Interview Times 
BHUBANESWAR: Satvatapati Das, the President of ISKCON Bhubaneswar, has dedicated his life to the worship of Shri Krishna, guiding countless followers on their spiritual journeys. Born in the tranquil village of Boudh, his path to spiritual enlightenment began early, with a deep connection to the Bhagavad Gita and a natural inclination toward the divine.
A pivotal moment in his life occurred at the age of 12 when Sri Srimad Gour Govinda Swami Maharaj, the founder of ISKCON Bhubaneswar, visited his village. This encounter profoundly deepened young Satvatapati’s devotion and firmly set him on the path of spiritualism. His devotion was further nurtured by his school teacher’s brother, a Krishna devotee, and his wife, who mentored Satvatapati, teaching him the ways of the Gita and inspiring him to embrace a life dedicated to spirituality.
After completing his graduation, Satvatapati Das joined ISKCON in 1994. Since then, he has committed himself to serving Krishna and humanity, eventually rising to the role of President of ISKCON Bhubaneswar. His leadership has been marked by a blend of deep spiritual insights and practical service to society.
Guruji, what does spiritualism mean to you, and how do you define it in your life?
“Our true self is spiritual; we are not just this body but a soul, which is divine. Our body functions only when our soul is active. This world is materialistic, and as we interact with it, we often get entangled in material pursuits, complicating our lives. To me, spiritualism is recognizing the divinity within and transcending the distractions of the material world.”
Can one be inclined toward Krishna while following Grihastha and not being a Brahmachari?
“Your soul is divine, while your body is merely a material object. As a Grihastha, you can be as devoted—if not more so—than a Brahmachari, provided you follow the right path. History is full of examples, such as Prahlad, Bharat, and Sudama from the Mahabharata and Ramayana, who maintained their spiritual purity despite living in the material world. The key difference is that Brahmacharya offers a direct path with fewer distractions, whereas a Grihastha must navigate multiple challenges, including family, friends, and relationships, which can sometimes lead you astray.”
Guruji, with so many misdeeds and crimes happening in the world, especially crimes against women, how can spiritualism contribute to the betterment of society?
“The foundation must be laid in childhood. We should teach children to respect women and human life from an early age. Just as one respects one’s mother and sister, this respect should extend to all women. Society plays a significant role in shaping character. No one is born evil; peer pressure, environment, and experiences mold a person. By instilling good morals, ethics, and spiritual teachings from a young age, we can prevent negative traits from taking root. Reading the Bhagavad Gita can provide answers to many of life’s problems. Great leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Vivekananda, and Subhas Chandra Bose were all inclined toward spiritualism, which guided their actions.”
What is the philosophy of ISKCON?
“The essence of ISKCON’s philosophy lies in the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita and the Bhagavatam. The Mahamantra in Kaliyug is the key to reaching Parambrahma:
‘Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna,
Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare,
Hare Ram, Hare Ram,
Ram Ram, Hare Hare.’
In this age of Kaliyug, this mantra is all you need to connect with the Supreme Soul.”
Can you tell us about the aim and work of ISKCON? How is ISKCON making a difference?
“ISKCON serves in two main ways: spiritually and materially. On the material level, we focus on social work, such as providing free food to those in need and organizing medical camps. During the COVID-19 pandemic and the 1999 cyclone, we provided food and essential services to countless people. However, our primary focus is on cleansing the soul. We teach meditation and offer guidance on how to uplift one’s conscience, helping people find peace and follow a path of spiritual betterment.”
Is ISKCON receiving any support from the government?
“No, we do not receive support from the government. We rely on the support of the people and the blessings of Krishna to continue our work.”
As President, have you faced any difficulties?
“Yes, we have faced many difficulties, but we handle them with patience. There is no permanent problem in life. Just as night gives way to day, challenges come and go. God has his ways of teaching us, and whatever happens, it is always for a higher purpose.”
As President of ISKCON, what is your aim and focus?
“I want the world to be happy and to walk the path of righteousness and devotion. My goal is to serve Krishna and guide people toward his path. Money cannot buy happiness, but peace can. Therefore, my focus is on awakening people’s conscience and helping them find true peace.”
What is your message to the youth?
“Whatever profession you choose, whether it be a teacher, doctor, engineer, scientist, policeman, businessman, or any other position, do your karma with utmost sincerity, but never forget your roots. Life needs to be balanced. Just as a vehicle needs two equal-sized wheels to move forward, so too must your life balance karma and dharma. The material and spiritual worlds must go hand in hand. Pray to Krishna for guidance, and remember that both realms must coexist harmoniously.”
Satvatapati Das’s words reflect a life deeply rooted in devotion, offering guidance to those seeking spiritual fulfilment in a complex world. His leadership within ISKCON Bhubaneswar continues to inspire many on their path to spiritual enlightenment and service to humanity.
