The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), also known as the Hare Krishna movement, was founded in 1966 in New York City by His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada. The movement belongs to the Gaudiya-Vaishnava sampradaya, a monotheistic tradition within Vedic culture.
ISKCON traces its origins to the teachings of Lord Chaitanya Mahaprabhu (1486–1534), who is considered by followers as an incarnation of Krishna Himself. Lord Chaitanya revitalized the bhakti tradition in India through His emphasis on the congregational chanting of God’s holy names as the most effective means of spiritual awakening in the current age.
This spiritual lineage was preserved through the centuries by a succession of self-realized spiritual masters, which ultimately led to Srila Prabhupada bringing these ancient teachings to the Western world in the mid-20th century, fulfilling the prediction that the holy name of Krishna would be heard “in every town and village” across the globe.
“In these Western countries, the Krishna consciousness movement was first started in New York in 1966. From New York, it spread to San Francisco, Montreal, Boston, Los Angeles, and Buffalo, and now we have twenty-two centers all over the United States, Canada, England, and Germany.”
A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada was born in Calcutta, India, on September 1, 1896.
Srila Prabhupada met his spiritual master, Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura, who requested him to spread Krishna consciousness to the English-speaking world.
Srila Prabhupada began publishing Back to Godhead magazine, which continues to be published today in multiple languages.
At the age of 69, Srila Prabhupada traveled to the United States on the cargo ship Jaladuta, arriving in Boston with only a few rupees and his translations of sacred texts.
Srila Prabhupada officially established the International Society for Krishna Consciousness in a small storefront at 26 Second Avenue in New York City.
The first Ratha Yatra (Festival of the Chariots) outside of India was held in San Francisco, now an annual tradition in major cities worldwide.
ISKCON expanded to Europe with centers established in London and other major European cities.
Mayapur, India
ISKCON's world headquarters and site of the Temple of the Vedic Planetarium, one of the largest Vedic temples in the world.
London, UK
Historic Bhaktivedanta Manor, gifted to ISKCON by George Harrison of the Beatles, serves as a major spiritual and cultural center.
Vrindavan, India
A significant pilgrimage site where Srila Prabhupada spent his final days, featuring beautiful marble architecture.
Mayapur, India
An ambitious project showcasing Vedic cosmology and housing the world's largest Vedic chandelier.
West Virginia, USA
One of the first ISKCON farm communities, featuring the magnificent Palace of Gold, often called "America's Taj Mahal."
New Delhi, India
An iconic temple complex that attracts millions of visitors annually and houses a world-class Vedic cultural center.
ISKCON has introduced traditional Vedic festivals to people around the world, including:
The Festival of Chariots, celebrated in major cities globally
The appearance day of Lord Krishna
Celebrating the appearance of Lord Chaitanya Mahaprabhu
Festival of Lights and honoring of Govardhan Hill
As ISKCON continues to grow in the 21st century, the society remains committed to Srila Prabhupada's original vision of spreading Krishna consciousness globally while adapting to modern challenges and opportunities.
The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), also known as the Hare Krishna movement, was founded in 1966 in New York City by His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada.
ISKCON traces its origins to the teachings of Lord Chaitanya Mahaprabhu (1486–1534), who is considered by followers as an incarnation of Krishna Himself.
This spiritual lineage was preserved through the centuries, ultimately leading to Srila Prabhupada bringing these ancient teachings to the West.
❝ In these Western countries, the Krishna consciousness movement was first started in New York in 1966. From New York, it spread to San Francisco, Montreal, Boston, Los Angeles, and Buffalo...
Born in Calcutta, India, on September 1, 1896.
Met Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura.
Launched the long-running magazine.
Arrived in Boston on the cargo ship Jaladuta.
Officially founded ISKCON in NYC.
Held in San Francisco.
Centers opened in London and other cities.
Returned with Western disciples.
Spiritual schooling began in Dallas.
Now the world's largest veg relief program.
Left his body in Vrindavan.
