New York, August 29: RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat visited historic ISKCON sites in New York to commemorate the organization’s 60th anniversary. During his visit, he emphasized that amidst rising conflicts, divisions, and opposing identities, “Krishna Consciousness” can unite humanity.
Bhagwat stated, “The world is Krishna Consciousness. Today, there are numerous struggles and conflicts. The only thing that can unite us is consciousness, and that is Krishna Consciousness.”
As the head of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, Bhagwat paid tribute to ISKCON’s founder, A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, during his visit to the International Society for Krishna Consciousness. He was shown exhibitions highlighting ISKCON’s beginnings and its evolution into a global spiritual movement.
He remarked, “We are all one, and we must navigate the dualities of this world with the firm understanding that despite the diversity, duality, and conflict, it is all Krishna.” Bhagwat noted that the Bhagavad Gita teaches us not to escape life but to remain steadfast and fulfill our duties, as everything is Krishna.
He expressed that if this message reaches every individual, it could transform the world. “If this message reaches every heart, the world will undoubtedly become a better place. It will not be the material world we see today; it will be a heavenly abode for every person.”
Bhagwat congratulated ISKCON on its 60th anniversary and mentioned that the RSS is also celebrating its centenary. He highlighted that various organizations are working in different ways and circumstances but are all engaged in spreading the same consciousness.
Gauranga Das, a member of ISKCON’s governing body and director of Govardhan Eco Village, stated that Bhagwat encouraged the organization to promote Sanatan and Hindu Dharma.
Bhagwat also visited 26 Second Avenue in Manhattan, where Prabhupada established ISKCON in 1966. He paid homage by offering flowers to the spiritual leader.
Das noted that 60 years ago, the founder-acarya, the revered A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, established ISKCON at this famous address. Bhagwat praised ISKCON for distributing 600 million copies of the Bhagavad Gita in 80 languages and establishing 1,300 temples in 120 countries. He encouraged the organization to spread the message of Sanatan Dharma to families worldwide.
During his visit, Bhagwat signed the guestbook, describing the site as an inspiring place that has given the world the “incomparable gift” of Krishna Consciousness. He expressed feeling humbled and filled with “pure, sattvic love” for the divine presence in every person and object.
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