Sumadhuri Devi Dasi recently achieved a significant milestone by successfully organizing the first-ever ISKCON Youth Bus Tour across Thailand. Led by Kavicandra Swami and BVV Narasimha Swami, the tour provided participants with enriching devotional experiences, a testament to the dedication and hard work of the organizers.

Manorama Das, ISKCON Youth Minister, said, “This was a heroic effort by Sumadhuri Devi Dasi, Rajasuya Dasa, and Yogeshwara Dasa, and several helpers at temples in different parts of Thailand. This was their first tour, and it was organized on short notice (they only had one month to prepare before the big vacation month in Thailand, which is April).”

He continued, “They had 15+ youth, several adult helpers/chaperones, and the Swamis…[they had] daily morning programs with inspirational classes along the tour route, several Harinama Sankirtana processions, a kirtan festival, and a Ratha-yatra…These tours are meant to train, inspire, engage, and empower the next generation of our ISKCON youth to develop a desire to help carry on the mission.”

“I had the opportunity to travel with the group of 18 youths from the Thai yatra,” said BVV Narasimha Maharaj, “We visited centers at Phuket, Khaolak, Krabi, Kho Samui, Huo Hing, Pattaya and finally Bangkok. In each place, we had Harinam Sankirtan and book distribution. It was fun to be with them, and I marveled at their chanting and singing skills. They seem to have a natural affinity for the holy name,” he continued, “They have grown up with the holy name and they like to give the holy name to others. Being more than 50 years their senior, I was like their grandfather, and they were always kind to me. It was my good fortune to be with them.”

One of the youth participants, Mohanrupa, said, “I really liked being on the first bus tour. It was really nice being with friends all these days and going out on sankirtan every day. I want to thank HH BVV Narasimha Swami for his association and guidance, and a big thanks to the organizers for making this tour. I cannot wait for the next tour. One year seems too long.”

The inaugural ISKCON Youth Bus Expedition in Thailand not only showcased the zeal and dedication of its participants but also underscored the enduring spirit of community, mentorship, and spiritual growth within the ISKCON family. It was truly a milestone and an inspiration for the Thai youth.