About Us
Our History
he Hare Krishnas first arrived in Athens in 1969 when A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami, founder of the Hare Krsna Movement, personally visited Athens,Ohio in May of that year. He addressed a group of Ohio University students and Athens residents at a place called the Appalachian Lighthouse, located at the intersection of Court and Carpenter Streets. He then further inspired his students to distribute prasadam (sanctified food) and perform Kirtan ( musical mantra meditation) on the Ohio University campus.
Athens Krishna House had its inception in the fall of 1982 when it was first established at 89 Mill Street.by Radhanath Swami.* In the 1990s, it was located on Congress Street. For a time period of time, when there was no permanent location, programs and cooking classes were held at various locations around Athens such as the United Campus Ministry building.
During the Covid-19 pandemic, a few devotees traveled from Columbus to Athens to perform kirtan (musical meditation) and distribute sanctified food on the College Green. The reception was tremendous! Students and faculty were asking for a permanent location for regular programs.
Very quickly, we were able to find and procure a suitable property, close to the OU campus, on Grosvenor Street. Athens Krishna House has been operational at its current location since November 2021, and has been holding regular programs ever since! Athens Krishna House offers kirtan, music, cooking, philosophical discourse, bhakti yoga instruction and delicious vegetarian meals in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Athens Krishna House is a spiritual community center near the heart of Ohio University campus with a talented staff devoted to sharing the experience of self-transformation through the timeless culture and practices of Bhakti-yoga.
It’s a center of authentic learning, and a great place to meet new people, build lasting relationships, and find inspiration and support on the spiritual path.
We work under the auspices of, and in cooperation with, Iskcon of Columbus, a 501 C(3) nonprofit organization.
Our Inspiration
A Monk from the East comes to the West.
We draw our inspiration and guidance from the life and teachings of Srila A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, who first brought the culture of Bhakti to the Western world beginning on New York’s Lower East Side. He is widely regarded as the worlds pre-eminent exponent of the teachings and practices of Bhakti-yoga. Learn more about him here.