ISKCON Temple History

ISKCON Temple History

It is believed that around 525 years ago, Lord Krishna, the supreme God, descended on this earth in the form of a devotee named Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu to teach people of the Kaliyuga how to become a devotee and chant the holy name of God. He founded Gaudiya Vaishnavism, a form of ecstatic devotion in the Gauda region of West Bengal, which is followed in India for the past 500 years.

Saint Chaitanya Mahaprabhu also established Sankirtan, where devotees could openly express their devotion towards Lord Krishna through dancing and singing. He composed the famous holy Mahamantra “Hare Krishna, Hare Ramaâ€.

Later in 1965, the famous spiritual teachings envoy, His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, advanced the movement further towards the west and established the ISKCON society in New York.

When the Hare Krishna Movement spread across England, famous personalities like George Harrison started backing the movement.

In 1968, His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada established the first Hare Krishna Commune in West Virginia, after which the ISKCON movement spread across major global cities like Los Angeles, Seattle, San Francisco, Santa Fe, Montreal and New Mexico. In 1970, a supervisory organisation was created to manage the worldwide growth of the ISKCON temples and society.

During 1970-1977, ISKCON established multiple pilgrimage centres in Vrindavan and Mayapur, India. A huge temple was also constructed in Mumbai. Later, ISKCON temples became a chain of temples spread across India. Today, ISKCON has over 500 centres globally.

Core Beliefs of ISKCON

The core beliefs of the ISKCON mandir are based on Bhagavad Gita (teachings of Lord Krishna), Bhagavata Purana (the Vedas) and Chaitanya Charitamrita (teachings of Lord Chaitanya). ISKCON believes in spreading the message that all living entities are eternal spirits and have an individual connection with Lord Krishna.

The ISKCON mandir encourages its devotees to build an eternal relationship with Lord Krishna through love and devotion (also known as Bhakti-yoga) and chanting his holy name and the Mahamantra “Hare Rama, Hare Krishnaâ€.

ISKCON mandir devotees abstain from non-vegetarian food, drugs and alcohol, gambling and illicit sexual connections. Followers also chant 16 rounds of the 108-beaded Mahamantra string each day.

ISKCON Temple Architecture

Combining the traditional form with modern technology, the ISKCON temple architecture across the world is unparalleled. The ISKCON temple architecture does not follow traditional temple structural norms. Instead, it considers the temple as a place of worship and a place where people congregate as a community.

ISKCON temples are spread across large areas and built exclusively with water features and gardens. There are stone pergolas and huge gateways that provide spaces to pause in the temple. The top of the ISKCON temples features the ‘Shikhara’, a curved conical high roof usually paced over the prime deity in the temple. The design of the ISKCON temples includes a large garden, natural light, open spaces and large halls to hold culturally enlightening programs. The temple has meditation rooms, prayer hall, priest rooms, museum, library and free food restaurants.

The deities in the ISKCON temple face towards the east. All ISKCON temples follow the same architecture and configuration plan, but the facilities and the outward appearance of the temples can differ across regions. The location of the ISKCON temples is also strategically decided so that the temples are well-connected to the most important areas of their domicile city.

The ISKCON temple in Juhu, Mumbai is spread across four acres of prime land and is a marble temple with a huge auditorium, a large restaurant and a twin tower seven-storey guest house. The temple is at a stone throw from the Juhu beach and is considered one of the most beautiful ISKCON temples worldwide. It is believed that the deities in the ISKCON temple in Juhu were personally installed by His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada.

Piramal Vaikunth in Thane also has an ISKCON temple complex. The magnificent township is spread across 32 acres and offers its residents a sense of community and top-notch connectivity. Piramal Vaikunth is set in lush green habitat and boasts of exclusively designed homes. The state-of-the-art amenities ensure you enjoy luxury living in the true sense. If you are looking to buy a home in Mumbai, consider Piramal Vaikunth that is optimally located, assuring proximity to the all-important places in Mumbai.

Major ISKCON temples in India

India has the highest number of ISKCON temples in the world. There are more than 150 ISKCON temples in the country. Here are some of the most famous ISKCON temples in India:

Most of the major ISKCON temples in India are located in Maharashtra. You should definitely visit the ISKCON temple in Juhu, Mumbai. ISKCON temple in Juhu is among the most visited ISCKON temples in the country.

Strategically located in Thane overlooking the Yeoor Hills and Thane Creek, Piramal Vaikunth Thane offers spacious rooms with premium design. This project also has an ISKCON temple complex, giving you an opportunity to experience peaceful living.

Reasons to Visit ISKCON Temple

ISKCON is synonymous with devotion towards Lord Krishna. Undoubtedly, the ISKCON temple is one of the most divine and sanctified places to visit. However, visiting the ISKCON temple is more deep-rooted than religion.

Here are some of the top reasons for you to visit the ISKCON temple:

Peace and Tranquility:

Visiting the ISKCON temple will give you peace and serenity in this fast-paced world. The vibe of the temple, sheer devotion of the people, harmonious chanting, selfless love for God, faint chattering of people, the sound of the hymns and prayers, and more – will warm your soul. The calmness of the temple amidst the chaotic life is something that will fulfil your heart. The atmosphere is patient; everything in the temple moves at a soft pace. If you are in Mumbai, you can visit Piramal ISKCON Thane and get your dose of peace and calmness.

Immerse yourself:

The magnificent architecture of the ISKCON temple make it a stunning sight to behold. The chanting sounds and the positivity in the air give you an unforgettable immersing experience. When you visit the ISKCON temple, you can read the Vedic scriptures, like Bhagavad Gita, and learn deeply about prominent historic events like the Mahabharata. The environment of the ISKCON temple glorifies all-time with the sounds of ‘Hare Rama Hare Krishna’. Also, the aartis in the ISKCON temples are glorious. The sound of the dhol, nagadas, ghantis, loud chanting, clapping of hands, and the soothing prayers – all at once – during the ISKCON aartis in the morning and evening transport you to the heavenly realm.

Understand the scriptures:

It is one thing to respect the scriptures and another to understand their teachings. When you visit ISKCON, you will get an opportunity to truly understand the message of the scriptures. Most ISKCON temples have a museum that hosts robotic shows, theatre performances, and more to globalise the teachings of the scriptures. The temple also conducts special screenings and performances to exhibit the life of its founder Swami Prabhupada.

Architectural marvel:

ISKCON temples are an architectural marvel. The temple complexes are spread across acres of land capable of hosting thousands of devotees at a time. All ISKCON temples are a ‘Shikhara’, and the deities are placed below the Shikhara. The temples are carefully designed to allow abundant natural sunlight and ensure breathability through effective ventilation. The temple complex also has several open spaces and green pastures, creating a mesmerising look.

Beyond religion:

ISKCON temples aim to offer a holistic experience to their visitors. Apart from being a reputed religious site, ISKCON temples are the epitome of cultural glory. From cultural programs, dances, light shows to theatre performances, ISKCON temples offer everything to their visitors. There are also several restaurants where you can enjoy delicious and affordable meals.

If you are in Mumbai, visit the ISKCON temple in Juhu, which is one of the most visited temples in the country for its sheer abundance and heavenly atmosphere.

If you are looking for a property near the ISKCON temple in Mumbai, you can visit our affordable residential project Piramal Vaikunth Thane. The majestic township offers sustainable homes designed impeccably for your taste, offering a budgeted luxury living experience. Set amidst lush green habitats and offering state-of-the-art amenities, Piramal Vaikunth Thane also includes an ISKCON temple complex.

Piramal ISKCON Thane gives you a chance to be surrounded by peace and tranquillity. Live in beautifully designed homes and experience the calmness of a holistic lifestyle in the Piramal ISKCON Thane complex.

FAQs

How did ISKCON start?

ISKCON (The International Society for Krishna Consciousness) was founded in New York City in 1966 by His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada. At the age of 70, Swami Prabhupada left his home in Vrindavan to spread the message of Lord Krishna in the Western part of the world. He had only Rs. 40 but several of Lord Krishna’s books. He began preaching and chanting Lord Krishna’s name in public places, parks, etc., grabbing the attention of the masses, mainly the non-elite and young. Soon the movement spread across devotees and became a massive religious organisation.

Who is the founder of ISKCON?

ISKCON was founded by His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada.

When was ISKCON started?

His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada started ISKCON in 1966 in New York.

What is ISKCON famous for?

ISKCON is famous for promoting a mixture of modern and traditional values, promoting cross-cultural religious exploration. ISKCON believes in spiritual religion, and two of the successful strategies include engaging the public and distributing literature for public consumption.

Who is Srila Prabhupada?

Srila Prabhupada is the famous spiritual teachings envoy who advanced the ISKCON movement from India towards the west and established the ISKCON society in New York in 1966.

What are the four regulative principles in ISKCON?

The four regulative principles of ISKCON are – Austerity, Cleanliness, Truthfulness and Compassion. A sincere spiritual seeker must follow these four dharma principles of ISKCON.

How many ISKCON temples are in Mumbai?

There is one ISKCON temple in Mumbai located in Juhu, also known as Sri Radha Rasabihari temple. However, the Piramal Vaikunth Thane also has an ISKCON temple complex.

Where is the upcoming ISKCON temple in Thane?

The 32-acre Piramal Vaikunth residential complex in Kolshet, Thane, is home to the ongoing building of the ISKCON Temple Thane.

Proposed ISKCON Temple Complex in Thane

Piramal Vaikunth - Balkum,Thane

Piramal Vaikunth has spread across 32* acres of premium mixed-use development in Thane.

Designed to offer a pleasing sense of community life, the magnificent Piramal towers are set in a lush green habitat with the widest range of state-of-the-art amenities.

Piramal Vaikunth houses residences that have been meticulously designed, setting the highest standards of luxury living in the neighborhood.

Piramal Vaikunth - Amenities

Squash court

Cafeteria

Convenience store

Banquet hall

Doctor's room

Crèche

Mini Cricket ground

ATM

Yoga & Meditation terrace

Cycling track (1.5 km)

Jogging route (1.6 km)

Amphitheatre seating

Library

Indoor games room

Gymnasium

Hobby area

Toddler's play area

Swimming pool

Kid's pool

Multipurpose court (Basketball & Badminton)

Outdoor Chess

Picnic Area

Tree House

Dog Park

Urban Farming Zone

Sculpture Garden

What We Offer

Piramal Vaikunth is an excellent choice for individuals who want to experience luxury at its best. The complex consists of multiple clusters that offer living spaces in a variety of configurations. Overlooking the Thane Creek and & Yeoor Hills, the project is in close proximity to major landmarks such as Viviana Mall, Korum Mall, and Bethany Hospital, to name a few. Moreover, residents can enjoy a variety of amenities, including a squash court, cycling track, jogging path, cafeteria, indoor games room, swimming pool, and children's pool, all of which are designed to provide the best of both worlds. Piramal Vaikunth truly incorporates a new sense of purpose and a spirit of delight among its residents.

About - Piramal Realty

Piramal Realty has set gold standards in customer-centricity, architectural design, quality, and safety in order to enrich people's lives. Our operations as Piramal Group's development arm reflect the group's tradition of responsible stewardship for individual and community advancement as well as the group's unwavering dedication to Knowledge, Action, Care, and Impact. Our compassionate involvement with clients ensures that their requirements are fulfilled and exceeded regularly, making Piramal Realty a place where people can thrive.

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