We don't have exact statistics yet, but the first, approximate indications are frightening: among the deaths by coronavirus in March at least four are ISKCON devotees, while hundreds are infected, and some are fighting between life and death. Yes, our religious practice is one of "congregational chanting" and "sadhu-sanga" - but at this time these should be done exclusively with one's family or online. A concern we should all share is that some ISKCON devotees minimize the potential risks of the virus in the name of having faith in Krishna consciousness. The fact is that our devotees (hundreds of them) have contacted the virus, several have died, and numerous more are presently hospitalized. We should follow common sense, the direction of legitimate news outlets, and that of our various governments. This is no time to rationalize that the risk is minor or exaggerated. Please dissuade, discourage - in the strongest of terms - devotees who cling to such uninformed and irresponsible ideas. They endanger themselves and whoever comes in touch with them. Those who, due to negligence, carelessly spread the virus to other Vaisnavas commit a serious aparadha, a serious offense. ISKCON is already a hard-hit group, let's stop this deadly trend. |