The ISKCON Birnagar Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakur Janmasthan Development Project is a landmark initiative that is fulfilling a long-cherished desire of Srila Prabhupada to glorify Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakur at his birthplace. Despite multiple attempts during Srila Prabhupada’s manifest presence, the project didn’t materialize at that time. However, efforts continued through the Bhaktivedanta Swami Charitable Trust, which has supported the existing Janmasthan of Bhaktivinoda Thakur.

Now, under the direction of Srila Jayapataka Swami, ISKCON has acquired a location near Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakur’s actual birthplace to develop a grand temple, museum, library, and other facilities to educate and inspire devotees worldwide. This ambitious project aims to establish a spiritual and educational center dedicated to preserving and spreading the teachings and contributions of Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakur.

Govardhana Giri Das, one of the project coordinators, said, “Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakur was a visionary and the first international preacher of the Gaudiya Vaishnava tradition. In the late 19th century, he was the first to write in English about Sri Krishna Chaitanya Mahaprabhu’s philosophy. He sent his book, ‘Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu: His Life and Precepts’ to international libraries. His legacy continues to inspire devotees around the world to embrace and spread the message of Krishna consciousness.”

The project envisions the construction of a grand temple that will serve as a spiritual and cultural landmark dedicated to preserving and propagating the legacy of Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakur, the Seventh Goswami. This temple will not only be a place of worship but also a center of inspiration, drawing devotees and scholars from around the world to engage in devotional service, study, and community activities.  

A key feature of the project is a museum that will chronicle Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakur’s life, literary contributions, and transformative impact on the Gaudiya Vaishnavism tradition. Through carefully curated exhibits, dioramas, rare manuscripts, and interactive displays, visitors will gain deep insights into his pioneering efforts in reviving and spreading Krishna Consciousness.  

The project will also include a comprehensive library and study center, along with his complete works and related scriptures and commentaries. This facility will provide devotees, researchers, and spiritual seekers with a dedicated space to study his teachings in depth. Additionally, structured training programs and courses will be offered to equip devotees with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively propagate his message globally.  

To further support academic and spiritual engagement, the project will incorporate modern seminar halls designed to host lectures, conferences, and workshops on Bhaktivinoda Thakur’s philosophy and its practical application in contemporary society. These halls will serve as platforms for thought-provoking discussions, fostering a deeper understanding of his contributions and their relevance in the modern world. 

A well-equipped guest house will also be constructed for the convenience of visiting devotees, scholars, and pilgrims. It will provide comfortable accommodation and a peaceful environment conducive to spiritual growth and study.  

Birnagar is conveniently located on the Mayapur-Kolkata route, making it an essential place for those coming to Mayapur. Just as devotees visit Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu’s birthplace and Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati Thakur’s Samadhi, they should also honor Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakur at his birthplace as he played a pivotal role in rejuvenating Gaudiya Vaishnavism and was the first international preacher of the Brahma Madhva Gaudiya Vaisnava sampradaya, writing in English and spreading Mahaprabhu’s teachings worldwide.

Devotees representing Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakura Janmasthan Development Project set up a booth at the International Leadership Sangha (ILS) 2025 in Mayapur, which provided them with an opportunity to announce and introduce themselves to leaders worldwide. “Many senior Srila Prabhupada disciples, sannyasis, and GBCs have visited our booth, offering their blessings and good wishes,” remarked Govardhana Giri Dasa.

The project’s initial estimated cost is Rs. 50 crores. Devotees and well-wishers from across the globe can help bring this vision to life. A dedicated website will soon be launched to facilitate engagement and volunteer opportunities.

This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to serve Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakur and help fulfill Srila Prabhupada’s vision. By coming together, the global ISKCON community can establish this center as a place of devotion, knowledge, and service, glorifying one of the greatest Acharyas of our tradition.

For more details, email here.