ISKCON Governing Body Commission (GBC)

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ISKCON Governing Body Commission (GBC)

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

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. The GBC members are responsible for overseeing the management and spiritual standards of ISKCON centers in assigned geographic regions. GBC members also supervise specific projects, ini

tiatives, 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.

28/08/2026

Dear ISKCON Community Members,

Please accept our humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada.

In light of the tragic natural disaster that has already claimed over one hundred lives in Nepal and Tibet with over one thousand more missing, we call upon you all to please pray for those who have been affected by this catastrophe.

We have received the devastating news that seventeen dear devotees from our
ISKCON communities in Ireland, South Africa, and the UK are currently missing. They were participating in an annual pilgrimage to Gosainkunda.

Let us come together to offer our heartfelt prayers to those affected by this disaster and to support ISKCON Nepal in this time of great need. May they be blessed by the grace of the most merciful Sri Sri Radha-Krishna.

Hare Krishna,

Your servants,
Madhu Sevita Das
Govardhana Das
Devakinandan Das,
GBC Executive Committee

14/08/2026

Statement on the Formation of the
“Puri Engagement Committee”

14 August 2026
Hare Krishna Dear Devotees,
Please accept our humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada.

The GBC Executive Committee has established the Puri Official Committee to coordinate ISKCON's engagement regarding the observance of Ratha-yatra outside India and ISKCON’s interactions with leaders of Jagannath Puri temple, especially the King of Puri and his administration.

The Committee has been entrusted with developing a coordinated approach that safeguards ISKCON's devotees, projects, reputation, and other assets while fostering respectful and constructive dialogue. Its work will include assessing the issues involved, coordinating communications and engagement, articulating ISKCON's position regarding Ratha-yatra dates, and preparing recommendations for consideration by the GBC at its upcoming Mid-Term Meeting and beyond.

The Committee held its inaugural meeting on 6 August 2026, during which it adopted its Terms of Reference, confirmed its membership, and agreed on its working procedures.

The Committee members are:
Govardhana Dasa (GBC, Convenor)
Gauranga Dasa (GBC, Puri Committee)
Anuttama Dasa (GBC Minister of Communications)
Parijata Devi Dasi (GBC Communications, GBC ESO)
Braj Hari Dasa (ISKCON Bureau, Puri Committee)
Krishna Kirti Dasa (Convenor, ISKCON India Scholars Board)
Brajprem Dasa (President, ISKCON Puri Project)
Mukunda Chaitanya Dasa (Gajapati Dist. Duty Officer, Odisha)

Advisory and Support
Nanda Kishor Dasa (GBC Executive Support Office - ESO)

The Committee has commenced its work and will engage with the relevant stakeholders over the coming weeks. It will also keep ISKCON’s devotees periodically informed as its work progresses.

The GBC Executive Committee requests devotees to keep the Committee and its service in their prayers.

- Issued by GBC Communications

13/08/2026

Update on the Third Meeting of the
Global Vaishnavi Diksha Guru Committee

7 August 2026

Hare Krishna Devotees,

Please accept our humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada.

The Global Vaishnavi Diksha Guru (GVDG) Committee convened its third meeting on 4 August 2026, under the chairmanship of Govardhana Dasa, First Vice-Chairman of the GBC Executive Committee, with representatives from the Regional Governing Bodies and the invited speaker, Hridayananda Dasa Goswami, participating.

Representatives from the following Regional Governing Bodies (RGBs) and zones were present: African RGB, Euro RGB, Fiji, India Bureau, Latin America RGB, North America RGB, and Singapore.
The meeting began with prayers and a reading from the Srimad Bhagavatam.

The meeting formed part of the Committee's ongoing process of hearing a broad range of perspectives regarding the GBC Resolution on Vaishnavi Diksha Gurus. During this meeting, presentations were given by Hridayananda Dasa Goswami and a representative of the European Regional Governing Body (Euro RGB). Bhakti Vikas Swami had also been invited to present but was unable to attend the meeting.

A representative of the Euro RGB presented two papers, Introduction: Defining the Role of All Preachers, Men or Women, in ISKCON and Way Forward: Rethinking ISKCON's Culture. The presentations outlined the Euro RGB's reflections and recommendations for the Committee's consideration regarding the GBC Resolution on Vaishnavi Diksha Gurus, - with particular emphasis on strengthening ISKCON's preaching mission, enhancing cooperation and accountability within ISKCON, and supporting the guru-disciple system.

Hridayananda Dasa Goswami's presentation explored principles of scriptural interpretation, including the relationship between guru, sadhu, and shastra, and the application of spiritual principles according to time, place, and circumstance in ISKCON's preaching mission.

Following the presentations, Committee members engaged in discussion and sought clarification on various points raised.

The Committee remains committed to conducting its work in a respectful spirit, considering the diverse perspectives received while seeking to preserve ISKCON's unity and serve the mission of Srila Prabhupada.

- Issued by GBC Communications

30/07/2026

Update on the Second Meeting of the
Global Vaishnavi Diksha Guru Committee

30 July, 2026

Hare Krishna Devotees,

Please accept our humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada.

The Global Vaishnavi Diksha Guru (GVDG) Committee held its second meeting on 28 July 2026 under the chairmanship of Govardhana Dasa, First Vice-Chairman of the GBC Executive Committee, as part of its ongoing deliberations on the GBC resolution concerning Vaishnavi Diksha Guru (VDG).

Representatives from the following Regional Governing Bodies (RGBs) and zones were present: African RGB, Euro RGB, Fiji, India Bureau, Latin America RGB, Middle East, North America RGB, Russia, and Singapore.

The meeting began with prayers and a reading from the Bhagavad-gita. Three presentations were then shared by Regional Governing Body (RGB) representatives of India Bureau, North America RGB and Latin America RGB, outlining their respective perspectives and considerations relating to the subject.

Following the presentations, committee members engaged in a detailed discussion and shared a range of views. The discussion considered the importance of examining relevant research and supporting evidence comprehensively, understanding the subject in the light of both Srila Prabhupada’s teachings and shastra, and maintaining a clear focus on the prescribed spiritual qualifications for diksha guru.

Members also reflected on cultural, geographical and practical considerations, as well as the importance of ensuring that any future recommendations are carefully considered, consistent with established principles, and supported by an appropriate level of consensus.

It was noted that certain matters would benefit from further examination, including the appropriate voting threshold (e.g., 51% versus 75%) for significant doctrinal matters such as VDG and the framework for understanding Srila Prabhupada’s statements regarding “not so many” women diksha gurus.

The meeting concluded with appreciation for the presentations and for the thoughtful participation of all committee members.

- Issued by GBC Communications

30/07/2026

ILS 2027 - Save The Date

Hare Krishna Leaders,
Please accept our humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada.

We are pleased to announce the ISKCON Leadership Sanga (ILS) 2027, which will be held from 25–28 February 2027 at Sri Dham Mayapur.

Hosted by the GBC, ILS brings together ISKCON leaders from around the world to associate, share experiences, and collaborate in service to Srila Prabhupada's mission. The ILS 2027 theme, "Building on Srila Prabhupada's Vision, Shaping ISKCON's Future," will guide discussions on practical ways to strengthen ISKCON while remaining true to Srila Prabhupada's vision.

Please save the dates and visit iskconleaders.org for further information.
Registration is expected to open in September 2026, with further updates to be announced on the website.
We look forward to welcoming ISKCON leaders from around the world to Sri Dham Mayapur for ILS 2027.

Your servants,
ILS Executive Committee
Gauranga Das
Parijata Devi Dasi
Vraja Vilasa Das
In coordination with the GBC Executive Support Office (ESO)

15/07/2026

UPDATE ON THE GLOBAL VAISHNAVI DIKSHA GURU COMMITTEE

15 July, 2026

Hare Krishna Devotees,

Please accept our humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada.

The Global Vaishnavi Diksha Guru (VDG) Committee held its inaugural meeting on 14 July 2026 under the chairmanship of Govardhana Dasa, First Vice-Chairman of the GBC Executive Committee.

The committee has been established by the ISKCON Governing Body Commission (GBC) to facilitate dialogue and consultation on the subject of Vaishnavi Diksha Gurus and to prepare a proposal for consideration by the GBC at its 2026 Midterm Meeting.

The committee includes representatives nominated by the Africa Regional Governing Body, Euro Regional Governing Body, India Bureau, Latin America Regional Governing Body, North American Regional Governing Body, Singapore & Far East, and Middle East. Invitations were also extended to the Chinese Council and Russian Governing Council, both of which chose not to nominate representatives for the committee.

Its mandate is to study the relevant GBC resolutions and supporting submissions, engage in respectful dialogue and consultation, and prepare a proposal for consideration by the GBC.

During its first meeting, the committee:
- approved its Terms of Reference and meeting schedule;
- reviewed the relevant GBC resolutions that forms the basis of its work;
- heard introductory perspectives from regional representatives; and
- agreed on the process and agenda for future meetings.

The committee will continue meeting through October 2026, with structured presentations, discussions, and consultation forming part of its deliberations.

As part of its work, the committee also intends to invite senior Vaishnavas to share their perspectives during future meetings. Regular updates on the committee's work will be shared with the ISKCON community as the deliberations progress.

- Issued by GBC Communications

27/06/2026

Dear Devotees,

Please accept our humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada.

We offer our sincere condolences and prayers to the disciples and well-wishers of HH Dhirasanta dasa Goswami upon Maharaj’s departure from this world. Our prayers are particularly with his beloved son, Govinda Kishore Das.

Maharaj began his spiritual journey in his youth, hearing the Mahamantra chanted by devotees on British television. Years later, that seed fructified into a life of surrender and service at the lotus feet of his spiritual master, His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada.

The remaining decades of his life saw Maharaj serving in many capacities from farmer to spiritual master, sharing Krishna consciousness across the world, from Scandinavia to West Bengal. His was truly a life of dedication to the process of bhakti, endeavoring to his full capacity to push forward the mission of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu wherever the opportunity arose.

He was one of the first devotees to bring Krishna consciousness to Sweden, Finland, and rural England. A pioneer on many fronts, he served as a brahmacari, grhastha, vanaprastha, and sannyasi before departing from this world auspiciously amidst the association of the devotees sincerely chanting Krishna’s holy names.

We pray at the lotus feet of Sri Sri Gaura-Nitai and Srila Prabhupada that Dhirasanta Maharaj may be blessed with Their eternal grace and service.

Hare Krishna,

Your servants,

Madhu Sevita Das
Govardhana Das
Devakinandan Das,
GBC Executive Committee

22/06/2026

ISKCON Minister Meets with 50 Catholic Leaders in Pune, India

Sri Krishna Chaitanya Swami, who leads ISKCON’s Kirtan and Padayatra Ministries, recently met with approximately 50 Roman Catholic priests, nuns, and ministry leaders from Ishvani Kendra in Pune, India for a warm and meaningful interfaith dialogue. Ishvani Kendra is a Catholic center for mission studies, communications, and leadership training in Pune, India. Established by the Divine Word Missionaries (DVM), it offers educational programs, research initiatives, publications, and media training.

According to a social media post, “During the session, he shared insights into the timeless principles of Sanatana Dharma, introducing the universal teachings of devotion, compassion, prayer, selfless service, and God-conscious living. He also presented an overview of the worldwide mission of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) and the extraordinary life and contributions of its Founder-Acharya, A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, whose efforts brought the wisdom of the Bhagavad-gīta and bhakti-yoga to a global audience.

The gathering was conducted in a spirit of mutual respect and appreciation, highlighting common spiritual values shared across traditions and encouraging deeper understanding, friendship, and cooperation in service to humanity. The session concluded with uplifting discussions, devotional music, and a renewed appreciation for the importance of spiritual dialogue in fostering harmony among diverse faith communities.

08/06/2026

We are pleased to inform that Sri Krishna Chaitanya Swami, ISKCON Kirtan Minister, Padayatra Minister and GBC Deputy, was honored with the “I Am Peacekeeper Champion Justice and Peace Award” at the Billionaires for Peace Conclave held on May 21, 2026, in Mumbai.

The conclave, themed “Peace Meets Purpose and Progress,” was described by the organizers as a gathering of global peace leaders and changemakers, including Nobel Peace Laureates, champion awardees, philanthropic patrons, and representatives from business, education, philanthropy, arts, athletics, mediation, and social service sectors.

This recognition highlights efforts toward promoting peace, spiritual culture, and social harmony through devotional service and outreach.

For additional details and media coverage:
• ISKCON News article:
https://iskconnews.org/iskcon-minister-honored-at-mumbai-peace-conclave-alongside-nobel-laureates/

- GBC Communications

02/06/2026

Dear Devotees,

Please accept our humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada.

At this moment of separation from the physical association of His Grace
Kratu Prabhu, we express our heartfelt sadness and deep gratitude for a beloved Vaisnava and friend, stalwart ISKCON leader, and a dedicated disciple of Srila A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada.

Kratu Prabhu was an ideal Vaisnava from birth, having been raised in a devotional atmosphere and carrying those spiritual values to the west when his studies and professional life took him to North America. In 1976, amidst a flourishing material life, he was blessed with the greatest mercy – the shelter of jagat guru Srila Prabhupada. Kratu Prabhu accepted this blessing wholeheartedly and committed the remainder of his life to the service of his beloved spiritual master along with his good wife, HG Amritakeli Devi.

The next fifty years of their lives have been an ideal example of grhastha ashram. Indeed, Kratu Prabhu set an example to be followed by all – engaging one’s mind, body, and words fully in the service of Guru and Krishna. His profound commitment, intelligence, and devotion resulted in extraordinary contributions. He served as a congregational preacher, temple president, speaker, author, siksa and diksa guru to his disciples, and friend and guide to so many more.

Even in his physical departure, Kratu Prabhu served to provide an example
for us all, as he did in life. He left this world most ideally in the sacred land of Sri Vrindavan, surrounded by loving devotees chanting Krishna’s holy names.

We humbly pray to Srila Prabhupada and Sri Sri Radha-Syamasundara that even
in separation, we, the community of Srila Prabhupada’s servants, may continue to hold close Kratu Prabhu’s association and example and be inspired and blessed to serve Srila Prabhupada with such faith and
enthusiasm. We also offer our sincere prayers for Kratu Prabhu’s loved ones,
disciples, and well-wishers during this painful time. The worldwide family
of Srila Prabhupada’s ISKCON Is at your service with support, care, and
heartfelt affection.

His Grace Kratu Prabhu ki jaya!
Srila Prabhupada ki jaya!

Hare Krishna,

Your servants,
Madhu Sevita Das
Govardhana Das
Devakinandan Das,
GBC Executive Committee

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