ISKCON stands for the International Society for Krishna Consciousness. Launched in 1966 by A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, it’s a global Gaudiya Vaishnava movement devoted to reviving ancient Vedic teachings through devotional service to Lord Krishna.

At its heart lies the Hare Krishna mantra—Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare; Hare Rama, Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare—chanted to purify the mind and awaken spiritual awareness. Temples in over 100 countries host daily worship, pop-up vegan kitchens (the Food for Life program has quietly fed millions worldwide), and colorful festivals like Ratha Yatra, which in New York City just celebrated its 55th procession through Manhattan’s streets earlier this summer.

ISKCON’s reach goes beyond temple walls. Eco-friendly initiatives sweep through community gardens, cow protection projects and zero-waste feasts at gatherings. Recent years saw devotees lending a hand to flood relief in Kerala and feeding evacuees in Ukraine. Globally, youth leadership conferences and online satsangs bring Krishna consciousness into digital spaces, making ancient wisdom feel surprisingly at home on today’s TikTok-eered scene.

More than a spiritual society, ISKCON offers a living culture of music, dance, philosophy and service—where chanting, community and compassion form the bedrock of daily life.