Just a year ago, ISKCON Sacramento took a major leap forward by acquiring a commercial property with the vision of establishing a spiritual hub for its growing community. Over the past twelve months, steady and focused efforts have resulted in the successful acquisition of all required permits to use the space for religious gatherings. One of the most significant milestones has been the approval of a fully licensed commercial kitchen, a key feature that supports ISKCON’s hallmark hospitality through prasadam distribution.

“This is not just a building,” said Aja Das, board member and the head of the remodeling project. “This is a sacred space that has been carefully and legally shaped to serve the community for generations. Acquiring all the permits was no small task, but with Krishna’s grace and the hard work of many, we now have a detailed remodeling plan that will reflect our values of devotion, simplicity, and service.”

The mood of the congregation in Sacramento is welcoming, warm, and enthusiastic. Devotees and newcomers alike are coming together to build not only a physical space but a strong spiritual community centered around the principles of bhakti-yoga. “Our goal is to offer everyone a place where they can experience bhakti in a real and practical way,” shared Shankaranand Das, a board member. During the recent celebratory event, he shared the history and mission of ISKCON and extended a heartfelt invitation for the community to join regularly in gatherings of kirtan, discussion, and feasting. “ISKCON’s history is about reconnecting people with their eternal nature. Here in Sacramento, we’re building a home where that connection can flourish through regular gatherings, kirtans, classes, and prasadam.”

On April 12th, the ISKCON Sacramento congregation gathered for a vibrant and heartfelt fundraising dinner—an evening designed to celebrate the journey so far and inspire collective support for the temple’s next phase of growth. The event beautifully combined devotion, culture, and community spirit. It opened with soul-stirring kirtan led by the Sacramento Youth, filling the atmosphere with joy and spiritual energy. This was followed by a captivating Bharatanatyam dance performance by Gopika, a talented young member of the congregation, who offered her art as an expression of devotion. The evening was skillfully emceed by Vrajendra Gopal Das, who maintained a mood of enthusiasm and reverence throughout the program. Aja Das and Govind Priya Devi Dasi led the fundraising appeal, inviting guests to contribute toward the development of the temple by supporting the “Bhakti Leaf” donor wall and sponsoring key items for the commercial kitchen.

“Our community’s generosity was overwhelming,” said Govind Priya Devi Dasi. “So many came forward with love in their hearts and a desire to see this space blossom into something extraordinary.” Among those inspired was Dr. Abhilash, who sponsored a professional kitchen steamer. “Having a professional steamer will allow us to serve wholesome dishes like steamed idlis, dhokla, rice, cakes, and vegetables on a large scale,” he said. “It’s amazing to see this level of attention going into prasadam preparation.”

A special mention and heartfelt gratitude go to one of ISKCON Sacramento’s generous donors and well-wishers, Sam Jain, whose contribution of over $100,000 has helped the temple move significantly closer to its fundraising goal. His support reflects a deep alignment with the mission and a vision of long-term impact.

The dinner itself was an elaborate feast, lovingly prepared by congregation members, showcasing a variety of traditional and contemporary vegetarian dishes. Nilachala Das, a long-standing member of the community and board member, reflected on the emotional significance of the evening: “It’s truly wonderful to now have a center here in Sacramento. For years, we have longed for a place of our own. This is a dream come true.”

The event’s success was largely due to the tireless efforts of Sukeshvari Devi Dasi, who serves on ISKCON Sacramento’s executive committee. She oversaw the entire planning and execution of the dinner, ensuring that every detail—from décor to service—was a reflection of devotion and care. “Every detail mattered because this wasn’t just a dinner—it was our collective offering of love and service,” she said.

As the walls of the temple rise, so too does the spirit of the congregation. The community is now focused on continuing its remodeling efforts, expanding programs, and welcoming more individuals and families onto the path of bhakti. With regular Sunday feasts, youth activities, cultural events, and spiritual discussions planned, ISKCON Sacramento is well on its way to becoming a vibrant and inclusive center for spiritual nourishment and growth.

“We invite everyone to join us—not just for events, but to become part of a growing spiritual family,” added Shankaranand Das. “Together, we’re not just building a temple—we’re cultivating a way of life centered on love, service, and connection to Krishna.”

For updates on programs, volunteering opportunities, visit ISKCON Sacramento’s वेबसाइट और उनका अनुसरण करें फेसबुक.