At Bhaktivedanta Manor, ISKCON’s flagship centre in the UK, Srila Prabhupada’s 125th anniversary theme was: Srila Prabhupada offers enlightenment to the world through his books.

For the occasion, the stage in the new Haveli was decorated with dozens of candles symbolising the light of knowledge that Srila Prabhupada brought to the world through his spiritual teachings. Throughout the morning of Vyasa Puja, Srila Prabhupada’s disciples and grand disciples expressed their gratitude to him and appreciation of him.

Prior to Vyasa Puja – throughout the three-day Janmashtami celebrations– Srila Prabhupada’s glories were continuously relayed by devotees speaking from the main stage.

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Forty-five enthusiastic second generation devotees once again came forward to make dishes for Srila Prabhupada’s feast. Altogether they made 440 preparations that were offered to Srila Prabhupada in his Manor darshan room.

Some of these second generation devotees have been helping make Vyasa Puja dishes for Srila Prabhupada since they were small children – starting with preparing fruits. The next generation team was organised by Visvadevi and headed by Radhika.

Fifteen of those devotees served with Visvadevi to make the flower arrangements in Srila Prabhupada’s room. Meanwhile, Sri Kama dasi and Sangita dasi decorated Srila Prabhupada’s vyasasan in the temple room.

Also volunteers helped to cooked and served a magnificent feast for more than 1400 people!

Engaging the next generation in Srila Prabhupada’s service during his appearance day was established by Sarva Mangala Dasi (a disciple of Srila Prabhupada) many years ago when she looked after Srila Prabhupada’s rooms, and now the children of that generation are coming forward to also help.

In this way, the spirit of this vital festival continues, much to everyone’s pleasure, excitement and ecstasy.