What is bhakti-yoga?
Bhakti‑yoga means devotional service. It is an ancient spiritual practice focused on reviving our natural, personal relationship with Kṛṣṇa. This Sanskrit word is the principal name of the personal aspect of the Supreme, Absolute Truth, meaning "the unlimited, all-attractive source of pleasure". At it's core, the practice teaches that beyond the body and mind, we are spiritual beings, eternal and joyful by nature, and that real fulfillment comes from reconnecting with the divine, primeval cause of all causes, Śrī Kṛṣṇa, through practical activities in our daily lives coupled with the regular practice of mantra meditation.
For thousands of years, bhakti has been practiced through meditation, philosophy, community, and service. It’s simple, universal, and open to everyone.
What we practice
Mantra meditation — particularly the Hare Krishna maha‑mantra, a sound vibration meant to uplift the mind and purify our .
Wisdom study — applying the timeless teachings of the ancient yoga texts Bhagavad‑gita and Bhagavatam in order to overcome the temporary distresses of life and experience the limitless bliss of spiritual realization through purification of the consciousness.
Kirtan — a musical spiritual practice that blends rhythm, devotion, and community.
A conscious lifestyle — compassion, vegetarianism, holistic spiritual practice, and service to our fellow brothers and sisters through devotional service.
Sangha — spiritual community, because inner growth and purification of the heart is easier when we walk the path together.
Our inspiration
Bhakti‑yoga has existed for millennia, but its modern global presence is largely due to His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada.
In 1965, at age 69, he traveled alone from India to New York City with almost nothing, determined to share the timeless teachings of bhakti with a world hungry for meaning. From a small storefront on the Lower East Side, he inspired young spiritual seekers to embark on the path of bhakti-yoga together, expanding into what now spans hundreds of communities worldwide, with millions of people practicing mantra meditation, studying wisdom texts, and living more conscious lives.
Prabhupada’s contributions include:
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Translating and commenting on 70+ classic yoga texts, now available in over 80 languages.
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Establishing a global network of communities centered on spiritual growth, education, culture, and service.
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Demonstrating bhakti not just through teaching, but through humility, compassion, and personal example.
His message was simple: Real happiness comes from awakening to our eternal, spiritual nature and offering our love to Kṛṣṇa through practical activities in our daily lives.
Our center continues the same mission Prabhupada began in New York:
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A welcoming space for meditation and spiritual learning
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A supportive community for people exploring purpose, identity, and inner happiness
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A place to experience bhakti‑yoga in a way that’s accessible and relevant to modern life
We’re part of a larger international family of practitioners, but our focus is local: helping New Yorkers discover a spiritual practice that truly nourishes the soul.
Whether you’re curious, skeptical, or seeking something deeper, you’re welcome here!