Introduction

ISKCON Mayapur is one of the most important and sacred centers of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON). Located in Mayapur, West Bengal, it is the global spiritual headquarters of ISKCON and a major pilgrimage site for devotees of Lord Krishna.

Location

Mayapur is situated at the confluence of the Ganga and Jalangi rivers, in the Nadia district of West Bengal. It is about 130 km north of Kolkata and is considered a highly sacred place in Vaishnav tradition.

Religious Significance

Mayapur is the birthplace of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu (1486 CE), who is regarded as an incarnation of Lord Krishna and the pioneer of the Bhakti movement based on chanting the holy names of God. The site holds immense importance for Gaudiya Vaishnavas.

Main Temple

The central attraction is the Sri Mayapur Chandrodaya Mandir, which houses the deities of Sri Sri Radha Madhava, Panchatattva, and Sri Nrsimhadeva. The grand Temple of the Vedic Planetarium (TOVP), once completed, is set to be one of the largest Hindu temples in the world.

Spiritual Activities

ISKCON Mayapur is a hub of spiritual practices such as:

Daily kirtans and aartis
Hare Krishna mantra chanting
Discourses on the Bhagavad Gita and Srimad Bhagavatam
Spiritual education and Vaishnava festivals

Festivals

Major festivals celebrated with great devotion include Gaura Purnima (birth anniversary of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu), Janmashtami, Radhashtami, and Ratha Yatra, attracting thousands of devotees from across the world.

Conclusion

ISKCON Mayapur is not only a place of worship but a vibrant center of spiritual learning, devotion, and culture. Its deep religious significance, serene river-side setting, and global spiritual influence make it one of the most important Vaishnava pilgrimage destinations in India.