The Process of Developing Bhava

This class, delivered by Rasikananda Swami (affectionately known as Rasik Maharaja), is a profound exploration of bhava, the inner mood and devotional consciousness that shapes both one’s spiritual practice and ultimate destination. Drawing from the Brahma-samhita, Bhagavad Gita, Srimad Bhagavatam, and the teachings of Srila Gurudeva and Swami Prabhupada, Rasik Maharaja explains how complete absorption in Krishna transforms the soul’s misplaced material emotions into an eternal relationship with the Divine. He examines the various ways souls approach Krishna, the different forms of liberation attained according to one’s mood, and why the intimate, loving devotion of the residents of Vraja surpasses even the opulence of Vaikuntha. Through examples involving Arjuna, Brahma, Kamsa, Sisupala, Duryodhana, Vidurani, and Mother Yasoda, the class emphasizes that bhakti is not merely an external activity, but the union of kriya and bhava—devotional action performed with genuine love, focused remembrance, and the desire to serve Krishna.This class was recorded in Queen, NY on May 31, 2026.