The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) has played a significant historical role in globalizing Indian culture, particularly the Gaudiya Vaishnava tradition. Founded in New York City in 1966 by His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, ISKCON translated ancient scriptures, introduced bhakti yoga and vegetarianism to the West, and established cultural centers worldwide.
Introduction of Hindu philosophy to Western audiences
Before ISKCON, many Westerners had little exposure to the intricacies of Indian philosophy. The movement's primary contribution was making key concepts accessible to a global audience.
- Accessible translations: Prabhupada's translation and commentary of scriptures, such as the Bhagavad Gita As It Is and the Srimad Bhagavatam, were instrumental in making Vedic knowledge understandable to Westerners for the first time.
- Bhakti yoga: ISKCON popularized bhakti yoga—the path of devotion and love for God—which became the central spiritual practice for its followers and attracted many seeking a deeper spiritual connection.
- Congregational chanting: The movement widely promoted the public chanting of the Hare Krishna mantra (sankirtan), which became a distinctive and recognizable aspect of the movement and introduced many to Hindu spiritual practices.
Promotion of Indian cultural practices
ISKCON's spread of philosophy was inseparable from its dissemination of Indian cultural norms and traditions.
- Vegetarianism: The practice of lacto-vegetarianism, a core tenet of the Gaudiya Vaishnava tradition, was introduced to a global audience. The "Food for Life" program further promoted vegetarianism by providing free meals to those in need worldwide.
- Indian arts and festivals: Through its temples and events, ISKCON has become a key exporter of traditional Indian culture. The annual Ratha Yatra (Festival of Chariots), for example, is now celebrated in cities around the world, showcasing Indian music, dance, and art to a broader public.
- Vedic lifestyle: ISKCON established numerous farm communities and educational institutes to teach a "simple living and high thinking" Vedic lifestyle, offering an alternative to modern materialism.
Reinvigoration of Hindu traditions within India and for the diaspora
ISKCON's influence has had a dual effect, strengthening Hindu culture abroad while also contributing to its revitalization within India.
- Resource for the diaspora: In countries with significant Indian immigrant populations, ISKCON temples often serve as the primary cultural and religious resource. They provide a place of worship and a means for transmitting native culture to younger generations.
- Revival of devotion in India: Some scholars note that the sight of Western devotees embracing Krishna consciousness inspired a renewed interest in devotional practices among some sections of Indian society.
- Global acceptance: The movement's legitimacy among Indians, and the acceptance of some Western devotees into Brahmin status, demonstrates how ISKCON successfully transcended cultural boundaries.
Academic and institutional influence
Beyond its spiritual teachings, ISKCON has also influenced academic and institutional spheres.
- Academic recognition: The establishment of the Oxford Centre for Hindu Studies and other educational initiatives has helped legitimize Hindu studies in Western academia.
- Publishing: The Bhaktivedanta Book Trust (BBT), ISKCON's publishing arm, became the world's largest publisher of Vedic texts, distributing hundreds of millions of books in dozens of languages.
