“Nevertheless, in this particular case, we see that this proposed marriage, in spite of its irregular aspect, may still be able to serve in the advancement of Krishna consciousness. Both parties are mature individuals who sincerely desire to progress in Krishna consciousness and to give Krishna consciousness to others. If they conduct their relationship according to the strict principles of Krishna conscious grihastha life, then we may expect that their spiritual aspirations have every chance of being fulfilled.”

Change in Ashrama for Rohini Suta Prabhu
By the Executive Committee of the ISKCON Governing Body Commission and the Executive Committee of the European Regional Governing Body

Date 26 July, 2000

Rohini Suta Prabhu, an initiating spiritual master and a GBC zonal secretary for parts of Germany, the CIS and the former Yugoslavia Republic, has notified the GBC Executive Committee and the leaders of ISKCON in Europe of his desire to change from brahmacari to grihastha ashrama.

In and of itself, such a change in ashrama is in conformity with the standards of Krishna consciousness. It is acceptable for a brahmacari to change to grihastha and to remain qualified to act as spiritual master. In other words, this alteration is not in itself a fall-down.

Nevertheless, there is an irregular element in this case. It is that Rohini Suta Prabhu's intended wife had been first of all his initiated disciple. Hence the proposed union goes against a well-established ethical principle that prohibits marriage between a guru and a disciple.

The reason for the prohibition lies in the great potential for abuse, misuse, or corruption of the guru-disciple relation should either party in that relationship come to view the other as a potential conjugal partner. The prohibition is very wise, and it should be upheld as a general principle. The GBC cannot condone its violation.

Nevertheless, in this particular case, we see that this proposed marriage, in spite of its irregular aspect, may still be able to serve in the advancement of Krishna consciousness. Both parties are mature individuals who sincerely desire to progress in Krishna consciousness and to give Krishna consciousness to others. If they conduct their relationship according to the strict principles of Krishna conscious grihastha life, then we may expect that their spiritual aspirations have every chance of being fulfilled.

In light of the above considerations, the Executive Committees of the GBC and the European RGB have come to the following conclusions. In accordance with the provisions of ISKCON law (6.4.4.2), we are issuing the directives below, which are to govern Rohini Suta Prabhu's conduct until the matter can be taken up the full GBC body at its next annual general meeting.

1. We understand that Rohini Suta Prabhu's change in ashrama may affect his disciples in different ways. Some may find their faith or their relationship with him disturbed. Others may be affected very little. In general, Rohini Suta Prabhu may continue to give spiritual instruction and guidance to his initiated disciples and others who have taken spiritual shelter of him. Nevertheless, during the period of transition in ashrama condition by Rohini Suta Prabhu, any of his disciples who might find themselves experiencing some misgivings, doubts, or disturbances in their relationship with their guru should feel entirely free to consult other ISKCON spiritual leaders in whom they have faith for guidance and instruction.

2. Rohini Suta Prabhu shall refrain from accepting further disciples (diksa or siksa). The Executive Committee will recommend to the GBC body that this directive remain in place for five years, when the GBC will review his situation and conduct.

3. Rohini Suta Prabhu's duties as a GBC member will be taken up by the GBC body at its next annual general meeting in 2001. Until then, the European and Russian leaders of ISKCON should insure at least that there is a senior devotee serving in the active capacity of a co-GBC in all of Rohini Suta Prabhu's areas of responsibility.

4. Representatives from the international GBC Executive Committee and the Executive Committee of the European Regional Governing Body shall stay in regular contact with Rohini Suta Prabhu in order to monitor his situation and to give him any advice and help should he need it.

The Executive Committee of the GBC Ravindra Svarupa dasa Raimai Swami Giridhari Swami Gopal Krishna Goswami

The Executive Committee of the European Regional Governing Body Prahladananda Swami Lilasuka dasa Praghosh dasa Hridaya Caitanya dasa

© CHAKRA 26-August-2000

Go to the “GBC Page”