Introduction

Several centuries of religious evolution have resulted in various sects within the broader Hindu tradition. One of the most significant is the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), also known as the Hare Krishna movement. Despite its roots deeply entwined with Hinduism, ISKCON has often faced criticism for being 'anti-Hindu.' This article explores the roots of this perception and the ongoing debates surrounding ISKCON's stance and contributions to Hindu tradition.

ISKCON as a Separate Religion

ISKCON was officially recognized as a separate religion in Russia, reflecting its distinct identity from mainstream Hinduism. Sri Bhaktivinoda Thakur, the grand spiritual master of Srila Prabhupada, explained in his article Sajjana Toaī (1885) that ISKCON is a Vaishnava tradition, rooted in the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita and other Vedic scriptures. ISKCON's teachings align closely with those of Ramanuja, Vallabha, Madhva, Nimbarka, Radha-vallabh, Ramanandi, Varkari, and other Vaishnava sampradays.

ISKCON’s Teachings and the Bhagavad Gita

One of the most significant teachings promulgated by ISKCON is the importance of the Bhagavad Gita. However, this has sometimes led to tension, particularly with the Geeta Press, an organization that also publishes interpretations of the Bhagavad Gita. Srila Prabhupada, founder of ISKCON, criticized the Geeta Press for inaccuracies and inconsistencies in their translations. The article quoted from Sajjana Toaī highlighted several anomalies in the Geeta Press version and emphasized the importance of using Vaishnava commentaries that provide a more faithful interpretation of the scripture.

The Role of Commentaries and Commentators

Commentaries play a crucial role in understanding the scriptures. ISKCON advocates for Vaishnava commentaries on the Bhagavad Gita, which they believe provide a truer understanding of the text. Vaishnava traditions, including Ramanuja, Vallabha, and Madhva, have a significant influence on these commentaries. Unlike Geeta Press, which often includes Mayavadi (Mayavadi means false doctrine of illusion which is against the Vedas) elements, Vaishnava commentaries are more aligned with the essence of the Bhagavad Gita.

Comparisons and References

When comparing ISKCON and Geeta Press, it is essential to consider the global impact and accessibility of the materials they produce. While ISKCON has published the Bhagavad Gita in 59 languages, Geeta Press is available in only 15 languages. This highlights the reach of ISKCON in disseminating Hindu teachings. In India, ISKCON's Gita is more widely reviewed and sold compared to Geeta Press. Additionally, ISKCON offers its publications for free on their online platform, allowing readers to access the texts without financial barriers.

Conclusion

While ISKCON is indeed rooted in Vaishnava traditions and shares a strong connection with Hinduism, the perception that it is 'anti-Hindu' stems from its efforts to correct what it deems as inaccuracies and misrepresentations in other published versions of the Bhagavad Gita. ISKCON's focus on preserving the true essence of Vaishnava teachings through its commentaries and publications reflects its deep commitment to the broader Hindu tradition.

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