Please read the VNN Standard of Publication before submitting material to news@vnn.org.

97/09/22-1057

Colombian Government recognizes Vaishnava Church as bona fide Religion

Bogota, Colombia (VNN) - The government of Colombia has recognized the "Vaishnava Church" as a bona fide religion by giving it church status on the same level as other churches, including the Catholic Church. Currently there are about 30 temples of Krishna representing the Gaudiya Vaishnava sampradaya in Colombia, B.A.Paramadvaiti Swami of Vrinda told VNN.

Prominent representatives of the Vaishnava Church are currently invited in many colleges and universities in Colombia to present study materials of the Hindu and Vaishnava teachings with the sanction of the Ministry of Education.

In a recent fashion show one designer won first price with his line of "Hare Krishna Fashion".

The hard preaching work of the dedicated Vaishnavas in Colombia seems to be paying off. Currently Colombians are very interested in Indian traditions. This after a rather difficult start about 10 years ago where Vaishnavas had to face some challenges, including the bombing of one temple, where fortunately no one was hurt.