Indian Columbus

Krishna, a name that resonates with the color black in Sanskrit, embodies charm and allure. His divine form, adorned in the captivating hue, playing the flute, captivates the hearts of the Gopikas. Standing beside him on the altar is Radha, the foremost among the Gopikas, deeply enamored by Krishna's enchanting melodies. Flanking this divine couple are Lalita and Vishaka, two prominent Gopikas among eight companions (Ashta Gopis), equally drawn to the irresistible charm of Krishna. This sacred depiction forms the heart of the Radha Parthasarathi temple, fondly known as the ISKCON temple, nestled in the serene surroundings of East of Kailash in Delhi. Not only do the Gopikas surrender themselves to the Lord of the most beautiful things, namely Krishna, but even his devotees find solace and devotion in his divine presence. Another shrine depicts Chaitanya Mahaprabhu and Nityananda joyfully dancing and singing Keertans of Krishna. Their exuberance and devotion are palpable in the intr...

ISKCON, which stands for the International Society for Krishna Consciousness, was founded by Sri Prabhupada in 1967 CE within the United States. This spiritual community centers its devotion on Lord Krishna as the supreme deity and boasts millions of adherents worldwide. With approximately 50 temples found primarily in India and the USA, Bangalore is also home to one of the largest ISKCON temples. The ISKCON temple complex in Bangalore, inaugurated in 1997 CE, stands as a sprawling attraction within the city. Nestled on a small mound known as Hare Krishna Hill, it emanates grandeur. The temple is adorned with a prominent 56-foot-high gold-plated flagstaff that gleams brilliantly, drawing the gaze of all who approach. Its exterior features a five-tiered gopura in each of the four cardinal directions, marking the grandeur contained within. Upon entering the sanctum, visitors encounter beautifully sculpted images of Radha and Krishna, evoking a profound spiritual connection. The tem...

My US friend had come to India for vacation, and he called me up last week. "Do you know about the ISKCON temple?" "Yep, why not? Don't ask such silly questions to a serious traveler like me. Which ISKCON temple you want to know about? The one in Delhi or the one at Bangalore? Even Vrindavan and West Bengal have ISKCON temples. Which one do you want to know about? I will guide." "My dear proud traveler friend! I don't want to know about those temples. I know about them very well, and I have been there. Please give me some information about the temple in  Chennai ." "ISKCON temple in Chennai? Come on, man! Don't make fun of me." "I am not....you are making fun of yourself by calling yourself a serious traveler. Goodbye." After this conversation and a sleepless night, I explored and found out the ISKCON temple in Chennai. ISKCON temple is located in the most happening place - ECR (East Coast Road) in Chennai. VGP Golden beac...