Sri Sri Radha Giridhari Madhav Mandir Kusum Vihar
Across the Globe, We Are United in Our Dedication to Poor Families and Tribes.
About
Food, health and education are important parts of society. Just imagine how those families would feel if someone's needs were not met.
We are helping to meet the vital needs of those poor and tribal families. So that their children can get good education, their health can be good and they can get all the food they need.
Our Approach
Education
The goal of life according to the Vaishnava, or Krishna conscious, teaching is to awaken within each soul knowledge of their original spiritual nature, thus bringing the individual to the platform of God consciousness, or devotional service to God.
Thus for ISKCON, education is an integral part of its communities. Temples around the world sponsor adult educational programs as well as Sunday Schools for children. ISKCON also has a wide spectrum of online and classroom courses ranging from the fundamentals of spirituality to the advanced concepts of Gaudiya Vaishnavism; from communications to developing spiritually focused family life.
Srila Prabhupada wanted to provide opportunities for all people to gain a systematic understanding of the profound Vaishnava philosophy. Thus, his followers have developed systematic studies of the texts fundamental to Krishna consciousness such as a preliminary Bhakti-sastri course that focuses on the famous Sanskrit texts Bhagavad-gita and Sri Isopanisad along with later writings, the Bhakti-rasamrita Sindu (Nectar of Devotion) and Upadeshamrita (Nectar of Instruction).
ISKCON also offers short term programs on leadership and management, conflict resolution, discipleship, etc. ISKCON and its affiliates thus enable students to improve their academic and vocational potentials, apply Vedic principles to contemporary lifestyles, and make positive contributions in society.
01.
— Our Mission
The mission of ISKCON revolves around:
Promoting Krishna Consciousness: ISKCON aims to promote the practice of Krishna consciousness, which involves cultivating a loving relationship with the Supreme Personality of Godhead, Lord Krishna.
Spreading Spiritual Knowledge: ISKCON seeks to disseminate the spiritual wisdom found in ancient Vedic texts such as the Bhagavad Gita and Srimad Bhagavatam to people around the globe.
Establishing Spiritual Communities: ISKCON endeavors to establish communities where individuals can live together, practice devotional service, and advance spiritually in a supportive environment.
Serving Humanity: ISKCON engages in various humanitarian activities, including providing food relief, educational programs, and spiritual counseling, to serve the welfare of society.
02.
— Our Vision
ISKCON’s vision is to foster a global spiritual awakening, promoting a deep understanding of Lord Krishna through Bhakti Yoga. We aim to establish vibrant spiritual communities worldwide, preserving cultural heritage, serving humanity, and fostering unity in diversity
Story of Prabhupada:
A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, born Abhay Charan De in 1896, played a pivotal role in establishing ISKCON. Initially a businessman and family man, he encountered his spiritual teacher in the 1930s and dedicated his life to spreading Krishna consciousness.
In 1965, at the age of 70, Prabhupada embarked on a remarkable journey, traveling from India to New York City with just $7. With unwavering faith and determination, he began sharing the teachings of Krishna consciousness in the Western world.
Facing initial challenges and cultural barriers, Prabhupada persevered, attracting followers and establishing the first ISKCON temple outside India in 1966. Over the next 12 years, he tirelessly travelled the world, establishing temples, initiating disciples, and translating sacred scriptures, making Krishna consciousness accessible to a global audience.
Prabhupada’s legacy lies in his unwavering dedication, inspiring leadership, and profound spiritual knowledge. He is revered by ISKCON members as a spiritual teacher who brought the message of Krishna consciousness to the West and laid the foundation for a global movement.
In summary, ISKCON, guided by its mission and vision, strives to share the teachings of Krishna consciousness for personal and societal transformation. The story of Prabhupada embodies the dedication and perseverance that fueled the movement’s growth and global reach.
Srila Prabhupada's contribution to the world can be seen from various perspectives:
1. Religious and Spiritual Revival:
- Spreading Krishna Consciousness: Prabhupada established ISKCON, a global movement that introduced the teachings of Krishna consciousness to the West and other parts of the world. This exposed millions to a distinct spiritual path emphasizing devotional service, chanting, and self-realization.
- Revitalizing Vedic Knowledge: His translations and commentaries on scriptures like the Bhagavad-gita and Srimad-Bhagavatam made these ancient texts accessible to a wider audience, contributing to a renewed interest in Vedic philosophy and its spiritual insights.
2. Cultural Exchange and Understanding:
- Bridging East and West: Prabhupada’s efforts fostered cultural exchange and understanding between Eastern and Western societies. By presenting Vedic knowledge in a relatable way, he helped bridge cultural divides and introduced Westerners to new perspectives on life, spirituality, and self-discovery.
- Promoting Interfaith Dialogue: ISKCON, under Prabhupada’s guidance, engaged in interfaith dialogue, fostering understanding and respect for diverse religious traditions. This contributed to a more inclusive and tolerant global society.
3. Social Impact and Community Building:
- Promoting Vegetarianism: Prabhupada actively advocated for vegetarianism, emphasizing its ethical and spiritual benefits. This influenced individuals and communities worldwide, contributing to the rise of vegetarianism as a conscious lifestyle choice.
- Community Service Initiatives: ISKCON, inspired by Prabhupada’s teachings, engages in various social welfare activities like food distribution, education programs, and addiction recovery support. These initiatives contribute to community well-being and address social challenges.
4. Literary and Scholarly Influence:
- Prolific Author and Translator: Prabhupada’s extensive body of written works, including translations and commentaries, has enriched the landscape of religious and philosophical literature. His works continue to be studied and referenced by scholars and spiritual seekers alike.
- Preserving and Disseminating Knowledge: His efforts in translating and interpreting ancient scriptures helped preserve and disseminate this valuable knowledge for future generations, contributing to the ongoing dialogue on spirituality and human existence.
Overall, Srila Prabhupada’s impact extends beyond the realm of religion and spirituality. His legacy transcends cultural boundaries, leaving a lasting mark on individuals, communities, and the broader world through his teachings, writings, and initiatives
