A Magical Morning at ISKCON Bengaluru

A Magical Morning at ISKCON Bengaluru

• Sukhbir Singh

It was one of those spontaneous plans that somehow end up being unforgettable. My roommate Mihir and I decided to visit the ISKCON Temple in Bengaluru. The idea had been lingering in my mind ever since a friend suggested it.

Now, waking up at 4 AM is a challenge. So, we did the obvious: stay up the entire night. After binge-watching movies to kill time, we got ready at 3:30 AM, brushed, bathed, and hopped onto our cycles. The closest ISKCON temple is about 7-8 km from the IISc campus, depending on the route. To commute, cycling is an excellent option, especially in the early morning when the roads are clear, so we chose it. Remember to dress warmly as Bengaluru mornings are quite chilly. A jacket, gloves, or a muffler would help you stay comfortable, and for a hassle-free ride, you can take an auto-rickshaw. It’s budget-friendly, especially if you’re sharing the ride with friends. This is ideal if you’re travelling later in the day when traffic starts building up. It was surreal cycling through the deserted streets of Bengaluru, famously known for its traffic. At that hour, the roads were almost empty, the city felt different, and the cool morning breeze added to the experience.

We reached ISKCON around 4:00 AM, slightly early. But the guards didn’t let us in until 4:15, when the morning aarti began. After parking our cycles, we felt a bit clueless about what to do next. Neither of us had much experience with temple rituals. So, we did what anyone would—followed a random family. A man and two women led the way, and we shadowed them through the temple’s corridors.

Walking into the temple was awe-inspiring. The walls adorned with stunning paintings of Krishna and Radha transported us to another era. The chanting of prayers and the sound of bells created an atmosphere of peace and devotion. We found ourselves standing in front of three beautifully decorated deities: Radha-Krishna in the centre and two others on either side. The Tulsi plant stood in the middle of the temple, surrounded by worshippers.

The aarti began, and it was unlike anything I had experienced before. The priests and devotees danced with joy, swaying rhythmically to the chants. Some lay flat on the ground in reverence, a gesture of complete surrender. Although I wasn’t familiar with the rituals, I felt a sense of calmness and connection. I had my audio recorder on, capturing the vibrant sounds of the temple as a keepsake for the memory.

After the aarti, we explored different sections of the temple, worshipped at smaller shrines, and even received a booklet of prayers. ISKCON, perched on a hill, offers panoramic views of Bengaluru. Standing there, I couldn’t help but admire the city below, bathed in the faint glow of dawn. The temple itself felt like a masterpiece from ancient times, with intricate carvings and vivid murals that told timeless stories.

One of the temple priests—or “Prabhuji” as they are called—invited us to sit and meditate. Using a string of 108 beads, I repeated the mantra: Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna Hare Hare, Hare Rama, Hare Rama, Rama Rama Hare Hare. For those few moments, my mind felt lighter, quieter—a rare state of inner peace.

While Prabhuji invited us to stay longer for the Shringar ceremony at 7:15 AM, we couldn’t as it was too late and we hadn’t slept. So, we stepped out, collected our slippers, and took a few moments to capture the breathtaking views and snap some photos of the temple. By now, the sun had risen, and the city had come alive.

Reflecting on that morning, I realized how much peace and positivity the visit brought. ISKCON wasn’t just a temple visit; it was an experience that blended spirituality, art, and culture. For someone like me, who isn’t deeply religious, it was a reminder of how meaningful and calming such moments can be.

Here are some personal tips for you all !!

1. The temple opens early, and the morning aarti starts at 4:15 AM. Plan to arrive by 4 AM to get the full experience.

2. Mornings in Bengaluru can be quite cold, so dress in layers. Wear comfortable shoes as there’s some walking involved.

3. If you wait till 7:15 am in the temple, you can enjoy the after - Shringar ceremony and meals start after 8.

Remember! Sometimes, all it takes is a spontaneous plan to create memories that linger:)