A visual representation of the completed project.

Spanning a generous expanse of six acres, ISKCON Shri Krishna Arjuna Temple in Kurukshetra is a unique chariot-shaped temple standing as a symbolic junction between two sanctified realms: the place where Bhishmadeva left his body and the place where the Bhagavad-gita was spoken. The aspiration is to unveil the temple’s grandeur within the next 18 months, marking the advent of Phase Two. The temple’s structural framework is complete, and current endeavors are focused on refining its interiors.

Srila Prabhupada held a profound affinity for the city of Kurukshetra, recognizing its pivotal role in the battle of the Mahabharata. With foresight and reverence, he envisioned the construction of a majestic temple devoted to Lord Krishna within Kurukshetra. This temple, he believed, would emerge as an unparalleled bastion of spiritual enlightenment and devotion.

In a letter to one of his disciples, Srila Prabhupada wrote, “I am very much interested to construct a nice temple at Kurukshetra which will be unique in the world. I have got some conception in my mind and also I have discussed with some of my students here. They also fully agree with me. So if you are interested to cooperate with me in this attempt, then you can come here and live with me for some time.”

Tracing the history of the temple under construction, ISKCON acquired this land adjacent to the birthplace of the Gita in 1998. However, local Brahmanas opposed the acquisition, fearing the presence of Hare Krishnas. A legal battle ensued in the Haryana High Court, resulting in ISKCON losing the land after 15 years of litigation. 

However, through the persistent efforts of Gopal Krishna Goswami, ISKCON secured the current six-acre plot in 2015. Gopal Krishna Goswami has been overseeing and guiding the construction of this ambitious project, which is dedicated to fulfilling Srila Prabhupada’s vision.

Mohan Gaurchandra Das, Vice President of ISKCON Kurukshetra, said, “So now the work has begun to place the marble on the altar and pillars in the temple hall. We have almost completed the construction of the kitchen that can feed almost 2,000 people regularly. We have also completed the construction of our Prasadam Hall.”

He continued, “We are almost nearing the completion of the youth welfare block which is also a Brahmachari ashram which includes two good seminar halls to conduct educational activities in the temple. On that same block, we have some rooms for full-time residents.”

The architectural motif of the temple, resembling a majestic chariot, was augmented last April. Mohan Gaurchandra Das said, “We installed 36-foot tall horses. There are also six wheels on the chariot, which are almost 20 feet high.”

Presently, attention is devoted to the landscaping endeavors surrounding the temple, with groundwork laid for the forthcoming guest house block. Anticipating the needs of national and international visitors, 87 appointed guest rooms are poised to offer unparalleled comfort and hospitality, fostering extended stays for devotees.

Furthermore, ongoing construction efforts encompass the establishment of a banquet hall with a capacity of 1000 people and a restaurant poised to elevate visitors’ culinary experience. In Phase Two of the project, a 550-seat auditorium will also grace the temple grounds.

Another highlight of the effort is the forthcoming museum dedicated to the Bhagavad-gita, harnessing cutting-edge 7D technology to immerse visitors in the essence of the Mahabharata. Visitors will be shown the message of the Bhagavad-gita in a very unique way. They will feel like they are sitting on a moving chariot and hearing Krishna speak the Gita. There will also be a huge Bhagavad-gita similar to the one inaugurated by the Indian Prime Minister at ISKCON Delhi.

As devotees and visitors alike prepare to embark on a journey of spiritual discovery within its premises, the legacy of Srila Prabhupada’s dream project is poised to resonate eternally.

To contribute to the project, please visit their website. You can also connect on Facebook or their YouTube channel. For additional queries, please email.