Devotees performing harinam in Schoelcher, Martinique, by a local mural.

ISKCON devotees from France traveled to the Caribbean Islands of Martinique and Guadeloupe this past winter to perform Harinam in the streets. For some of the small towns, this was their first-ever exposure to Bhakti Yoga and chanting of the Holy Name.

Harinam on Fort de France

The group was led by Jaya Bhakti devi dasi, a disciple of HH Guru Prasad Swami, who spent her own personal pension money to fund the pilgrimage. The harinam group consisted of Prasanatma das- a French Prabhupada disciple, Gaurasundar das- born in Guadeloupe but currently residing in Tucson Arizona, United States, Radha dasi- from south of France, and Jaya Bhakti devi dasi- a resident of Martinique, and many others.

It has been reported by the devotees that many of these small Caribbean cities, such as; Fort de France, Shoelcher, Sainte Anne, and Le Diamant, this was the first time ISKCON performed harinam there. Many local people rejoiced in hearing the chanting in their streets. The colorful robes and dresses, along with the percussion instruments were reminiscent of their local Carnival, which is also usually held around this time of year.