About
Leadership Speaks
The Basic Motivation
Of all the educational forums available in the modern times – primary/secondary/high schools, colleges, and universities, the “University” is accepted by modern day intellectuals as the principal forum in which dissemination of knowledge is a consequence of active creation of knowledge.
In this context, Indian universities play a minimal role in knowledge creation.
Motivated by Indian Knowledge Systems, Bhaktivedanta University (BU) will create knowledge that will be relevant for students and society at large and will impart that very knowledge in a contemporarily relevant manner.
Thematic Vision
Whilemost universitiesfocus on understanding matter, BU will take a holistic approach to understand the creation and its purpose by studying matter, cognitive matter (mind), consciousness and cosmic consciousness.
Primary Focus
Cultural traditions such as yoga, meditation, performing arts, and Vedic theology will be promoted through scientific grounding. Holistic science of matter and consciousness will be pursued while applying to fields such as agriculture, healthcare, and environment. Vocational studies that would generate employment in rural sectors will be emphasised.
Social Focus
Prosperous villages ensure a prosperous India, not vice versa. BU will create future leaders who live this principle.
Prof. Laxmidhar Behera brings a rare combination of modern scientific rigor and deep spiritual insight. With a remarkable career spanning over three decades as a Professor of Neurocomputing, AI and Robotics at IIT Kanpur, he has made substantial contributions to
the research and dissemination of Indian Knowledge Systems. His leadership as the Director of IIT Mandi has further solidified his role in driving IKS research and academic programs.
Prof. Laxmidhar Behera
(aka HG Lila Purushottam Das)
Founder, Bhaktivedanta University
Director, IIT Mandi
The Bhaktivedanta University is a visionary and timely initiative by ISKCON facilitating Vedic education with an interdisciplinary thrust and holistic community engagement.
As the world’s first research-oriented Vedic university focused on Indian Knowledge Systems, it aligns with the UNESCO Convention for Intangible Cultural Heritage and the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Its academic highlights include exploring matter, cognition, and consciousness through Bhagavata Sankhya and Vedantic science.
Built on five foundational pillars—from promoting yoga to nurturing leadership—the BU offers inclusive, high-quality education that integrates living, learning, meditating, and engaging all towards the vision of “One Earth, One Family, One Future”.
Gauranga Das
Director, Bhaktivedanta Research Center, Governing Body Commissioner, ISKCON, Visiting Faculty, IIM Nagpur
The Bhaktivedanta University is a landmark initiative in the global revival of Vedic India’s timeless wisdom and a visionary platform forintegrating Vedic knowledge into contemporary academia.
The Bhaktivedanta Research Center (BRC) is honoured to support its establishment and growth. Over the years, BRC has cultivated a strong, diverse network of distinguished scholars across India and the world,
spanning Philosophy, Theology, Sanskrit and Bengali literature, and cultural studies.
Drawing on its strengths in research and publishing, BRC is privileged to contribute rare manuscripts, critical editions, and academic resources to enrich BU’s teaching and research.
This collaboration aims to uphold BU’s academic authenticity and expand its global scholarly network, advancing its mission to make Vedic knowledge accessible, rigorous, and relevant.
Dr. Sumanta Rudra
Dean, Academic Affairs Bhaktivedanta Research Center
Foundational Principles
Timeless Wisdom for a Sustainable Future
Promoting
Vedic Way of Life
Yoga, meditation, performing arts, digitisation of ancient Vedic texts and Theology programmes at BU will awaken the inner spirit of an individual. Walk the talk will be the hallmark.
Imparting
Village Centric Skills
The skilling of youth in sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, environment, and other areas at BU will make them employable and will make villages prosperous.
Seeking
Truth
Rendering of Bhagavata Samkhya within empiric science at BU will broaden our perspective ofholistic and harmonising existence.
Enabling
All Inclusive Economy
Economy that is sustainable and decentralised, and empowers the most underprivileged, will be pursued at BU through entrepreneurship and societal enterprises.
Creating
Visionary Leaders with Vedic Wisdom
Leadership development programme at BU will inculcate empathetic and inclusive values in individuals.
Bhaktivedanta University
An Exciting Journey So Far and the Way Forward
75 acres of land was acquired to set up ISKCON education institute in Vrindavana, the spiritual capital of the world.
The land turned out to be highly alkaline. However, due to the application of Vedic ways of natural farming, the land became naturally fertile, and now houses thousands of big trees – neem, arjun, mango, jamun, kadamba and many more. The organic farm yields rice, wheat, mustards, and all kinds of vegetables.
A residential campus for Vrindavana Gurukula and International School with world class facilities, such as academic building, hostel, and sport were completed.
A cultural centre cum vedic temple for Sri Sri Krishna Balarama was inaugurated by the honourable CM of Uttar Pradesh.A residential campus for Vrindavana Gurukula and International School with world class facilities, such as academic building, hostel, and sport were completed.
