ISKON LA
State California
Website: https://iskconla.com/Home.aspx
ISKCON Los Angeles, also known as New Dvaraka, serves as the Western World Headquarters for the International Society for Krishna Consciousness. Established in 1970 by the movement’s founder, Srila Prabhupada, the temple is a spiritual hub famous for its presiding deities, Sri Sri Rukmini Dvarakadish.
More Information
General Information
- Address: 3764 Watseka Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90034.
- Temple Hours: Open daily from 4:30 AM – 12:30 PM and 4:30 PM – 8:30 PM.
- Sunday Feast: A major weekly event featuring Kirtan (10:00 AM), Aarti (12:00 PM), a lecture (12:30 PM), and a vegetarian feast.
History
The history of ISKCON Los Angeles, also known as New Dvaraka, is defined by its role as the Western world headquarters of the Hare Krishna movement and its deep personal connection to the founder, Srila Prabhupada.
Founding and Early Years (1968–1970)
- The Beginnings (1968): The story began in January 1968 when disciples rented a small storefront at 2364 Pico Boulevard.
Srila Prabhupada arrived to appear on the Les Crane Show, which introduced the movement to millions of viewers and generated significant local interest.
- First Deities (1969): On July 16, 1969, Srila Prabhupada installed the first small brass deities of Radha-Krishna.
- Establishment of New Dvaraka (1970): The temple officially moved to its current location on Watseka Avenue in 1970.
Srila Prabhupada personally oversaw the installation of the large marble deities, Sri Sri Rukmini Dvarakadish, and named the community “New Dvaraka”.
Historical Significance
- Prabhupada’s Residence: Srila Prabhupada spent more time at the Los Angeles temple than at any other location in the Western world—investing roughly two full years out of his ten years of global travel to personally manage and guide the community.
- Standard-Setting: In May 1970, Prabhupada wrote to other temple presidents, directing them to visit Los Angeles to see it as an “ideal” model for deity worship, chanting, and temple management.
- Educational Innovation: In 1971, Prabhupada commissioned the creation of the Bhagavad Gita Museum (F.A.T.E.), instructing his disciples to learn diorama doll-making in India so they could create “living books”. The museum’s first animatronics were completed by 1977.
Milestones and Modern Era
- Cultural Hub: Over the decades, the temple became a fixture in the Southern California yoga and health food scenes.
- 1994 Earthquake: The Northridge earthquake caused significant damage to the temple interior, including its ornate onyx columns. This led to an ambitious, multi-year renovation program to repair and enhance the facilities.
- Airport Presence: Historically, the group was famous for its presence at LAX; however, after 40 years of legal battles with the city, they were permanently forced out of the airport in 2010.
Key On-Site Amenities
- Govinda’s Cafe: Offers vegetarian and vegan cuisine. Open Monday–Saturday (11:30 AM – 2:30 PM) and Sunday (11:00 AM – 2:00 PM).
- Bhagavad Gita Museum: Features the “First America Transcendental Exhibition” (FATE), showcasing high-tech dioramas that depict the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita. It is closed on Tuesdays.
- Govinda’s Gift Shop: Sells spiritual books, traditional clothing, and incense. Open daily from 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
Annual Events & Festivals
- Festival of the Chariots (Ratha Yatra): An annual summer celebration and parade held at Venice Beach.
- Major Holidays: The temple hosts large celebrations for Krishna Janmashtami, Govardhana Puja, and Radhastami.
Visitor Resources
- Official Website: iskconla.com.
- Live Stream: Live temple room audio and visual broadcasts are often available through LAlive.info.
- Accessibility: The facility includes a wheelchair-accessible entrance, parking, and restrooms.