Sankirtana Das (Andy Fraenkel), a disciple of Srila Prabhupada and contributor to ISKCON News, has recently received a Storytelling World Resource Award for his CD Sacred Voices. ISKCON News (IN) interview with Sankirtana Das (Skd) about the honor and his thoughts on art, theater, sacred storytelling, interfaith dialogue, and more.
Creative dramatic presentations have been part of the ISKCON culture since the earliest days, with devotees performing at Sunday Feasts beginning in the late 1960s. The Bhaktivedanta Players, the main drama group at the Manor, recently performed a Krishna-Conscious version of the classic 1939 film, "The Wizard of Oz." The parody pantomime, called "The Wizard of Om," was so popular that it was performed three times in a single day in the Manor's theatre and was especially appreciated by the youth. The performance was filmed on December 17, 2023, and was made available this week on YouTube.
In a resounding celebration of devotion and artistic prowess, the New Govardhana Congregation recently captivated audiences with their spellbinding play, "Abhimanyu-Man of the Hour." Held in the heart of Murwillumbah, Australia, the 500-seat auditorium resonated with the tales of the Mahabharata, bringing to life the heroic journey of Abhimanyu.
In a groundbreaking move, Bhakti Theatre (BT), an affiliate of ISKCON Durban, recently stepped onto a broader stage, participating in the Playhouse Company's 2023 Community Arts Festival (CAF). This marks a significant shift from their traditional performances confined to the annual Durban Festival of Chariots or designated temple spaces. The move to engage with the public space reflects a bold initiative to share Krishna-conscious stories beyond the confines of the Hare Krishna community.
The 22nd Annual Diwali in London (DiL) celebrations brought hundreds of people to Trafalgar Square for the annual “Festival of Lights” on Sunday, October 29th. ISKCON’s Bhaktivedanta Manor was this year’s hosting organization for the joyful event, which is a partnership between the DiL Committee and London’s Mayor representing diverse organizations and religious traditions across the city.
At ISKCON Nairobi, the Bhaktivedanta Nritya Academy, under the guidance of Gitanjali Parida and Sandhya Iyer, recently showcased an enthralling dance drama inspired by the epic saga, "Ramayana," on the 7th of October, 2023. The play also served as a fundraiser for Mwingi School in Kenya, which helps in improving educational opportunities for underprivileged children in the community.
Soweto, South Africa - In a harmonious endeavor that transcends cultural boundaries, the Hare Krishna Mzansi Choir is making waves with its innovative fusion of African choral music and traditional Vaishnav bhajans.
The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the world in many ways, including changing the traditional methods many organizations have used in their fundraising efforts.
ISKCON Delhi, Sri Sri Radha Parthasarathi Mandir, celebrated the completion of twenty-five glorious years of service with the Ram Navami festival on March 19th-30th.