ISKCON Temple in Bangalore - ‘International Society for Krishna Consciousness’.
‘International Society for Krishna Consciousness’, shortly ISKCON, is a charitable society with the objective of propagating consciousness about Lord Krishna all over the world. Accredited for having the ISKCON's largest temple complex in the world, this temple was built in a 7 acre hillock 'Hare Krishna Hill' in Bengaluru city. The society was initially operating in a rented house in Bangalore. In 1987, the society applied to the Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) for allotment of land to construct a temple and cultural complex. The authority chose this hillock as it could not be converted into sites and allotted to them. The original simple design was started in 1990 estimated to cost 10 crore Indian Rupees. It gave way to a more stunning, unique architectural model that cost 30 crore Indian Rupees. The construction started in 1990 with six hundred skilled craftsmen and the temple was completed in 1997. The complex was opened to the public by the then President of India, Dr. Shankar Dayal Sharma in May 1997.
Built in a neoclassical style of architecture, the temple blends conventional architecture with ultra-modern services. The elaborate complex is divided into various sections and subsections. The beautifully ornamental arches and illuminated water jets escort to the richly decorated main tower. The main shrine comprises the charming idols of Sri Radha Krishna, along with four additional shrines dedicated to Sri Balarama, Sri Nitai Gauranga, Sri Prahlada Narasimha and Sri Srinivasa Govinda. The ceiling of the main hall is festooned with remarkable paintings made by the Russian painters. The temple complex also has an open amphitheatre where various festivals and concerts are conducted. The temple offers a bowl of 'Khichdi' (made of rice and pulse) to its visitors. Mid day meals are also arranged for underprivileged children in partnership with various institutions.. Lush green gardens in the campus surely mesmerize the visitors.