Inspiration
We are attempting again this Gurukula program, so why not begin from this small endeavor and gradually develop to the ideal university. On the whole if you can arrange such university there will be no financial difficulty. So I think if you kindly begin from this Gurukula attempt and then develop to the International University, that will be very practical.
In every department of material science, there is a perfection to be achieved, and to achieve it one must consult the Vedic literature… you can receive from the Vedas all different types of knowledge… social, political and scientific, and there are so many departments of knowledge, even engineering,medical science.
His Divine Grace Srila
A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada
Founder Acharya of The International Society for Krishna Consciousness
Our Inspiration
Global Ambassador of Vedic Knowledge
ISKCON
World’s largest publisher, distributor and educational institute for Vedic knowledge
Blessings
We wish to express our heartfelt gratitude and seek the divine blessings of our esteemed spiritual masters who are unfortunately no longer with us but have greatly inspired us in this sacred endeavour.
HH Gopal Krishna Goswami Maharaj
HH Tamal Krishna Goswami Maharaj
HH Gopal Krishna Goswami Maharaj
Inspirational Figure for the Bhaktivedanta University & Gurukul Campus, Former Chairman, ISKCON India Bureau, Former Governing Body Commissioner, ISKCON
HH Tamal Krishna Goswami Maharaj
PhD, University of Cambridge
Former Governing Body Commissioner, ISKCON
HH Bhakti Svarupa Damodara Goswami Maharaj (aka Dr. T.D. Singh)
Former Director, Bhaktivedanta Institute, Esteemed Scientist and Author
HG Sadaputa Prabhu (Dr. Richard L. Thompson)
Esteemed Scientist and Author
I have been associated with all the activities of ISKCON since I became a permanent member of this great Institution some 40 years ago. Although my primary contribution to ISKCON has been through my dance performances on special occasions like Janmashtami, Ram Navmi or Radha Ashtami, I am aware of the emphasis the Institution lays on Vedic learning and propagation. I salute the foresight of its founder Srila Prabhupada, his worthy disciples Srila Gopal Krishna Maharaj and Lila Purushottam Das ji for having conceived the idea of this Vedic University.
I need not tell you how important it is to instill the highest value of spiritual knowledge and Vedic wisdom based on the eternal law, the Sanatan Dharma.
I am very happy that this unique University is coming up in my constituency.
It is a great step forward and ISKCON should receive our unstinted support and encouragement for having conceived and implemented a grand idea.
Smt. Hema Malini
Honorable Member of Parliament, Mathura and World Famous Artist
Words of Trust
Words of Trust
I have been associated with all the activities of ISKCON since I became a permanent member of this great Institution some 40 years ago. Although my primary contribution to ISKCON has been through my dance performances on special occasions like Janmashtami, Ram Navmi or Radha Ashtami, I am aware of the emphasis the Institution lays on Vedic learning and propagation. I salute the foresight of its founder Srila Prabhupada, his worthy disciples Srila Gopal Krishna Maharaj and Lila Purushottam Das ji for having conceived the idea of this Vedic University.
I need not tell you how important it is to instill the highest value of spiritual knowledge and Vedic wisdom based on the eternal law, the Sanatan Dharma.
I am very happy that this unique University is coming up in my constituency.
It is a great step forward and ISKCON should receive our unstinted support and encouragement for having conceived and implemented a grand idea.
Smt. Hema Malini
Honorable Member of Parliament, Mathura and World Famous Artist
Words of Encouragement
Bhaktivedanta University will offer something truly new to the world — a revival of Indian Knowledge Systems, Vedic science, and spiritual wisdom. In today’s age, people seek harmony, mindfulness, and inner happiness. True Shanti comes through Vedas, through spirituality, and through science. BU will help the next generation realize who they truly are and guide them toward a life of Bhakti, Yukti, Siddhi, and Mukti.
Guru Sri H.H. Ramakrishnanda Saraswathi Swamiji Vedaravishangar
Founder & Managing Trustee,
Veda – Vedic & Scientific Research Foundation
I extend my heartfelt wishes to Bhaktivedanta University, Vrindavan – a beacon of Vedic wisdom and holistic education. Rooted in our timeless tradition, this institution will uphold an education system that nurtures skills, knowledge, and character – the true essence of human behavior. It will offer insight into matter, spirit, and the Supreme controller of both, embracing a complete view of existence. Let us learn, support, and revive this glorious heritage of Vedic education for generations to come. May BU shine as a guiding light for the world. “sa vidyā yā vimuktaye” – “True knowledge is that which liberates.” – Vishnu Purana 1.19.41
Balarama Govinda Das, Chairman & MD, Thangamayil Jewellery and
President ISKCON Tiruppalai, Madurai
The Bhaktivedanta University is an absolute necessity for our Movement to offer serious theological studies and degrees. It is the very essence of the name it bears. Krishna is Vishvatma, and therefore the perfect fulfillment of the name University. It will give great pleasure to Srila Prabhupada and satisfy his request to establish such a prestigious educational facility.
HH Guru Prasad Swami, Governing Body Commissioner, ISKCON
Bhaktivedanta University in Vraj, Uttar Pradesh, is one of the most important projects of ISKCON of this time. Srila Prabhupada wanted that ISKCON would become an educational institution, that was his idea, and Bhaktivedanta University will fulfil this vision of Srila Prabhupada. I am sure that Bhaktivedanta University, under the able guidance and leadership of Lila Purushottam Das, will fulfil this idea, this mission of Srila Prabhupada, and will change the life of hundreds of thousands of people, by the scientific propagation of KrishnaConsciousness in all fields of education.
HH Bhakti Vijnan Swami (Dr. Vadim Tuneev) PhD in Molecular
Biology, Moscow University Sannyasi and Spiritual Leader, ISKCON
Iamvery happy to learn about Bhaktivedanta University, the first University to be established by ISKCON. It is a University with a difference. It has what other Universities offer in terms of modern secular knowledge, but additionally, it provides an opportunity for students to explore branches of learning like Vedic sciences, and also Vedic perspectives on modern knowledge. And all this in a devotional setting. It is an exciting endeavour, with the potential to substantially enhance research and awareness of Indian Knowledge Systems. My gratitude and best wishes to Dr. Behera and his team.
HH Bhakti Rasamrita Swami, Chairman, ISKCON India Bureau
Bhaktivedanta University in Vrindavan is a groundbreaking academic institution rooted in India’s sacred heritage. It brings together classical knowledge systems, sustainability, and research on consciousness in an interdisciplinary framework. Located in the holy land of Krishna, BU offers a transformative education for a global future – a visionary step in preserving and reimagining Vedic wisdom for the 21st century.
Dr. Ferdinando.Sardella, Associate Professor Stockholm University, Sweden
भक्तिवेदांत विश्वविद्यालय की वर्णिका के प्रकाशन के अवसर पर अपनी शुभकामनाएँ प्रेषित करते हुए हमें अत्यंत आनंद की अनुभूति हो रही है।ब्रजभूमि वह पुण्यभूमि है जहाँ से पाँच हजार वर्ष पूर्व भगवान श्रीकृष्ण ने संपूर्ण मानवता को दिशा और दर्शन प्रदान किया था।योगायोग से यही वह भूमि है जहाँ से भक्ति का ऐसा पुण्यप्रवाह चला कि करोड़ों लोग उसके अनिर्वचनीय सुख में परम संतोष प्राप्त करने लगे। इस देवभूमि ने ऐसे अनेक महान युगपुरुषों को जन्म दिया जिन्होंने भक्ति की साधना के साथ-साथ अत्यंत महत्वपूर्ण साहित्य की रचना की और महान संकट के समय करोड़ों लोगों को युगानुरूप मार्गदर्शन भी प्रदान किया।
आज पुनः जब विश्व भोगवाद की आँधी से जूझ रहा है, और विश्व की सभ्यताओं को कोई मार्ग नहीं सूझ रहा—ऐसे समय में यह आध्यात्मिक दर्शन पुनः रास्ता दिखाने के लिए प्रस्तुत होता हुआ दिखाई दे रहा है।
यह विश्वविद्यालय इस आवश्यक कार्य में अपनी महान भूमिका के साथ खड़ा हो—यही सभी की अपेक्षा है। ईश्वर सफलता अवश्य देंगे, क्योंकि यह तो उन्हीं का कार्य है।
Dr. Krishna Gopal, National Joint General Secretary, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS)
Bhaktivedanta University is a pioneering institution that harmoniously integrates timeless Vedic wisdom with the demands of modern education. In an era where academic achievement is often divorced from moral and spiritual grounding, this university stands out by nurturing students in an environment of devotion, integrity, and scholarly excellence. Rooted in the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita and the Srimad-Bhagavatam, and inspired by the vision of His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, it offers a holistic model of education—shaping not only capable minds but also compassionate, dharma-centred leaders. I wholeheartedly support this noble endeavour and am confident that it will continue to illuminate lives and serve as a transformative force for generations to come.
HG Devakinandan Das, Zonal Secretary, ISKCON Member, ISKCON India Bureau
The Bhaktivedanta University is a unique ISKCON initiative that not only presents the profound science of Krishna Consciousness to the academic world but also equips students with essential skills for living a sustainable and spiritually fulfilling Vedic lifestyle. Envisioned by Srila Prabhupada and blessed by His Holiness Gopal Krishna Goswami Maharaj, this sacred project has the potential to bring permanent happiness to the world by cultivating true knowledge, character, and devotion. I wholeheartedly offer my support and heartfelt best wishes for the grand success of this divine endeavour.
Pradyumna Priya Das, President ISKCON Dwaraka, Delhi and Businessman
Bhaktivedanta University is a pioneering initiative by ISKCON that brings together the timeless wisdom of the Vedas with the tools of modern science and technology. In an age of rapid change, it offers a stable foundation rooted in spiritual truth, while empowering the next generation through research, innovation, and experiential learning. This university will not only serve India but also inspire the entire world towards a more conscious and meaningful way of living.
Gautam Ashra, Partner, Kanji Pitamber & Co, Mumbai
I am deeply inspired by the vision of Bhaktivedanta University, set to open in 2027. At a time when the world seeks both spiritual grounding and scientific advancement, this institution promises to be a beacon of holistic education. By integrating the timeless wisdom of the Vedas with cutting-edge developments in science and technology, Bhaktivedanta University is laying the foundation for a new paradigm of learning— one that nurtures not only intellect, but also character and consciousness. I truly believe that Bhaktivedanta University will play a crucial role in shaping leaders who are not only skilled and knowledgeable but also guided by deep spiritual insight and a commitment to the well-being of humanity. I wholeheartedly support this endeavor and look forward to witnessingthe impact it will haveon future generations. Hare Krishna.
Rajiv Kumar Suri, Sr. Director, Information Technology Portland, USA
When I first spoke with Dr. Behera about Bhaktivedanta University, I felt this is truly a blessing, a fantastic initiative, and I’m completely for it. I’m aware of the deep work that has already gone into even the land itself — transforming the soil from acidic to alkaline through Vedic natural farming. This alignment with nature and tradition is truly inspiring.
Ajay Chaturvedi, Entrepreneur, Author, Philosopher (Darshnik)
Many blessings to the new Bhaktivedanta University at Vrindavan. I believe it will be very successful in uplifting humanity’s consciousness by introducing the Indian Knowledge System, along with the scientific study of neuroscience and psychology — making it meaningful and acceptable to the global academic community.
Prof.Hidehiko Saegusa,
Co-Director of the Science of Consciousness Laboratory at the California Institute of Human Sciences, Board member and Research Scientist at the Center of Consciousness Studies, University of Arizona
I am delighted that Bhaktivedanta University is being established in Mathura to advance Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS). A university wholly devoted to IKS will be a true trendsetter: IKS is not just a method of study, but a way of life that nurtures the holistic societal vision that has guided this ancient dharmic land for 5,000 years. I wish the University a grand take-off and a wonderful path ahead
Prof. Gautam R Desiraju, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru
I think anything new that is explored in a rigorous, scientific way with the good intention of unearthing knowledge is a tremendous opportunity for top-class research — research that can be game-changing, from fundamental insights to applications in economy, technology, and nation- building. Bhaktivedanta University is one such bold and meaningful endeavour. I would be happy to contribute in any way I can.
Prof. Ganapati Ramanath, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, USA
It is my honor to introduce the upcoming Bhaktivedanta University in Vrindavan, led by Prof. Behra. This institution is urgently needed — a place where the thought process is built on the timeless principles of the universe as preserved in Hinduism. Concepts like cyclic time, Purusha and Prakriti, and the structure of loka are not just philosophies, but foundations that can be transformed into technologies to uplift mankind. Bhaktivedanta University has the potential to change the world — starting from Vrindavan
Dr. Anirban Bandyopadhyay, Senior Scientist, National Institute of Materials Science, Japan
I am glad to learn that Bhaktivedanta University, promoted by ISKCON, is coming up in the holy land of Vrindavan — the land of knowledge, where Lord Krishna, the Vishwaguru, resided. This university will offer new knowledge to a world of seekers, rooted in Bharatiya Vidya, and will play a key role in shaping the future order of the world
Vice Chancellor, Central Sanskrit University, New Delhi
Bhaktivedanta University in Vrindavan is a unique institution wholly devoted to Indian Knowledge Systems. Knowing the impeccable academic credentials of the team behind it, I’m confident it will become a model for future universities. I wish Bhaktivedanta University the very best and hope to be associated with it in some way.
Shefali Vaidya, Renowned Author & Columnist
Universities fostered deep learning, knowledge and innovation in Bharat’s golden age until about two thousand years ago. India pioneered several streams of knowledge that are relevant even today – including Ayurveda, Yoga, Arthshastra, Indian Astronomy & Astrology, Mathematics and even the unique Natyashastra (for Performing Arts). Reviving Vedic wisdom and deep insights, and combining them with the advances of modern technology, is perhaps the only way to re-establish India as the centre of fundamental knowledge. The BU is being established by ISKCON to give concrete shape to this aspiration. It will not only teach courses spanning the liberal arts and sciences to business, along with various vocational programmes but also infuse them with Vedic wisdom and insights, providing a one of its kind experience to students and scholars from across the world. Iwholeheartedly support this initiative and transformational effort and invite you to learn more about it.
Manish Chokhani, Director, Enam Holdings
Bhaktivedanta University is planned to assimilate ultra modern education with ultra ancient Indian Vedic wisdom. Modern materialistic focused education failed to make people eternally happy while only Vedic education failed in creating employment. Bhaktivedanta University is planned to focus on both vidya, para cha apara cha. Surely this will contribute to solving problems humanity faces in today’s world.
Mansukh Nakrani, Founder, Gyanmanjari Vidyapith, Gujarat
I am honoured to witness the birth of Bhaktivedanta University and to lend my wholehearted support to its mission. In an age that often separates technological progress from timeless values, this institution dares to reunite them—cultivating thought leaders, politicians, entrepreneurs, scientists, and professionals who pair rigorous modern scholarship with the depth and clarity of Vedic wisdom. By anchoring innovation in compassion and ethics, Bhaktivedanta University will not merely educate; it will shape agents of positive transformation, capable of addressing the world’s most complex challenges with insight, integrity, and devotional purpose. May this brochure serve as both an invitation and a promise: an invitation to join a pioneering movement in holistic education, and apromise that the light kindled here inVrindavana willradiate across theglobe for generations tocome.
Krishna Ika, President and CEO Brainwave Science, Boston
It is with great joy and enthusiasm that we celebrate the launch of the Bhaktivedanta University. This university will empower students to explore the intersections of ancient wisdom and contemporary life, fostering an intellectual environment where the study of Vedic philosophy serves as a foundation for innovation, compassion, and meaningful service to humanity. The vision behind Bhaktivedanta University is not just to impart academic knowledge but to shape compassionate thinkers who will make impactful contributions to the society in every sector. With warm regards and best wishes for success in this noble endeavour.
Akhandadhi Das, Director, Science & Philosophy Initiative, UK
I came to know about Bhaktivedanta University recently, and as I was going through the programs being designed and the kind of IKS-based university you’re developing — with the goal of creating some of the best entrepreneurs, teachers, acharyas, and public leaders — I felt this is something that truly needs to be done. From the Indian Knowledge Systems Division, we are very, very happy that such an effort is underway, especially as it addresses the fundamental issue of how to create experts in the sciences and beyond.
Prof.Ganti S.Murthy, Professor IIT-Indore,
National coordinator for Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS), Ministry of Education, India
The BU represents a vital step in fulfilling the sacred vision of ISKCON’s Founder- Acharya, Srila Prabhupada, to establish a university that propounds Bhagavata Dharma in an integrated and accessible manner. BU aims to revive the Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS), which, in ancient times, enabled India to flourish spiritually and materially in a seamless and integrated manner. This project is not just a university; it is a clarion call to revive and preserve the profound body of IKS, making it accessible and relevant for generations to come. In today’s world, where we see an abundance of academic degrees but a growing crisis of mental well-being. This institution stands as a visionary beacon to harmoniously integrate the timeless principles of India’s Vedic heritage with cutting-edge modern sciences. Rooted in the holy land of Vrindavan, under the able stewardship of an exceptionally qualified and dedicated team, this project is poised to yield rich and transformative fruit, the impact of which will be evident for generations to come. I offer my heartiest blessings for the grand success of this noble endeavour!
Pulin Gandhi, Businessman, Mombasa, Kenya
One of the core purposes of BU is not only to impart academic knowledge but also to instill in every student the invaluable teachings of Srila Prabhupada. BU aims to nurture responsible global citizens. It is envisioned as a truly international university, where graduates will be equipped with the right knowledge to work and serve anywhere in the world. BU is also committed to establishing an exceptional International Nursing Center (INC). This center will provide students with a comprehensive and enriching education, blending clinical excellence with the spirit of compassionate service. INC seeks to teach students not only how to care for the body but also how to nurture the hearts of their patients. Many patients suffer not just from physical ailments but also from emotional and mental distress. A truly dedicated nurse is one who offers care with intelligence, empathy, and love—healing both body and mind. Patients often fear death, feel isolated in hospital envirnment. A nurse trained in the values of “Universal Love” can help create a warm, supportive atmosphere that heals from within. Because sometimes, healing requires more than just medicine—it needs love, empathy, and the strength to face mental challenges together.
Narendra Bansal, Philanthropist, Houston USA
