JANUARY 2018, PART 9 – COW CARE & PANCHAGAVYA PRODUCTS
Cows are the dearest entities to Lord Krishna so much so, that according to the Vedic scriptures in prioritizing the welfare, the welfare of cows comes first even before the welfare of Brahmanas or welfare of the whole world. Thus, unless cows are kept happy no matter whatever arrangements may be made in the society there will be no prosperity that can give real peace. Externally, the modern world may seem to be progressing but the facts of increased crimes, stress and unrest are because of the extreme neglect and dauntless violence caused to the cows. Thus ‘Cow Protection’ stands out to be the most important of all efforts in reestablishing Daiva Varnasrama dharma. The Srimad-Bhagavatam describes that people in the society can develop a focus on God realization (which is the very purpose human life), only when proper brahminical culture is established and brahminical culture can be efficient in guiding the society only when cows have kept always happy.
In the Varnasrama College course on ‘Cow Care’, the students received information about the importance of cows, from many perspectives. Topics covered included: 1) the origin of Mother Surabhi, 2) many tales describing the glories of Mother Cow, 3) Pancha Gavya products (five primary products from the cow namely- milk, yogurt, ghee, urine and dung), 4) how cow protection can be a one-point solution to all health hazards, economic inconsistencies, settle family issues, curb social evils, fix political unrest, bring in environmental sustainability, and 5) how cow culture can help create an ideal culture to harness spiritual practices.
Also, twelve products using cow urine and dung were taught. Dinadayal prabhu who is expert in making dhoop sticks (incense) engaged the younger students in preparing around three hundred and more dhoop sticks in service of the Deities. Balm, massage oil, soap and dishwashing powder were practically prepared. HG Lakshminath prabhu also guided the students in preparing cow products and shared his experiences in caring for cows.
The purposes of ‘Om Sri Surabhi Campaign’ were also discussed and commitments taken to push forward this campaign.
Prepared by Hari Kirtan das
Coordinator/SSKBK Varnasrama College – 2018
