Srila Prabhupada - "Too much intelligence in material activities are detraction from Krsna Consciousness. Better to remain dull and simple as you are, and thus make advancement in Krsna Consciousness." (Letter to Madhavi Lata, Montreal 20 June, 1968)

Sadly I have experiences of this letter from Prabhupada being misused. 

I remember years ago how some arrogant ISKCON guru's, sannyasis and Temple Presidents in the 1980s and 90s, used this quote to put down those who were genuinely trying to help ISKCON with their unique contributions. 

I witnessed some leaders (not all) break a devotee's inspirational spirit by demanding they just do what they are told and remain dull and simple and just obey without question (then quoting Prabhupada's 1968 letter)

One guru in Europe even said - "You don't have to think for yourself at all because we will do all the thinking for you."

How can loving exchanges and genuine reciprocation exist in such a one-way impersonal dictatorship? 

These so called leaders believed devotees should do as they are told and not make independent offerings or personal contributions to the Krsna Conscious movement in the best way they can.

So be very, very careful of this quote and those who use it. 

This quote has been miss used by many envious immature leaders in ISKCON over the years to control those around them, or ban them due to feeling threatened by how they want to "intelligently" contribute to ISKCON in their own unique way. 

So when the quote is used, please look carefully of how it is being used.

In its correct context there is nothing wrong with it, found by reading the entire letter from Prabhupada.*