupada's family 'pensions', Srila Prabhupada spoke about Sastriji, "So take his chart (treatment) and try to follow. This is the last resort… He appears to be very hopeful." Tamal replied, "They all say that your heart is very strong… that because the heart is strong, they say there's no question of dying. And actually that agrees with the astrologers." Further excerpts:
Srila Prabhupada: Somebody said tuberculosis.
Tamal: Yeah, that was that allopathic Dr. Gopal.
Adridharana: He was guessing.
Tamal: He was guessing but he gave the recommendation for a strong anti-tubercular medicine.
Srila Prabhupada: No, no, therefore I am not going to.
Tamal: No, these allopathic doctors have been totally a failure for you. There's no question of going back to them in any case… and strong medicine he prescribed… He would have created havoc with his testing… if you don't have the disease, then they'll make sure you get it, simply to be right.
Srila Prabhupada: So I shall remain in his (Sastriji) treatment… strictly follow. (Con:36.184-212)
Late that night, at 2 AM, Srila Prabhupada had a "very lively conversation with Bhavananda Maharaj"about various topics. (TkgD.311-3)
Tamal wrote to Tulasidas in South Africa: "He was so much interested (in your report) that He even put on His glasses and looked very carefully at the photographs and news clippings you sent… Srila Prabhupada's health is still very poor but He is going to Mayapur in two days time to be under the treatment of an especially good Kaviraja."(Archives)
CHAPTER 31: HEALTH CHRONICLE:
NOVEMBER 1977
NOVEMBER 1: Srila Prabhupada went on temple parikrama and then met with Rama Krishna Bajaj, Sri Narayan and the head of Auroville. Sastriji checked Srila Prabhupada in the morning, saying, "You may not care about your body, but I will see that you get all the proper foodstuffs and medicines. I will never leave you." (TkgD)
Srila Prabhupada got some good sleep at the end of the night, and apparently took some Horlicks while speaking with Sastriji in Hindi. (Con)
A long discussion ensued regarding the overall situation, complicated by Srila Prabhupada's complaint of fainting (A16) during the temple circumambulation. Srila Prabhupada asked that once around would be sufficient, and expressed doubts about the treatment, as there was no dramatic turnaround yet. Srila Prabhupada took milk and barley in the morning and 12 spoonfuls of solid food for lunch. Plane tickets were reserved for Delhi to Calcutta, and Satadhanya had already gone ahead to Mayapur, but it was decided that Srila Prabhupada would stay in Vrindaban for ten days to regain strength, taking Sastriji's medicine even if Sastriji had to leave. Then Sastriji would return and take Srila Prabhupada to Mayapur. Srila Prabhupada concluded, "If he cannot stay, let his medicine remain and let him go." (TkgD, Con)
Bhakticharu spoke encouragingly, "Actually the kaviraja has left it up to you, Srila Prabhupada. He said that the way you have cured your cough and cold (A3) in just a day, in just a few hours' time, the same way you can cure all your disease if you want, just yourself, without any medicine. …and ever since you started taking the medicines there has been some good effect, like you started passing more urine (AK14), you started getting a little appetite (AK1), little taste (AK20), your swelling (AK17) has gone down, to some extent." (Con)
Of conspicuous note is how Srila Prabhupada several times asked whether He was a burden to His caretakers, and Bhavananda remarked, "Srila Prabhupada, something must have happened that you're feeling somehow that we think that you have become a burden. But we don't feel that way at all…" Was Srila Prabhupada now aware of being poisoned, thus feeling rather unwanted? (Con)
Tamal also revealed, "Prabhupada, you fainted… Although you don't remember sometimes, you have fainted at least a half dozen times (A16) in the last month or two. I know you don't recall it, because we did not say anything. But we have seen you faint… falling backwards a little bit in bed (A16) when you were sitting up. In extreme weakness, fainting is natural… The blood does not circulate properly in the head, and one faints." (Con)
After these discussions, Srila Prabhupada called for Sastriji, who checked the pulse and blood pressure, which was good at 160. Sastriji said, "You are weak, but the heart is strong. There is little blood in the system, and this causes weakness and fainting." Srila Prabhupada was asleep before 10 PM. (TkgD) Tamal noted that the swelling (AK17) was reduced. (Con)
(TkgD.315-319; Con:36.212-227, 242-249)
NOVEMBER 2: In the morning, Srila Prabhupada joked that He was not to fault for changing the plans of going to Mayapur. The lawyer was too late in coming the previous night to complete documents for the new Bhaktivedanta Swami Charity Trust, and the cars from Delhi arrived at 4 am, too late to return to Delhi for the 7 am flight to Calcutta. The trip to Mayapur thus did not take place. (TkgD)
This morning Srila Prabhupada drank little and did not want barley water. Tamal noted after Srila Prabhupada awoke later in the day, "This resting is very good. Kaviraja said that two things, resting and passing urine, are signs of recovery for you. Sleeplessness is bad. But constant resting (A10) means that the body is getting a chance to renew itself and take strength. He said that we should look for that resting as a sign of gradual recovery, called 'rest and recuperation.'" (Con)
After working on medicine preparations till 11PM the night before, Sastriji and Adridharana had left for Calcutta, to return in about a week to ten days and to stay for at least a week. Sastriji had sent word in the middle of the night that the road from Vrindaban to Delhi was too bad for Srila Prabhupada's health and reaffirmed that the trip should be cancelled. In the morning, the young kaviraja assistant came to check Srila Prabhupada. "Checking the pulse, he said there was more energy." However, Srila Prabhupada skipped the parikrama due to weakness (AK5). Srila Prabhupada's mood changed as seen in Tamal's statement, "I mean for the past few days you've been saying that you want to live. Now suddenly you say that you want to die… As your disciples, our duty is to help you fulfill your desire. It seems like your desire is to die in Vrindaban. But it's very hard for us to execute that service… to assist you in dying." (TkgD & Con)
(TkgD.319-323; Con:36.228-241, 249-261
NOVEMBER 3: "In the early morning, Srila Prabhupada asked Bhakticharu Maharaj to soak chickpeas and almonds." Gaura Govinda Maharaj arrived from Orissa and Giriraj Swami returned from a visit to Nepal. Srila Prabhupada found a little taste (AK1, AK20) in some avocado for lunch. (TkgD.323-324)
NOVEMBER 4: Hansadutta and Baradvaj returned from Delhi and Chitsukananda gave a report of preaching in San Francisco. Gaura Govinda reported on the total mismanagement with the recent annual Jagannath Puri Rathayatra festival. (TkgD)
Srila Prabhupada asked for kirtan again, doing without much of it while Hansadutta and Baradvaj had been away. Bhavananda asked Srila Prabhupada, "Is there any pain this side?" Satadhanya Maharaj returned from Calcutta, bringing portals and jinga for Srila Prabhupada to eat. He related how the Bengal devotees were disappointed when Srila Prabhupada did not come off the plane, having made ready a large reception party. Tamal spoke about Srila Prabhupada's upcoming trip to Mayapur, offering that they take the Taj Express from Mathura to Delhi to avoid the bad roads. Tamal said, "This time, until the kaviraja comes, from now until then, you should rest as much as possible, take these medicines. I think it's having a positive effect. You mentioned this morning that when you sit up you feel a little stronger now." (Con:36.262-9 : listed as November 3)
Srila Prabhupada took milk at 8:15 AM, and 10:30 AM asked for more, instructing Bhakticharu Swami, "So, every two hours give me something. Hm? Little, little." Bhakticharu and Tamal offered to bring Srila Prabhupada various things besides milk and barley, such as fried portals, capattis and rice. Srila Prabhupada chuckled, saying, "I'll not be able to take. Better not bother. This fruit juice or milk." It was decided that chewing and solid foods were too difficult (AK9?) for Srila Prabhupada, so Bhakticharu suggested making a portal soup with avocados besides the standard menu of barley water and barley milk.(Con:36.274) Tamal informed Srila Prabhupada that Sastriji was expected to return by November 11 or 12, a week away. Tamal observed, "You look very peaceful, Srila Prabhupada."(Con:36.275-6)
Then, excerpted from a conversation:
Srila Prabhupada: So far I am thinking, I'm not improving in strength (AK5). And how can I improve by drinking little barley and milk and little fruit juice? I have no appetite (AK1) for anything else. In case I… Most probably, I am diminishing my strength. So…
Tamal: How? I don't see that you're diminishing in your strength.
Srila Prabhupada: Yes, I cannot sit.
Tamal: But you haven't been able to sit for a long time… Now when you try and sit up, you always fall over to the side.
Srila Prabhupada: …From the fact I can see that I have no appetite. Then how can I increase my strength?
Tamal: He (kaviraja) states that you can't expect to eat as long as the liver (A18) and kidneys are not functioning (AK15) properly… he says that he can get it to function properly.
Srila Prabhupada: He says, but I practically see.
Tamal: He also says that his medicine cannot be judged over a period of five or six days.
Srila Prabhupada: I mean in case I do not increase… Then what I will do?
Bhakticharu: Srila Prabhupada, the Ayurvedic doctor was telling that one great factor is your willpower…
Srila Prabhupada: I am losing my willpower, because practically I see that I am becoming more and more weak.
Bhakticharu: Don't you think there has been a slight improvement, Srila Prabhupada? Over the last few days there has been a little improvement?
Srila Prabhupada: What is that improvement?
Bhakticharu: Your intake has increased. Your voice sounds stronger than before. (Con:36. 276-280:)
Srila Prabhupada voiced concern that His caretakers might put Him in the hospital at some point, but Tamal reassured Him that would never happen. Srila Prabhupada said that in case the treatment failed, "Yes, that starving and chanting and a little ganga-jala (Ganges water) or… In this way let me pass away peacefully. Bhavananda said, "Fasting, that you can always do. But let us see this treatment through. We have hopes in it." (Con:36.280)
When Krishna das Babaji came in to visit, Srila Prabhupada requested, "Get one small light (A1)." Srila Prabhupada began speaking to His godbrother before he came in (A9), not able to tell that he was not there yet. Krishna das Babaji was astonished to see Srila Prabhupada's extremely depreciated physical condition while still maintaining such perfectly clear consciousness. Srila Prabhupada again emphasized that under no kind of circumstances should Tamal allow Srila Prabhupada to be hospitalized. Tamal agreed, and related the story of Samjata, a devotee in Orissa, that had been hospitalized after severe illness and suddenly had died, possibly from the allopathic drugs given by hospital doctors. Tamal concluded, "We see one example after another that these hospitals, they are simply meant to kill, not to save life." Srila Prabhupada concluded later, "This is the decision, that in case it does not improve, let me die here…" Later, Tamal observed, "Improvement hasn't come yet. Simply because you're drinking more, passing more urine, is not the sign of any improvement." (Con:36.280-2)
When the kaviraja assistant came on his own volition to check on Srila Prabhupada, he was not allowed to do so, but was given a report by Bhakticharu Swami. Tamal noted that after a few days, Srila Prabhupada finally had a good bowel movement (A13) and felt relieved. Tamal said, "One thing I feel, that while there hasn't been any great improvement, on the other hand, I do not find that there has been any negative reaction or any regression since the time the kaviraja's treatment began. Of course, Your Divine Grace says that you feel weaker now (AK5) than you did a week ago. If that's a fact, then…" The discussion continued with Srila Prabhupada, Tamal and Bhakticharu. Srila Prabhupada seemed to have more trouble sitting up, slumping over to the side (A19, AK11). (Con:36.301-4)
Tamal makes an interesting statement: "So for another week or ten days, Srila Prabhupada, we should carry on, and let us see… I think that this is the last kaviraja that we should take the help of. If his medicine works, that's very welcome. And if it doesn't, then I don't think that we should try any more kavirajas or any doctor. We've tried enough… At least we've seen that with other kavirajas there were so many negative effects. Remember? Now, with this kaviraja, nothing has even happened badly with the medicine he's prescribed…" (Con:36.304)
Srila Prabhupada complained that upon turning on His side or sitting up, at first He would become very dizzy (A16). Tamal noted how Srila Prabhupada's improvement could be expected soon due to the positive signs of increased urine, taking milk without getting cough and reduced swelling. Bhakticharu noted that glucose gives temporary energy, but when stopped, one becomes more weaker than before. However, Sastriji's program will very gradually build up a more permanent strength. After fifteen days of curing the liver and kidneys, then Sastriji would begin to administer strength-increasing medicines such as makharadhvaja. (Con:36.305-6)
Srila Prabhupada was reluctant to take the medicines that evening. Bhakticharu explained, "There are two different types of medicines. One, I'm supposed to give once in the morning, once in the evening. And another one is in the noontime and late in the evening. And there's one medicine, that's sometime in the afternoon." Srila Prabhupada said the medicines were very bitter, some being powders, some distilled liquids. Bhakticharu suggested adding some glucose to improve the taste. Srila Prabhupada said, "Give me," and swallowed the medicine. (Con)
(TkgD.324-327; Con:36.262-307)
NOVEMBER 5: "Today, after passing stool five times (AK3), Prabhupada said that all medicine should be stopped. We were afraid that while the kaviraja was in Calcutta, there would be some side effect in discontinuing the medicine." Tamal called the local assistant kaviraja, who came and prescribed ginger and honey to add to the original medicines. With insight, Srila Prabhupada arranged to pay the kaviraja, to ensure any necessary future return. "Even though it was decided that he should come each day, it was obvious to everyone that he was not at all expert." In the evening, Srila Prabhupada amended His will and the registration papers for the Bhaktivedanta Swami Charity Trust. Tamal writes; "Because his hand could not move properly, the signatures were quite unsteady…(A19)" (TkgD.329)
Conversations Book 36:310-323:
Tamal: The medicine can be given for ten or twelve days and everything will go exactly according to some plan… The kaviraja probably can adjust very easily to stop stool from passing. Naturally, if you stop the medicine, maybe the stool will stop, but that doesn't actually solve the problem. That doesn't cure the disease. The disease is not that you're passing stool. That's a side effect of, perhaps, the medicine or maybe something you're eating. The medicine is required for getting better, but now, if the medicine causes you to pass stool, if that's actually the reason, then it has to be adjusted.
Satadhanya: Just a couple of days ago, Srila Prabhupada, you were constipated (A13), and you were thinking that it was necessary to take an enema.
Tamal: But stool passing this many times (AK3) is not right either. Passing stool five, six times, that is not right. It's obvious that it's a result of something. It's either the medicine or the diet. Prabhupada says it's the medicine, just like last time when he took that makharadhvaja, and he was right. It was the medicine…(break) So if by giving you some other small medicine at the same time, you can still take this medicine and you don't pass stool, then that's the best thing. This only a kaviraja knows… and maybe for this small thing we should call that assistant who was here yesterday. That's why that kaviraja from Calcutta arranged for there to be an assistant here, in case… This is a common ailment that people have, diarrhea or passing stool too often, loose bowels. That's not a very major problem.
Srila Prabhupada: No, you have to stop.
Tamal: No, that's not necessarily the only solution, to stop… that is not the only way. Another way may be that that they add some other kind of medicine which stops the passing of stool. The medicine you're getting is supposed to be doing good to your kidney and liver. That it causes you to pass stool, that is not good, but at the same time, it may be doing good for the kidney and liver… What we want is that you should not pass stool too much and at the same time you can still have your kidney (AK15) and liver healed (A18). Naturally, if you stop taking medicine, the stool may stop passing. *****
Tamal: …I don't think that requires a highly learned kaviraja. That's a common ailment… not a very difficult ailment to take care of.
Srila Prabhupada: So consult him.
Tamal: …we're putting some hope on this kaviraja from Calcutta. If eventually he is shown that his medicine didn't work, then I won't, I wouldn't say anything. But I'm going on the argument that his medicine is doing some good. So I don't want to see it stopped. So you have no objection if we consult the other kaviraja, do you?
Srila Prabhupada: What can be done?
Tamal: …I'll tell Bhakticharu to consult him. (break)
Later, the kaviraja assistant came to check Srila Prabhupada.
Kaviraja assistant: (Hindi)
Bhakticharu: He's saying that for controlling the stool he's going to just give juice of ginger roots and honey mixed together, and just that. He's not going to give any other medicine for that.
Bhavananda: Gentle.
Tamal: That will stop the stool?
Bhakticharu: He's saying yes. He doesn't want to change this medicine. He says that none of these medicines has any ingredient that might cause stool or make him pass stool. (Hindi) He's saying that passing stool is due to the old stool that was in the stomach. That is coming out. They are not laxatives, as such… He's saying that these two agents are natural digesters, both ginger juice and honey… (Hindi) Now, last few times, Srila Prabhupada has passed very light stool and liquidish. So ginger root and honey will make it sort of thicker. (Con)
Later, after the signing of the documents, Tamal said: "Your signatures were quite good, Srila Prabhupada… Some of them were very good. They remarked that the signature was strong."
Tamal wrote to Tusta Krishna Swami: "Srila Prabhupada's health has not shown any marked improvement. He is still quite critical." (Archives)
(Con:36.308-323; TkgD.327-329)
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