History, Timing, Architecture, Interesting Facts and Travel Guide of Bhaktivedanta Manor, Watford, Radha Krishna Temple, United Kingdom
Bhaktivedanta Manor is a Chaitanya Vaishnava temple in England. It is located in the village of Letchmore Heath in Watford (England). The temple is retained and managed by ISKCON (International Society for Krishna Consciousness). The temple is one of the most visited shrines in Europe. It is the biggest property of ISKCON in the United Kingdom. The property was previously known as Piggott’s Manor. The owner of the Manor, Beatle George Harrison donated this asset to the Hare Krishna movement (ISKCON) in 1973. When he heard that the Radha Krishna Temple of Central London did not have enough accommodation for the increasing number of devotees, he donated his property. He also contributed 17 acres of land along with the Manor, to extend the property.
George Harrison was very close to the founder of ISKCON, Acharya A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada. The Radha Krishna Temple in Central London was built in 1969 by the ISKCON authority. Eventually, the number of visitors started increasing every year. After 3 years of foundation, the temple authority felt that the space was not sufficient to accommodate a large number of devotees. George Harrison was so much impressed with the Hare Krishna movement that he helped in establishing the new temple. Dhananjay Das, a British devotee who recalled Prabhupada, suggested he ask Harrison if he could help with their quandary. Harrison helped Dhananjay to search for a property. By the passing time, Dhananjay came to Piggott’s Manor in the Hertfordshire village of northwest London. He remembered that the landlord was considering the use of the house along with 17 acres of land as a nursing home. He then informed Harrison. Harrison immediately bought the property and bestowed it to ISKCON in 1973.
The devotees experienced financial struggle during the primary years at the Manor, because of the considerable costs involved in maintaining such big property. Prabhupada went to the place in the summer of 1973. Prabhupada was very impressed with Harrison’s contribution to this temple and other gifts to ISKCON. Prabhupada, in the Vrindavan Temple, on his deathbed removed one of his rings and asked the devotees to send it to Harrison. Every year on 29th November, the Manor commemorates Harrison’s contribution to ISKCON on his death anniversary.
Architecture of Bhaktivedanta Manor, Watford
The temple was built in the form of a Haveli. The architecture involved the building of a two-storey structure. It has two community halls to accommodate sufficient numbers of devotees. Apart from that, meeting rooms, large commercial kitchens, a supplementary dining hall, and a quarter for priests are also there. The building was made in the pattern of conventional bricks and wood construction.
Festivals celebrated at Bhaktivedanta Manor, Watford
Janmashtami is one of the most auspicious festivals celebrated in the temple. Janmashtami is the day when Lord Krishna was born. Many Krishna devotees from various parts of the country come to visit this temple during Janmashtami.
The festival of lights is also celebrated here with great zeal. The devotees participate in all the rituals with great fidelity. The temple gets decorated with a completely different look at this time. The local people seem to enjoy this festival a lot.
Bhaktivedanta Manor, Watford, Daily darshan time
The visiting hours for the temple are from 10.00 am to 1.00 pm and 4.00 pm to 7.30 pm. The entry is restricted from 1.00 pm to 4.00 pm. Although, it remains open from 10.00 am to 7.30 pm on Sundays. The Prasad is served from 1.00 pm to 2.00 pm, every Monday to Friday. On Sundays, there are two timings for Prasad – 1.00 pm to 2.30 pm and 6.00 pm to 8.00 pm. Prasad is not served on Saturdays.
To get any further information, people can contact the temple directly at info@krishnatemple.com or + 44 1923 851000.
The Bhaktivedanta Manor is one of the most often visited temples in the UK. Local and foreign devotees from many parts of the world, come to visit this place every year.
How to Reach Bhaktivedanta Manor, Watford, Britain.
The best option to travel from India is by flight.
People can take flights from London Heathrow Airport (LHA). It is the nearest option to reach Watford.
Once reaching there, trains are available from Watford Junction to Bushey.
Taxi or bus service is available from Bushey to reach Bhaktivedanta Manor.
