When His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Srila Prabhupada entered the port of New York City on September 17, 1965 few Americans took notice - but he was not merely another immigrant. He was on a mission to introduce the ancient teachings of Vedic India into mainstream America. Before Srila Prabhupada passed away on November 14, 1977 at the age of 81, his mission proved successful. He had founded the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) and saw it grow into a worldwide confederation of more than 100 temples, ashrams and cultural centers.

ISKCON belongs to the Gaudiaya Vaishnava sampradaya (denomination or tradition), a monotheistic tradition within Vedic or Hindu culture. The word “Hindu” is not found in the ancient texts of India. The word originated as a designation for the people living in the vast regions east of the Sindhu River. Today,Hinduism has evolved into an umbrella term that refers to the “family of religions” based on the Vedic writings, including the major traditions of Shaivism, Shaktism, and Vaishnavism. Together, they make up the world’s third-largest religion—today called Hinduism.

The answer is yes. Not only will your lifestyle change and enhance, but your mindset, concentration, and focus will also increase. It makes you 10x more efficient, and your addicted and junk-filled mind will be converted into an open-hearted person. ISCKON will not only change your lifestyle but also your thinking capacity and spiritual activities.

The answer is yes. Not only will your lifestyle change and enhance, but your mindset, concentration, and focus will also increase. It makes you 10x more efficient, and your addicted and junk-filled mind will be converted into an open-hearted person. ISCKON will not only change your lifestyle but also your thinking capacity and spiritual activities.

The Bhagavad-gita further declares that one who lovingly offers his food to God according to scriptural guidelines becomes freed from sinful reactions, or karma. Stopping animal killing reduces our collective karmic debt, and thus helps alleviate the horrors of war which so plague the modern world. More than just practicing a vegetarian diet, ISKCON members actively promote vegetarianism. Krishna

You can get involved with ISKCON activities by contacting your local temple or center and expressing your interest in volunteering. Opportunities may include serving in the temple kitchen, assisting with outreach programs, participating in community events, and supporting charitable initiatives.

The Hare Krishna mantra, also known as the Maha Mantra, is a powerful chant that invokes the divine presence of Lord Krishna and His energies. It is considered a potent tool for spiritual purification and self-realization.

You can learn more about ISKCON by visiting your nearest temple or center, attending classes and workshops, reading books by Srila Prabhupada and other prominent teachers, and exploring the organization's official website and online resources.