Vladimir says he often recites mantras. He learnt various mantras as a child from various people: his father, grandfather, and neighbors. Vladimir’s father was a monastic novice in his childhood. At that time, many monks behaved in un-monastic ways, drinking and partying. Novices had to memorize large Buddhist texts. One day, Vladimir’s father was beaten up by his teacher for not memorizing texts. He was left with a broken arm. After the beating, he left the temple for good. Since his parents were unhappy about him leaving the temple, Vladimir’s father also had to leave his home. In 1914, he, along with his brother, were mobilized to the front. Vladimir’s father had a rosary with which he recited mantras and performed divination.