Neera Shah
Age: 24 Recently went travelling in South East Asia Studies: Management Systems (City University)
PSankirtan “I want that you, all my students, shall very vigorously try for this book distribution.” Srila Prabhupada, letter to Kirtiraja, 27 November 1971
And this is why PSankirtan was started. Founders Sachin Kotak, Kishan Vaghadia, Vijayata Hirani and Asish Soni spearheaded this project, understanding Srila Prabhupada’s emphasis on distributing books. It was after distributing books at the Notting Hill Carnival last year that the need for such a focus was recognised. The PSankirtan team was formed in January of this year. During one day each month, IPS members join forces with other ISKCON book distributors, to spread the message of Krishna Consciousness on the streets of London. They then participate in the Saturday night Harinam - public singing and dancing to the Hare Krishna Mahamantra. Sachin Kotak commented: ‘PSankirtan is an experience - we make those that participate feel like part of the family. Everyone is offered training on how to distribute books and after each session we all share our experiences.’ Bhakta Sandeep, head of book distribution at the Manor said: ‘It’s incredibly encouraging and inspiring to see members of ISKCON Pandava Sena finding the time to distribute what Lord Krishna describes as the king of all knowledge’.
What made you start attending IPS events?
Although I had been going to the Manor for many years, I first got to know IPS members while helping out with Food For All in 2005. I quickly became good friends with several Senas and they helped me to appreciate KC. I then started attending IPS events on a regular basis.
What did you find appealing about KC?
As Srila Prabhupada would say, “Krishna Consciousness is a sublime process.” I have become extremely fond of the Movement especially as it has transformed my way of thinking, including the way I perceive and approach day to day activities. The members of IPS I have come to know are an amazing bunch of people. Everyone is so sincere and willing to go to all levels to help one another.
What services are you currently involved in?
I coordinate PSizzler, which takes place once a month and involves cooking scrumptious Prashad for the hundreds of devotees that visit the Manor on Sundays. It’s an extremely energising and fun activity. I am currently involved in the preparations for the Veggie Steady Cook tent for Janmashtami 2007.
Interesting fact about yourself I just returned from backpacking across South East Asia. This had been my ambition for many years and I consider myself fortunate that I have been able to achieve this. This opportunity opened my mind to diverse cultures and I was also able to experience this all first hand by living with locals, witnessing their traditions and their way of life. To take part in PSizzler, contact Neera (
[email protected])
During the summer festival season, the team will be travelling to Glastonbury, Reading and Stonehenge to carry on this all-important activity.
Janmashtami 2007 Are you young? Dynamic? Creative? Want to put your talents to good use? Come and join Sena as we prepare for Janmashtami 2007. Contact Jay for more details
[email protected] / 07903 351 416
Forthcoming Jammins... June 15th - Greenwich - Ch.1 Bhagavad Gita 22nd - East - Enjoy YourSELF - HG Gaur Gopal Das 29th - Croydon - Relevant Inquiries July 6th - East - Dear God - Jay Shetty 13th - Greenwich - Ch.2 Bhagavad Gita 20th - East - ELPS Finest *** - East London Pandava Sena team 27th - Croydon - Soul Search