ISKCON Boston, also known as the New Gundica Temple, is a prominent Hindu temple located at 72 Commonwealth Avenue in Boston, Massachusetts. It's a part of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) movement, which is a worldwide organization promoting the teachings of Krishna consciousness.
History
ISKCON Boston holds a special place in the history of the Hare Krishna movement in the West. In 1965, Srila Prabhupada, the founder of ISKCON, first arrived in the United States in Boston. Although his final destination was New York City, he spent some time in Boston, marking the city as a significant starting point for the spread of Krishna consciousness in the Western world. The Boston chapter of ISKCON was established in 1968, and it quickly grew into one of the largest ISKCON centers. In 1973, the community moved to its current location on Commonwealth Avenue, where the existing building was renovated to serve as a temple and monastic community.
The Temple
The ISKCON Boston temple is situated among the beautiful brownstone buildings that characterize the area. The temple's interior features a large central space used for services and gatherings. This space includes the main altar, adorned with deities of Krishna and other important figures, as well as a statue of Srila Prabhupada. The temple also has a smaller room, known as the Sacristy or Pujari Room, where ceremonial items are stored. The upper floors of the temple serve as residential quarters for the monastic members. In the basement, there's a licensed kitchen where meals are prepared for the deities and the community.
Activities and Schedule
ISKCON Boston offers a variety of activities and services throughout the week. These include:
- Sunday Services: A weekly worship service that is open to everyone.
- Wednesday Evening Service: Another weekly service with discussions and chanting.
- Friday Night Kirtan: A vibrant session of devotional singing and dancing.
- Mantra Meditations: Weekly sessions of mantra meditation held on Tuesdays.
- Scriptural Study: Weekly programs on Saturdays dedicated to studying scriptures.
The temple also has daily morning services, and throughout the day, seven aratis (worship ceremonies) and darshans (viewing of the deities) are conducted. On Saturdays and Sundays, deity darshan is available throughout the day. All events at ISKCON Boston are free and open to the public.
Outreach
ISKCON Boston is actively involved in outreach programs. They regularly host student groups at the temple and conduct weekly educational programs at universities like MIT and Tufts.
Important Information
- Address: 72 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA 02116
- Phone: 617-247-8611
- Website:
If you're interested in learning more about Krishna consciousness or simply want to experience the vibrant atmosphere of a Hindu temple, a visit to ISKCON Boston can be a rewarding experience.