Chasing Rhinos with the Swami: Volume 3
Title: Chasing Rhinos with the Swami: Volume 3
Author: Shyamasundar Das
Publisher: Self-published
Publication Date: January 1, 2021
Language: English
Format: Paperback
Pages: 394 (many colored pictures throughout)
Shyamasundar Das (Sam Speerstra) was among the first disciples of Bhaktivedanta Swami, playing a key role in the development of the Krishna Consciousness movement in San Francisco’s Haight-Ashbury district, London, and later as Swami's personal secretary. He accompanied Prabhupada on his travels through India, Russia, and around the world. Chasing Rhinos with the Swami offers a deeply personal account of the extraordinary adventures Prabhupada experienced, capturing in loving detail the seven years Shyamasundar spent with the perfect soul. Srila Prabhupada, who believed that nothing was impossible, inspired his first disciples to adopt the same mindset: "Go for the rhino!"
Volume Three features numerous untold stories, such as Prabhupada purchasing kilos of gold in Zurich, his strategies to outwit top lawyers in Bombay, and private moments with George Harrison. With 290 rare photos, many of which have never been seen before, this volume stands as the Crown Jewel of the Chasing Rhinos with the Swami trilogy.
Dubbed the "crown jewel" of the trilogy, Volume 3 focuses on the years 1972–1973. It captures a period of intense global travel, focusing on: Visits to Mexico City, Cuernavaca, and Acapulco, United States: Travels to New Vrindaban (West Virginia), Portland, San Diego, New York, and Dallas, United Kingdom: Three months in the summer of 1973 at Bhaktivedanta Manor, including nearly 50 recorded conversations with prominent British figures, lords, ladies, and artists. Key Scenes included are stories of Prabhupada buying gold in Zurich, outsmarting Bombay lawyers, and confidential moments with George Harrison.
