176 Culture & Dharma – Boston ISKCON Temple: Swami Prabhupada statue honoring his arrival in America

On a recent weekend trip to Boston, Massachusetts, I wanted to visit the ISKCON temple. My schedule changed at the last minute and I wasn't able to attend any of their daily arati services or go inside, but I was delighted by the statue they have outside of A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada arriving by boat to America. From wiki: "After surviving two heart attacks during his maritime journey, Bhaktivedanta Swami finally arrived at the Boston Harbor on 17 September 1965, and then continued on to New York City." He had a sojourn in Pennsylvania, but after a month re-located to NYC. In 1966 ISKCON was incorporated. The Boston temple was established in 1968. I was told by KC Dasa, bassist of the Krishnacore band Shelter, that he stayed here when he was a member as this was the place to learn how to improve one's book distribution.

I'm not part of ISKCON & routinely confess a love/hate relationship with Swamiji & the organization, but only a fool would deny the influence of Srila Prabhupada & ISKCON on religion in the west & the world & Sanatana Dharma globally. I believe he forever changed the world spiritually, culturally, socially. Those who only know the Hare Krishnas from their restaurants and comedic appearances in movies don't know the big picture.

I was very happy to spend a few minutes outside the Boston ISCKON temple. Website to the temple here Live 11/22/2025, pre-recorded 9/20/2025.

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