ISKCON Seeks Land in Srinagar for Spiritual Center, Appeals to PM Modi
Navi Mumbai: The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) has formally appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for land in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), to establish a new spiritual center. The request was made during the inauguration of the Sri Sri Radha Madan Mohanji Temple in Kharghar on January 15, where PM Modi was present to bless the occasion.
Sura Das, Trustee and President of ISKCON, addressed the gathering, expressing his gratitude for the Prime Minister’s attendance. During his speech, he shared his vision for the spiritual center in Srinagar, revealing that he had been contemplating the project for several years. He further explained that discussions regarding land allocation had already taken place with J&K’s Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, pointing out that other religious organizations had been provided with plots in the region.
ISKCON’s trustee highlighted the society’s international presence, with centers in countries like Russia, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, and questioned why the region of Jammu and Kashmir still lacks an ISKCON center. Srinagar, being a prominent tourist destination, is seen as an ideal location for such a center. Sura Das stressed that the proposed center would offer sanctified food, spiritual guidance, and a restful environment for travelers from all over the world. The initiative, he emphasized, aligns with ISKCON’s core philosophy of serving humanity without discrimination based on caste or creed. ISKCON currently operates more than 125 centers across India. The proposed center in Srinagar, according to Sura Das, would blend with the local architectural styles, contrasting with the grandeur of the Kharghar temple. Instead, the focus will be on simplicity, cultural richness, and providing a serene environment for visitors.
The land needed for this project is approximately 4 acres, a fraction of the size of the Kharghar temple grounds. While the Prime Minister had suggested considering Jammu for the project, Sura Das expressed his preference for Srinagar. He added that a formal request has already been sent to the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) and that he is awaiting further approvals. Despite security concerns and possible resistance from radical elements in the region, ISKCON remains hopeful for the success of the project. Sura Das concluded that the center would significantly enrich the spiritual and cultural landscape of J&K, providing a peaceful retreat for devotees and tourists alike.