April 16, 1975 : Vrindavan

Satsvarupa: When Srila Prabhupada arrived to finally conduct the Krishna-Balarama Mandir opening, he was pleasantly surprised to see the three tall domes rising over the temple. The domes had been constructed entirely during the eight months since his last visit. The four-story international guesthouse had also been completely built during his absence. Surabhi had supervised workers in day and night shifts to get everything done on time.

The tall central dome and two side domes, one over each altar, were magnificent. Their graceful form led the mind to higher thoughts and suggested an existence beyond the material world. The strength and beauty of the domes reminded one that beneath resided the Deity of the Supreme Lord. A temple was to enlighten people, to remove their nescience, and the domes eloquently spoke of this purpose. They could be seen for miles, rising boldly above the landscape of Vrindavana, proclaiming the worship of Krishna and Balarama.

As Prabhupada toured the completed building, he continually looked up at the domes. "Oh," he said, "the domes have come out very nice. What do you think?" He turned to the devotees accompanying him.

"They are magnificent!" said Hamsaduta.

"Yes, Prabhupada," said Tamala Krishna Goswami, "I think that Surabhi has done a nice job."

"Yes." Prabhupada smiled. "Everyone is telling how nice Surabhi is doing." Prabhupada turned to Surabhi, who had gone with little sleep for weeks. "But I can't say that. Only me - I am criticizing you, because that is my job. I have to always criticize the disciple."