Global Hare Krishna Study Centre devotees in Guyana for 5-day spiritual festival

A milestone celebration is underway at the Hare Krishna Study Centre in Georgetown as devotees from all across the diaspora commemorate a decade since the establishment of the centre while also reflecting on two decades of the movement’s presence in the city. The five-day festival, hosted by the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) at its Study Centre on Lot 1 UG Road, brings together devotees from more than 10 countries for what organisers describe as one of the movement’s most significant celebrations in Guyana. Shanta Vigraha Das, a member of ISKCON who travelled from Trinidad and Tobago for the occasion, spoke with this publication about how the anniversary marks several important milestones for the organisation.

“We’re celebrating 10 years since this project was established in Georgetown and 20 years since the project actually started. We have a beautiful five-day programme,” he explained as today marks day five of the celebration. The celebrations also coincide with the 20th anniversary of Georgetown’s annual Ratha Yatra (Festival of Chariots), 50 years of ISKCON’s presence in Guyana, 60 years since the movement was established in New York and Guyana’s 60th independence anniversary. The international nature of the celebration has also brought together devotees from several countries, including Ghana and Nigeria, who travelled to Guyana to participate in the festivities.
One Nigerian devotee, HH Bhakti Vasudeva Swami, explained to this publication that his journey into the Hare Krishna movement began more than four decades ago after searching for answers about inequality and human existence. “I got attracted to these teachings because I had many questions about the differences in human society, why some people are born rich while others are born poor, deaf or blind”, he recalled. He said those questions remained unanswered until he encountered the writings of ISKCON founder AC Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada in 1983.
“I read two of his books that same night, and all my questions were answered. That was the beginning of my journey, and I have now been serving as a full-time priest for the past 42 years.” One senior devotee, Hari Chakra Prabhu, explained that while chanting is rooted in religious practice, modern scientific research has also explored its broader benefits. Hari Chakra Prabhu is a dedicated devotional musician and spiritual teacher within the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON). Known for his engaging kirtans, he tours globally with his group, “The Spiritual Warriors”, bringing Hare Krishna traditions to various festivals and outreach events.
“Our central practice is the chanting of the Hare Krishna maha mantra. While many see it purely from a theological perspective, there have also been scientific studies examining its effects,” he said. According to him, research has suggested that regular chanting may help reduce anxiety, stress and depression while improving attention span and even assisting those struggling with insomnia.
“The purpose of chanting is ultimately to develop pure love for God. But researchers have also found that it can positively influence mental well-being and emotional health.” The celebrations continue throughout the weekend, with organisers inviting members of the public to participate in the remaining activities. Daily programmes had included devotional singing, cultural presentations, free vegetarian meals, health booths, family activities, children’s entertainment and the traditional chanting of the Hare Krishna mantra. The festival, which began on Wednesday, concludes today with the annual Ratha Yatra celebrations.