ISKCON or International Society for Krishna Consciousness was established by Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada in 1966. The greater aim of the society is definitely the general well being of man kind. However its immediate aim is to popularize the teachings of the Bhagwad Gita and the Vedic scriptures and thereby create a clear perception in the minds of individuals. This is to help them to lead a simple yet pure and ethereal life. They are credited with the construction of as many as 6000 temples and the first of these is the ISKCON Temple at Brindavan.
History of the ISKCON Temple Vrindavan :
The ISKCON Temple at Vrindavan was built in the year 1975 and inaugurated on the auspicious occasion of Ram Navami. The foundation of the temple was laid by Swami Prabhupada, better known by the name of Srila Prabhupada. He personally supervised over the construction of the temple. After his sad demise, his body too was laid to rest in front of the temple and this place is now referred to as the Samadhi Mandir.
Description of the ISKCON Temple Vrindavan :
It is a beautiful edifice in white. Made of marble and further decorated with pieces of stone, it is a structure everyone is sure to look at with admiring eyes. Blessed with three altars, it boasts of a marvelous design. This is one of those Holy Places in Vrindavan that enjoys the reputation of being one of the foremost Tourist Attractions in Vrindavan. Other than devotees, it is frequented by lovers of architecture.
The central altar is devoted to the brothers Krishna and Balaram, in fact this temple is also popularly known as Sri Krishna Balaram Mandir. The other two altars are dedicated to Sri Gaur Nitai and Sri Radha Shyamasundara. The central altar has been expanding ever since 1975 in keeping with Srila Prabhupada’s desire of making it an international center for spiritualism. Over the years it has emerged as one of the most inspiring spiritual centers in the world.
The ambience of the temple is no doubt spiritual and also so very spirited. People from distinctly different backgrounds, from diverse nationalities are seen congregating at the ISKCON Temple to pray to Krishna, sing songs in his praise and seek his diving blessings.
It is a delight to see the various Aratis like the Samadhi Arati, the Mangala Arati, the Tulasi Arati, the Dhoop Arati, the Raj Bhoga Arati, the Pushpa Arati, the Sandhya Arati, the Shayana Arati and others at different times of the day. Within the temple premises Bhagvad Gita classes are also held in the mornings as well as in the evenings. Make sure to keep a whole day reserved for the ISKCON Temple in Uttar Pradesh, India. Open till 8.15 in the winters and 8.45 in the summers, this temple has a stress free ambience where one would like to spend quality time.
