Guru Disciple by Radha Govinda Das

Date: 08 March to 29 March 2026

Time: 10:00 AM – 13:00 PM 

Location: Online

Course Description

The ISKCON disciple course is intended for those wanting to understand the intricacies of the Guru-Disciple relationship. It covers theological principles and practical aspects such as the importance of a guru for spiritual progress, selecting a guru, forming a strong relationship with the guru, testing and serving the guru plus qualities of a bonafide guru and disciple.
The course is based on the teachings of Srila Prabhupada, educates one on the history of gurus in the Gaudiya Vaishnava tradition and explains setbacks experienced by some gurus within ISKCON. This course helps one develop the values and attitude required of a disciple and is a prerequisite for candidates aspiring for initiation. The course includes PowerPoint presentations, interactive discussions, assessment exercises and provides an opportunity for you to ask questions and clear any doubts.

This is an accredited course, and to successfully complete it and receive your certificate, you must:

– Attend all four sessions in full and be present on time for the entire duration.
– Pass the course test at 70% or more, which is required for certification. This test will be short answers and multiple choice.
– Keep your camera on for the full duration of every session, including the test.

*Please ensure you are fully available during the course—avoid driving, commuting or engaging in other activities while participating. Make any necessary arrangements in advance.

**The course is not recorded. If you miss a session, you will need to attend that session in the next course cycle in order to take the test and receive your certificate. You will receive the course book, along with a supplementary reading book: The Guru Disciple FAQ Book: 164 Questions You Need to Ask Before Initiation by Kripamoya Das. If you are attending the course online, then you will have to pay for postage for us to send you the material or arrange a collection from Bhaktivedanta Manor

***Certificates will be delivered in 3 weeks time from the test date. It is the student’s responsibility to attend all sessions and take the course well in advance to make sure they fulfil their requirements and receive the certificate in time for initiation.

Teacher Bio

An enterprising young man of many talents, Radha Govinda realized in his early years as a monk that we are in a state of transition. Insights into communication, education and ideas on science and religion are being shared and discussed on a level never seen before.

Increasingly, people are turning to spirituality to access a sense of happiness and fulfilment that goes beyond our present limitations. This inspired Radha Govinda to develop one of the most innovative and cutting-edge initiatives at the School of Bhakti called ‘Krishna Wisdom’.

An initiative designed to help people living a modern lifestyle explore solutions for happiness and a better quality of life by accessing the knowledge of the ancient scriptures known as the Vedas.

Radha Govinda did his Masters in the UK before landing a lucrative job as a Control Systems engineer. Soon he came across the Krishna conscious books and it wasn’t long before he put his burgeoning career on hold to spend a month living and serving at the temple. It turned out to be a long month!! He ended up spending ten years as a monk.

During this period, he studied the scriptures, delivered seminars, organised events and retreats for spiritual seekers and traveled around the world sharing what he learnt.

Now he is one of the leaders of School of Bhakti and a major creative force behind some innovations that the school has recently developed. He is also a qualified yoga teacher, web designer and accomplished musician. He loves singing kirtan, writing blogs, making friends and sharing the wisdom of bhakti with the world. But arguably his most famous talent is his quick wit and great sense of humour. It really needs to be experienced!

Courses are conducted with the School of Bhakti based at Bhaktivedanta Manor. Click below to book your spot on this course now!

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