Sri Chinmoy, a garlanded smile
This is such a beautiful, special photograph of Sri Chinmoy.
Guru is sitting on his chair, a garland of huge roses embracing his neck chest and lap, and that absolutely unique smile, an expression that our hearts know so well, infinite Love singling out - individual petal among a million flowers - the shyly concealed beholder of that smile divine.
The photograph was taken by Jowan Gauthier on 29 July 2007, when Sri Chinmoy celebrated Guru Purnima.
You can enjoy other beautiful photographs by Jowan at Jowan's photo gallery
[Note: Originally, the photo was a scan from a card sent by Kanan (his flower shop has the spiritual name The Garland of Divinity's Love). Now it is the same image available at Jowan's gallery.]
Kanan
I am so grateful to Kanan for the friendship and concern he offered me over the years. Of all the nicknames Guru gave me, the one I am most proud is Kanan's assistant. I will cherish forever his friendship and his shining example on the Path.
Priyadarshan
Re: 'Saint' Kanan
Kanan's sobriquet, 'Saint' Kanan, certainly says it all Priyadarshan. He is the soul of kindness and compassion who always has time for other people's needs. He has quietly served Sri Chinmoy and his Mission for some four decades and continues to do so. He is unique, a glowing example of goodness - and much loved. We are indeed fortunate to have him among us. - Shardul
Senior assistant
Dear Shardul, you also have been Kanan assistant, and definitely my senior. I remember fondly the times I was assisting you assisting Kanan :)
Priyadarshan
PS: I will ask Prabhakar about the photo and permission to publish.
Who Assisted Who?
I think that over the years, we swapped the role often. But either way it was always a joy to share service to our Guru with you in this way Priyadarshan. So many nice memories! When you come and visit us in New Zealand, which is surely just a (short) matter of time, we must reminisce over a latte or two and a stroll in the bush... Nothing would give me greater joy! Your friend, Shardul.
Priyadarshan's favorite photo
Indeed a sublime photo and so like one of my own most favorite pictures--thankyou for posting this. Actually I do think I know who took this photo but this knowledge I can only share in person and in utmost secrecy so you would need to personally visit NZ or fly me to Italy. Let me know your arrival time! Your pal...Jogyata
It is really true
It is really true: Kiwis are the nicest people on earth. Jogyata and Shardul, two of my heroes, are the shining proof :)
Priyadarshan
Re: The Mutual Appreciation Club
So kind of you Priyadarshan - but there is a higher truth yet and this is it: The nicest people on earth are Italians who have visited New Zealand at least once... Nicer than that are Italians who have visited New Zealand more than once... BTW Priyadarshan, there is a get-together at The Flying Fox - February 17, 18, 19 - and your name is on one of the chairs at the dinning room table... Bipin and Mridanga are coming... We have a rickshaw on permanent standby at the airport for you... ;-)
Your KayOneDubiluOne buddies, Shardul & Jogyata.
Sri Chinmoy, a garlanded smile
Dear brother-friends,
Indeed, what a wonderful picture! Our gratitude-debt will be eternal! Sri Chinmoy certainly IS the embodiment of infinite, unconditional LOVE.
Kamalakanta