For the first time, the Shreemad Bhagavat came to London in English! For seven breathtaking days, Pujyashree Bhupendrabhai Pandya took the helm and steered the young and old alike, through the oceanic wisdom of the Bhagavat. It was both inspiring and refreshing for youth to finally have access to the spiritual message contained within our scripture, in a language that could be understood and related to. The seven days were therefore, historic.

Samakti Mission UK in conjunction with Hindu Youth UK planned and paved the way for what can be seen as a celebration of Hinduism. Taking into account working days and working professionals, the katha was held each evening prior to which Prasad was served. This seemed like those rare instances where you could have your cake and eat it too!

Pujyashree Bhupendrabhai’s modern approach to this age-old scripture, his humour and piercing clarity did not escape the young. To attain a deeper grasp of any subject one has to understand the basic concepts. It came as a relief to many who had no idea that the Shreemad Bhagavat and the Bhagavat Geeta were two different scriptural texts, to have Pujyashree Bhupendrabhai knowingly uncover this.

From the very basic to the scientific and practical, the discourse revealed timeless spiritual messages. Over the first two days, Pujyashree Bhupendrabhai spoke of the importance of the Bhagavat. Opening up the floor to interactive discussion was one of the highlights as people attempted to define what is it that makes a person religious. The session provoked thought and was rounded off by an elaborate explanation of the qualities of the rightful seeker and the rightful speaker.

The third day began with Shukadevji’s words to King Pareekshit and Pujyashree Bhupendrabhai elucidated on how each one of us can be free from the fear of death simply by being prepared for it. In Chatuhshloki Bhagavat, he logically dispelled the queries about the existence of God on the basis of our scriptures. Even though time was too short, on the fourth day, Pujyashree Bhupendrabhai delved into the various incarnations, the birth of Krushna and His divine plays. The celebration of Nandmahotsav was so full of enthusiasm and gaiety that the geographical distance of thousands of miles and the chronological difference of more than five thousand years zeroed in, right here in London. In a matter of minutes, the crowd of London was transported from its chaotic hustle-bustle to the serene ethereal Gokul!

Various leelas of Lord Krushna like liberation of Pootana, stealing of butter, cheer-haran, the lifting of Goverdhan mountain, etc. were explained with a clarity that made them relevant to everyday life in more ways than one. Looking at these interpretations - devotional, rational and spiritual, the final two days culminated with the climax of the Raas leela, Rukmini’s love letter, Lord Krushna’s friendship with Sudama and the absolution of King Pareekshit.

Youth speakers invited from the audience on the final day, echoed everybody’s sentiments as they lovingly spoke of what they had gained and how it would change their lives forever. We all parted with tears in our eyes and hope in our hearts of meeting our dear Pujyashree Bhai for discourses on the Ramayan next summer. Till then we will feel contented by watching him on DVDs of this katha.