Eshant Garg: For years, I adhered to the Ritvik belief system, convinced that it represented the most faithful continuation of Srila Prabhupada’s legacy. Like many others, I was drawn to its simplicity and the comfort it offered — that we could remain connected to Srila Prabhupada without the complexities of formal initiation through living spiritual masters. However, over time, sincere introspection and exposure to broader perspectives led me to question, and eventually leave, the Ritvik system. This is the story of my spiritual evolution and why I chose to fully align myself with ISKCON.
Understanding the Ritvik Perspective
The Ritvik ideology asserts that Srila Prabhupada is the eternal initiating guru for all time and that there is no need for any living guru to perform initiation after his physical departure. This idea is primarily based on an interpretation of a 1977 letter and the institutional appointment of Ritvik representatives during Srila Prabhupada’s final days. For many, including myself, this offered a way to stay anchored to Prabhupada without navigating the controversies surrounding some ISKCON leaders.
The Challenges of the Ritvik System
Over time, I began noticing certain issues within the Ritvik approach. There was a lack of structured spiritual guidance, accountability, and dynamic spiritual exchange. While books and recordings of Srila Prabhupada were available, they couldn’t replace the living, responsive presence of a dedicated spiritual master. Many Ritvik followers, despite sincere efforts, often remained spiritually stagnant, and divisions within the Ritvik movement itself made it evident that it lacked cohesion and practical application in community life.
What I Found in ISKCON
When I re-engaged with ISKCON more deeply, I realized that despite its challenges, ISKCON had evolved in important ways. There were numerous sincere devotees, spiritual leaders, and systems of mentorship that helped newcomers and seasoned practitioners alike to grow in Krishna consciousness. I encountered humility, scholarship, and a shared mission that resonated deeply with the spirit of Srila Prabhupada’s original vision.
Importantly, ISKCON’s position on the necessity of living spiritual teachers is not a deviation but a continuation of the parampara system — a core tenet of Gaudiya Vaishnavism. Just as Srila Prabhupada himself received initiation from a living guru, Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura, the same principle continues. Realization, refinement, and personal connection are cultivated best through guidance from a present, realized soul.
A Balanced View
My transition wasn’t about rejecting Prabhupada — quite the opposite. It was about embracing his complete teachings and mission. Prabhupada wanted ISKCON to function as a spiritual society with proper leadership, not just a book distribution movement frozen in time. He trained disciples to take on responsibilities and continue the lineage, and to ignore this aspect is to ignore a significant part of his instruction.
Conclusion
Leaving the Ritvik ideology was not easy, as it was deeply woven into my spiritual identity for years. But truth, when sincerely sought, has a way of shining through. Joining ISKCON has reconnected me with a dynamic, living spiritual tradition and has brought me closer to Srila Prabhupada — not just as a revered figure of the past, but as the founder-acharya of a living movement. For that, I am truly grateful.
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Addressing Key Questions: Why I Chose ISKCON Over the Ritvik System (Part 2)
In the first part of my journey, I shared why I moved away from the Ritvik philosophy and formally joined ISKCON. After that video, I received many comments and important questions from fellow devotees — questions that reflect sincere concerns and deserve thoughtful responses. In this article, I aim to address some of the most critical issues raised in those discussions.
The Role of Srila Prabhupada’s Will
One recurring question is about Srila Prabhupada’s will and whether it supports Ritvik initiation in perpetuity. Some argue that since his will mentions that only his disciples should be on the GBC (Governing Body Commission), it implies that initiations must always be conducted through Ritvik representatives — otherwise, new GBC members wouldn’t be possible.
But this interpretation confuses management with philosophical principles. Prabhupada gave flexibility in managerial structures, knowing that governance would have to adapt over time. What he did not allow was the alteration of eternal principles, such as the guru-parampara (disciplic succession). Philosophical truths are timeless, while management is dynamic and subject to change.
As times change, so too must the administrative structures that support Krishna consciousness. But these changes should never come at the expense of spiritual principles. If necessary, management must be reformed — not the philosophy.
Misinterpretations of Historical Letters
Some devotees cite letters like the one dated May 28, where Srila Prabhupada said, “When I order, you become guru,” to suggest he did not want any of his disciples to initiate unless explicitly ordered. However, this was said in a context where certain individuals had prematurely begun initiating disciples while Prabhupada was still physically present. His warning was not a rejection of future spiritual masters but a reminder that no one should act independently without authorization.
Similarly, the so-called “Ritvik appointment” letter of July 9, 1977, was meant for a temporary arrangement during Prabhupada’s illness. It never explicitly stated that this system should continue after his physical departure. Taking ambiguous references as grounds to change an entire theological foundation is both risky and unfaithful to Srila Prabhupada’s broader teachings.
Why So Many Gurus in ISKCON?
Another common concern is the growing number of gurus within ISKCON — now more than 100. Some see this as excessive. But Krishna consciousness is meant to reach every town and village. The need for gurus is vast and growing. One spiritual master can only guide a limited number of disciples personally. If the movement is to scale, many qualified gurus are not just necessary — they are vital.
Rather than fearing this growth, we should see it as evidence that ISKCON is fulfilling Srila Prabhupada’s mission. A hundred gurus in a world of billions is still far too few.
Addressing Claims of Politics and Corruption
Yes, like any institution, ISKCON has faced challenges — political struggles, leadership failures, and moments of crisis. But no organization is free from these human dynamics. Whether in religious, educational, or governmental systems, imperfections are a part of institutional life.
What matters is how these are addressed. ISKCON has matured and evolved. Many spiritual leaders are sincerely engaged in improving governance and safeguarding the society’s spiritual integrity. More importantly, the average devotee is free to focus on their personal bhakti, engage in service, and progress toward Krishna without needing to be involved in leadership politics.
Even in other smaller Ritvik organizations, similar politics will emerge with time. As these groups grow, they too will experience administrative conflicts. These are not signs of spiritual failure, but of the human condition.
The Real Advantage of an Institution
Institutions like ISKCON offer massive advantages to spiritual seekers — access to trained speakers, spiritual literature, festivals, food distribution programs, and a supportive community. For example, devotees from other cities or countries can easily integrate into temple communities around the world, thanks to this unified structure.
Such a framework can greatly ease one’s journey to Krishna — something a decentralized or isolated approach cannot match. ISKCON’s global network helps people practice bhakti yoga wherever they are.
Final Thoughts
This movement is a vast ship led by Srila Prabhupada himself. If your focus is on Krishna, ISKCON offers every possible tool and support to take you back to Godhead. But if your attention remains on conflicts, missteps, or politics, you will struggle — no matter where you go.
Srila Prabhupada wanted us to cooperate despite differences and help others come closer to Krishna. Let’s not use philosophical disagreements to create division. If you’re convinced by the Ritvik model, follow it — but do not criticize others. And if you follow ISKCON’s traditional guru-parampara system, do so respectfully and responsibly.
The real enemy is not each other, but material illusion. Let us unite in service, avoid offenses, and keep Srila Prabhupada at the center of our lives.
Hare Krishna.
Source: https://www.dandavats.com/?p=115753
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