What tangible good does ISKCON do the world – how to explain in universal terms?

Podcast:

Question:
What good has the Krishna consciousness movement done for the world? How can we explain its tangible contributions in a way that is reasonable and intelligible to people—especially considering that for many, “goodness” is defined relative to their social context?

Answer:
We can look at the good resulting from the Krishna consciousness movement on multiple levels—starting from the most tangible and going toward the more philosophical and cultural.

1. Tangible Social Welfare

One of the most visible and widely appreciated contributions is the “Food for Life” program—the world’s largest vegetarian food relief initiative. It provides free meals, including midday meals in schools across India. For many people, this kind of practical humanitarian work is the first and most easily understood expression of goodness.

2. Individual Transformation

On a more personal level, Krishna consciousness helps individuals overcome harmful habits. While some may have philosophical reservations or may perceive a degree of fanaticism or verbal intolerance among a minority of practitioners, the core practices themselves are highly beneficial.

Practitioners typically avoid:

• Gambling
• Intoxication
• Unregulated sexual activity
• Meat-eating

Even from a secular or social perspective, these practices are often associated with personal and societal harm. Therefore, cultivating habits that reduce dependence on such activities is a meaningful form of good. And many practitioners testify that devotional practices help them live healthier, more balanced lives.

Yes, sometimes this may lead to self-righteousness or judgmental attitudes toward those who do not follow such standards, but that is the exception, not the rule. As the Bhagavad-gita (18.48) says, “Every endeavor is covered by some fault.” Still, the direction of progress matters, and many are progressing toward a more sattvic (goodness-based) lifestyle.

3. Living in the Mode of Goodness

The three modes of material nature—sattva (goodness), rajas (passion), and tamas (ignorance)—are a fundamental concept in the Vedic worldview. Sattva is characterized by balance, clarity, and harmony, and Krishna consciousness provides both philosophical understanding and practical tools to cultivate it.

This results not just in healthy habits, but also in a greater sense of meaning and purpose in life. And while individuals may express that purpose differently, the presence of meaning itself often leads to a more fulfilling and socially constructive life.

4. Revival of Indian Spirituality

On a broader cultural level, the Krishna consciousness movement has contributed significantly to:

• Spreading Eastern wisdom in the West
• Reviving Indian spirituality in India

Some critics may argue that ISKCON promotes only one school of thought within the broad spectrum of Indian philosophy. That may be technically true, but the impact is broader than that.

When some people become genuinely spiritual, it can inspire others to explore spirituality in their own ways. For example, since the 1960s and 1970s, there has been a surge in temple construction, both in India and abroad, and ISKCON has played a significant role in initiating and inspiring this movement—through its architecture, outreach, and community engagement.

5. Cultural Contribution – Sacred Music and Kirtan

One of ISKCON’s most remarkable contributions has been the global spread of Kirtan—devotional music.
Srila Prabhupada was the pioneer in bringing Kirtan to the West, and since then, many others have carried the tradition forward. Today, Kirtan has become a popular spiritual and cultural expression, appreciated even by those outside the Krishna tradition.

6. A Holistic Contribution

From:

• Basic welfare (like food distribution),
• To healthier living,
• To higher consciousness and meaning,
• To cultural and spiritual revival,
• And finally to global awareness and outreach,

…the Krishna consciousness movement has made tangible contributions both individually and collectively.

While imperfections exist—as they do in any human endeavor—the overall impact is one of upliftment, clarity, and empowerment.