By Sharmila Radhika devi dasi
The third annual UK National ‘Rise’ Retreat began in joyful fashion this Easter weekend with a vibrant harinam through Nottingham city centre. Devotees filled the streets chanting, singing and dancing as curious passersby stopped to watch. It was the perfect opening for a weekend dedicated to this year’s theme: The Community of Love.
Inspired by Keshava Swami, the Rise Retreat has grown steadily since its beginnings in 2024 with around 300 participants. Attendance rose to 500 in 2025, and this year more than 800 devotees gathered from across the UK and beyond.
The retreat was honoured by the presence of esteemed guest speakers including Jayadvaita Swami, Visakha dasi, Yadubara dasa, Vaisesika dasa, Nirakula dasi, Kripamoya dasa, Guru Carana Padma dasi, Gauranga dasa and Dayal Mora dasa, who shared insights through classes, discussions, and personal interactions. Praghosa dasa (GBC for the UK, Ireland and Scandinavia) was the MC, bringing a warm, light-hearted and humorous tone that was appreciated throughout.
At the centre of the main hall were the beautiful forms of Jagannath, Baladeva and Subhadra, along with Gaura Nitai and Srila Prabhupada. Their presence formed the spiritual centre of the gathering. Days began with mangal arati and japa, followed by guru puja, classes, and rotating lectures that offered both philosophical depth and practical reflection. Each evening, devotees gathered for absorbing kirtans.
Among the many presentations were classes exploring lessons from Lord Caitanya’s South India pilgrimage, reflections on the Matchless Gifts days, and a presentation on the cultural development of the Hare Krishna movement. Other sessions addressed important community themes such as resolving conflict with compassion, building a culture of care, and exploring why devotees sometimes leave – and what can be done to support and strengthen communities.
There were also thoughtful explorations on finding your mission within the mission, along with engaging Q&A sessions where participants could raise questions and hear insights from senior devotees. A special screening of the Hare Krishna! The Mantra, the Movement and the Swami Who Started It All documentary gave attendees the chance to reflect on the early history and global impact of the movement.
Families were warmly included throughout the retreat, with Krishna Club activities where children could learn, play, and connect with one another.
Drama was another highlight of the retreat. A delightful children’s drama, organised by Hari Lila devi dasi, was warmly received by all. This was followed by an engaging production from the Rise Drama Team, led by Niskincana dasa, depicting pastimes of Caitanya Mahaprabhu and King Prataparudra.
An inspiring aspect of the retreat was seeing multiple generations gathered together – children, youth, adults, and elders – each finding something meaningful in the programme.
The weekend also provided an opportunity to connect and serve together. Devotees from many communities met, collaborated, and formed new friendships. Delicious prasadam, prepared under the direction of Thirupati dasa and his dedicated team, nourished the hundreds in attendance.
One of the retreat’s main organisers, Mayank Badoni and Urjesvari devi dasi, commented: “It is truly extraordinary to witness for the Rise Retreat is bringing devotees across the UK and beyond together in spiritual upliftment and service. By the mercy of Lord Jagannath, Baladev and Subhadra Devi, everyone is leaving spiritually nourished and inspired, which is the purpose of Rise.”
Many of the guest speakers commented on the privilege of being part of the retreat and encouraged participants to carry the inspiration of the weekend back to their local communities, strengthening relationships and devotional life.
As devotees departed Nottingham at the end of the Easter weekend, there was a shared sense that something meaningful had taken place. The Rise Retreat continues to grow – not only in numbers but in spirit, unity, and service – with the hope that The Community of Love experienced there will continue to flourish across the UK and beyond.
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