Vinode Vani Dasi (Daisy Cecilia Bowtell) A Little Known Gaudiya Pioneer in the West

Abstract

This article presents the first scholarly examination of Vinode Vani Dasi (Daisy Cecilia Bowtell), a pioneering Western female devotee in the Gaudiya Mission in London. Despite her pivotal role in establishing and maintaining the Vasudeva Gaudiya Math, her contributions remain largely unrecognized in historical accounts. Drawing on previously unexamined correspondence and interviews, the article details Vinode Vani's spiritual journey, her financial and practical support for the mission (including donating her home), and her deep philosophical acumen, as evidenced by her letters and the high esteem in which she was held by prominent Gaudiya leaders. The article also addresses the ongoing debate surrounding her initiating guru, with strong suggestions pointing to A. B. Goswami, while acknowledging the mission's view of her as a disciple of Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati. Ultimately, it highlights Vinode Vani's unwavering dedication, profound understanding of Vaishnava philosophy, and her significance as a dedicated adherent who actively propagated Caitanya's teachings in the West amidst challenging circumstances.