The ISKCON Birnagar Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakur Janmasthan Development Project is a landmark initiative that is fulfilling a long-cherished desire of Srila Prabhupada to glorify Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakur at his birthplace. Despite multiple attempts during Srila Prabhupada’s manifest presence, the project didn’t materialize at that time. However, efforts continued through the Bhaktivedanta Swami Charitable Trust, which has supported the existing Janmasthan of Bhaktivinoda Thakur.
Now, under the direction of Srila Jayapataka Swami, ISKCON has acquired a location near Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakur’s actual birthplace to develop a grand temple, museum, library, and other facilities to educate and inspire devotees worldwide. This ambitious project aims to establish a spiritual and educational center dedicated to preserving and spreading the teachings and contributions of Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakur.
Govardhana Giri Das, one of the project coordinators, said, “Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakur was a visionary and the first international preacher of the Gaudiya Vaishnava tradition. In the late 19th century, he was the first to write in English about Sri Krishna Chaitanya Mahaprabhu’s philosophy. He sent his book, ‘Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu: His Life and Precepts’ to international libraries. His legacy continues to inspire devotees around the world to embrace and spread the message of Krishna consciousness.”
The project envisions the construction of a grand temple that will serve as a spiritual and cultural landmark dedicated to preserving and propagating the legacy of Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakur, the Seventh Goswami. This temple will not only be a place of worship but also a center of inspiration, drawing devotees and scholars from around the world to engage in devotional service, study, and community activities.
A key feature of the project is a museum that will chronicle Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakur’s life, literary contributions, and transformative impact on the Gaudiya Vaishnavism tradition. Through carefully curated exhibits, dioramas, rare manuscripts, and interactive displays, visitors will gain deep insights into his pioneering efforts in reviving and spreading Krishna Consciousness.
Comments