Young Devotee Reflects on Inspiring Service of Subhangi Devi Dasi

An enthusiastic preacher of Krishna Consciousness and disciple of Srila Prabhupada, Subhangi Devi Dasi, left her body on the morning of August 6, 2023, in Sri Dham Mayapur. Her final rites were held on August 8, 2023, following the arrival of her son from Germany.

A very dedicated servant of Srila Prabhupada, she used to enthusiastically preach at the entry of Srila Prabhupada’s Pushpa Samadhi by distributing Srila Prabhupada’s books despite suffering from Parkinson’s since 2007.

Subhangi and her husband Sarvabhavana Dasa were initiated in the summer of 1975 by Srila Prabhupada (by letter). They were inspired to commit themselves after reading the Isopanisad.

She had met Srila Prabhupada for the first time at Delhi airport after waiting the whole day for him to arrive. On seeing him, she covered her face with a sari and threw flowers at his lotus feet. She immediately felt that he was her spiritual master.

Once, in Vrindavan, Subhangi Mataji sat in the back of the temple room with her child on her lap during one of Srila Prabhupada’s classes. Her son woke up and began to scream. Rather than rebuke her, Srila Prabhupada said, “A devotee should scream for Krishna the way this baby is screaming for his mother.”

Dhanada Das, a young devotee who was present at her departure, said, “She rightfully deserves to be considered a saintly personality. Until her last day, she joyfully joined the Harinama Sankirtan and distributed Srila Prabhupada’s books to the extent her body allowed,” he continued, “During Harinama, each of us felt the blessings emanating from Mataji Subanghi. Her presence inspired me to dance, others to distribute books, and enco many to join the Sankirtan despite challenges. Her incredible determination to continue Harinama Sankirtan despite her age and numerous ailments was awe-inspiring.”

On the day of her departure, he noted, “I noticed her face glowing radiantly, and I was amazed by it. Her departure leaves us with a mix of emotions – sadness at the physical loss and immense joy knowing that she has found eternal shelter in the loving arms of the Lord.

He concluded, “Today she met Srila Prabhupada, who comes for his every sincere disciple and who undoubtedly cherishes her dedication to the Sankirtana movement. Every member of the Harinama Sankirtana group is profoundly grateful for her presence, which touched our hearts deeply..”

Photo and information credit: Kishori Mani Devi Dasi, Vaishnavas Care

Special thanks to Dhanada Das for sharing his reflections online.