Since the beginning of England’s academic year, the University Outreach Team at the Bhaktivedanta Manor has been sharing the science of Krishna consciousness in universities in and around London, in conjunction with devotees from Soho Street Temple.

Venues have included the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), Cambridge University, Imperial College, University College London, London School of Economics, Kings College, City University, Brunel and Hertfordshire. The team has been running courses carrying the following themes:

1. Lifestyle Management
2. Spirituality and Success
3. Vedic Perspectives
4. The Science of Self Realisation 

The aim of the courses are designed to show the relevance of Krishna consciousness to students and professionals in the modern world. On Saturday 7th March was the third university retreat of this year. A wide variety of fifty students attended and the theme for the day was the Bhagavad Gita. Entitled “Story of a Spiritual Warrior” the retreat served as a means of taking their understanding of the Gita to the next level.

The day included tours, interactive discussions and workshops, a powerful drama and prasad (vegetarian food). Special guest speakers included His Holiness Jayadvaita Swami, Bhuta Bhavana das and Navina Krishna Dasa.

“The general feeling was that it was a very insightful experience for the students,” said organiser Ananda Caitanya Dasa. “It really has some key messages that they could take away and apply in their lives. At the end of the day many took copies of the Bhagavad Gita and other books. Later I received some excellent feedback from attendees.”

The next university retreat is planned for the summer.