International Society for Krishna Consciousness – Website of the Governing Body Commission – The Official Website of the Governing Body Commission of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness

His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, Founder-Acarya of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), established the Governing Body Commission (GBC) to be the ultimate managing authority for the society. In ISKCON’s Direction of Management written on July 28, 1970, Srila Prabhupada states:

As we have increased our volume of activities, now I think a Governing Body Commission (hereinafter referred to as the GBC) should be established. I am getting old, 75 years old, therefore at any time I may be out of the scene, therefore I think it is necessary to give instruction to my disciples how they shall manage the whole institution. They are already managing individual centers represented by one president, one secretary and one treasurer, and in my opinion they are doing nice. But we want still more improvement in the standard of temple management, propaganda for Krishna consciousness, distribution of books and literatures, opening of new centers and educating devotees to the right standard.

Srila Prabhupada reaffirmed the position of the GBC in his final will drafted in June, 1977:

The Governing Body Commission (GBC) will be the ultimate managing authority of the entire International Society for Krishna Consciousness.

Through legal documents, training, and discourse, Srila Prabhupada clearly identified the GBC as the highest managerial body in ISKCON.

At present, the GBC body is comprised of thirty-four members who are individually responsible for overseeing the management and spiritual standards of ISKCON centers in assigned geographic regions. GBC members also supervise specific projects, initiatives, and ministries. Following the instructions of Srila Prabhupada, the GBC body convenes yearly in Mayapur, West Bengal for their Annual General Meeting, during which time they discuss proposals, specific issues and projects within ISKCON, and pass resolutions by way of a voting process.

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ISKCON Governing Body Commission (GBC)

His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, Founder-Acarya of the International Society for

ISKCON Governing Body Commission (GBC)

2 months ago

GBC Statement on the Health of HH Giriraja SwamiDear ISKCON Devotees,Please accept our humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada.We are deeply saddened to share the difficult news regarding the health of His Holiness Giriraja Swami. Maharaja has been diagnosed with Behavioral Variant Frontotemporal Dementia (bvFTD). This degenerative neurological disorder has been increasingly affecting him over the past three years, with more significant clinical symptoms emerging in the last year.This cruel disease is characterized by the progressive degeneration of the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain, resulting in severe changes to behavior and personality. These include: impaired judgment, socially inappropriate behavior, apathy, sexual indiscretion, and compulsive tendencies.Medical evaluations, including MRI scans (May 2024) and neurocognitive testing, have confirmed Maharaja’s diagnosis and the further progression of the condition since previous tests.The GBC has sought and received a second, independent medical opinion that fully confirms the initial diagnosis.This significant cognitive decline in recent months has rendered Giriraja Maharaja vulnerable to abuse and exploitation of all kinds with limited ability to process, judge, and react to situations that require higher cognitive functioning. A team of medical specialists and dedicated caregivers, under the guidance of senior Vaishnavas, are providing Giriraj Swami with the support and care he needs.Due to this vulnerability, Giriraja Swami was recently a victim of a financial scam, taking advantage of his impaired judgment. Furthermore, the GBC has learned of highly inappropriate communication that was exchanged between Giriraja Swami and a lady disciple for a brief period in August 2024.We understand how painful and upsetting this news is, as we all hold Giriraja Swami in the highest regard. His life of many years of devotion and selfless service to Srila Prabhupada has been inspirational. The medical experts have helped us understand that these uncharacteristic behaviors are attributable to Maharaja’s condition and should be understood accordingly.The GBC Body is committed to assisting with the necessary care and support for Giriraja Swami, as well as for his disciples and followers.We encourage everyone to continue praying for him, his disciples, and all those who love and care for him during this challenging time.Your servants,Guru Prasad SwamiTapana Misra DasGovardhana Das,GBC Executive Committee ... See MoreSee Less

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ISKCON Governing Body Commission (GBC)

2 months ago

GBC MEETING HIGHLIGHTS REPORT 4 September 2024We are pleased to present the 4 September 2024 GBC Meeting Highlights Report. This report aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the online GBC meeting highlighting the key topics discussed.The meeting commenced with an invocation of prayers led by Guru Prasad Swami, followed by Anuttama Dasa reading Srila Prabhupada’s ‘Markine Bhagavata-dharma’ prayers, offered at Boston Harbor, 18 September, 1965.The following key topics were discussed: 1. ISKCON Africa Regional Governing BodyBhakti Caitanya Swami, Kavichandra Swami and Govardhan Das, GBC members for Africa, presented a proposal for the establishment of the African Regional Governing Body (RGB). Prior to this, the African RGB proposal had been reviewed and approved by the Legal Counsel. Govardhan Das addressed questions from GBC members regarding the composition of the RGB and the number of temples under its jurisdiction. The African RGB spans Southern Africa, West Africa and East Africa. The GBC body approved the formation of the African RGB and gave its blessings for its success. 2. Emeritus Status for Retired GBC MembersIn appreciation for their years of service to ISKCON and the GBC, the GBC body proposed offering GBC Emeritus status to five recently resigned GBC members namely, Bhakti-bhusana Swami, Bhaktimarg Swami, Giridhari Swami, Niranjana Swami and Radhanath Swami.The title of GBC Emeritus is awarded by the GBC body to honour retired members who have rendered distinguished service to ISKCON and the GBC Body. Due to their extensive experience and knowledge derived from years of service, GBC Emeriti are invited to provide advice and guidance to the GBC body in a non-managerial role.The GBC body voted to confer GBC Emeritus status on Bhakti-bhusana Swami, Bhaktimarg Swami, Giridhari Swami, Niranjana Swami and Radhanath Swami in appreciation for their decades of service.3. Recognizing Bhakti Prema Swami for Offering his First Guru Dakshina to the GBC BodyBhakti Prema Swami donated all of his guru-dakshina from his first initiation ceremony to the GBC body. Bhakti Prema Swami was invited to the meeting and Guru Prasad Swami, GBC Chair, expressed the GBCs heartfelt gratitude for Bhakti Prema Swami’s spirit of surrender, sacrifice and emphasis on the importance of the GBC. Several GBC members commended Maharaj for setting an exemplary standard in line with the mood of his spiritual master, Bhakti Caru Swami. Bhakti Prema Swami initiated eleven devotees during his first initiation. 4. Procedural Review and Decision on Temple PresidencyAn ISKCON official serving as a temple president was removed from their service by the local temple management board as various issues arose over time that adversely impacted the temple's management and the congregation's spiritual leadership. The official appealed his removal which was considered by the area GBC, who upheld the decision. This was further appealed to the relevant RGB, who appointed an independent panel that upheld the decision. The individual then requested the GBC to consider the matter. On review, the GBC affirmed that due process was followed and that there were sufficient grounds for the change in leadership and upheld the original decision.- Issued by GBC Communications ... See MoreSee Less

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ISKCON Governing Body Commission (GBC)

2 months ago

GBC MEETING HIGHLIGHTS REPORT 22 August 2024We are pleased to present the 22 August 2024 GBC Meeting Highlights Report. This report aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the online GBC meeting highlighting the key topics discussed.The meeting commenced with an invocation of prayers led by Malati Devi Dasi, followed by a reading from the Caitanya Caritamrita, Madhya 15.108 by Bhanu Swami. Madhusevita Das, GBC for Italy, shared a video presentation about the activities, projects and preaching initiatives undertaken at various temples and centers in Italy including Villa Vrindavan, Sankirtan Dham, Domus Hare Krishna Temple, Bhakti Center and more. The meeting commenced with a brief update on the situation in Bangladesh as shared by Tapana Misra Das. Tapana Misra Das stated that the caretaker government was formed in Bangladesh and is striving to restore order. The ISKCON management in Bangladesh is consenting with requests from the government and political parties to refrain from protests. They are keeping the army and police informed, and traveling to various districts to visit devotees and ensure their well-being.The main topics discussed during the meeting was the final discussion and voting on Guru Projects and Guru Dakshina in ISKCON.Badrinarayan Swami presented the Guru Projects and Guru Dakshina paper, which underwent a step-by-step review by the GBC members during Zoom meetings arranged by the GBC Executive Committee (EC) on 24 January, 2024, 7 February, 2024 and 3 April, 2024.The paper focuses on the relationship between ISKCON, the GBC, the diksha guru, and the disciple, emphasizing defining principles for spiritual masters, disciples, and various managerial authorities. The paper is divided into two parts: part one outlines principles related to guru services, while the second part aims to build on the foundation of these principles. During the meeting, Badrinayaran Swami led the review of the concluding section of Part One of the paper relating to ‘Principles of Project’ and the ‘Conclusion’. The section on ‘Principles of Project’ stated the general principles that all diksha-guru inspired projects should be adopted in coordination and approval of local temple, regional bodies and local GBC; role of diksha-guru in promotion of a project; ensure ISKCON representation for projects and consultation for exceptions to ISKCON representation and importance of communication with ISKCON authorities.The ‘Conclusion’ section noted the absence of clear standards regarding ‘guru-dakshina’ and ‘guru inspired projects’ and outlined how this proposal is of deep importance as it will provide standards and guidelines to help diksha-gurus act according to expected practices. The proposal aims to foster harmonious working relationships between ISKCON’s diksha-gurus, the GBC, other ISKCON leaders, local temples and the ISKCON community by establishing clear standards for guru-dakshina and ‘guru-inspired projects’ and ensure that these activities protect the reputation of ISKCON and its leadership. The proposal states that by defining a process of approval and review for large projects, it will help ensure that ISKCON resources are used strategically and with the support of local leaders and communities .Furthermore, it emphasizes the importance for monitoring and accountability in the unfortunate event that diksha-gurus experience challenges or leave ISKCON, which can lead to the loss of disciples and assets. The GBC body approved the Guru Projects proposal with the amendments as presented. The GBC shall lead the implementation of these principles and establish the relevant supporting structures.- Issued by GBC Communications ... See MoreSee Less

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ISKCON Governing Body Commission (GBC)

3 months ago

Dear Devotees,Please accept our humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada.With Srila Prabhupada's 128th Vyasa-puja just a few days away, please takethe opportunity to download and read the 2024 Vyasa-puja book which wascreated from all your hearfelt homages:gbc.iskcon.org/srila-prabhupada-vyasa-puja-books/Please also share the file widely so all followers of Srila Prabhupada canavail of this shower of nectar in glorification of His Divine Grace. Ahigh-res version is also available for those who wish to print a copy.As a sample, please see below the homage written by our dear late HH GopalKrsna Maharaja.Your servants on the VP Book team,Mukhya Devi DasiPraghosa DasSatyamedha Gauranga DasAnanda Tirtha Das____________________________________________________________________________Dear Srila Prabhupada:Please accept my humble obeisances at your divine lotus feet.This year we are celebrating your 128th Appearance Anniversary. Because ofyour purity and determination, the Krishna Consciousness movement has spreadto every corner of the world. In the purport to CC Adi Lila Ch.7 Text 164you had stated “the Goswamis not only engaged in writing books but alsoconstructed temples, because both are needed for preaching work.” You hadstated that both distribution of books and construction of temples shouldcontinue side by side on parallel lines.In the next few days, on the auspicious occasion of Rama Navami, we aregoing to inaugurate a new temple in Rohini, Delhi. You had spentconsiderable time in Delhi. Residing in the Radha Damodara temple inVrindavan, you would regularly travel to Delhi to get your books publishedand distribute them. As you did not have enough funds you would travel fromMathura to Delhi in a 3rd class compartment. After establishing ISKCON inthe West you had returned to India to preach to the Indians who hadforgotten their Vedic culture. Your vision of Delhi focused on the fact thatDelhi was the most important city in Asia. According to Tejas Das who wasthe President of the Delhi temple until 1976, “Prabhupada wanted to doprograms every week in different parts of Delhi. Prabhupada kept increasinghis desire to have temples in Delhi from 8 to 18 centers! He wantedinfluential people to be invited to these programs”.Prabhupada, due to your causeless mercy we have almost achieved the targetyou gave us. During the 1975-77 period, I went with you to many locations toobtain a land to build a temple. After a long struggle we obtained a verysignificant piece of land in South Delhi. Sri Sri Radha Parthasarathideities were first installed by you at Ananda Niketan in a rented facility.Later on, they were moved to another rented house in Bengali market.Finally, a beautiful temple was built for the pleasure of Their LordshipsSri Sri Radha Parthasarathi, Sri Sri Gaura Nitai and Sri Sri Sita RamaLakshmana Hanuman. This Project was inaugurated on Rama Navami in 1998 bythe late Prime Minister Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee who praised you and yourmovement. Then we obtained a second temple in Punjabi Bagh. This temple hasalso attracted thousands to Krishna consciousness. Gradually your movementwent on expanding and ten temples were opened in different locations.Currently we have 6 major temples under construction.As I mentioned above, the Rohini temple will be inaugurated on Rama Navami,2024. Located on the main road, this temple is a very grand and artisticpresentation. It will also be one of the temples where significant attentionhas been given to many details. For the very first time Panchatattva deitieswill be installed outside Bengal in India! Presently we have temples underconstruction at Kurukshetra, Dwarka, Ghaziabad and two other locations. Byyour causeless mercy we have achieved the target you had given, that ofconstructing temples, gradually growing from 8 to 18 temples in Delhi!Often, devotees are amazed by the number the temples we have in Delhi! Allthis has become possible only due to your purity and the tapasya you hadperformed in Delhi. We are reaping the fruits of the seeds planted by you.On this auspicious day, I beg you for your mercy that I may continue toserve you eternally.Your eternal servant,Gopal Krishna Goswami ... See MoreSee Less

Srila Prabhupada Vyasa Puja Books – International Society for Krishna Consciousness – Website of the Governing Body Commission

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Srila Prabhupada Vyasa Puja Books 2024 – Select for reading High Resolution for printing (233MB) – click here Read Me file – click here 2023

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ISKCON Governing Body Commission (GBC)

3 months ago

ISKCON GBC MEETING HIGHLIGHTS REPORT 24 July 2024We are pleased to present the 24 July 2024 GBC Meeting Highlights Report. This report aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the online GBC meeting highlighting the key topics discussed.The meeting commenced with an invocation of prayers led by Chandrasekhar Dasa, followed by a reading from the Srimad Bhagavatam, 9.13.12 by Dina Sharana Devi Dasi. The passage from the chapter titled ‘The Dynasty of Maharaja Nimi’ was read with its translation and purport: “Thereafter, to save the people from the danger of an unregulated government, the sages churned Maharaj Nimi’s material body, from which, as a result, a son was born.”The GBC addressed three important topics at the meeting: 1. Narahari Dasa SuspensionThe Guru Services Committee forwarded a proposal regarding the unauthorized initiations conducted by Narahari Dasa. On February 20, 2020, the North American RGB suspended Narahari Dasa from initiating in ISKCON. Despite this, Narahari Dasa resumed performing initiations again in early 2024, violating the suspension order. Consequently, the North American RGB has passed a new resolution reaffirming his suspension.The GBC resolved that initiations by Narahari Dasa after 20 February 2020 are not recognized in ISKCON. Narahari Dasa’s suspension as an initiating guru within ISKCON will continue indefinitely until the issues are resolved to the satisfaction of the Guru Services Committee and the GBC Body. The association of Narahari Dasa and his ‘disciples’ with any ISKCON temple will be determined by local authorities and the local GBC. 2. Pushpa Samadhi Proposal The GBC addressed the need for a clear resolution regarding establishing pushpa samadhis to avoid conflicting final instructions. The Vaishnava Samadhi Committee, chaired by Hridaya Caitanya Dasa will develop a suggested way forward which is expected by the GBC AGM 2025. Until this matter is resolved no new pushpa samadhis will be erected on any ISKCON property.- Issued by GBC Communications ... See MoreSee Less

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