ISKCON Nasik - History and Activities
A Journey of Devotion, Preaching, and Spiritual Growth
Nasik: A Sacred Pilgrimage Center
Nasik is a renowned pilgrimage center, famous for its association with Lord Ramchandra, Mother Sita, and Laxman. This sacred location is where they are believed to have performed their transcendental pastimes. Over 500 years ago, Lord Chaitanya visited Nasik and Trimbakeshwar during his tour of South India, marking the early connection between this region and the Krishna Consciousness movement (CC Madhya 9.137).The Seed of ISKCON in Nasik
The seeds of ISKCON were planted personally by the founder Acharya HDG A.C Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada in 1971. He and his American disciples performed parikrama around the holy places of Nasik, preaching to thousands of citizens. His disciples distributed Srila Prabhupada's books and conducted Nagar Sankirtan to spread the divine message of Lord Krishna. Officially, ISKCON's activities began during the Prabhupada Centennial Year under the leadership of H.G Paramhans Das. He preached extensively in Nasik and established a small center in 1997. Over the next 3-4 years, the preaching efforts grew significantly through youth outreach, Bhakti Vriksha programs, book distribution, and congregation development. In 2005, with the support of the devotees, a small and beautiful temple was constructed.Key Milestones and Developments
The presiding deities of Nasik, Sri Sri Gaur Nitai, were welcomed into the small center in 1999. Over the next few years, mass preaching programs were held, such as Mega Janmastami Festival, Gaur Purnima, Ram Navami, and Pushpa Abisheka. These events attracted thousands of devotees and helped spread the spiritual message of ISKCON.Current Programs and Preaching
Under the guidance of H.G Shikshastakam Das, the preaching efforts in Nasik continue to flourish. The primary focus is on youth preaching and congregation development. There are 25 full-time Bramacharis engaged in these efforts, and many devotees regularly attend the Sunday Feast and Wednesday Gitamrita classes. ISKCON Nasik organizes various activities, including:- Monthly Prerna Festivals for boys (attended by 500 students)
- Chetna Festivals for girls
- Corporate seminars and congregation development programs like Parivartan
- 6-day Basic Gita Course for beginners
- Regular Hare Krishna Festivals and Bhagavat Saptah
- BACE facility for college students providing spiritual wisdom and sanctified food
- Distribution of thousands of Srila Prabhupada's books
Installation of Sri Sri Radha MadanGopal
After 12 years of dedicated preaching, the deities of Sri Sri Radha MadanGopal were installed on March 23rd, 2011, marking another significant milestone in the history of ISKCON Nasik.Role During Kumbha Mela
ISKCON Nasik plays an active role during the Kumbha Mela by assisting in book distribution, preaching, and Food for Life programs. Nasik being a major pilgrimage center, attracts lakhs of pilgrims who regularly visit the area to take darshan of Sri Sri Radha MadanGopal and seek blessings from Srila Prabhupada. These teachings offer a path to a peaceful and divine life.