Bio of Madhu Chanda Das
Birth and Childhood
Madhu Chanda Das was born in 1975 in the ancient land of Macedonia, a country renowned for its rich history and notable personalities such as Mother Teresa and Alexander the Great. His birth was marked by the auspicious positioning of the planet Guru (Brihaspati) on his Lagna (ascendant), a planetary influence that has guided him throughout his life. From a young age, Madhu Chanda Das was unlike other children. Instead of indulging in typical childhood play, he embarked on a profound spiritual quest. Born into a Christian Orthodox family, he sought answers to existential questions: Who is God? Who am I? Is life eternal? Is there life after death? This spiritual curiosity, likely stemming from samskaras (impressions) of past lives, drove him to explore various world religions, yet none could quench his spiritual thirst.
Encounter with Srimad Bhagavatam
At the age of 16, Madhu Chanda Das’s life took a pivotal turn when he encountered the Srimad Bhagavatam and the Bhagavad Gita. These texts became his guiding light, providing answers to all his existential queries and satisfying his deep longing for divine knowledge and bhakti (devotion). By this age, he had memorized both the Srimad Bhagavatam and the Bhagavad Gita, embedding their teachings in his heart.
Seva, Study, and Life in India
Madhu Chanda Das’s spiritual journey led him to India, where he immersed himself in the study of Sanskrit, yoga, jyotish (Vedic astrology), and the Srimad Bhagavatam under the guidance of various saints. His travels across India included visits to hundreds of holy places and interactions with numerous sadhus (holy men). Eventually, Madhu Chanda Das reached the sacred land of Sri Vrindavan Dham, the eternal playground of Lord Krishna. The spiritual magnetism of Vraja captivated his heart, compelling him to stay and deepen his relationship with the divine couple, Sri Sri Radha Krishna. His devotion led him to wander and perform parikrama (circumambulation) around the holy places of Vraja Mandala, further solidifying his spiritual bond.
Association with ISKCON and His Guru
Madhu Chanda Das’s spiritual quest brought him to the Hare Krishna movement, formally known as the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), founded by A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada. He became a dedicated member of ISKCON and, through divine arrangement, met his guru, His Holiness Srila Sacinandana Swami. Under Swami’s guidance, Madhu Chanda Das received valuable spiritual instructions and diksha (initiation), becoming a part of the illustrious Brahma-Madhva-Gaudiya sampradaya (disciplic succession).
- 1992: At age of 16, joined ISKCON in Skopje, Macedonia.
- 1994-1999: Served as a monk in the brahmachari ashram as a book distributor and preacher in Macedonia and Serbia.
- 1999: Traveled to India and joined the ISKCON Juhu bus traveling sankirtan party, distributing holy literature and preaching across India.
- 2002-2003: Served as a pujari, book distributor, and preacher at ISKCON Tokyo.
Grihasta Ashram
- 2005: Entered the grihasta ashram and lived in Croatia, continuing his preaching and service.
Present
Currently, Madhu Chanda Das resides between India and Croatia. His work and service also take him around the globe to countries such as Greece, Japan, Malaysia, Hungary, Hong Kong, Germany, Austria, Serbia, and Croatia. In many of these places, he delivers enlightening lectures on the Srimad Bhagavatam, sharing his deep spiritual insights and experiences with diverse audiences. His Grace Madhu Chanda Das continues to inspire and educate through his various services, teachings, and entertaining programs. His dedication to spreading the teachings of Krishna and creating spiritual values in devotees and children through creative means like magic shows has made a significant impact in the community.