In the sacred land of Vrindavana where Lord Krishna enacts his childhood pastimes ISKCON has erected a temple that has, over the last three decades, become one of the most visited temples in the area. There reside the deities of Sri Sri Radha-Shyamasundara who are decorated lavishly on a daily basis. On special days like Janmastami thousands of pilgrims line up to catch a glimse of them.

All you need is love... when George Harrison sang these lines, wonder if he had been thinking about Lord Krishna! Krishna's birthday is celebrated all over the world as Krishna Janmashtami, Krishna Jayanthi or Gokulashtami. No other deity's birth is enveloped in such high drama.

Seeing a big tuft of matted dread-locks erupting from his otherwise shaven head, a sculpted goatee, and a host of piercings and tattoos, you expect Madhava Dasa to be more punk rocker than Hare Krishna chanter. Until, of course, he closes his eyes, opens his mouth, and begins to sing.

Rhythmic recitation of Sanskrit prayers and the ceremonial smashing of camphor-laden coconuts – a ritualistic metaphor for the chasing away of negative energy – inaugurated a festival dedicated to the congregational chanting of Hare Krishna at New Vrindaban, ISKCON’s rural community and retreat center in West Virginia.

This photo journal was taken by Rasa Acarya Dasa during the last hour of the 24 hour kirtana program in New Vrindavana, West Virginia USA on August 18th - 19th.