A) The reasons for the development and growth of ISKCON

A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada

• ISKCON was founded in 1966 by Bhaktivedanta
• Initially named Abhay Charan (meaning 'fearlessness at the feet of Krishna')
• Parents adhered to Vaishnavism, as a result he primarily worshipped Vishnu in his early life
• Received a Western education
• In 1944, his first publication 'Back to Godhead' was released. This gained him a scholarship in 1947 and he earned the title 'Bhaktivedanta'
• He commentated on and translated the Bhagavata Purana
• He was told by his guru to prepare to take Krishna devotion to the West
• He later settled in NYC and established a following among the young

Religious/ cultural reasons for the growth of ISKCON

• Bhaktivedanta's personal charisma/ universal recognition as a true guru 
• George Harrison (of the Beatles) support- recorded single 'Hare Krishna' and used the funds generated to convert a temple in London. This received media publicity and helped spread the message of Krishna consciousness
• The 2 aims of the movement appeal to many:
• 1. To bring the members together and nearer to Krishna
• 2. To bring members together for the purpose of teaching…