The 60s saw a lot of social upheaval in American society. Saturated with material development and frustratrted with the lack of peace, American youth turned away from society. They created a lifestyle built around the theory of “make love not war”. Their system was not accepted by mainstream Americans and they became social rejects and came to be called ‘hippies’. Hence when Srila Prabhupada succeeded in bringing many hippies under a spiritual discipline, he stunned the US Government. He inspired these reformed ladies and gentlemen and they became the pioneers of the fledgling Krishna Consciousness Movement
The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) is more than just another spiritual mission. This Society is not just another spiritual club. It is what Srila Prabhupada dreamt to establish - a roof under which the whole world can live in spiritual consciousness! People from all over the globe are active followers of this movement. The more fortunate ones dedicate their lives fully unto the service of their beloved spiritual master, Srila Prabhupada, and Lord Sri Krishna. They leave their promising careers and high qualifications (in most cases), to live together - without considerations of caste or creed, likes or dislikes. This facility provides them with the environment required to practice spirituality to the best possible extent. They eventually come out as well-refined exemplary human beings and beacons of this ancient philosophy, which is the panacea for modern age.
Our acharya set up several brahmachari ashramas for them, as part of the numerous temples that he established. Dedicated volunteers stay full-time here, and render sincere services under the guidance of the temple authorities. Their aim is to please Srila Prabhupada and thereby, Lord Krishna. Ultimately, they desire to go back to the abode of the supreme Lord, Krishna- Goloka Vrindavana.
We at ISKCON, Bangalore have a one-hundred-member strong brahmachari ashram. There are about thirty grihastha full-time devotees, who also serve Sri Sri Radha Krishna Chandra.
