What is Hare Krishna Movement?
The Hare Krishna Movement, formally known as the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), is a spiritual tradition based on the ancient Vedic scriptures of
India, which dates back over 5,000 years. Followers practice bhakti yoga, the path of love
and devotion to Krishna. The movement was introduced to the Western world in 1965 by
His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Srila Prabhupada.
India, which dates back over 5,000 years. Followers practice bhakti yoga, the path of love
and devotion to Krishna. The movement was introduced to the Western world in 1965 by
His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Srila Prabhupada.
The Life and Legacy of Srila Prabhupada
Born in 1896 in Calcutta, India, Srila Prabhupada dedicated his later life to spiritual
study, writing and teaching. In 1965, at the age of 69, he travelled to the
United States and founded ISKCON in 1966. Under his guidance, ISKCON grew
into a worldwide organisation with temples, schools, and communities across
the globe. He authored over 60 influential vedic books, widely respected and
used in academic studies, and is regarded as one of India’s great spiritual ambassadors of the 20th century.
study, writing and teaching. In 1965, at the age of 69, he travelled to the
United States and founded ISKCON in 1966. Under his guidance, ISKCON grew
into a worldwide organisation with temples, schools, and communities across
the globe. He authored over 60 influential vedic books, widely respected and
used in academic studies, and is regarded as one of India’s great spiritual ambassadors of the 20th century.
Srila Prabhupada’s Timeline
1896
Born in Calcutta, India
1922
Meets his spiritual master for the first time on a rooftop in Calcutta
1933
Becomes a disciple of his Guru Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati Thakur
1944
Publishes the first ‘Back to Godhead’ magazine that still continues to this day
1956
Moves to Vrindavan and begins translating Srimad Bhagavatam, his magnum opus
1959
Accepts the renounced order of life
1965
Travels to America on a cargo ship and has 2 heart attacks on the way
1966
Establishes ISKCON in New York
1977
Passes away from this world after establishing 108 Temples and spreading the teachings all over the world
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is the Hare Krishna movement part of Hinduism?
The Hare Krishna movement, formally known as ISKCON, originates from the ancient Vedic tradition of India. While it shares philosophical roots with Hinduism, it focuses specifically on bhakti yoga, the path of loving devotion to God, known as Krishna.
2. What are the core beliefs of the Hare Krishna movement?
We teach that the soul is eternal and spiritual, while the body is temporary and material. True fulfilment comes from realising our spiritual identity and reviving our relationship with God through devotion, rather than pursuing short‑lived material pleasures.
3. What does the term “soul” mean in your teachings?
The soul, or atma, is the true self and the source of consciousness. The body is a physical covering, but the soul is what brings life, awareness and individuality to the body.
4. How do you define true or lasting happiness?
Material happiness is temporary and often leads to dissatisfaction. True happiness is inner and spiritual, arising from self‑realisation and a meaningful relationship with God, and is independent of external circumstances
5. What is meditation and how is it practised?
Meditation means focusing the mind on a spiritual sound or form. In the Hare Krishna tradition, meditation is primarily practised through chanting sacred mantras, which helps calm the mind and awaken spiritual awareness.
6. Why is chanting the Hare Krishna mantra so important?
Chanting the Hare Krishna mantra is the recommended spiritual practice for the present age. It helps purify consciousness, reduce stress, and awaken love for God. It is practised both privately and in joyful group chanting.
7. Do you believe in reincarnation and life after death?
Yes. The soul continues after death and takes another body based on karma until it achieves spiritual realisation. The soul remains unchanged, while bodies come and go.