Many foreigners, particularly from Western countries, are drawn to India—especially places like Vrindavan, Mayapur, and other sacred sites associated with Lord Krishna—due to deep spiritual attraction rooted in Krishna bhakti (devotional service to Krishna). This often ties into the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), also known as the Hare Krishna movement, founded by A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada in the 1960s. Prabhupada brought Gaudiya Vaishnavism (a devotional tradition focused on Krishna as the Supreme Personality of Godhead) to the West, where it resonated strongly during the counterculture era.
While many foreigners first encounter Krishna consciousness abroad through chanting the Hare Krishna mantra, reading the Bhagavad Gita As It Is, or attending ISKCON temples, a significant number eventually move to India (sometimes permanently or for extended periods) to immerse themselves fully in the devotional life. Here’s why this happens:
Spiritual Pull of Krishna and the Holy Places
Lord Krishna is described as “all-attractive” (the literal meaning of “Krishna”), and devotees believe proximity to his pastimes enhances devotion. Vrindavan, where Krishna spent his childhood playing with the gopis, herding cows, and performing lilas (divine pastimes), holds special significance. Living there allows devotees to:
- Participate in daily kirtan (congregational chanting), parikrama (circumambulation of holy sites), and festivals like Janmashtami or Holi.
- Experience what they describe as transcendental ecstasy or direct connection to Krishna.
- Practice strict sadhana (spiritual discipline), including early morning chanting (japa), deity worship, and vegetarian prasadam (sanctified food).
Many report that these places offer an unparalleled spiritual atmosphere unavailable elsewhere, leading to profound personal transformations.
Dissatisfaction with Western Materialism and Religion
Numerous accounts highlight that Westerners often feel disillusioned with:
- Materialistic lifestyles focused on career, wealth, and sensory pleasures.
- Rigid dogmas in Abrahamic religions (e.g., a formless God without personal loving exchanges).
- Lack of practical spiritual experiences or community emphasis on devotion.
Krishna bhakti offers:
- A personal, loving relationship with God (bhakti-yoga).
- Accessible practices like mantra chanting for purification and joy.
- A philosophy (from texts like Bhagavad Gita and Srimad Bhagavatam) addressing life’s purpose beyond the temporary.
Devotees often say they find “practical realization” and genuine happiness here, contrasting with what they see as superficial or compulsory religion back home.
Community and ISKCON Support
ISKCON provides:
- Inclusive communities welcoming people regardless of background.
- Structured ashrams, temples, and services where foreigners can live simply, serve (e.g., in kitchens, preaching, or maintenance), and study scriptures.
- Affordable living in holy dhams, allowing focus on devotion without heavy financial pressures.
Some move for long-term bhajan (intense personal worship) in places like Vrindavan, while others study, serve, or prepare to preach back home.
Examples and Trends
Foreign devotees (from Russia, Europe, the US, etc.) have lived in Vrindavan for decades, dedicating lives to Krishna. ISKCON’s Krishna-Balaram temple in Vrindavan attracts many international residents. Some arrive via yoga retreats or travel, discover the tradition, and stay—often describing it as “coming home.”
Not everyone stays forever; some return to their countries to share the teachings. But for those who do relocate, it’s typically driven by a heartfelt calling to deepen devotion in Krishna’s “home.”
In essence, foreigners move to India for Lord Krishna because they seek a deeper, more joyful connection to the divine—one they find vividly alive in his sacred lands through bhakti. This path, popularized globally by ISKCON, continues to draw sincere seekers today.
