If you’ve never seen it, now’s the time. It’s the 20th anniversary of Burnt Ladhu, a production by Vaisnava youth creatively and courageously sharing their experiences growing up in ISKCON. On behalf of thousands of devotees, the cast explores coming to terms with life after gurukula; how devotees can behave in harmful ways; attitudes toward youth; family relationships; and navigating adult life with the foundation they were given.

The Adverse Childhood Experiences Study (ACEs) shows how child abuse can adversely affect the long-term physical, emotional, and even financial well-being of the survivor. The abuse of an individual also has long-term negative impacts on society.

Knowingly or unknowingly, we all pay a price when a child is abused.

When perpetrated by someone representing God, child abuse can have deleterious effects on the victim’s spiritual life, derailing their chance at spiritual progress in this lifetime. That is the greatest Vaisnava aparadha.

Srila Prabhupada said “If we are able to make a whole generation of our children into fine Krishna Conscious preachers, that will be the glory of our movement and the glory of your country as well. But if we neglect somehow or other and if we lose even one Vaisnava, that is a very great loss.” Letter, June 20, 1972

Children are a reflection of the environment in which they are raised. The adults they become are a product of numerous influences. Whether one is a preacher or a parent, a manager or a community member, we all have a part in creating a loving environment that reflects Srila Prabhupada and Krishna’s care and protection.

Knowing the past helps us understand the present and prepare for the future. Burnt Ladhu is a truly stunning performance by deeply caring devotees.

Be part of the solution to end child abuse. Prevent abuse by learning how to recognize it. Stand up for healthy boundaries. Help heal the past by reaching out to those you know who have been harmed. Together we can create the healthy society of happy devotees Srila Prabhupada intended.

To learn more about ACEs: https://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/aces/index.html