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ISKCON-Soho Square Temple

The ISKCON-Soho Square Temple, located in the heart of London, is a vibrant spiritual oasis dedicated to the teachings of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON). Also known as the Radha-Krishna Temple, it serves as a center for worship, spiritual education, and cultural exchange. Nestled in Soho Square, one of London’s busiest areas, the temple offers a serene and welcoming environment for devotees and visitors alike. With its rich history, active community, and focus on spreading the teachings of Lord Krishna, the ISKCON-Soho Square Temple is a significant landmark for the Hare Krishna movement in the UK.

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  • Foundation: The ISKCON-Soho Square Temple was established in the early 1970s, following the rapid growth of the Hare Krishna movement in the West under the guidance of A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada.
  • Location: The temple is located in a building that was originally a nightclub, symbolizing the transformation of a place of material enjoyment into a center for spiritual enlightenment.
  • Development: Over the years, the temple has grown into a hub for spiritual activities, attracting devotees from across London and beyond.
  • Significance: It serves as the primary center for ISKCON in London and has played a key role in spreading Krishna Consciousness throughout the UK.

  • Deities Worshipped:

    • Sri Sri Radha-Londonisvara: The main deities of the temple, representing the divine couple, Radha and Krishna, who are worshipped with great devotion.
    • Jagannath, Baladeva, and Subhadra: The siblings who are central figures in the famous Rath Yatra (Chariot Festival).
    • Gaura-Nitai: Deities representing Lord Chaitanya Mahaprabhu and Nityananda Prabhu, known for their roles in spreading the Hare Krishna movement.

  • Temple Activities and Services:

    • Daily Arati and Kirtan: Devotional singing and rituals performed throughout the day, including Mangala Arati (early morning) and Sandhya Arati (evening).
    • Bhagavad-gita Classes: Regular discourses on the Bhagavad-gita and other Vedic scriptures, offering deep spiritual insights.
    • Japa Meditation Sessions: Guided sessions on chanting the Hare Krishna mantra using japa beads.
    • Sunday Feast: A weekly gathering featuring kirtan, spiritual discourses, and a free vegetarian feast.
    • Community Outreach: Programs to support the local community, including food distribution (prasadam) and spiritual education.

Festivals Celebrated

  • Janmashtami: The grand celebration of Lord Krishna's birth, marked by midnight celebrations, kirtans, and special offerings.
  • Rath Yatra: The annual chariot festival, where the deities of Jagannath, Baladeva, and Subhadra are paraded through the streets of London.
  • Gaura Purnima: Celebrating the appearance of Lord Chaitanya, with special prayers, kirtans, and feasts.
  • Diwali and Govardhan Puja: Celebrated with lamps, rituals, and the offering of a large variety of food (Annakut) to Krishna.
  • Radhashtami: Celebrating the appearance day of Srimati Radharani, with special bhajans and offerings.

Facilities

  • Temple Hall: A serene space for worship, kirtans, and meditation.
  • Govinda’s Restaurant: A popular vegetarian restaurant offering a variety of wholesome dishes prepared according to Vaishnava principles.
  • Gift Shop: Offers spiritual books, devotional items, and gifts related to Krishna consciousness.
  • Guest Services: Facilities for visitors, including accommodation for devotees and pilgrims.
  • Library: A collection of spiritual books and scriptures available for reading and study.

Visiting Information

  • Location: 10 Soho Street, London, W1D 3DL, UK.
  • Opening Hours:
    • Daily: 4:30 AM – 9:30 PM
  • Dress Code: Visitors are encouraged to wear modest attire.
  • Accessibility: The temple is accessible for differently-abled individuals.

Future Events

  • Upcoming Events: The temple regularly hosts special events, festivals, and spiritual seminars. Details can be found on the temple’s official website.

Website

For more details, including upcoming events, services, and more, visit the official website: ISKCON-London Soho Square.