Untitled

[vedicscience]

How Shall The Sacred Birthplace Of ISKCON Be Remembered In Its Sixtieth Anniversary?

Matchless Gifts has formally announced a design competition inviting artists and devotees alike to create the official artwork for the historic storefront’s merchandise during the auspicious 60th anniversary year of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON).

The sacred pilgrimage site at 26 Second Avenue in New York’s Bowery holds unparalleled significance, for it was here that His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupāda first gathered sincere souls to chant the Hare Kṛṣṇa mahā-mantra and, in the year 1966, established ISKCON for the benefit of all humanity.

The selected design will be prominently featured across all official merchandise—both in-store and online—including hats, T-shirts, and tote bags. Submissions are being accepted until February 28, 2026, after which the winning design will be chosen in March 2026 by His Holiness Rādhānātha Swami.

Click to know more: https://library.vedavarsity.com/how-shall-the-sacred-birthplace-of-iskcon-be-remembered-in-its-sixtieth-anniversary/

[vedicscience]

How Is Śrīla Prabhupāda’s Vision For Kurukṣetra Unfolding After Fifty Years?

On December 1, 2025, ISKCON Kurukṣetra commemorated Gītā Jayantī with a grand assembly of approximately 2,000 devotees and visitors, marking fifty years since the historic visit of His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupāda to Kurukṣetra on December 1, 1975. This annual observance thus became an especially sacred occasion to reflect upon Śrīla Prabhupāda’s enduring desire to see Kurukṣetra flourish as a global center for the study and practical application of the Bhagavad-gītā.

The Gītā Jayantī program commenced with the auspicious sounding of the conch-shell by Śambhu, a Guinness World Record holder for the longest sustained conch blow, thereby establishing a deeply devotional atmosphere for the day. The festival was further sanctified by the presence of Guru Prasād Swami (ACBSP), Mahāman Dās (ACBSP), and Bhakti Āśraya Vaiṣṇava Swami, who spoke eloquently on the timeless relevance of the Bhagavad-gītā and the profound spiritual significance of Kurukṣetra.

Explore more:https://library.vedavarsity.com/how-is-srila-prabhupadas-vision-for-kuruk%e1%b9%a3etra-unfolding-after-fifty-years/

[vedicscience]

Explore The Newly Released 2025 ISKCON Communications Journal — Now Available Online

Śrī Mahāprabhu Dāsa, Director of ISKCON Communications Europe, has explained that the 2025 volume represents the fifth issue published since the revival of the journal in 2021. With each successive publication, the journal has increasingly established its position as a serious and thoughtful forum for intellectual, spiritual, and institutional reflection within ISKCON, as well as within the broader Gauḍīya Vaiṣṇava tradition.

Read more: https://library.vedavarsity.com/explore-the-newly-released-2025-iskcon-communications-journal-now-available-online/

[vedicscience]

“Are Political Leaders The Saviors Of Society—Or Servants Of Temporary Illusion? Śrīla Prabhupāda’s Penetrating Vision”

The revealed scriptures, as presented by His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupāda, repeatedly draw the attention of thoughtful readers to the true nature of political leadership within material existence. Through the Bhagavad-gītā, Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam, Śrī Caitanya-caritāmṛta, and other authoritative works, Śrīla Prabhupāda consistently exposes the illusory foundations, limitations, and inherent dangers of leadership divorced from Kṛṣṇa consciousness, while simultaneously describing the exalted standard of genuinely God-centered rule.

In the Bhagavad-gītā As It Is (4.12, purport), Śrīla Prabhupāda explains that human society is generally enamored by temporary boons. Men worship demigods or influential personalities in the hope of gaining material advantages such as wealth, position, or power. If one attains a ministerial post by flattering or worshiping a political leader, he imagines that he has achieved a great benediction. Such achievements, however, are no more than fleeting bubbles in the cosmic ocean. Absorbed in the pursuit of sense enjoyment, such persons have little or no interest in Kṛṣṇa consciousness, which alone offers a permanent solution to the miseries of material life.

Read the full story - https://library.vedavarsity.com/are-political-leaders-the-saviors-of-society-or-servants-of-temporary-illusion-srila-prabhupadas-penetrating-vision/

[vedicscience]

Inquiring Into Consciousness: Presenting Bhāgavata Wisdom To The Modern Mind

Bhaktivedanta Institute for Higher Studies (BIHS), in cooperation with ISKCON’s North America Regional Governing Body (NA-RGB), is pleased to announce a new six-month online course entitled Consciousness Studies: Ancient & Modern Perspectives, commencing on January 10, 2026. Designed as a university-level program, this course seeks to equip serious students and devotees with the philosophical clarity and intellectual tools necessary to present Bhāgavata philosophy within contemporary scientific and academic discourse. Instruction will be offered through weekly live classes, with recordings made available for those who require flexible participation.

Śrīla Prabhupāda repeatedly emphasized that the Kṛṣṇa consciousness movement must be guided by learned Gauḍīya Vaiṣṇava brāhmaṇas—persons deeply grounded in śāstra and capable of addressing the pressing questions of their age. He warned that without first-class philosophical leadership, human society remains without proper direction, especially in the present age of Kali. His own example, including his meetings with scholars and intellectuals throughout the world, demonstrated the necessity of presenting Vedic knowledge with both fidelity and thoughtful engagement.

To know more, click here - https://library.vedavarsity.com/inquiring-into-consciousness-presenting-bhagavata-wisdom-to-the-modern-mind/

[vedicscience]

A Devotee Does Not Engage In Violence (Sajjana – Akṛta-droha)

Previously, we had described the concept of mercy (kṛpālu) in a sajjana (A Devotee is Merciful – Sajjana Kṛpālu). If one secretly nurtures irrelevant motivations within one’s heart and comes to be known by the people of this world as a Vaiṣṇava, then such behaviour will never indicate that he is merciful. Even one who is actually averse to Hari and, in order to deceive people, is externally known by the designation ‘Vaiṣṇava’ should not possess the tendency known as envy internally. He who is an actual Vaiṣṇava, by his own svabhāva (inherent nature) has no tendency towards violence internally or externally. A vaiṣṇava-sajjana is merciful. Just as mercy is the embellishment of man, in the same way, violence is ugliness. A Vaiṣṇava is kind to others, but he is not defiant under the sway of violence. If violence is seen in a Vaiṣṇava, then he cannot be called merciful. If a covered truth is revealed for the benefit of others, it should be known as mercy. However, if lies is propagated by a malicious mind under the guise of truth, then that ‘mercy’ develops into violence.

Read the full blog: https://library.vedavarsity.com/a-devotee-does-not-engage-in-violence-sajjana-ak%e1%b9%9bta-droha/

[vedicscience]

Who Can Cause The Supreme Lord To Beg For Prasāda? — Śrī Jagadīśa Paṇḍita

According to Gaura-gaṇoddeśa-dīpikā, Śrī Jagadīśa Paṇḍita is identified in two ways. Some authorities state that he was one of the wives of the sacrificial brāhmaṇas in Vraja who fed Lord Kṛṣṇa, while others explain that he was previously the dancer Candrahāsa, who was expert in relishing transcendental rasa.

“The wives of the sacrificial brāhmaṇas appeared as Jagadīśa and Hiraṇya. On Ekādaśī the Lord begged food from them and ate it.”(Gaura-gaṇoddeśa-dīpikā 192)“Previously, in Vraja, he was the dancer Candrahāsa, expert in rasa. In Gaura-līlā he became Jagadīśa Paṇḍita, who delighted in dancing for the Lord.”

(Gaura-gaṇoddeśa-dīpikā 143)Thus Jagadīśa Paṇḍita is accepted as both a branch of Śrī Caitanya Mahāprabhu and a branch of Lord Nityānanda Prabhu in the desire tree of devotional service.

Read the blog here - https://library.vedavarsity.com/who-can-cause-the-supreme-lord-to-beg-for-prasada-sri-jagadisa-pa%e1%b9%87%e1%b8%8dita/

[vedicscience]

10,000 Souls Are Searching: The Battle For The Amazon Bestseller List

Following the intensity of the December Marathon 2024, we in the snowy world of Michigan began looking for a new target market for our “family business”—book distribution. We stumbled upon a massive market that was hiding in plain sight: Amazon.Through our year-long efforts, we have successfully pushed Srila Prabhupada’s magnificent translation almost to the top of the charts. Now, we need your help to finish this race and claim the #1 spot. (Read to the end to find out how!)When we first looked, we were shocked to find that the Bhagavad-gita As It Is (BGAII) was nowhere to be found among the top 5 Gitas on the platform. However, we were inspired by the potential. Our research showed that more than 10,000 copies of the Bhagavad-gita are sold on Amazon.com every month. That represents 10,000 souls actively searching for Krishna’s message. Tragically, because BGAII was selling only about 100 copies a month, most of these seekers were ending up with impersonal or “New Age” commentaries.Read the full story - https://library.vedavarsity.com/10000-souls-are-searching-the-battle-for-the-amazon-bestseller-list/

[vedicscience]

Bhakti Roots: Nurturing Krishna Consciousness In Sydney’s Young Families

Bhakti Roots, a two-day initiative aimed at reinforcing Krishna-conscious family culture, brought together 60 ISKCON West Sydney families at Wiseman’s Retreat, a peaceful 50-acre bushland area. Organised by the Radha Govinda Youth Team, Bhakti Roots was developed in response to parents seeking a family-focused continuation of the nationwide Bhakti Fest youth retreat. So following the successful youth retreat, BhaktiRoots was designed specifically for young families with children aged 5–13.

To know more, read the blog here - https://library.vedavarsity.com/bhakti-roots-nurturing-krishna-consciousness-in-sydneys-young-families/

[vedicscience]

Learning, Leadership, And Association: GBC College Residential 2025 At Govardhan EcoVillage 

From 20th to 30th November 2025, Govardhan EcoVillage (GEV) became a place of deep learning, reflection, and heartfelt association as the GBC College hosted its 11-day in-person residential for leadership training. Leaders enrolled in the Zonal Supervisor Course and the Leadership Training Course came together from many parts of the world, including Reunion Island, South Africa, East and West Africa, Ghana, the United Kingdom, Mayapur, Australia, India, Canada, the United States, Toronto, Brazil, and Chile. Although many participants were meeting for the first time, a strong sense of connection quickly developed, and by the end of the residential, several shared that they had arrived as strangers but were now leaving as close fellow devotees and friends. 

The residential opened with a warm welcome by Gauranga Das, Trustee of the GBC College, who set a thoughtful and encouraging tone for the days ahead. This was followed by an orientation led by Rupanuga Das, President of the GBC College, and Govind Priya Devi Dasi, Vice President of the GBC College, who situated the participants in the history, vision, and purpose of the college while emphasizing its ethos and culture of trust, openness, accountability, and servant leadership. During the orientation, Vipin Bihari Das, Dean of Student Records, introduced the students to the edX learning platform and explained how the online components of the course would function. 

Over the eleven days, participants engaged in a wide range of carefully designed leadership topics. These included deep explorations into trust and its role in leadership; leadership lessons drawn from Chanakya and the Srimad Bhagavatam; sustainable outreach; strategic thinking and execution; crisis management; conflict resolution; and devotee care. Sessions also addressed contemporary leadership frameworks, including identifying multipliers and diminishers within teams, understanding the impact of personal leadership, and developing strategic lenses for long-term decision-making. Many participants especially appreciated how scriptural wisdom was paired with practical tools, allowing them to reflect honestly on their own leadership styles and areas for growth.

To know more: https://library.vedavarsity.com/learning-leadership-and-association-gbc-college-residential-2025-at-govardhan-ecovillage/

[vedicscience]

ISKCON North America Launches 60th Anniversary Celebrations

ISKCON North America has officially launched its 60th Anniversary celebrations, marking six decades of the Krishna consciousness movement founded by Srila Prabhupada. Beginning on Saphala Ekadashi in December 2025, the year-long observance includes temple events, national initiatives, a grand gala in New York City in 2026, and commemorative offerings honoring ISKCON’s spiritual legacy and outreach across North America.

[vedicscience]

ISKCON Joins Nigeria’s Interfaith Call for Peace and Unity

Amid rising tensions in Nigeria, faith leaders from Christian, Muslim, Vaishnava, and traditional communities came together with one clear message—peace through dialogue, not division. Representing ISKCON, Salika Dasa played a key role in this national interfaith appeal, ensuring that Vaishnava values of compassion and non-violence were part of the conversation.

This story highlights how ISKCON is increasingly recognized as a responsible faith-based voice, contributing thoughtfully to national discussions on justice, unity, and social harmony in Nigeria.

👉 Read the full story to see how ISKCON is helping build bridges in times of crisis.https://library.vedavarsity.com/iskcon-represented-in-nigerian-kaiciid-fellows-national-peace-appeal/

[vedicscience]

Srila Prabhupada’s Program With Allen Ginsberg

Discover the extraordinary moment when Śrīla Prabhupāda and Allen Ginsberg shared the same stage at Ohio State University. What began as a poetry event transformed into a powerful, unforgettable kīrtana that moved thousands of hearts. From Prabhupāda’s humility to the audience rising in ecstatic chanting, devotees recall this night as a glimpse of pure spiritual nectar.

👉 Read the full story — https://library.vedavarsity.com/srila-prabhupadas-program-with-allen-ginsberg/

[vedicscience]

Bhakta Dasa Honored At 2025 Victorian Multicultural Awards For Excellence

Bhakta Dasa was nominated by a member of Victoria’s multicultural community for his more than 15 years of dedicated service representing ISKCON in various interfaith initiatives and administrative roles. The award acknowledges both his personal contributions and the enduring role of the Hare Krishna movement in strengthening multicultural life in the state of Victoria.

Read the article —  https://library.vedavarsity.com/bhakta-dasa-honored-at-2025-victorian-multicultural-awards-for-excellence/

[vedicscience]

A Village United for a Cleaner, Greener Future

Discover how the beautiful community of Śardāṅga came together with devotion and responsibility to support the “Mayapur Clean & Green” initiative. A heart-touching example of collective effort, spiritual inspiration, and real change.

Read more: https://library.vedavarsity.com/sardanga-village-embraces-mayapur-clean-and-green-vision-through-community-action/

[vedicscience]

Change Your life with - Vedavarsity 

[vedicscience]

Vedavarsity's Groundbreaking Course on Śrī Tattva Sandarbha Begins June 21 For more information about the Śrī Tattva Sandarbha course, visit www.vedavarsity.com or enroll directly at https://www.vedavarsity.com/course-details/Tattvasandharbha-87540. Contact the admissions team for any queries at 9634998911.. Early registration includes special promotional offers for committed students seeking deeper understanding of Gauḍīya Vaiṣṇava philosophy. Use promo code VEDA10 for 10% OFF enrollment.

This initiative represents Vedavarsity's continued commitment to making authentic Vedic knowledge accessible to sincere seekers in the modern world, preserving ancient wisdom traditions while adapting to contemporary learning needs.