Youth and leaders gathered at the successful event.

The ISKCON Youth Forum (IYF) Gaya, hosted its grand annual Youth Festival, “VIPLAVA – Glories of Vedic India,” on September 15, 2024, at Gaya, Bihar. Over 1,000 enthusiastic young devotee participants from across Bihar gathered for this transformative experience.

IYF has spent the last decade empowering young minds through seminars, festivals, and personal development initiatives. Its mission is to inspire the next generation to tap into their inner potential, cultivate servant leadership, and rise to meet the challenges of our times.

Dignitaries on Stage

As with every year, VIPLAVA once again ignited the hearts and minds of young souls across the state, leaving an indelible mark of inspiration and empowerment. The festival commenced with a sacred lamp-lighting ceremony, graced by the esteemed presence of senior Vaishnavas, including Naru Gopal Das (Regional Secretary – West Bengal, Assam, Bihar, Jharkhand & Sikkim), Sundar Gopal Das (Chairman – IIYC & NIDC, Zonal Supervisor – Central Bihar & West UP, Director IYF Delhi) and Rambhadra Das (President – ISKCON Gurugram). The gathering was further blessed by heartfelt video and audio messages from revered spiritual leaders like Jayapataka Swami, Bhaktipurushottam Swami, and Devakinandan Das (Zonal Secretary) adding a profound spiritual dimension to the event.

Dignitaries gathered on the stage for the lamp lighting ceremony.

Dignitaries and government officials such as Dr. Prem Kumar (State Minister for Forest and Cooperative), Senior Judge Sri Ranjit Kumar, and Sri Jitendra Kumar Yadav (Ex-Mayor and founder of Jitendra Kumar Yadav College) honored the festival with their presence, reflecting the far-reaching significance of VIPLAVA in shaping society at large.

This year’s theme, “Glories of Vedic India,” highlighted the timeless wisdom, spiritual depth, and cultural richness of ancient India, drawing participants into a journey of discovery and reverence for their Vedic heritage.

Highlights

From that point onward, the festival unfolded with a series of captivating events, including a thought-provoking debate on the topic: “Youth—Meant for Enjoyment or Enlightenment?” The gathering was further enriched by enlightening sessions led by senior Vaishnavas and sadhus. The highlight of the evening was a mesmerizing theatrical performance depicting the extraordinary life and mission of His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, Founder-Acarya of ISKCON, leaving the audience both inspired and in awe. As the festival came to a close, attendees were treated to a feast of delicious prasadam.

Prize Distribution

In a grand gesture of appreciation, senior Vaishnavas, sadhus, and esteemed government officials took the stage to distribute a variety of prestigious awards and prizes. These honors were bestowed upon the vibrant youth participants, dedicated festival coordinators, and inspiring youth leaders, all of whom played a pivotal role in the tremendous success of the VIPLAVA festival. The recognition not only celebrated individual achievements but also underscored the collective spirit that made the event unforgettable.

Award recipients honored for their roles in the success of the event.