The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), commonly referred to as the ‘Hare Krishna’ movement across the world, hosted a commemorative gathering recently (October), at the Laudium Civic Centre, to mark the 50th anniversary of ISKCON’s founder archarya, His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada’s visit to Laudium on the same day in October, 1975.
The recent celebration, organised by ISKCON Gauteng, brought together Hare Krishna devotees from across the province and beyond, to reflect on Swami Srila Prabhupada’s spiritual mission and enduring influence in the country and across the world. A highlight of the event was the launch of two publications documenting Swami Srila Prabhupada’s time in South Africa: Srila Prabhupada in South Africa and a Journey with Srila Prabhupada. Both books are available online at iskconza.com and provide detailed insights into his time in South Africa.
Pictured in Laudium: Direct disciples of Swami Srila Prabhupada: His Grace Srutakirti das, His Grace Ksudi das, His Holiness Bhakti Caitanya Swami Maharaj and His Grace Medhavi das.
ISKCON celebrates 50th anniversary of founder’s founding visit to Laudium
The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), commonly referred to as the ‘Hare Krishna’ movement across the world, hosted a commemorative gathering recently (October), at the Laudium Civic Centre, to mark the 50th anniversary of ISKCON’s founder archarya, His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada’s visit to Laudium, during October 1975.
The gathering was a significant event that attracted devotees from Laudium and other parts of Gauteng, which played a pivotal role in the early propagation of Krishna Consciousness in South Africa, especially during the country’s apartheid era. The celebration, brought together Hare Krishna devotees from across the province and beyond to reflect on Swami Srila Prabhupada’s spiritual mission and enduring influence in the country and across the world. Among the distinguished guests were direct disciples of Swami Srila Prabhupada, including His Holiness Bhakti Caitanya Swami Maharaj, His Grace Medhavi das, His Grace Surtakriti das, and His Grace Ksudi das. These leaders shared personal accounts of their Guru, Swami Srila Prabhupada, as well as efforts to establish Krishna Consciousness in South Africa and across the world and the obstacles faced by early followers serving the community under restrictive conditions during the apartheid era.
A highlight of the event was the launch of two publications documenting Swami Srila Prabhupada’s time in South Africa: Srila Prabhupada in South Africa and a Journey with Srila Prabhupada. Both books are available online at iskconza.com and provide detailed insights into his time in South Africa.
His Holiness Bhakti Caitanya Swami Maharaj, a senior leader of ISKCON in South Africa and globally, reflected on the broader impact of Swami Srila Prabhupada, “Srila Prabhupada served as an ambassador of India’s spiritual heritage. While India has made significant strides economically, its true contribution lies in the knowledge of Vedic traditions and the worship of Lord Krishna. For South Africa, his visit offered access to profound spiritual wisdom concerning the soul and the purpose of life. We encourage those unfamiliar with Krishna Consciousness to explore his [Srila Prabhupada’s] writings and the philosophy they present.”
Govardhan das, a senior leader within the South African Hare Krishna community, emphasised the universal relevance of Swami Srila Prabhupada’s message: “During his 1975 visit to Laudium, Srila Prabhupada expressed deep concern for humanity’s spiritual well-being. His teachings promote equality, spiritual awareness, and responsible living while cautioning against materialism. His global journeys and extensive teachings continue to provide guidance today.”
The event was also attended by Durga Dass, who spoke on behalf of the High Commissioner of India, Prabhat Kumar. As Laudium marked this milestone, Swami Srila Prabhupada’s enduring legacy continues to inspire reflection on spiritual purpose, compassion, and the pursuit of higher consciousness.
