06/08/98 - 1855

Brazil ISKCON Crisis

Brazil (VNN) - As previously reported by VNN (story# 1801), Ishvara das (former ISKCON sannyasi guru) has relinquished all positions in ISKCON and is contemplating marriage. Against pressure from ISKCON leaders he is reportedly now reluctant to give up his disciples to be reinitiated by ISKCON gurus. The situation is currently causing a crisis for ISKCON Brazil since most of the key temple devotees and leaders are his disciples.

Ishwara das is said to have some 1500 followers in Brazil, some 300 of them initiated. An emergency committee is currently trying to cope with the situation and Hridayananda swami is on his way there.