Kolkata
1.Iskcon, Minto Park
Iskcon, Minto Park
During our recent visit to the Sri Sri Radha Govinda Temple ( Iskon Mandir), a hidden gem in the heart of the city. Established in 1971 by the revered Srila Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, this temple instantly captured our hearts with its tranquil atmosphere and profound spirituality. Dedicated to Lord Krishna, the temple welcomed us with open arms, regardless of our background or beliefs, fostering a sense of unity.
As we stepped inside, we were mesmerized by the exquisite idols of Goddess Radha and Lord Krishna, their divine presence filling the air with a sense of peace. The melodious chants of Hare Krishna echoed through the temple, creating a serene ambiance that resonated deeply with our souls. One of the highlights of our visit was the small room within the temple, preserving the legacy of Srila Prabhupada. Seeing his personal belongings and the tools he used for his spiritual work was a humbling experience.
We were fortunate to witness the vibrant festivals celebrated here, including the grand Rath Yatra, Janmashtami, Radhastami, Narasimha Jayanti, and Ramnavami. The energy and enthusiasm during these festivities were contagious, leaving a lasting impression on our hearts. The early morning Mangala aarti at 4:30 am was a time of quiet introspection, allowing us to connect with our inner selves in the presence of the divine.
To complete our spiritual journey, we indulged in the delectable offerings of Govinda, a top-notch vegetarian restaurant within the temple complex. The flavorsome dishes added a touch of culinary delight to our visit, enhancing our overall experience.
Our visit to the Kolkata ISKCON Temple was not just a travel experience but a profound spiritual journey. It was a reminder of the beauty of unity, devotion, and inner peace, inviting us to embrace these virtues in our own lives. This sacred place has left an indelible mark on our souls, and us are grateful for the opportunity to share our reflections in this blog.
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2.Nipponzan-Myōhōji Temple- Dhakuria
Have you ever explored the hidden gem near Dhakuria Lake Garden in Kolkata? Just a 5-minute stroll from the south gate lies the tranquil Nipponzan Myohoji, a Japanese Buddhist Temple. Nestled on Lake Road in South Kolkata, this temple has been a haven of serenity since the 1930s. It follows the Nipponzan Myohoji form of Buddhism, founded by Nichidatsu Fujii in 1917, with a deep reverence for the Lotus Sutra.
When you step inside, you'll discover a two-storey building with a welcoming prayer hall featuring a serene statue of Lord Buddha. Upstairs, there's a meditation room and the Arya Dharma Library, offering a wealth of literature, particularly for those fluent in Japanese.
You're welcome to join the morning prayers from 5 am to 7 am or the evening prayers from 5 pm to 7 pm. Don't miss the grand celebration of Buddha Purnima, one of the temple's most significant festivals.
And here's an interesting tidbit: the temple made a cameo appearance in the detective thriller movie, "Detective Byomkesh Bakshi," starring Sushant Singh Rajput.
So,next time you visit Dhakuria lake garden do not forget to visit this amazing piece of heaven on earth.
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