Vrindavan Chandrodaya Mandir to serve as an international cultural hub

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Uttar Pradesh, India: The Vrindavan Chandrodaya Mandir (VCM) at Vrindavan, Mathura district, is likely to serve as an international cultural hub dedicated to promoting “the timeless and universal message of spirituality of ancient India that is relevant even to this day.”

President, VCM, and Senior Vice President, The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), Bangalore, Sri Chanchalapathi Dasa, told News India Times, “VCM will have multi-dimensional impact. It fosters preservation of culture and heritage of Braj that is about 5000 years old. The manifestations of culture and heritage in the form of architecture, music, dance, festivals, cuisine, and myriad other forms will be curated and celebrated in its precincts.”

Exuding confidence that the Mandir will attract millions of visitors and will enhance tourism potential and mystical experience, Chanchalapathi Dasa underscored, “This will have far reaching impact on the socio-economic indices of the region like employment generation, creating demand for skiling in the hospitality sector, and improving quality of life for the host community.”

Executive Director, Strategy and International Relations, VCM and ISKCON Bangalore, Naveena Neerada Dasa noted VCM strives to imbue today’s youth with pride in India and its rich heritage, fostering character development through examples and life philosophies from ancient times. It aims to awaken a sense of national identity, cultivating a nation abundant not only in talent, creativity, and energy but also adorned with elevated values and character.

He further added that VCM seeks to restore, upgrade, and rejuvenate the significant sites of Braj, positioning the project as a source and support for social intervention programs in the region. The initiative also emphasizes extensive distribution of food to visitors, sadhus, and those in need within the Braj premises, while concurrently advocating for the protection and care of cows, integral to the Braj heritage.

“The site of Vrindavan Chandrodaya Mandir is located on the Bhaktivedanta Swami Marg, which is the main access to Vrindavan town. The skyscraper temple-cum-heritage project will consist of a magnificent temple of Lord Sri Krishna at its center, and harmoniously combine elements of both Indian temple architecture and modern architecture,” states the VCM website. “Our project will represent the culture and heritage of the sacred land of Braj. The architecture will be inspired by two prominent ancient temples of Vrindavan – Sri Madanmohanji Mandir and Sri Radha Govindji Temple.”

The website further adds that VCM, in addition to hosting a temple dedicated to Lord Sri Krishna, will serve as a hub for spreading the profound teachings of the Bhagavad Gita and Srimad Bhagavatam in a contemporary world. This cultural complex aims to draw global thinkers, leaders, and curious minds seeking insights into Lord Sri Krishna’s message, offering solace and healing for a troubled world.

“In line with Srila Prabhupada’s vision, the founder of ISKCON, VCM endeavors to share the wisdom of Krishna consciousness with people through diverse programs and workshops held within the temple premises. VCM also aims to alleviate individuals from the burdens of material existence, fostering enduring happiness irrespective of caste, creed, color, nationality, or gender through Prabhupada’s teachings,” emphasized Neerada Dasa.

According to him, ISKCON Bangalore’s VCM is aligned with development objectives of the Government of India, Government of Uttar Pradesh, and National Ministries.

“We want to further expand our services for the development of the Braj region through impactful initiatives such as providing training and employment opportunities to economically weaker sections of the society by supporting organic farming, handicrafts, and cottage industries. We also want to restore the river Yamuna and rejuvenate important sites of Vrindavan that signify the Braj heritage,” Neerada Dasa added.

The South Wing of VCM will be inaugurated around June 2024, and the full temple will be open for the public around 2028. Among many facilities, VCM will have Srila Prabhupada Museum and Expo, Bio Diversity Park, Cultural Diversity Centre, Bhagavad-Gita Museum, Bhagavad-Gita Academy – Centre for Advanced Studies, Centre for Braj Heritage Studies, Institute for Values and Ethics, and Assisted Living Homes.