Remembrances of Siddha Vidya das from about 40 devotees

Nartaka Gopala dasi: Siddha Vidya Prabhu (Steve Sokolof) passed away March 11 at age 64 from complications arising from Parkinson’s disease, an aneurism and pneumonia. He joined ISKCON in Texas in 1972 but came to Miami in the early 80’s. I feel so blessed that we were able to have Siddha Vidya Prabhu’s association at ISKCON Miami for thirty years. Steady devotees are such a benediction and they are precious like jewels. And Siddha Vidya Prabhu was among the steadiest, both at attending temple programs and going on harinam every day for the last forty years, even if he had to go alone. He touched the lives and hearts of thousands. In the words of one City of Miami policewoman: “I am a Christian, and I may not understand your religion or your philosophy, but dedication I understand.”

He was known as the “man of a million tunes,” he knew so many different melodies for the mahamantra! He inspired us all and we ask everyone whose heart he touched to come to the temple, sing some bhajans, go on harinam, listen to a class or give a lecture, chant japa intensely and dance happily during the arotik. This is what pleased Siddha Vidya Prabhu the most. In this way his memory will remain alive in our hearts. They say that Sid was smiling when he passed, and I like to think that Srila Prabhupada and Lord Chaitanya both personally came to bring him back home.

Sri Shyam Bradman: Siddhavidya, you were the most consistent and focused kirtaniya I have ever met, and I will always love you for it. By the time I was 14, I was your mridanga player, you were my kirtan leader, and we were unstoppable together.

I will always remember the superb kirtans and harinams, the long walks, the jokes, the deep conversations about music (thanks for being the first to tell me about a little band called the Beatles), and all the times I massaged your tired and sore body after marathon kirtans. I will never encounter your 11/11 birthday or hear our favorite greeting for each other—“Nitai-Gaur!”—and not think of you.

I’m sad I’ll never see you in that form again, but I’m relieved that you’ve finally left your long-suffering body. Goodbye, my friend! I will never forget you.

Jayadwaja dasa: Beloved His Grace Sripad Siddha Vidya Prabhu left his body surrounded by 50 devotees. He had garlands from the Deities Radha Brajabihari, kirtan, and prayers. Sankar Pandit from Chicago gave a wonderful speech, glorifying him.. our prayers are with him and his family and loved ones….his family was so moved by the devotion of the devotees. They thank the devotees, they took part in the kirtan. To keep him happy in his service to Sri Sri Radha Krishna and Mahaprabhu we should continue doing what he established in Miami for over 40 years under the guidance of his beloved Guru, Nitya Lila Pravista Om Visnupada Astottarasata Sri Srimad A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada. This yuga dharma Harinam Sankitan yajna throughout the whole city should continue to please Sri Guru, Gauranga, the Vaisnavas and Sripad Siddha Vidya Prabhu….. Siddha Vidya Prabhu Ki Jay….. Forever in our hearts and in the kirtans. A plaque in his memory will be displayed in the temple.

It was an honor to go on the last four Harinamas with him on Saturdays, he chanted the Visnujana tune. He was well known throughout the city especially in Coconut Grove. At Johnny Rockets, a Kali Yuga restaurant, he was welcomed by the employees and every Saturday he would go there and chant for the patrons, the servers knew him well and very often joined the Harinama, chanting and dancing in front of the restaurant. He did Harinams also in Miami Beach. At the end of the Harinamas he sang Vanca Kalpa and thanked the devotees for the participation. If I tried to talk to him about trivial things he would change the subject, I never heard him criticize anyone, his only request was that the devotees play the kartals right. I will always remember him wearing his Maharastra kurta without sleeves and dhoti. In spite of his illness, which caused him to trip and fall often, he was very determined and never accepted a wheelchair and attended the temple every single day. He directed the last kirtans seated on a simple chair. He was a great Godbrother and a great example to follow. He will be deeply missed.

Jatayu dasa: I am fortunate and happy to have known Siddha Vidya (Sid the Kid).When I came to Miami in 1982, we went out on traveling sankirtan for 5 years together. We always returned to see Gaura Nitai in Govinda’s Vaikuntha Building (ISKCON Miami when they were on Miami Beach). After traveling so much, we became weary, so we started to go out on Hari Nam Sankirtan in downtown Miami and Lincoln Road. Miami was such a cosmopolitan city that we seemed to fit right in. We would distribute books also, we were doing it as much for our own benefit as well as the many people we would encounter.

Sometimes we would swim in the ocean, and Sid’s name would be changed to Sid the Squid. Many good times we had together, roaming around the Southern states…I cannot remember him getting angry, except maybe when he could not get his prasadam on his regulated time! When we traveled, the prasadam was not a subji or dahl or hot or by any means substantial. The last day before going back to the temple Sid would say, “I am sick of these cardboard sandwiches”.

Sid even came to New Ramana Reti and bunked with me in the aluminum shed for some time. Gosh, my friend has gone back to our beloved Krsna, leaving many devotees very sad. I for one will never forget my friend, and his many pastimes. I went to see him recently on his 14th day in the hospital. I went to his bed, he looked at me with an unknowing face and I said, “Sid it is Jatayu!” His face became contorted and he began to cry, so I also started crying. It was a very emotional visit. I read Caitanya Bhagavata for him, and chanted japa, and he was chanting with me, even though he could not speak. His wife, Krsna Seva, was telling me that all he wants to do is to chant his rounds. When I was ready to leave, I put my hand on his heart and told him, “you have no worries, you have no worries.” I kissed him and told him I had to go. Leaving him was very difficult to say the least. When I heard he had passed away, a calmness came over me, and I did not lament any more. My dear friend has gone on to romp in the spiritual realm…chanting the holy name.

Sankarshan Das Adhikari, ISKCON Austin, Texas: I remember Siddhavidya Prabhu from 1971 when he was a hippie selling flowers every day on a street corner in Austin, Texas. He used to sell flowers there on the Northeast corner of 32^nd St. and Red River Street. By Krishna’s arrangement we devotees drove by that corner every day on the way to our preaching spot at the University of Texas. Our temple president, Sri Galim Prabhu, made a point of bringing prasadam for this smiling flower vendor every day. Soon he joined our movement with an undying zeal to be unflinchingly engaged in Krishna consciousness 24 hours a day.

Years later in 1976 when we were brahmacaris together in Houston, he would distribute books every day at traffic lights and would often get arrested. It was a regular affair for Brahmatirtha Prabhu to bail him out. In spite of being arrested the day before, he would again be out working the traffic lights for Krishna the next day with an ocean of enthusiasm. His nickname “Sid the Kid” reflects the ever-youthful nature maintained by this exemplary Prabhu in spite of an aging, deteriorating body.

Bhakti Prabhupada Vrata Damodara Swami: It was with anguish that here in Mayapur I received the news of his passing away. I was surprised, as I had been calling the hospital every morning (by Miami time) and the last time I spoke with his wife she reported improvement. Let me share a few feelings: The more time I spent in the Miami temple, the closer I had become to Siddha Vidya prabhu. Although I was way out of his league regarding his firm determination and great attachment to Harinama Sankirtan, the two of us seemed to have a lot in common. Practically every morning we would have confidential talks after Srimad Bhagavatam class. Even during the class we would be “talking” together in the sense of appreciating and relishing the many implications of each verse and Bhaktivedanta purport.

One little secret – he was able to recite verbatim the lyrics to innumerable rock songs, selecting just those passages pertinent to a particular topic that arose in class. He could have won big prizes on a TV quiz show, but of course that wasn’t his inclination.

The manner in which he bore the pain of his Parkinson disease, his magnificent efforts to push on with his service, such as leading Sunday night kirtans in the temple, or the simple act of arriving from his nearby residence punctually to the temple programs was awesome and inspiring for the rest of us to behold.

In short, by the time of his demise, he had become, for all practical purposes my best friend in Krsna consciousness. And although I know he had great affection for me, I doubt that I was his only “best friend” – for, following so nicely in the footsteps of his spiritual master, Srila Prabhupada, and of his second greatest source of inspiration, Visnujana Swami, Siddha Vidya prabhu was indeed “a friend to all.” I soon return to Miami and I know I will feel increased separation from this unique Vaisnava. Hare Krsna! All glories to Siddha Vidya Prabhu!

Mrdanga dasa: Siddha Vidya Prabhu is my siksha guru because of his innately pure and compassionate nature. I always knew I was in the presence of a special and surrendered mahatma who was very dear to Srila Prabhupada. Siddha Vidya Prabhu’s heart was full of devotion and this divine nature expressed itself when he chanted bhajans, lead kirtan, and gave class. Despite ailing health and Parkinson’s Disease he distributed prasadam, books and the holy names on harinam daily year after year for as long as his body would allow, and obstacles were reduced from oceans to calves hoofprints by his loving devotion.

Chanting all the great bhajans of the previous acharyas (he made his own Xerox copies of the bhajans to pass out to the devotees); passing out maha garlands from the Deities on harinam, and chanting loudly while dancing ecstatically are all memories of him that I will treasure in my heart of hearts always.

Siddha Vidya Prabhu’s focus and whole life revolved around the intense desire to carry out the orders of Srila Prabhupada. He exemplified the fact that despite false ego and the suffering barriers which the material energy presents, by simply remaining engaged and absorbed in serving Krsna and guru, we can to achieve the perfection of life. Siddha Vidya Prabhu ki jaya!

Dwija Priya devi: A true saint and unsung hero leaves us. Even in a frail state he was relentless in his dedication to serving Srila Prabhupada and the Vaishnavas. The sign of a great man is in how he treats the little people and Siddhavidya exempified this by making friends with everyone, both devotees and non-devotees. We went with him on a large Harinam on South Beach and it was astonishing how all the shop, bar and club owners and employees loved him. Siddha, you’ll truly be missed and you are in our prayers.

Prema Rupa devi: Siddhavidya Prabhu was one of the most humble and sincere devotees I’ve ever met. Pure devotee for sure, going back to Godhead… Guru Maharaj sang “Je Anilo Prema Dhana”. It is the only song that describes how I feel. We should be completely broken-up at the passing of a devotee, our hearts should burn because we have lost a beautiful and sincere devotee. Especially someone who selflessly gave the world kirtan.

Krishna Kishora dedicated his kirtan to Siddhavidya Prabhu at Kirtan Mela, and we had a memorial service for him at Srila Prabhupada’s Samadhi here in Mayapur. Bhaktimarga Maharaj, my husband and I didn’t expect more than just the three of us to attend, so it was moving to see about 25 devotees arrive just to glorify and give their respects to Sid. It was attended by Bhaktimarga Swami, Kavicandra Swami, Danavir Swami, Prabhupada Das Prabhu, Pancagauda Prabhu, Vijaya Prabhu, Bhaktavatar Prabhu, and the traveling sankirtan party that stopped by Miami not too long ago, just to name a few people. Many senior devotees attended and I was so touched by their words. I cried like a baby… Play with Krishna in Goloka, Siddhavidya Prabhu. And please bless us that we can meet again.

Tara dasa: I pray that he has joined Prabhupada and Mahaprabhu’s eternal Harinam. My Dear God-Uncle and well-wisher HG Siddhavidya Prabhu has been carried away by the loving embrace of Krsna to whom he had dedicated his life and voice. He fully embraced the mission of his Spiritual Master to chant the holy name and share its liberating power with others. For 40 years he was an unwavering front line soldier bringing light and relief to the residents of Miami who appreciatively welcomed his daily forays into their tedious lives.

He will be dearly missed. We are left with his wonderful example of strict sadhana, simple hearted friendship, and grateful dedication to the master who saved him. I rest peacefully in the knowledge that he has now joined the eternal dance party of the Golden Lord and is sporting and drowning in the nectarean waves of the Lord’s Holy Names. For one who has so dedicated himself to sharing the wealth of Harinam how can there be any doubt as to his auspicious destination? Our Very Dear Siddhavidya Prabhu Ki Jai!

Lilakara dasa: May the memories and example of Siddha Vidya Prabhu remain deeply imprinted within our hearts forever. “He reasons ill who tells that Vaishnavas die, when thou art living still in sound! The Vaishnavas die to live, and living try to spread the holy name around!” (quote by Srila Bhaktivinode Thakur) I am sure that not too long from now we will all be reunited in the eternal Holy Dham performing Harinam with SiddhaVidya Prabhu leading. Lord Gauranga Ki Jaya!!

Damodara dasa Bharath (Sid called me Devananda): Sid loved poetry. He quoted Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakura teachings to me whenever the opportunity arose. He also loved the Beatles and Bob Dylan and the other famous musicians of the 60’s. My favorite pastime with him would be to start a song to see if he knew it and, over the past 14 years in which I knew him, he never failed to continue it. Indeed, his knowledge of the music of the 60’s and 70’s was just as vast as his knowledge of the scriptures. This was one of our favorite songs – Dust in the Wind by Kansas.

I close my eyes, only for a moment, and the moment’s gone
All my dreams, pass before my eyes, a curiosity
Dust in the wind, all we are is dust in the wind
Same old song, just a drop of water in an endless sea
All we do, crumbles to the ground, though we refuse to see
Dust in the wind, All we are is dust in the wind
Don’t hang on, nothing lasts forever but the earth and sky
It slips away, all your money won’t another minute buy
Dust in the wind, All we are is dust in the wind

Dhriti Gopika Devi Dasi Bharath: When one remembers Siddha Vidya Prabhu, what usually comes to mind is his austerity and dedication to Harinama Sankirtana. However, my memory of him is marked by his love for honoring prasadam. If you knew him, you would agree that he enjoyed honoring prasadam just as much as he enjoyed going out on Harinama. In fact, whenever I would have his association the one question he asked is “Mataji, when is the next time you will make coconut ice-cream and coconut cake for Radha Vrajabihari?” I truly enjoyed making this prep as it was my service to both the Lord and his devotee. Siddha Vidya Prabhu will always remain dear to our hearts and etched in our minds. Siddha Vidya Prabhu Ki Jaya!

Bimal from the Ocean Drive Art Gallery: God bless his soul, I have witnessed this devotee chanting and dancing Lord’s name on Ocean Drive in Miami Beach for almost 14 years.

Amrita Keli devi: All glories to His Grace Siddhavidya Prabhu! He was such an inspiring, selfless personality in that he never wanted anyone to miss out on Srila Prabhupada’s mercy in the form of kirtan. On my few trips to Miami, he would take us out and I was amazed how all knew him so well. So many servers and workers lining Ocean Drive and around Coconut Grove would acknowledge the harinam party with joyful, familiar smiles…”Hey Sid! How’s it goin’ today?” He had a very steady, personal impact in the lives of many downtown and beach regulars. Once we drove him downtown in Malati Prabhu’s van while it was POURING BUCKETS of rain (hurricane type rain) and he was pondering getting out to chant alone if we stayed in the van. His decision to turn back only solidified once he realized the few people remaining in the streets were running madly in search of shelter and within minutes no one would remain to hear. That and we practically had to kidnap him, though he led an amazing kirtan in the van on the way home. And the very next day, because it was raining a tiny bit less, he came very excitedly and very prepared with jacket and poncho to take us out. That day we failed to convince him otherwise. He was so enthusiastic, and though I had so little personal association with him, I will remain deeply affected by his untouchable commitment and tangible, daily contribution to Srila Prabhupada’s movement. You are deeply loved, admired and missed, Siddhavidya Prabhu.

Bhakta Tate Glimsharp Bane: Siddhavidya, you taught me the meaning of devotional service, inspired me to develop an affinity for japa, and how it is possible to be at peace; even in the face of certain death. I will always cherish the time we shared. I will miss you my friend. Godspeed.

Sheena Spirit: He was always chanting and doing devotional service for years, a true great mahatma, I’m sure he’s with Krsna now; no more pain and suffering, wrapped in the arms of devotional service. See you in Krsna loka…

Jahnudvipa dasa: I love Siddhavidya. I always will. People talk about his kirtan, and his devotion to harinam; these are great things, but I will always remember him for his kindness, his willingness to guide and care for people without them even noticing. I know that my being a devotee now has a lot to do with his influence. It was always small things. When I first started coming to the temple, he’d see me on my bike, and called out and wave me over. I’d stop and ask what he needed. He’d smile, and say: “Hare Krsna, thats all”. And he’d give me a piece of prasadam candy.

It was the way he’d smile when I said something stupid, and laugh, and gently correct me, never making me feel like the fool I was. I remember the period I spent outside temple life, drinking a lot, being homeless. When he would see me, he’d always ask if I was alright, if I needed something. And he never judged me. He would just tell me: “don’t forget about Krsna”. When I finally came back, he just laughed, put his hand on my shoulder, and said “Could you help carry my harmonium home?” Like nothing had changed. I always felt safe with him, cared for.

I look back now and I realize he was everything I want to become. Determined, humble, gentle, and strong. And not being able to see anything but Krsna in everything, in every person.

Yugala Kishor dasa: I met Siddha Vidya prabhu in 1991 when I moved to Miami community. The temple is located in Coconut Grove, Florida. Since the very first day I was there until I left for Toronto, Siddha-vidya was dutifully and consistently devoted to Sri Harinama Sankirtana on the streets of Miami downtown, Miami Beach and the well-known Harinama Sankitana on the weekends in Coconut Grove. I had the opportunity of joining his sankirtana party on Friday and Saturday nights in the Grove for several years. The Grove area was always a tourist destination and gathering Mecca for the locals, who were seeking sense gratification. I am sure that thousands of people benefitted by hearing the chanting.

He was very possessive of the chanting. He always chanted with great fervor and had, it seemed to me, an enduring voice to keep it going for hours at a time. Amidst the multitude of sense gratifiers and their noise in the Grove area (it was usually quite noisy), Siddhavidya’s voice was a match to it, distributing the transcendental sounds of Sri Krishna’s Holy Names. Surely he and the devotees in the Harinama Sankirtana party got countless conditioned souls connected to the process of Krishna Consciousness by way of aural reception. Many of those people had flown from many parts of the world, seeking to squeeze their senses for more stale sense gratification, yet they found themselves (some with vivid surprised faces) listing to Siddhavidya’s chanting at top of his lungs!

I am already missing such a rare soul, who had such a dedication to Sri Harinama Sankirtana. I am happy that I was part of his party during those few years, and I count myself blessed that I was in his company during those outings, distributing the Holy Names of Sri Krishna.

Vilasini devi: His Grace Siddha Vidya prabhu left his body surrounded by his God brothers, fellow Vaishnavas and family. It was so beautiful. The soul transcended so peacefully. He had a smile on his face and had a nice color.

My dearest mentor Siddhavidya Prabhu, thank you for all that you ever did for me. Going into the temple at 17 you were the first person I ever heard chanting our sweet Lord’s names. Who else in Miami will tell me such sweet Vishnujana swami nectar? Who else will give me the look and let me know that I am chanting off tune? Prabhu even in your last moments as you were banned from drinking water you still chanted. As you came out of your medically induced coma you chanted Lord Krishna’s names. When you had the tracheotomy and couldn’t speak, with sores and blood all over your mouth you still chanted the holy names. Even in that condition you were chanting your japa through the person moving the beads because you couldn’t move your fingers. Thinking back on how in Atlanta the temple authorities didn’t know me, but even with Parkinsons disease you wrote me a recommendation letter. I was able to become a part of Srila Prabhupada’s family thanks to you. I am forever grateful. Srila Gurudeva Indradyumna Swami wrote about you in his diary, and everyone was able to hear your glorious sankirtan harinam pastimes. It was such an honor to meet you and attempt to serve you. Thank you for allowing my husband and I to be there during your final pastimes. We will never forget wheel chair harinam. :) We love you. In your last moments you also gave Bhakta Tate an appreciation for the holy names. He loved being by your side. What will Mangal aratik be without you Prabhu? Please just give us a small taste for the holy name. We are honored to have known you. Can’t wait till we meet again since service to the Spiritual Master is eternal.

Krishna Priya devi: All glories to the great devotee of the Lord, Siddha Vidya. I am feeling his separation and can not imagine going to Miami and him not being there chanting. He certainly is an example of a devotee who is dear to all both: the gentle and the ruffians.

Govinda Priya dasa: Without a doubt by arrangement of the Supreme, Siddha Vidya Prabhu has been promoted to continue his devotional service in a different place. At the same time it makes us sad to lose the association of such a great soul who was exemplary in his loyalty & determination to serve Srila Prabhupada & Their Lordships Sri Sri Radha Vraja Bihari.

Ever since our family first arrived at ISKCON Miami from Bolivia in 1988, Siddha Vidya Prabhu was notable for his sadhana & service, his attendance at all programs, so punctual you could set your watch by him. He exhibited wonderful Vaishnava qualities: solid knowledge of the scriptures, determination, and freedom from envy and material expectations. To top it all off he was a renounced avadhuta.

When my youngest son Jagannath was 4 or 5 years old he somehow or other was convinced that Siddha Vidya Prabhu was Srila Prabhupada! Every time the devotees exclaimed “Srila Prabhupada ki jaya!” Jagannath was certain they were referring to Siddha Vidya Prabhu!

I was in Miami temple 2 months ago & as I was leaving Sid embraced me and told me this was the last time we would see each other because his body was so deteriorated.

The kitans, harinams and festivals in Miami will not be the same without his presence & enthusiasm. We were fortunate to know him and are eternally indebted to him for his priceless & saintly association that remains with us as a source of inspiration for our spiritual life in Krishna Consciousness. All glories to Siddha Vidya Prabhu! All glories to his incomparable service! All glories to Srila Prabhupada who gave us the opportunity to associate with such great souls.

Vasudeva dasa: My wife and I were always planning to visit ISKCON Miami, to see the Deities and devotees. One of those devotees was Siddha Vidya Prabhu. I really liked his smile and the way he used to call me: “Vasuuudevvv!” I had the great fortune of serving alongside him for more than three years. He was a wonderful devotee. His attachment to the Deities, harinama and the morning program was extraordinary. His devotional mood was always an example for me, he was a completely detached soul and always hankering for more service. He will live forever in my heart and I’m sure Krishna is taking care of him nicely. All glories to Srila Prabhupada and Siddha Vidya Prabhu!

Gaura Sundara dasa: Siddha Vidya Prabhu made a great impact on my life by his wonderful service to his guru, the Vaishnavas and humanity. I feel bless that I was able to help to take care of him the last few months of his life and it was an unforgettable experience with this great soul who came to show us how to be more devoted and how to please Guru and Krishna. He was dedicated to his service to please Srila Prabhupada and he was so absorbed in Krishna Katha that he couldn’t spare any time for maya. His focus was on mangala arati and harinam; he came to show us how to serve and please Krishna. He was crucified by his body but it was almost no obstacle to serve his guru and Krishna. Even at the hospital with all the machines on his body he was still in the harinam mood of fulfilling Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu’s desire of giving the holy name to the entire world. He was in a sense beyond the body. Sid was a legend because he gave the holy names to so many. Siddha Vidya Prabhu ki jaya.

Hayasya dasa: Our wonderful godbrotherSiddha Vidya Prabhu joined ISKCON in 1972 in Texas with VisnujanaMaharaja’s bhajanprogram. He was a great kirtaniya and he loved to read Srila Prabhupada’s books. His sadhana-bhakti(the secret of success of the bhakti) was excellent. Kirtan and prasadam were his life and soul. We spoke many times about Prabhupada and the philosophy of bhakti yoga. I miss him very much. Krsna is taking care of him, He will also take care of us. Krsna will never let us down. He is bhakta –vatsalah. All glories to Sid Prabhu avadhuta and his seva to Krsna.

Narayani Bradman: I am grateful that I had the opportunity to serve Siddhavidya Prabhu during his final days. What I will remember most about him is his determination to “beat his mind with a shoe.” In spite of his struggles he made a conscious decision daily to rise above the demands of his mind and body. He dragged that material body out every day and engaged it in Krsna’s service: attending the morning program, giving class in the evening and going out to distribute books when he could. He kept trying to serve Srila Prabhupada until the very end and for that effort I admire him, because I realize that Sidd didn’t do this because he was pure…he did it in spite of his impurities..he did it because he wanted and needed to help others take to the process that had saved his own life. During one of our last conversations in the hospital when he struggled so much to communicate, he said to me: “I love Srila Prabhupada.” Sidd understood the “Matchless Gift” that Srila Prabhupada had given him and until the end he was determined to share that gift with as many lost souls as he could.

By his example Siddhavidya Prabhu taught us an important lesson: to consider giving up our excuses.. we don’t have to be pure…we don’t even have to be healthy, we just need to be compassionate and determined to share the gift of the Holy Name with other lost souls because we are convinced it will change their lives forever.

As humble as he was, I think Siddhavidya Prabhu would want us all to remember how a lost soul, Steve Sokolof, was saved by meeting the devotees, taking prasadam and hearing the Holy Names. I think it’s the only way that Sidd would allow us to post all the articles about him, if we promised him that we would use his story as a source of inspiration to motivate other devotees to go out and find other lost souls who are in need of that “Matchless Gift.”

Gargamuni das III Gaura Purnima 3/26/2013: I have known Siddhavidya since 1978 -the first time I visited a Hare Krishna Temple. Never was there a time he wasn’t absorbed in the Holy Name. As young brahmacaris on “sankirtana” he always had beads in his bucket and would chant all day in between people. I got my first exposure to Krsna through “Sid” as he affectionately came to be known. It was his total absorption that I think of most. I would call him a modern day goswami. Aloof to the external world, thinking of Krsna 24/7. He didn’t have to go back to Godhead, he was already there.

We had a bramhacari joke amongst us, “Last one back (to Godhead) is a Mayavadhi”, 34 years later he beat me. All glories to Siddhavidya das!

Madhavi dasi Caceres: Siddhavidya prabhu was such an amazing soul. l remember once when Gaura Govinda Maharaj came to visit our Miami mandir, during Bhagavatam class, he started to address Siddhavidya: “Right, Siddhavidya prabhu?”, “Oh Siddhavidya prabhu”, “Yes Siddhavidya prabhu.” lt was such an obvious rasa and every one in class started to laugh. He was always encouraging me on book distribution and every time we met he would say, “you are the topmost.” l would always tell him he was my favorite devotee. Every time l went to the Sunday program l went in front of him as if to report to him that l was there. l knew he would wonder where l was if l didn’t make it on harinam. He was always so personal in dealing with my sons Arjuna & Vishnu. He was also a good friend to both my brothers Jagat Guru and Ramon.

Pran Govinda Das: I went on Harinam with Sidya Vidya Prabhu for three days, at South Miami Beach. He had a one-pointed devotional attachment, to fulfill Srila Prabhupada’s desire to distribute the holy name. People who worked in the shops were even aware of his presence, for example at one Italian restaurant, they brought out their pots & pans, banging on them, chanting and dancing as we passed through the restaurant. Someone may raise a question, that we may not be pure devotees, I don’t have a love for Krsna but undoubtedly everyone will accept and agree that Srila Prabhupada has love for Sri Krsna. Therefore because Siddhya Vidya Prabhu was following Srila Prabhupada and offering his service to Lord Caitanya through chanting on the the streets according to sadhu/sastra/guru, Lord Caitanya was pleased and perhaps wanted to bring Siddha Vidya Prabhu into His internal association so He took him.

We will miss him and thousands in Miami will miss him too. At one point he handed over the microphone to me and I saw Sidya Vidya Prabhu waving and smiling to all those around, and even those who were unfavorable would notice him and smile as well. He never exhibited anger to those eating abominable things in the restaurants because I believe He was seeing them as lost servants of Lord Caitanya. He inspired me personally with his dedication to Srila Prabhupada’s movement. Our first concern should be acting in a pleasing service for Srila Prabhupada and then it can bear the fruit of Krsna Prema. With his spiritual quality and the sukriti that he distributed by chanting the holy names and bringing Nitai Gaura’s mercy to the streets of Miami, undoubtedly Srila Prabhupada and Nityananda Prabhu are embracing him and welcoming him back home back to Godhead. All these people in Miami, this life or next, will be entering a temple to serve the Lord. It is a most wonderful and astonishing work, it is the ultimate benefit for each soul in Miami. We will miss him greatly because of his determination and continuous enthusiasm while chanting, even when alone, or in a group. He is a remarkable example for us.

Sunil Teotia: Siddha Vidya prabhu’s love for Krishna, his knowledge reflected in his comments in the Bhagavatam classes, the different songs he sang with us from Gitavali, his discipline in spiritual practice, his love and approach to harinam, all were a source of great inspiration for me.

I was sad when I heard that he passed away but on the other hand I know he is very well where he is now. I will miss him. I offer him my obesiances and thank Krishna for bringing him to our lives.

Janeshwar Gauranga dasa: In the 3^rd sloka of Sri Siksastaka, Lord Chaitanya Mahaprabhu states: “One should chant the holy name of the Lord in a humble state of mind, thinking oneself lower than the straw in the street; one should be more tolerant than a tree, devoid of all sense of false prestige, and should be ready to offer all respect to others. In such a state of mind one can chant the holy name of the Lord constantly.” Siddha Vidya Prabhu was an embodiment of all these qualities and that is the reason he always chanted the holy names with pure love and devotion. His calling out for Lord Chaitanya during kirtans by chanting: “Gauranga, Gauranga, Gauranga!” electrified the Miami Temple room. How can we forget the midnight kirtans of Janmastami? He would call out for Srila Prabhupada by intensely chanting: “Jai Prabhupada, Jai Prabhupada, Jai Prabhupada!” followed by the Bhaja Govinda, Govinda Gopala kirtan and the Maha Mantra.

Leaving a world of material wealth at home, Siddhavidya Prabhu joined Srila Prabhupada’s movement over 40 years ago and lived a very simple and austere life style to the every end of his physical presence. He has now joined his beloved spiritual master Srila Prabhupada and Lord Chaitanya in the spiritual world. We will all miss him and beg him to continue to bless us and inspire us as we carry on in his footsteps. Siddha Vidya Prabhu ki jai! Harinam Sankirtan ki jai!

Sri Hari dasa: I knew Siddha Vidya Prabhu since I was 12 years old. Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it, therefore I have to say that he was one of the biggest inspirations in my life. He never cared about the material situation around him as long as he was serving Srila Prabhupada and Lord Chaitanya MahaPrabhu’s mission. I recall in 1996, him chanting on harinam while we distributed prasadam for the homeless in Miami (Food for Life Program). Even in the rain he would chant the holy names of the Lord so that everyone could benefit from it. I am so grateful to him, he made us so happy with his presence, like a charming gardener who makes our soul blossom. Siddha Vidya Prabhu was a saintly person walking among us, always looking for the good in everyone, encouraging them to go back home to Godhead by chanting the mahamantra: Hare Krishna Hare Krishna Krishna Krishna Hare Hare; Hare Rama Hare Rama Rama Rama Hare Hare. Sid, you were there for my first initiation, as well as for my second, and maybe one day you will pull me back so I will see you again in the spiritual sky.

Garga Muni das Jeffrey Brock: If you lived in Miami Florida, especially Coconut Grove or Miami Beach, you probably had run into Siddha Vidya das on Harinam. Shortly after I came to the Miami Temple I recognized Siddha Vidya as ‘that devotee who is always out on the streets chanting Hare Krsna.’

I went with him on my first harinam and was honored to be guided by this forever gracious and humble devotee of the Lord. It was always like we were some kind of boat sailing down the streets passing out life preservers (Srila Prabhupada’s books) to the conditioned souls as we and they passed by. I’ll never forget one particular evening we were in Coconut Grove and a small group of intoxicated people started to lurch toward us. One man in particular (very drunk) came toward Siddha Vidya Prabhu and said, “Ok, I really want to learn what these guys are chanting!” Siddha Vidya patiently taught this guy the Maha Mantra for almost 10 minutes. I and a few others were close by, chanting as well of course, to protect Siddha Vidya in case this guy did anything untoward. As the minutes went by and this guy began to catch on to the Maha Mantra, I observed what was almost like a dark cloud lift from him and he became almost completely sober as he chanted. Many other remarkable events often occurred when I was out on harinam with this sincere and humble devotee of Krsna.

He was also a most remarkable and gifted teacher. As my service has advanced in the pujari area, I didn’t have as frequent opportunity to sit with Siddha Vidya during his Bhagavad-gita classes as I once had. However it never failed to strike me (an experienced teacher) how he was always able to not only transmit the essential message he was teaching but was also able to pass on the Bhakti within the message in a most powerful and loving way!

Siddha Vidya was one of those few souls who was able to pass along virtually complete communications with just a glance and a look. We laughed together often in recognition that this level of communication existed between us. While he was lying in hospital, I went as often as I could to see him. He was unable to speak, but between us words were unnecessary for the most part anyway. For my part I am so happy that there was nothing to say except that I loved him very much and to chant Hare Krsna as I held his hand. In those last days we laughed and cried together and then laughed again as I or another devotee would relate a story we had all shared.

When he passed away from this world of tears and sorrow, the new moon had just occurred about an hour before…so he passed with the Moon increasing in light, while the Sun was moving northward and during the light of the daytime (Bhagavad-gita 8:24).

I am very proud to say that Siddha Vidya was my friend.

Ratna Basavaraju: Now we live in Maryland, but when my husband Chakrapani Basavaraju, and our kids Lakshmi and Sridhar and I lived in Tampa, FL in early 80’s, we had an association with Sidhavidya prabhu. He was a great devotee and used to play harmoniam and sing bhajans. He sure will be missed.

Bhaktin Mirtza : Dear Siddha Vidya Prabhu was a special soul; I feel so grateful; when I lived at the Miami temple ashram, going on harinams with him planted the seed of aspiring love for Krsna. He became a friend whose humor and incredible determination for Lord Caitanya’s mission has never been forgotten and inspired me in my darkest times. He revealed that we are never alone and can serve Krsna no matter what the circumstances. This helps me continue to wake early for mangalarti for many years long after I left Miami. To describe the joy of knowing Sid is difficult. He is surely with the Lord and we are left without his lovely spirit, however he leaves his joy with us for harinam. Today I went out to sing alone for the first time and I could feel his smile!

Seva Ananda deva dasi: We will miss Siddha Vidya Prabhu. He will live in our hearts for ever; what a great devotee he was. I attended his classes at the temple and chanted with him at Coconut Grove. I always admired Sid; he was one of the kindest men I ever knew!

Terri: My heart is very heavy with this sad news of the departure of our dear friend Siddha Vidya prabhu. I have very fond memories of him. During my second stay at Miami dham in 2010, Siddha Vidya would bring a print-out of a different bhajan every morning and we would all sing together. One day I asked him why he did this every day and his reply was “Because I know how much you relish them.” He was right. It was the highlight of the day for me. And upon my departure for Buenos Aires that February, Siddha Vidya gave me a copy of “Songs of the Vaisnavas.” It has been one of my most prized possessions and now will be even dearer to me by helping me remember such a fine Vaishnava. Srila Prabhupada ki jaya! Siddha Vidya das ki jaya!