ISKCON Celebrates 50th Anniversary of Srila Prabhupada’s Historic Visit to South Africa (1975 – 2025)
Commemorative Events Set to Inspire Devotees and Communities Nationwide
South Africa — In October 2025, the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) will commemorate the 50th anniversary of the founder-acharya His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Srila Prabhupada’s historic visit to South Africa. This milestone marks five decades since Srila Prabhupada brought the teachings of Krishna consciousness to the African continent, establishing ISKCON as a vibrant spiritual movement in the region.
50 Years of Transformation
Srila Prabhupada’s visit in 1975 is remembered as a turning point in South Africa’s spiritual history, planting the seeds of bhakti yoga (devotional service) and Krishna consciousness. Since then, ISKCON has grown into a dynamic community in South Africa, with temples, educational programs, food distribution initiatives, and a lasting impact on interfaith cooperation.
Commemorative Events Across South Africa
ISKCON will host a series of spiritual, cultural, and social events in cities across South Africa throughout October 2025 to honour this momentous occasion. These events are designed to inspire devotees and the public by highlighting Srila Prabhupada’s legacy and his universal teachings of love, compassion, and spiritual liberation.
Key events include:
• Mass Harinam on October 4th, 2025, a joyous public chanting of the holy names in Durban.
• Lectures in major cities like Durban, Pietermaritzburg, Pretoria, and Johannesburg, where spiritual leaders will discuss Srila Prabhupada’s contributions to global spirituality.
• Cultural Programs featuring traditional kirtans (devotional songs), theatrical performances, and exhibitions showcasing ISKCON’s journey in South Africa.
• Nationwide Prasadam Distribution, where sanctified food will be shared with the public in the spirit of unity and compassion.
Monthly Themes Reflecting South African Values
In the lead-up to the October 2025 celebrations, ISKCON will also integrate its events with South Africa’s national calendar of thematic months. The themes include:
• Human Rights Month (March 2025): A focus on Srila Prabhupada’s teachings of equality and dignity for all beings.
• Freedom Month (April 2025): Celebrating spiritual and social freedom through devotion.
• Youth Month (June 2025): Empowering the next generation to carry forward Srila Prabhupada’s legacy.
• Women’s Month (August 2025): Honouring Srila Prabhupada’s progressive vision of female empowerment in spiritual leadership.
Legacy of Love and Devotion
As ISKCON celebrates this golden anniversary, the movement reflects on Srila Prabhupada’s vision of a world united in love for God, transcending divisions of race, gender, and social status. His teachings have inspired millions worldwide, and temples have been established in over 100 countries.
Call to Participate
Devotees and the public are invited to attend these commemorative events, which will be held throughout October 2025. Through public kirtans, lectures, or cultural programs, ISKCON South Africa hopes to unite communities to remember Srila Prabhupada’s message and mission