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How to Follow ISKCON: A Comprehensive Guide

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The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), also known as the Hare Krishna movement, promotes the teachings of Bhakti Yoga, emphasizing devotion to Lord Krishna. Here’s an expanded guide to practicing ISKCON principles, along with simple prayers, puja steps, clothing suggestions, mantras, and practical modern applications.

1. Core Principles of ISKCON

ISKCON revolves around the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita and Srimad Bhagavatam, emphasizing:

  • Chanting: Regular recitation of the Hare Krishna Mahamantra:
    Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare,
Hare Rama, Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare.
  • Devotion: Loving service to Lord Krishna, understanding Him as the Supreme Personality of Godhead.
  • Vegetarianism: Following a sattvic (pure) vegetarian diet without meat, fish, or eggs.
  • Regular Study: Reading scriptures like the Bhagavad Gita and Srimad Bhagavatam.
  • Association: Engaging with a community of like-minded devotees through temples and satsangs.

2. Simple Puja Steps for Home Worship

  1. Cleanse Yourself and the Space: Take a bath and ensure the altar and surroundings are clean.
  2. Set Up the Altar: Place images or idols of Krishna (or Radha-Krishna) at the center. Include other deities if desired.
  3. Light a Lamp: Offer light with a ghee lamp or candle.
  4. Offer Flowers: Present fresh flowers to the deity.
  5. Incense and Offerings: Light incense and place food offerings (fruits, sweets, or cooked vegetarian dishes).
  6. Chant Mantras:
    • Krishna Mantra:
      Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya
    • Ganesha Mantra (for removing obstacles):
      Om Gan Ganapataye Namah
    • Hanuman Mantra (for strength and protection):
      Om Shri Hanumate Namah
  7. Meditate and Pray: Sit quietly and chant the Hare Krishna Mahamantra or other mantras with a mala (rosary) for focus.
  8. Conclude with Aarti: Sing aarti songs, such as "Govindam Adi Purusham," while waving the lamp.

3. Clothing and Colors

  • Traditional Attire: Men wear dhotis, and women wear sarees, preferably in clean, simple fabrics.
  • Colors: Saffron or white for men (symbolizing renunciation and purity), and colorful sarees for women. Avoid overly flashy or dark tones during pujas.
  • Modern Adaptations: Comfortable, modest clothing is acceptable for daily practice if traditional wear isn't feasible.

4. Ideal Gods and Goddesses for Worship

Although ISKCON primarily worships Krishna and His consort Radha, you can integrate other deities into your practice for specific blessings:

  • Annapurna: For nourishment and abundance.
  • Shakumbhari: For health and prosperity.
  • Dhanvantari: For healing and health.
  • Ashwini Kumaras: For rejuvenation and vitality.
  • Shiva: As the ultimate yogi and devotee of Krishna.
  • Ganesha: For removing obstacles and ensuring success.
  • Hanuman: For devotion, courage, and protection.

5. Simple Mantras and Prayers

  • Annapurna Prayer:

    Annapurne Sada Purne
Shankara Pranavallabhe
Jnana Vairagya Siddhyartham
Bhiksham Dehi Cha Parvati

    (O Annapurna, who is always full, beloved of Lord Shiva, grant us knowledge and detachment.)

  • Shakumbhari Mantra:

    Om Shakumbhari Deviye Namah

    (Salutations to Shakumbhari Devi, the nourisher of all.)

  • Dhanvantari Mantra:

    Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya
Dhanvantaraye Amrita Kalasha Hastaya
Sarva Bhaya Vinashaya Sarva Roga Nivaranaya
Triloka Nathaya Shri Mahavishnave Namah

    (Salutations to Lord Dhanvantari, who carries the nectar of immortality and cures all ailments.)

  • Ashwini Kumaras Prayer:

    Om Ashwini Kumara Devatabhyo Namah

    (Homage to the twin Ashwini Kumaras, divine physicians.)

  • Shiva Mantra:

    Om Namah Shivaya

6. Rare Facts About ISKCON

  • Global Influence: ISKCON has over 600 centers worldwide, blending spiritual practices with cultural events like Ratha Yatra (Chariot Festival).
  • Cows Are Sacred: ISKCON promotes cow protection (go-seva) as an essential duty.
  • Cultural Adaptability: The teachings are universal and adaptable to various lifestyles.

7. Practical Steps and Ideas for Modern Times

  1. Digital Access: Use apps or online platforms for guided chanting, Bhagavad Gita readings, or live temple events.
  2. Sustainable Living: Embrace eco-friendly practices like organic farming and minimalism, aligning with Krishna’s teachings.
  3. Workplace Devotion: Dedicate your actions to Krishna by mentally offering your work as service.
  4. Mindful Eating: Cook vegetarian meals and offer them to Krishna before eating.
  5. Community Service: Volunteer at ISKCON centers or join food distribution programs like Food for Life.

By incorporating these practices and mantras, you can harmonize ISKCON's spiritual traditions with the demands of modern living, fostering devotion, balance, and inner peace.