ISKCON Devotees gathered in Sri Mayapur Dham to inaugurate a beautiful, shaded public shelter at Gada Bhavan near the TOVP, which included a soothing water feature.

Among the speakers was Anuttama Dasa, Global Minister of Communications, who recalled the austere conditions for devotees visiting the dham in the 1970s. “When I first came to Mayapur there was one kitchen…and no shelter. There was the sun, there was the asphalt, and there was the long line waiting for prasadam. That was one of the more austere experiences of my entire life. So I am very happy to see this beautiful shelter here. It really sends a message to the pilgrims, the devotees, and the guests that come to Sri Mayapur – that you matter.”

Braja Vilas Das, Co-Chairman and Director of Development of the TOVP, also spoke, noting that this shelter is part of a larger plan, “We are developing the kingdom of God…All these small developments are slowly developing towards a bigger vision, which is to make Mayapur the topmost number one pilgrim destination.”

Hridaya Caitanya Das, also speaking at the event, echoed Braja Vilas’s sentiments, “We are not [yet] opening a huge guest house with 200 rooms…but we are taking a step in the right direction.” Noting the quality of the building and its attention to detail, he remarked, “All these details make the place attractive, make the space a place of inspiration because Krishna is the most attractive. So whatever we make in our services, we should also make it very attractive…and a wonderful place to come and to be inspired to take up Krishna Consciousness in a more sincere and serious way.” Akshay Ramchandra Das expressed his heartfelt gratitude to those who made this space possible.

Following the inauguration rituals, prasadam was served to guests, who also had the opportunity to explore and appreciate the space.

You can watch a summary video of the event below.