Overview and History of ISKCON Village | Mission and Vision

A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada was born AbhayCharan De on September 1, 1896 in Calcutta, India. From birth, Abhay was raised in a family devoted to Krishna (whose name means the all-attractive, all-loving Lord). As a youth he became involved with Mahatma Gandhi’s civil disobedience movement. However, it was a meeting with a prominent scholar and spiritual leader, SrilaBhaktisiddhantaSarasvatiPrabhupada, which proved most influential on young Abhay’s future.

Upon their first meeting in 1922, SrilaBhaktisiddhanta, who represented an ancient tradition of Bhakti-yoga, asked Abhay to propound the teachings to the English-speaking world. Deeply moved by SrilaBhaktisiddhanta’s devotion and wisdom, Abhay became his disciple and dedicated himself to carrying out his mentor’s request. But it wasn’t until 1965, at the age of seventy that he would set off on his mission to the West.AbhayCharan, now known as Bhaktivedanta Swami (an honorary title awarded by his peers), was given free passage aboard a cargo ship to New York. The journey proved to be treacherous, and he suffered two heart attacks while on the ship. After 35 days at sea he finally arrived at a lonely Brooklyn pier with just seven dollars in Indian rupees and one crate of his translations of sacred Sanskrit texts.

1. History of ISKCON Village

   The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) Village is a spiritual haven where the principles and teachings of Lord Krishna, as presented in the sacred scriptures of India, are practiced and propagated. Established as part of the global ISKCON movement, the village serves as a center for devotion, education, and community living, offering a transformative spiritual experience to people from all walks of life.

2. Foundation of ISKCON Village
   ISKCON Village was envisioned as a tranquil retreat dedicated to fostering Krishna consciousness and reviving spiritual values in society. Inspired by the teachings of His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, the founder-acharya of ISKCON, the village was established to create an environment that supports spiritual growth and unity. It is built on the foundation of the seven core purposes of ISKCON, which aim to promote peace, harmony, and self-realization.

3. A Sanctuary for Spiritual Knowledge
   One of the primary missions of ISKCON Village is to systematically propagate spiritual knowledge and educate individuals in the techniques of a spiritually enriched life. Through seminars, workshops, and educational programs, the village addresses the imbalance of values in society and inspires individuals to lead purposeful lives. By studying the Bhagavad-gita and Srimad-Bhagavatam, visitors and residents gain insights into the eternal truths of life and the principles of reincarnation and karma.

4. Promoting Krishna Consciousness
   The ISKCON Village actively propagates Krishna consciousness, emphasizing the importance of understanding God, or Krishna, as the supreme entity. By engaging in spiritual practices such as meditation, prayer, and the study of scriptures, residents and visitors develop a deeper connection with Krishna. The teachings of Lord Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu, particularly the sankirtana movement (congregational chanting of the holy name of God), form the heart of the village’s spiritual activities, uniting individuals in collective devotion.

5. A Holistic Community Experience
   ISKCON Village fosters a sense of unity and belonging by bringing members closer to Krishna and to each other. Recognizing that each soul is part and parcel of the Supreme, the village nurtures a spirit of brotherhood and harmony among its residents. Through communal living, shared spiritual practices, and cultural activities, the village exemplifies a simple and natural way of life, emphasizing sustainability and self-sufficiency.

6. A Holy Place of Transcendence
   Dedicated to the divine personality of Krishna, ISKCON Village features sacred temples and beautifully landscaped gardens that inspire devotion and inner peace. The village is designed as a sanctuary where individuals can immerse themselves in transcendental pastimes, offering prayers and participating in spiritual ceremonies. The holy atmosphere provides an ideal setting for introspection and personal growth.

7. Publishing and Outreach Initiatives
   To extend its mission beyond the village, ISKCON Village actively engages in publishing and distributing spiritual literature, including books, magazines, and digital content. The village also hosts a variety of online platforms and websites to share the teachings of Krishna consciousness with a global audience. These initiatives aim to inspire individuals worldwide to embrace a life of devotion and service.

One of the key missions of ISKCON Sadasivpet is to provide education and training in various aspects of Krishna consciousness. The center offers various courses, seminars, and workshops that aim to provide individuals with a deeper understanding of the principles of Krishna consciousness. The center also offers vocational training programs that aim to provide individuals with practical skills that can be used for their personal and professional development.

ISKCON Sadasivpet is committed to serving the community and providing assistance to those in need. The center regularly conducts various charitable activities such as providing food, clothing, and medical assistance to the underprivileged sections of society. The center also conducts various social welfare activities such as environmental awareness campaigns, blood donation drives, and disaster relief efforts.

Overall, the vision and mission of ISKCON Sadasivpet are centered around creating a spiritual community that is based on the principles of love, compassion, and service to others. The center aims to provide individuals with the tools and resources needed to lead a fulfilling spiritual life while also contributing to the betterment of society.