CLOSE to 60,000 people took part in the Sri Krishna Janmashtami festivities at Bhaktivedanta Manor, the largest UK centre of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), that commenced on Friday (23) and ended on Sunday (25).
Festivities at the manor, near Watford, are considered the biggest outside of India.
This year’s festival attracted a diverse crowd as it marks 50 years since the Hare Krishna movement was incorporated.
"Much has changed since the hippie days of the '60s. The Hare Krishna community now attracts a diverse and inclusive population", says Nila Madhava Das, senior manager at Bhaktivedanta Manor.
“You will now find both families and urban monks, working as corporate, educational, healthcare, and creative professionals. Many of them are game changers, talented artists, deep thinkers and thought provokers who share mantra meditation, sacred wisdom and a karma-free lifestyle across the globe with modern relevance."
The festival transformed the usually serene temple grounds into a site of colourful marquees showcasing dance, drama, multimedia and music.
Visitors enjoyed complimentary vegetarian food and got an opportunity to browse the bazaars selling an eclectic array of delicatessens, books, handmade jewellery, music and organic produce from the New Gokul farm, which provides sustainable living and cow protection.
There was also a host of activities for children.
David Lammy
Seema Malhotra
Moments from the event
