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Adventures of a Travelling Monk: A Memoir

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'With my time in the Marines behind me, I gradually found myself on a personal quest for answers, a spiritual journey. I had left behind the disciplined life of a soldier and was wandering in search of meaning.'

Deeply affected by the death of his entire platoon in the Vietnam War, Lance Corporal Brian Tibbitts

embarked upon the pursuit of the real meaning and purpose of life. To his dismay, none of the major spiritual and religious texts he read could fully answer his questions, until he found Bhagavad-gita As It Is and met its author, Srila A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami, the founder of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON).

At the age of twenty-one, Brian Tibbitts became his disciple, and at the age of twenty-nine, became Indradyumna Swami when he entered the renounced order of life. Instructed by his spiritual master to 'preach boldly and have faith in the holy names of God', he left the USA initially for Paris. What followed over the next five decades was a rollercoaster journey across the globe. From surviving attacks in post-war Sarajevo to being mistaken for a terror suspect in North America to losing his clothes and his way amid the 125 million pilgrims at the Kumbh Mela, his life has been one adventure after another. Inspirational and engrossing, Adventures of a Travelling Monk is a riveting account of the fifty years of Indradyumna Swami's active service in the Hare Krishna movement.

326 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 24, 2024

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Indradyumna Swami

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July 14, 2024
Indradyumna Swami is a prominent spiritual leader and a senior monk within the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON). Born in the United States, he embraced the teachings of A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, the founder of ISKCON, and dedicated his life to spreading Krishna consciousness worldwide. Known for his extensive travels and dynamic preaching, Indradyumna Swami has inspired countless individuals through his lectures, kirtans (devotional singing), and personal example of devotion. His memoir, "Adventures of a Travelling Monk," captures the essence of his journey, detailing the challenges, triumphs, and profound spiritual experiences he encountered while traveling across continents to share the message of Krishna.

"Adventures of a Travelling Monk: A Memoir" is a vivid and heartfelt account of Indradyumna Swami's global odyssey as a devout monk. The book chronicles his extensive travels, from the bustling streets of India to the remote regions of Russia and beyond. Through a series of personal anecdotes and reflections, the memoir provides a window into the life of a traveling monk, offering readers a blend of adventure, spirituality, and cultural exploration. Indradyumna Swami shares the highs and lows of his missionary work, highlighting the universal appeal of Krishna consciousness and the transformative power it holds for people from all walks of life.

The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), also known as the Hare Krishna movement, was founded in 1966 by A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada in New York City. ISKCON's mission is to promote the teachings of Lord Krishna, as presented in the ancient Vedic scriptures, particularly the Bhagavad-gita and Srimad-Bhagavatam. The movement emphasizes the practice of bhakti-yoga, or the yoga of devotion, which involves activities such as chanting the holy names of Krishna, studying sacred texts, and engaging in devotional service. ISKCON has grown into a global organization with hundreds of temples, farms, schools, and community projects dedicated to spreading spiritual knowledge and fostering a sense of universal brotherhood.

A memoir, by definition, is a literary genre that presents a person's experiences and reflections on their life journey. "Adventures of a Travelling Monk" fits squarely within this genre, as it not only recounts the physical travels of Indradyumna Swami but also delves into his spiritual evolution and the profound lessons he learned along the way. In "Adventures of a Travelling Monk: A Memoir," Indradyumna Swami shares his life's journey as a devotee of Krishna, providing vivid descriptions of his travels and the people he meets. The memoir includes stories from Vrindavan, the holy land where Lord Krishna spent his childhood, known for its spiritual significance and vibrant devotional culture. Through these narratives, readers can experience the essence of Krishna's pastimes and the timeless teachings that continue to inspire millions worldwide.

The book serves as both a personal narrative and a source of inspiration for readers, illustrating how dedication to a higher purpose can lead to a life filled with meaningful connections and spiritual fulfillment. Through his memoir, Indradyumna Swami invites readers to join him on a transformative journey, offering insights that transcend cultural and geographical boundaries.
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