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[vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overflow=”visible” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text]Learning yoga is beneficial for both the mind and the body, according to a 2011 study, and bhakti yoga is no exception. The Hindu yoga practice offers several physical and spiritual health benefits that can enhance your well-being. Hare Krishna Melbourne practices bhakti yoga every Sunday with our community. We offer free sessions so anyone can join in and experience the benefits of bhakti yoga for beginners. If you are new to bhakti yoga and want to know more about the health benefits, then keep on reading. Bhakti Yoga Helps You Find Peace Yoga helps people achieve a tranquil mind. Bhakti yoga does the same by allowing practitioners to form a connection with God. Through mantra chanting, where you repeat positive affirmations to yourself, bhakti yoga practitioners delve deep into their inner selves to connect with God. Bhakti yoga helps you acquire inner peace, realise life’s true values, and see what is truly important to you. Practitioners can grasp true and lasting peace through not only their connection to God but also through reaffirming their true values and priorities. Bhakti yoga also allows you to be less dependent on real world circumstances. Worldly notions such as beauty, pleasure, status, success, and wealth will not plague your mind once you have acquired peace. Your health will definitely benefit from the reduced stress, doubts, fears, and insecurities. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overflow=”visible” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][image_with_animation image_url=”4031″ image_size=”full” animation_type=”entrance” animation=”None” animation_movement_type=”transform_y” hover_animation=”none” alignment=”” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” image_loading=”default” max_width=”100%” max_width_mobile=”default”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overflow=”visible” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text] Bhakti Yoga Helps You Achieve Your Happiness A Harvard article found that yoga elevates brain chemicals that affect your happiness levels, resulting in improved mood. Bhakti yoga achieves a similar feat through the pursuit of peace, connection, and bliss. Bhakti yoga cleanses your consciousness from negativity and allows you to have a clearer mindset in life. By connecting with your inner self through bhakti yoga, you can develop a positive mindset and reduce any negativity, including relieving any pains and sorrows. By acquiring peace and establishing your life’s priorities, you can find several paths that will lead to your happiness. When you practice bhakti yoga, you not only create a connection with God, but you also form connections with other like-minded people. Bhakti yoga is often practised as a group to forge a higher sense of community. Hare Krishna Melbourne does the same through our Sunday yoga sessions and feasts. Since bhakti yoga is also known as the yoga of love and devotion, practising it together allows you to share your joy and positivity with others. Bhakti Yoga Nurtures Your Well-Being By helping you embrace peace, achieve happiness, and spread joy to others, bhakti yoga enables you to enhance both your physical and mental well-being. Practising bhakti yoga for beginners and beyond provides several health benefits, including reducing stress for both the mind and the body, erasing negative feelings that can harm your mental health, and improving your brain’s attention span. Bhakti yoga gives you the seeds to ensure a long, healthy, and prosperous life. Learning bhakti yoga for beginners can help you can nurture your well-being for the foreseeable future. Try Bhakti Yoga for Beginners – Free! Bhakti yoga for beginners provides several benefits to your physical and mental well-being. It helps you find true peace, helps you reach your happiness, and improves your overall health. You’ll likely discover more benefits the longer you practice bhakti yoga. Hare Krishna Melbourne invites you to join us for free Sunday bhakti yoga sessions. Not only will you be able to learn bhakti yoga, but you’ll also have a chance to meet the rest of the community. We also host Sunday feasts at our Hare Krishna temple, so feel free to stop by, have a bite, and make some new connections! [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

[vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overflow=”visible” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text]There are many misconceptions about vegetarian catering, such as its minimal food options and higher cost, that deter people from considering them for events.  However, vegetarian catering offers a number of hidden benefits for both event hosts and their guests. The team at Hare Krishna Melbourne provide vegetarian catering for a variety of events from housewarmings to weddings. Our catering services offer not only vegetarian dishes, but a range of vegan menus and a wide selection of cuisines. If you’re not aware of the benefits of vegetarian catering, don’t stress! We’re here to show you all of the benefits you’ll receive by having vegetarian catering for your event. Vegetarian Catering Caters to You One of the most important things about vegetarian caterers is that they value inclusivity. Vegetarian caterers place their guests as their highest priority. They often put a lot of thought into providing the best quality experience for their clients’ events. Here are several ways of how vegetarian caterers can cater to you. Vegetarian caterings adhere to dietary requirements Dietary requirements are a part of life. Some people are born with allergies, while others choose to live by certain restrictions. Nevertheless, it is important to consider each guest’s dietary needs to provide them the same quality experience as everyone else. Vegetarian caterers always consider their guests’ dietary needs before they begin to plan their dishes. If you hire a vegetarian caterer, neither you nor your guests would need to worry about food. The team will make sure that there’s always something for everyone. Vegetarian caterers serve a variety of food options People think that since vegetarian food doesn’t include protein, such as meat or eggs, they will have less options to choose from. In reality, vegetarian caterers are extremely creative with their ingredients. To meet the varied tastes of their clients, vegetarian caterers will usually offer a wide range of dishes starring vegetables in unique ways. Some of them even offer a vegetarian version of people’s favourite foods, including burgers and lasagne, which are just as delicious! Since they value inclusivity, vegetarian caterers like Hare Krishna Melbourne also offer food from various cuisines in their menu. Our caterers serve dishes from several cuisines, namely Asian, Indian, Continental, Mexican, and Western, to cater towards the Melbourne community’s varying cultural backgrounds. We provide these dishes because we believe that everyone deserves to feel like they are at home.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text] Vegetarian caterings are affordable Contrary to popular belief, vegetarian caterers are not more expensive compared to other catering options. By forgoing animal-based ingredients that are commonly used in the catering scene, vegetarian dishes can be 40% cheaper to make. Considering the food variety that is offered alongside their willingness to cater to their guests, vegetarian caterers offer great value for your money. Vegetarian caterers also incorporate a variety of underrated ingredients to create delicious, vegetarian meals – adding further value to the experience. Vegetarian Caterers Bring Life to Your Event Not only is vegetarian catering beneficial for you and your guests, it can also become an exciting addition to your event! Here are several ways vegetarian catering can help spice up the occasion. Vegetarian caterings provide a unique eating experience The food you serve at events can have a large influence on how your guests will remember the experience. By providing vegetarian dishes at your event, which is currently an uncommon occurrence, guests are exposed to a variety of new food. This sets your event apart from the rest, since you’re bringing something new to the scene. If you request popular food – such as burgers and pizzas – from your caterers then you get to witness guests being delightfully surprised at how their every-day food can also be served in a different manner.  Choosing vegetarian food for your event also offers entertainment for your guests.  Serving uncommon, yet delicious, vegetarian dishes will make your event one that guests will remember. Vegetarian catering encourages guests to widen their palate Becoming a vegetarian is a conscious lifestyle choice for many people worldwide. Hare Krishna Melbourne, for example, choose to provide delicious vegetarian food by cooking it in good conscience and with gratitude to ensure it is karma free and sanctified. However vegetarianism is not commonly practised in the wider Melbourne community. Some people view the vegetarian lifestyle as a difficult one. For instance, those who have been eating animal protein their whole lives often find it difficult to become a vegetarian. They need concrete motivation to convince themselves to change their lifestyle – and even then, the process doesn’t simply happen overnight. Vegetarian catering at events serves to not only provide vegetarian meals, but to also expose non-vegetarian individuals to the endless possibilities of vegetarian dishes. By offering vegetarian dishes to your guests, your event might be the starting point of some people’s vegetarian journey. Vegetarian catering is appropriate for every occasion Whether you are hosting a corporate event, an intimate wedding, or even a birthday party, vegetarian catering is suitable for any occasion. Remember, vegetarian caterers cater to you. No matter the situation or occasion, caterers would always have food options that are fit for your event. So don’t hesitate to call your favourite caterer whenever you’re planning an event. They will always be happy to serve their dishes to you. Try Vegetarian Catering For Your Next Event! Vegetarian caterers are a valuable addition to your event. Not only does the service care for you and your guests, but they also provide a unique dining experience to spice up your events. Now that you know what vegetarian caterers can bring to the table, you can add a new catering option for your future events! If you’d like to learn more about how we can help you cater your next event,

[vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overflow=”visible” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text css=”” text_direction=”default”]More and more people are choosing to have a traditional Vedic wedding ceremony at the Hare Krishna Melbourne temple. Our ceremonies differ from typical western weddings. They follow the teachings and rituals of the Vedic tradition. You don’t have to be a member of Hare Krishna Melbourne to have your wedding at the temple. Many couples choose to spend their big day here. They value the fine quality and culturally rich wedding services we offer.   If it is your first time at a Vedic wedding, you may have questions about the ceremony, and how it is different (or similar) to other weddings you have attended. We are going to share some of the common features of a Vedic wedding ceremony and what you can expect from weddings held at the Hare Krishna Melbourne temple.   What is a Vedic Wedding Ceremony   Just like with Western wedding ceremonies, each Vedic wedding is going to have slightly different rituals and customs depending on various factors. Traditionally, the location of the wedding and the culture of the people involved contributes to what happens during the ceremony. Many of the parts of a Vedic marriage have been handed down over the centuries and still feature in modern Hare Krishna weddings.   In common with other traditions, a Vedic wedding celebrates the union of two people; a sacred union and one promised for life, making it the most important of the ten vedic samskaras performed at the various important occasions of life.   What to Expect from a Vedic Wedding Ceremony   Here are some of the traditional customs and rituals that you will find at most Vedic wedding ceremonies, including the traditional ones held at the Hare Krishna Melbourne temple. (Please note that slight variations may occur due to family traditions and respective priests.) Milāni – The groom and his family are welcomed as they arrive. Once the groom has taken his place, the bride (usually accompanied by her maternal uncle) is invited to take her place. Darśana – A cloth is placed between the couple. The priest will recite the mantras and the cloth will then be removed. Traditionally this is the first time the couple will have seen each other. Introduction – This is a brief explanation of the meaning of a Vedic marriage. Ācamana – Holy water from the Ganges is used to cleanse and purify. Kumbha Sthāpana – The priest invites Lord Viṣṇu to join the ceremony. He then explains the ‘definition’ of the marriage and its commitments as outlined in the Vedic Scriptures. Saṅkalpa – The priest announces where, when, and between whom the marriage is taking place. Kanyadāna – This is the most important part of the ceremony. The bride’s father gives her away to the groom’s family. This is considered the greatest gift. The act is confirmed by the exchange of garlands between the bride and groom. Mangala Sutra – Like the concept of the Western wedding ring – a golden necklace is presented on a coconut by the groom’s mother to the bride. Kum Kum – The husband puts red coloured Kumkum on the parting in the hair of the bride. Havan – A fire sacrifice is performed by the priest in which the bride and groom and their families offer items to the fire. Purnahuti – Final offerings are made to the sacramental fire. Mangala Pradaksina – The fire is the witness to the whole ceremony. The couple walk around the fire four times, which represents the four aspects of life.  Dharma – Religious Duties  Artha – Economic Development  Kama – Fruitive Work  Moksa – Liberation  Sapta-Padi Gamana – The final seven steps. The bride is led through seven blessings by the groom. The bridal couple, receive blessings from the priest and everyone present. This is the conclusion of the Vedic ceremony. The couple are considered husband and wife. Civil Marriage – Signing of the certificates and official registration of the marriage. What to Expect from Hare Krishna Melbourne’s Vedic Wedding Ceremonies   Hare Krishna Melbourne offers high quality wedding packages for couples looking for an unforgettable wedding in the Vedic tradition. Complete with a delicious vegetarian feast, a sacred atmosphere, and gorgeous flower decorations, our ceremonies are guaranteed to make every couple’s big day one they will never forget.   We can cater up to 100 guests with our mouth-watering vegetarian food, and our highly trained staff will ensure that everything goes smoothly. If you are interested in a traditional Vedic wedding at the Hare Krishna Melbourne temple or if you have any questions about our wedding packages, contact our friendly team today! [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

[vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overflow=”visible” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text]There is a widespread misconception that the stock standard vegetarian meal is merely salad and fries. In reality when it comes to a vegetarian cuisine, a whole new realm of choices is readily available. Before touching on this, we should consider why one should follow a vegetarian diet in the first place – Is it just a fad? Vegetarianism is not merely an alternative to meat eating, but rather a healthy choice. It increases the duration of life, giving strength, health, happiness and satisfaction. Apart from these direct benefits to the body, it also impacts the community positively, and may even shape the future of our environment![/vc_column_text][image_with_animation image_url=”3267″ image_size=”full” animation_type=”entrance” animation=”Fade In” animation_easing=”default” animation_movement_type=”transform_y” hover_animation=”none” alignment=”” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” image_loading=”default” max_width=”100%” max_width_mobile=”default”][vc_column_text] Vegetarianism and the circle of life   Cultivating the lifestyle of eating legumes, fruits, and grains means that nature is respected and valued.  If there’s anything that the COVID-19 pandemic has taught us, it is that nature has an overpowering effect on all living beings including not only humans but animals as well. Mother Nature is not just a fictitious or sentimental concept as it is nature that has and always will be an integral part of our life. Governments always talk about protecting the environment, reducing the carbon footprint and protecting the nation, etc, but it all comes down to the fundamentals of protecting all elements of nature including all types of animals. If we do this, then nature will reciprocate and naturally the problems that we ourselves have caused will reduce and nature will provide us with all the comforts that we need. For example, meat production contributes to over 60% of global gas emissions resulting in thousands of pollutant-related deaths in countries all over the world.  The livestock and grains needed to maintain these animals, particularly for cows and chickens adds further economic burden on crop prices and demand – if the same grains were used to feed people, an extra 3.5 billion people could be fed! A meat based diet – is it really your choice? People who eat meat often insist that they are choosing to do so. However, the reality is that culturally and socially all they are aware of is the meat-based diet. Most of us are afraid to make major changes in lifestyle or diet because we are afraid of social discrimination, added cost of groceries, missing out on favourite restaurants, or afraid of missing out on vital nutrients for good health. However, the reality is that for centuries, billions of people around the globe have been sustaining themselves largely on a plant based diet. Scriptures written since ancient times state that meat is not meant for humans, as we have the discriminatory power to not cause harm to others for the purposes of food. Books from all types of traditions impose restrictions on the types and times for eating meat. It is only in the last fifty years, with the advent of mass slaughterhouses, that meat-eating became more proliferated in human society. Therefore, a vegetarian diet is not something to adapt to, but rather, quite an intrinsic quality that people need to revert back to. Being compassionate to all aspects of nature is an innate part of human beings; it is why humans find it hard to tolerate watching other people suffer. It is said that if slaughterhouses had glass walls, we would all chose vegetarianism![/vc_column_text][image_with_animation image_url=”3266″ image_size=”full” animation_type=”entrance” animation=”Fade In” animation_easing=”default” animation_movement_type=”transform_y” hover_animation=”none” alignment=”” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” image_loading=”default” max_width=”100%” max_width_mobile=”default”][vc_column_text] Carnism and its impacts Ever wondered why we differentiate between pets and food animals? Why do we love dogs but eat cows? Why do we eat chicken eggs but not lizard eggs? These questions are not intended to sound harsh, but they are questions that people should start to consider. These dietary choices are not something individuals make, but rather a part of a wider belief system called carnism. Carnism makes people discriminate between different animal species— conditioning us to protect one animal species but eat another. However, the reality is that all types of conscious life are worth protecting. Within every living being there is a spirit, or consciousness that keeps all our bodies alive.  If we situate ourselves on this platform then we can easily see all entities be it man or animal, as equal. Of course, one may argue that plants have life too. However, as the most intelligent species on the planet, we should not use our strength to destroy the planet but to protect it. It is only the human species that has a conscience and can make moral and ethical choices. Hence, we should choose to do the least harm to feed our bellies. Most crop plants die naturally if not harvested and several fruit trees do not die if we pick the fruit we eat. Besides, more plants are killed to feed the animals that we eat. So, in all aspects, vegetarianism causes the least harm to all of nature.  We must sustain ourselves, but not at the cost of pain and suffering to other sentient beings.[/vc_column_text][image_with_animation image_url=”3266″ image_size=”full” animation_type=”entrance” animation=”Fade In” animation_easing=”default” animation_movement_type=”transform_y” hover_animation=”none” alignment=”” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” image_loading=”default” max_width=”100%” max_width_mobile=”default”][vc_column_text css=”” text_direction=”default”] Make the switch to vegetarianism today Humans have the luxury of being able to choose their own food for sustenance. If people can go on a diet for a slimmer waistline, surely, they can also consider eating sustainable food for the betterment of not only our consciousness, but also the global community and the planet at large, which we consider as our home? Reverting back to vegetarianism requires a tweak in mindset so that we can situate ourselves back to the type of lifestyle that people once lived. It also requires education on how tasty vegetarian food is and

[vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overflow=”visible” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text]When many people think about yoga, they think about daunting yoga studios filled with colourful foam yoga mats and coordinated activewear sets. This image can be intimidating, and honestly, disconnected from the purpose and form of traditional yoga. The Hare Krishna Melbourne community practices a type of yoga called “Bhakti Yoga”, which is connected deeply to our spiritual devotion. Practicing Bhakti yoga helps us to connect more with our God, Krishna, and helps us to feel enlightened, while also helping the movement and flow of our body. What is Bhakti Yoga? Bhakti Yoga is one traditional style of yoga described in ancient Hindu texts. In the Bhagavad Gītā (which is spoken by Lord Krishna Himself), Bhakti Yoga is said to be the path to reawaken our dormant love and re-establish our forgotten eternal relationship with Him. In that blissful state one sees everything (success, failure, gain, loss, family, friends, material objects) in connection to Krishna. Practicing Bhakti Yoga doesn’t require fancy mats or expensive gym wear – it only needs you, your mind, and your heart. Bhakti Yoga focuses on the mindful and meditative aspects of yoga, often through mindful chanting and self-reflection. Traditionally, Bhakti Yoga involves focusing on Krishna and your devotion to Him, however modern Bhakti Yoga practitioners often choose to direct their focus inwards. Bhakti Yoga emphasises the connected nature of all things. As you are encouraged to direct your mindfulness outside of yourself, you are inadvertently directing your focus inwards, too. The Benefits of Bhakti Yoga Through this mindful practice of yoga, many people start to see positive benefits in their lives. The most well-known benefit is a connection to God. For many of those who practice Bhakti Yoga as part of their religious faith, Bhakti Yoga helps to strengthen their connection to God. The main goal of Bhakti Yoga is to achieve the sheer bliss of connecting with God (known as rasa). In this way, knowing that they have been able to connect with God allows practitioners to achieve harmony and happiness. Those who practice Bhakti Yoga and do not look to strengthen their connection with God can also achieve incredible benefits. Practicing mindful yoga with a group of other practitioners can help improve your mood, improve your well-being and attention span, and reduce stress.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overflow=”visible” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][image_with_animation image_url=”4016″ image_size=”full” animation_type=”entrance” animation=”None” animation_movement_type=”transform_y” hover_animation=”none” alignment=”” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” image_loading=”default” max_width=”100%” max_width_mobile=”default”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overflow=”visible” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text] Practicing Bhakti Yoga for Beginners Practicing Bhakti Yoga is more than just practicing yoga as a form of exercise or meditation. Bhakti Yoga is part of a bigger mindset of spirituality and mindfulness. Currently, many Bhakti practitioners achieve these principles through chanting, dancing, and feasting, which are all core elements of any Hare Krishna Melbourne celebration. Joining a group in practicing Bhakti Yoga can help you to learn and adhere to these principles, and help you achieve inner harmony. To start practicing Bhakti Yoga as a beginner, you need to keep in mind 4 principles: A, B, C, and D. Association One of the best ways to start learning, and get into the right mindset for, Bhakti Yoga is to start associating with like minded people! Our free Sunday Feasts are a great way to meet like minded people and learn more about what brings them to the Bhakti mindset! Books Books such as Bhagavad Gita can help you to learn more about the Bhakti mindset. In fact, the Hare Krishna Melbourne online store has a number of books that can help you learn more about the spirituality that is deeply tied with Bhakti Yoga. Chanting Chanting helps you to connect with the world around you, your inner peace, and a higher power. Many Bhakti Yoga practitioners chant Hare Krishna – also known as the Maha Mantra – to connect with Lord Krishna. Diet Maintaining a karma free diet is a great step towards practicing a Bhakti lifestyle. Karma free food is vegetarian food that is non-violent and sanctified – offered to Lord Krishna – to purify it. Each Sunday the Hare Krishna Melbourne Temple offers free sanctified meals as part of our Sunday Feasts, which are open to everyone. Coming along to the Temple on a Sunday is a sure way to help you practice your Bhakti mindset! Free Bhakti Yoga For All Skill Levels One of the best ways to learn and practice Bhakti Yoga is among a group of devoted practitioners – and we just happen to have those in abundance! Our Albert Park temple hosts Sunday night activities – including free Bhakti Yoga – which are open for everyone to enjoy. Our Sunday activities include free vegetarian feasts and Kirtan performances in addition to Bhakti Yoga. If you’re interested in learning Bhakti Yoga for beginners, or want to find other like minded practitioners, find out more about our free yoga classes.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

[vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overflow=”visible” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_spacing=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text]Krishna Consciousness, or the Hare Krishna movement, is often light-heartedly called the ‘kitchen religion’ because food is such a central part of our philosophy and spiritual practice. The founder of the Hare Krishna movement, A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami, started the ‘love feast’ tradition in the early 1960s, when he started the Hare Krishna movement in America. Vegetarian food being alien and unknown to most, one of the Swami’s first activities was to teach his students how to prepare vegetarian foodstuffs. On Sunday afternoon or evening, you would find guests thronging the Hare Krishna centres to discuss philosophy, meditate, and enjoy a delicious feast.  Within a couple years the Hare Krishna ‘Love Feasts’ had become famous.[/vc_column_text][image_with_animation image_url=”3257″ image_size=”full” animation_type=”entrance” animation=”Fade In” hover_animation=”none” alignment=”” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” image_loading=”default” max_width=”100%” max_width_mobile=”default”][vc_column_text] What exactly are the ‘love feasts’?  It would be unjust to just call the ‘love feast’ just another ‘feast’. It is a festival held by Hare Krishna centres around the world on one day of the weekend. A sumptuous vegetarian feast is preceded by soulful music, a small talk on spirituality based on the ancient scripture of the Bhagavad Gita, and lots of dancing and chanting of sacred spiritual mantras, specifically the ‘Hare Krishna’ mantra. The whole atmosphere of the temple is surcharged with energy and enthusiasm and buzzing with guests, some new and some old timers. It is an opportunity to meet others spiritual seekers or just absorb the atmosphere in solitude. Why do we have the love feast? An important part of the bhakti tradition is gratitude and sharing. In gratitude to the Supreme Lord, Krishna, we cook and offer different delicacies to Him. Although the Supreme Creator does not need anything, He appreciates our offering of love, just as a father who is self-sufficient cherishes any small gift given by the son. We then invite everyone to share the emotion of love and gratitude by freely distributing these gourmet preparations to one and all![/vc_column_text][image_with_animation image_url=”3256″ image_size=”full” animation_type=”entrance” animation=”Fade In” hover_animation=”none” alignment=”” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” image_loading=”default” max_width=”100%” max_width_mobile=”default”][vc_column_text] What is on the menu? ‘You are what you eat’ —for those of us conscious of our diet and health, analysing our meals and coming up with new combinations of our favourite foods is a passion and a hobby! The Hare Krishna feasts are made with combinations of vegetables, grains, fruits, milk, nuts, water and sweeteners. We strictly avoid meat, fish, eggs, alcohol, tea, caffeine, onion, garlic, and mushrooms. We do this in line with Ayurvedic guidelines for good health and to keep the consciousness elevated. Our effort is to avoid subtle negative energies and focus on spirituality over hedonistic materialism! Your feast plate will be full of rice, curries, fried savouries, several different types of vegetables, poppadoms, and of course the world famous Hare Krishna dessert – Halava![/vc_column_text][image_with_animation image_url=”3259″ image_size=”full” animation_type=”entrance” animation=”Fade In” hover_animation=”none” alignment=”” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” image_loading=”default” max_width=”100%” max_width_mobile=”default”][vc_column_text] Who are the cooks? Ancient scriptures advise that the energy, or consciousness of the cook, enters the food and eventually affects those who eat the meal. The meals at the Hare Krishna Love Feasts are prepared by volunteers who are practicing the path of bhakti-yoga. Cooking is not done for commercial gain, in anger or frustration. Instead, meals are cooked with a single aim – to please the Supreme Lord. The highest standards of cleanliness are maintained and the best ingredients are used for cooking. There is no cost-cutting or using old or stale food as profit is not part of the cooking process at all! Therefore, these meals enable one to advance steadily in life, to purify the body, and to create fine brain tissues, which will lead to clear thinking. You are invited to our free weekend love feasts! Here in Melbourne, we have two Love feasts, one on a Saturday and the other on a Sunday. If you are thinking of an interesting, or perhaps an adventurous outing, do join us for an enjoyable weekend evening. Our Albert Park temple offers free weekend meals to anyone who would like to join us. Sumptuous preparations, festive atmosphere and the soulful music – you will definitely have a great time![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

[vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overflow=”visible” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_spacing=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text] Health is Wealth: A Brief Guide to Ayurveda Most of us will agree that health should be our top priority, however, it can be hard to make time for our own health over work and family commitments.  Often in work we strive to get the next promotion to earn more money and have the lifestyle we think will make us happier. So many people spend their health to gain their wealth, and then must in turn spend their wealth to regain their health. We must value our own health because no one else will take more care of it. Ayurveda, a natural and ancient system of medicine provides several guidelines on how to achieve this practically. What is Ayurveda? The term Ayurveda is derived from the Sanskrit words ayur (life) and veda (science or knowledge), and translates to knowledge of life. Based on the idea that disease is due to an imbalance or stress in a person’s consciousness, Ayurveda encourages certain lifestyle interventions and natural therapies to regain a balance between the body, mind, spirit, and the environment. According to Ayurvedic science, there are three principles collectively known as Doshas, that make up the body: Vata, the life force of the body, Pitta, the digestive fire, and Kapha, which helps maintain muscle, strength and stability. It is these 3 doshas that work together to maintain our body. Changes to our consciousness, diet, relationships, emotions and environment can lead to an imbalance in these three doshas and manifest as a physical or mental ailment. An external symptom is a flag that indicates a deeper problem. Ayurveda looks at the root of the problem and operates on prevention rather than cure. Lifestyle changes such as cultivating a healthy diet, mental strength, and taking herbal supplements help restore the balance between the three Doshas, leading to good health.[/vc_column_text][image_with_animation image_size=”full” animation_type=”entrance” animation=”Fade In” hover_animation=”none” alignment=”” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” image_loading=”default” max_width=”100%” max_width_mobile=”default”][vc_column_text] Ayurveda the Mother of all Healing Just like a mother, Ayurveda caters to the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of its practitioners. It recognizes that each of us is unique and responds differently to the many aspects of life, each possesses different strengths and weaknesses. Through insight, understanding and experience Ayurveda presents a vast wealth of information on the relationships between causes and their effects, both immediate and subtle, for each unique individual. Mental disturbances and diseases can often be the cause of a physical one.  According to Ayurveda, practising mindfulness (the ability to non-judgmentally observe the mind and its thoughts) can help control the mind. One may ask “how is this possible since we so often find ourselves identifying with the mind and its projections?”. The answer lies in realising that our identity is beyond the mind and body, thereby allowing us to distance ourselves from both. Being situated on a reality of consciousness allows objective reasoning to deal with the problem accordingly. Ayurveda is also known for its range of herbal medicines. This includes Ashwagandha; a stress reliever and immune booster, Turmeric; an antioxidant, as well as Brahmi which relieves neurological tension.  Herbal medicines can be as potent as pharmaceutical drugs for healing and recovery. Unlike pharmacological medicines, they do not generate toxins that weaken the body. Ayurved practitioners often incorporate these herbs in daily use and cooking to get the most benefit out of them.[/vc_column_text][image_with_animation image_url=”3261″ image_size=”full” animation_type=”entrance” animation=”Fade In” hover_animation=”none” alignment=”” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” image_loading=”default” max_width=”100%” max_width_mobile=”default”][vc_column_text] Ayurvedic Diet  It is said that “Without proper diet, medicine is of no use. With proper diet, medicine is of no need”. Following an Ayurvedic diet encompasses not only what you eat, but when, where, and how you cook and eat the food as well. For the diet itself to be healthy, it must incorporate the six kinds of tastes: sweet, sour, bitter, salty, pungent and astringent. This is essential because having only sweet or salty foods causes imbalances in our body leading to diseases such as diabetes and hypertension. One of the easiest ways to introduce more flavour is by adding spices such as turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, and cardamom. Ayurveda also introduces the idea of food combination, where certain foods taken together can be very unhealthy for the digestive fire, causing indigestion. Examples include beans and cheese or yoghurt and milk. Now this can seem a little confronting at first, as these combinations are quite common. But the science behind their incompatibility is that the pairs have distinct post-digestive effects that can overwhelm the digestive fire. So perhaps even reflect in the past where you might not have felt so good after you had a cheese burrito or a smoothie. After preparation, plan the time of day you are going to eat it. Creating a healthy routine helps the digestive fire prepare for the incoming food in advance, resulting in better quality digestion. Having meals regularly, at 3–6-hour intervals, with minimum snacking in between, means that we are fully able to digest our food before introducing more food.[/vc_column_text][image_with_animation image_url=”3263″ image_size=”full” animation_type=”entrance” animation=”Fade In” hover_animation=”none” alignment=”” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” image_loading=”default” max_width=”100%” max_width_mobile=”default”][vc_column_text] Consciousness in meal preparation The importance of consciousness in Ayurveda is embedded in what we choose to eat, as there are foods which help elevate our consciousness and others that degrade it. There are three rungs on the ladder of our consciousness: the rung of ignorance, passion and goodness. Healthy food choices help us climb towards the rung of goodness. Foods in the rung of ignorance include stale food and impure foods such as garlic, meats, and alcohol. These should be avoided as much as possible. On the rung of passion, are salty snacks, extremely pungent foods such as onion as well as hot/spicy dishes. Lastly, food in the mode of goodness are dishes that promote longevity, virtue and happiness such as fresh

[vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overflow=”visible” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_spacing=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text]World Milk Day was established by the UN’s Food and Agriculture organisation to establish milk as a global food. This day is celebrated to promote benefits of milk and related products for consumption. Australia’s main dairy consumption comes from milk, cheese, butter, and yoghurt, with our average milk consumption coming in at 100L per person. In fact, around 70% of our daily milk consumption in 2020 came from regular fat milk, with only 2% of our milk coming from milk alternatives. Have you ever given a thought how milk reaches your nearest department store from cows? Milk packed in different bottles appear to be the same but the story behind regular milk and cruelty free milk is as different as chalk and cheese.[/vc_column_text][image_with_animation image_url=”3105″ image_size=”full” animation_type=”entrance” animation=”Fade In” hover_animation=”none” alignment=”” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” image_loading=”default” max_width=”100%” max_width_mobile=”default”][vc_column_text] Demystifying Modern Dairy “Man is the only creature that consumes without producing. He does not give milk, he does not lay eggs, he is too weak to pull the plough, he cannot run fast enough to catch rabbits. Yet he is lord of all the animals.” – George Orwell The application of technology in modern dairy milk production from dairy herds has greatly increased, however it has come at a large cost to cows and their calves. Modern dairy practices such as force feeding on a diet of maze, soy corn and barley, has resulted in health and welfare consequences such as mastitis, lameness, and ulcers in cows. Another serious welfare issue is where the calf is forcibly separated from her mother within twelve hours of birth. After being forcibly separated, the mother cow is highly stressed and restless in her attempt to reunite with her calf through sniffing, increased vocalisation, and other activities wild cows employ to reunite with their calves. And, if the calf is a male, it is immediately sent to the slaughterhouse for slaughter. Thus, the modern dairy cow is fragile and short-lived as she never gets to raise her calf.[/vc_column_text][image_with_animation image_url=”3106″ image_size=”full” animation_type=”entrance” animation=”Fade In” hover_animation=”none” alignment=”” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” image_loading=”default” max_width=”100%” max_width_mobile=”default”][vc_column_text] Australia’s kindest milk (Cruelty Free, Ethical and Premium) Cruelty free milk comes from farms where farmers believe that milk should be taken only when the giver of the milk, mother cow, is healthy and happy. They do not look at cows as milk producing machines meant for commercialisation. Rather, they view cows as pets and give them the same love, respect, and care that other families would give companion animals like cats or dogs. Each cow has a name, is given the required healthcare she needs and is protected for life, till she dies a natural death. In a symbiotic relationship of love and trust, the cow shares her extra milk freely with the farmer which he can then use or distribute. On these farms, local jersey cows are happy as queens as they get to raise their own calves and are not forcefully separated from their babies. They can graze freely, and no animals are ever sent to the slaughterhouse. Cows are healthy as there is no artificial insemination and no hormones or antibiotics that harm her health. Consequently, the milk obtained from the cows is rich, creamy, wholesome, fresh, and organic. Health and nutrition benefits of Cruelty free milk Cruelty free milk is loaded with essential vitamins and minerals including: Calcium Phosphorus Protein Riboflavin, Vitamin D The vitamins and minerals obtained from the cruelty free milk play a significant role in growth, formation, development and maintaining strong bones and teeth. It also facilitates immune function, wound healing, and controlling muscle contractions (including heartbeat). In addition to these important benefits, cruelty free milk also reduces the risk of a stroke, kidney stones, and cardiovascular disease. It helps to create serotonin, which helps to improve mood, appetite, and sleep quality, all of which are associated with reducing depression. It assists with maintaining normal blood pressure and muscle building by repairing body tissues and preventing loss of muscle mass.[/vc_column_text][image_with_animation image_url=”3107″ image_size=”full” animation_type=”entrance” animation=”Fade In” hover_animation=”none” alignment=”” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” image_loading=”default” max_width=”100%” max_width_mobile=”default”][vc_column_text] Make the Choice to Go Cruelty Free There are various options of milk to make your next smoothie. Which one will you choose? For a healthier, tastier, and compassionate alternatives, see the list of Melbourne stores where you can find cruelty free milk. At Hare Krishna Melbourne, we run a program called Care For Cows at our Hare Krishna Valley farm where we also often run events and retreats to help you connect with nature – including our beautiful cows.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

[vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overflow=”visible” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_spacing=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text]The Hare Krishna Melbourne Temple gives away free meals at our temple and after our events to any who wish to enjoy some delicious vegetarian food. But why are we passionate about providing prasadam to both the Hare Krishna Melbourne community and the wider community? Back in the 1970s, when ISKCON’s founder, Srila Prabhupada famously said “Let every hungry man in Melbourne come and eat”. In the decades since, the Hare Krishna Melbourne devotees have made it their mission to ensure that any person can find a meal within our grounds – no matter their background or faith. What is Prasadam? Prasadam is what Hare Krishna devotees refer to as the food that we eat. Prasadam refers to “Krishna’s Mercy” and is the remnants of an offering made to Krishna. All of the food that we serve at the Hare Krishna Melbourne Temple is Prasadam. Our meals are purely vegetarian, and won’t include any meat, fish, eggs, onion or garlic. This is because we view animals as holy creations of Krishna’s design that are meant to be cared for by humanity and not used as food.[/vc_column_text][image_with_animation image_url=”2993″ image_size=”full” animation_type=”entrance” animation=”Fade In” hover_animation=”none” alignment=”” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” image_loading=”default” max_width=”100%” max_width_mobile=”default”][vc_column_text] Helping Feed the Community As devotees of the Krishna consciousness, we feel called to give back to the community around us. We are devoted to providing for the hungry and needy of our world, but we are also welcoming to any who wish to come along to one of our meals. The past few years have been particularly hard on many in Melbourne, as the pandemic has caused financial and emotional strain on many who call this city home. This is why the Hare Krishna Melbourne Temple in Albert Park serves free meals after our Sunday Kirtan and during our annual events. We understand the importance of sharing a meal and connecting with other people. Humans are social creatures, and after years of not being able to meet in person as often as we’d like, we want to offer a platform for all of Melbourne to come together and have both their stomachs and souls filled. Whether you are a devotee of the Krishna consciousness or not, we invite you to enjoy one of the free meals at our temple. We provide food that will treat the whole family and make you want to come back for more.[/vc_column_text][image_with_animation image_url=”2992″ image_size=”full” animation_type=”entrance” animation=”Fade In” hover_animation=”none” alignment=”” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” image_loading=”default” max_width=”100%” max_width_mobile=”default”][vc_column_text] Food For Life Program Hare Krishna Melbourne is also dedicated to helping fight against Melbourne’s hunger crisis through our Food for Life program. This program was started in 1974 with the goal to combat world hunger through the distribution of sanctified vegetarian meals prepared with love and devotion. At Hare Krishna Melbourne, we strive to fulfill this mission throughout this city through a variety of outlets. In addition to the free food that we serve at our Albert Park Temple each and every day, Melbourne residents can also engage with our Food for Life services in the following ways: Visit our Food for Life outlets in St. Kilda or Crossways Restaurants in the centre of Melbourne which distributes around 5,500 free meals per day. Our Food for Like Kitchen also partners with other volunteer organisations in Melbourne to distribute free vegetarian meals to the hungry via our mobile service. Across all of these different outlets, Food for Life Melbourne has fed thousands of Melbournians throughout the years. eations of Krishna’s design that are meant to be cared for by humanity and not used as food. Hare Krishna Melbourne’s Free Meals at Our Temple Three times a day – as long as Covid restrictions allow it – we serve free meals to those in need for breakfast, lunch and dinner. On Sundays, and during our temple festivals, all are welcome to join us for one of our renowned weekend feasts in the evening. Opening up our doors to all is just one way that we can give back to the community of Melbourne. So come along to our Sunday Kirtan or one of our events and partake in some great food and great company. It is our mission to feed the people of Melbourne – no matter what path in life they choose to walk. So come along to our Sunday Kirtan or attend one of our upcoming events to enjoy a wholesome. Contact us today if you want more information or would like to know how to donate food to our Food for Life program.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]