Hare Krishna Movement
The Hare Krishna Movement, also known as the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON)
The Hare Krishna Movement, formally known as the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), is a global spiritual and cultural movement founded in 1966 by His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada. Rooted in the ancient Vedic scriptures of India, such as the Bhagavad Gita and Srimad Bhagavatam, ISKCON aims to promote the timeless teachings of Sanatana Dharma, the eternal way of life centered around love and devotion to God.
At the heart of the movement is the practice of bhakti-yoga — the path of devotional service to the Supreme Personality of Godhead, Lord Sri Krishna. This practice involves engaging one's body, mind, and soul in acts of devotion, such as worship, meditation, study of scripture, community service, and most importantly, chanting the holy names of God.
A cornerstone of the Hare Krishna Movement is the public and personal recitation of the maha-mantra:
This sacred mantra is considered the yuga-dharma—the prescribed spiritual practice for the current age, known as Kali Yuga. Chanting the maha-mantra is described in the scriptures as the most effective means to awaken one's spiritual consciousness, cleanse the heart of material impurities, and experience a profound connection with the Divine.
Through vibrant temple worship, festivals, prasad (sanctified food) distribution, educational outreach, and cultural events, ISKCON continues to spread the message of peace, harmony, and spiritual awakening across the world. Today, the movement includes hundreds of temples, farms, schools, and vegetarian restaurants in more than 100 countries.
The Hare Krishna Movement is not merely a philosophy—it is a joyful lifestyle based on self-realization, compassion, and unconditional love for all living beings, with the ultimate goal of reawakening our eternal relationship with Lord Krishna.
