ISKCON Bangalore commemorates a significant achievement, marking 25 years of service to the Lord and society. Over the course of its journey, ISKCON Bangalore has remained steadfast in its commitment to various charitable endeavours, striving to uplift both spiritual and social welfare alike through a diverse range of initiatives, from educational programs to humanitarian aid efforts.
Sri Brahmotsava is an annual festival celebrated in Chaitra-masa (April – May) to commemorate the appearance of Their Lordships by the installation of the Deities in the temple on Hare Krishna Hill. It is one of the grandest festivals of the ISKCON Sri Radha Krishna Temple; this year, the celebrations will span 13 days, from 21 April to 3 May 2024. ISKCON Sri Radha Krishna Temple will commemorate its Silver Jubilee celebrations this year.
Restoring Temple Grandeur: Architectural Renovation
The temple has undergone an extensive renovation in preparation for the Silver Jubilee celebrations, revitalising every aspect of its divine ambience. These transformative changes promise to infuse the temple with renewed vibrancy, ensuring a elevated and enriching experience for all who visit. The temple will be decorated with a variety of flowers, festoons, and colourful lights for the 13-day celebrations.
Pre-preparations for Sri Brahmotsava
On the evening before Dhvaja Arohana, the Garuda-dhvaja is worshipped, and a Vainateya Homa is performed. The other major rituals are Vishwaksena-aradhana, Dvara-puja, Mrit-sangrahana, Ankurarpana, and Raksha-bandhana. These rituals are performed to seek protection of Their Lordships and sanctification of the festival paraphernalia
The Brahmotsava festival begins with Dhvaja Arohana, hoisting the Garuda-dhvaja (flag carrying the emblem of Garuda) on the Garuda Stambha. During Dhvaja Arohana, devotees invite various devatas to participate in the festival by reciting important mantras and special musical notes.
Mantra Kalasha Abhisheka to Sri Radha Krishnachandra
A majestic ceremonial bathing of one thousand and eight kalashas of sanctified water and auspicious items will be offered to the utsava murtis of Sri Sri Radha Krishnachandra accompanied by chanting of Veda mantras and grand kirtans on 21 Apr 2024.
Brahma Rathotsava
Brahma Rathotsava, the anniversary of the appearance day of the Deities, will be celebrated on 1 May 2024. Sri Radha Krishnachandra will ride on a specially carved wooden chariot known as Brahma Ratha on this auspicious occasion. They will be offered a churna abhisheka (an elaborate ceremonial bath) and theppotsava (boat ride) on the following days. The festival will conclude with Dhvaja Avarohana ceremony (lowering of the Garuda flag) on 3 May 2024.
Maha Kumbhabhisheka Ceremony
Among the many festivities planned, the Maha Kumbhabhisheka on 2 May 2024 stands out as a momentous and pivotal event, imbued with profound significance and greatness. This elaborate ceremony, conducted once every 12 years, involves the sacred abhisheka for all the mula vigrahas of the temple, Sri Radha Krishnachandra, Sri Krishna Balarama, Sri Nitai Gauranga, Sri Srinivasa Govinda, and Sri Prahlada Narasimha.
Brahmotsava Homa
Each day of the 13-day celebration begins with a Brahmotsava homa ceremony commencing at 8:45 AM, where an array of Vedic mantras, including the Purusha Sukta, are recited. All are cordially invited to participate in the homa and receive the blessings of Sri Radha Krishnachandra.
Utsava Vahanas for Sri Radha Krishnachandra and Spectacular Cultural Programs
Every evening, the Utsava Deities of Sri Radha Krishnachandra are beautifully adorned in unique alankaras and carried in a procession around the temple on various Vahanas, accompanied by joyous kirtans. Following the Vahanotsava, the celebration continues with cultural programs by esteemed artists offering Sangita Seva (musical concerts), Natya Seva (theatrical plays), or Nritya Seva (dance performances). The celebrations conclude with Dolotsava, the swing festival in which the utsava Deities will be swung gently on a beautifully decorated swing, accompanied by melodious devotional songs for the pleasure of Their Lordships.
Spiritual leaders, distinguished guests and lakhs of devotees from all over India will participate in this 13-day event, providing a unique opportunity for everyone to join in the festivities and experience divine bliss.
We invite you to join us for this once-in-a-lifetime occasion and be blessed.
Here is an opportunity to offer your service to Their Lordships and be a part of the Brahmotsava.
Related Links: Brahmotsava Schedule | Kalyanotsava | Brahmotsava Highlights | The Eve of Brahmotsava | Watch Brahmotsava Live