This week, a resident monk at Bhaktivedanta Manor, Ananta Gopal Das, visited the new Venkatakrishna Vrundavana Temple in St Albans, established by members of the Madhva sampradaya. The building has been beautifully transformed into a vibrant centre of worship for the South Indian community.

“We were warmly received and spent time with Yogendra Bhat prabhu, a respected Brahmin and author, who shared insights into their tradition,” explained Ananta Gopal das.  “A highlight was hearing the story of Udupi Krishna and learning about their devotional practices, centred on serving the deity as a living presence of the Lord”.

This understanding deeply resonates with ISKCON’s teachings. Across traditions, despite differences in language or ritual, devotees approach Krishna with the same sincere devotion. Such exchanges help us appreciate the diversity within Vaishnavism while strengthening our shared foundation in bhakti.

“I relished his association and we exchanged devotional gifts from our respective temples.

“This visit reminded me that God, Krishna, is present everywhere and revealed through sincere devotion. Being omnipresent, He can also manifest in the deity and receive worship in that personal form. By building such relationships, we deepen our appreciation of His universal presence and our unity in His service.”