Urugaya Das, co-founder of TH3 LOT with his wife Lalita Kunda Devi Dasi, serving Prasadam to the Sri Mayapur locals.

Amid the unprecedented challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, a remarkable initiative called TH3 LOT took root in Sri Mayapur Dham, India, and began to flourish. TH3 LOT is a community-driven project led by the passionate husband-and-wife duo of Urugaya Das and Lalita Kunda Devi Dasi. What initially started as a simple effort to distribute Krishna Prasadam evolved into a widespread mission of spiritual and physical sustenance, leaving an indelible impact on the local community.

Urugaya, originally from Australia, and Lalita Kunda, hailing from Mauritius, found themselves in Sri Mayapur during the pandemic. Confronted with the suffering and economic hardships faced by rickshaw drivers and local shopkeepers, they felt a call to make a difference. “We knew we had to help but didn’t want just to give them money,” Lalita recalled. “We wanted to offer something more nourishing and meaningful – Krishna Prasadam.”

Lalita Kunda, center in green and pink, with the locals after a successful Prasadam distribution effort.

Drawing inspiration from Lalita’s family involvement in the Food for Life initiative in Mauritius, they commenced the distribution of sanctified vegetarian food. Their efforts were further empowered by an unexpected financial gift from Urugaya’s grandmother, which they interpreted as a divine sign to start a community kitchen. “People would come to us and ask if we had anything to spare, as many had lost their jobs and the tourists had stopped coming,” Urugaya said.

The essence of TH3 LOT lies in its deep connection to spirituality and community service. Urugaya emphasizes that its mission goes beyond feeding the hungry. “We are not trying to tell people that we are feeding the hungry or the poor. The truth is that Krishna is maintaining these people. We are serving them to get their mercy,” he explained. This spiritual foundation is evident in their approach, as they begin their service with Harinam, chanting the Holy Names, and then distributing Prasadam.

Their dedication to spirituality is also reflected in the places they serve. They venture into remote villages, narrow alleyways, and even places where electricity and modern amenities are scarce. “We’re practically trying to do that here in Mayapur, but grassroots and going to the places where Prasadam isn’t going,” Lalita noted. Their commitment to reaching the most underserved areas underscores their mission to connect people with Krishna’s mercy.

With the aim of distributing 1 billion plates of Prasadam, Th3 Lot is feeding the underserved children in Mayapur area.

Central to the success of TH3 LOT is the involvement of family and friends. Lalita’s family, particularly her father, and three younger brothers, play a pivotal role in sustaining the project. They help with cooking, distribution, and maintaining the initiative’s spiritual essence. “My parents were devotees even before I was born, so I guess I was destined to be part of this spiritual journey,” Lalita shared.

Their team also includes local devotees like Jaidev, who has been assisting for the past few years, and Jamuna, who taught them the intricacies of Bengali cooking. “Sometimes it takes two or two and a half hours to travel a short distance,” Lalita said, reflecting on the logistical challenges they face. Yet, they remain dedicated as they strive to serve the community and spread joy through Prasadam.

Looking ahead, TH3 LOT envisions creating a self-sustaining, land-based community centered around Kirtan, spirituality, and sustainable living. “Our future goal is to create a land-based community with mud houses, cows, and vegetable gardens to be as self-sustaining as possible,” Urugaya envisioned. They aim to make this space a haven for people to engage in devotional service, live in harmony with nature, and foster meaningful human connections.

Despite the bureaucratic challenges of registering as an NGO in India, Urugaya and Lalita remain hopeful and determined. “We are already registered as a company in Australia, but in India, we are planning to register as an NGO,” Urugaya explained. Their commitment to expanding their reach and impact is unwavering, and they continue to seek ways to navigate the complexities of Indian bureaucracy.

Urugaya prepares a pot of nutritious dhaal in their outdoor kitchen.

TH3 LOT’s journey is a testament to the power of compassion, spirituality, and community. Their work transcends mere charity, embodying a holistic approach to service that nurtures both the body and soul. “Krishna consciousness can accommodate all kinds of mentalities, cultures, and ethnicities because it’s based on the existential platform of your soul’s relationship to God,” Urugaya eloquently stated.

As they continue to serve and inspire, TH3 LOT invites everyone to join their mission. “If anyone wants to get in touch or be part of our effort, they can visit our website,” Urugaya encouraged. Through their dedication and vision, TH3 LOT is not only feeding the hungry but also cultivating a world where no one has to suffer alone and everyone can experience the joy of spiritual nourishment.