By Kulavati Krishnapriya Devi Dasi
Spanning a generous expanse of six acres, ISKCON Shri Krishna Arjuna Temple in Kurukshetra is a unique chariot-shaped temple standing as a symbolic junction between two sanctified realms: the place where Bhishmadeva left his body and the place where the Bhagavad-gita was spoken. The aspiration is to unveil the temple’s grandeur within the next 18 months, marking the advent of Phase Two. The temple’s structural framework is complete, and current endeavors are focused on refining its interiors.
Srila Prabhupada held a profound affinity for the city of Kurukshetra, recognizing its pivotal role in the battle of the Mahabharata. With foresight and reverence, he envisioned the construction of a majestic temple devoted to Lord Krishna within Kurukshetra. This temple, he believed, would emerge as an unparalleled bastion of spiritual enlightenment and devotion.
In a letter to one of his disciples, Srila Prabhupada wrote, “I am very much interested to construct a nice temple at Kurukshetra which will be unique in the world. I have got some conception in my mind and also I have discussed with some of my students here. They also fully agree with me. So if you are interested to cooperate with me in this attempt, then you can come here and live with me for some time.”
Tracing the history of the temple under construction, ISKCON acquired this land adjacent to the birthplace of the Gita in 1998. However, local Brahmanas opposed the acquisition, fearing the presence of Hare Krishnas. A legal battle ensued in the Haryana High Court, resulting in ISKCON losing the land after 15 years of litigation.
However, through the persistent efforts of Gopal Krishna Goswami, ISKCON secured the current six-acre plot in 2015. Gopal Krishna Goswami has been overseeing and guiding the construction of this ambitious project, which is dedicated to fulfilling Srila Prabhupada’s vision.
Read more: https://iskconnews.org/iskcon-kurukshetra-a-dream-project-of-srila-prabhupada-continues-to-expand/
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