Krishna temple established by the Beatles’ George Harrison celebrates its 50th anniversary
By Newsdesk
Bhaktivedanta Manor marked its 50th anniversary in a splendid manner over the previous weekend. Amidst a diverse array of spiritual events, a magnificent parade featuring 14 exquisitely adorned and trained oxen took place throughout the expansive 79-acre estate of the center.
Her Grace Vishaka Dasi, current Temple President of Bhaktivedanta Manor, said, “We are absolutely delighted and deeply honoured to be celebrating 50 years of Bhaktivedanta Manor – this year marks a historic milestone for our Temple; from the extraordinary story of our beginnings to the thriving community we have built today,” she continued, “None of this would have been possible without the devotion and dedication of all the devotees who have spent their lives making the Manor what it is today, the matchless contribution of George Harrison and, of course, Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, who made it all possible – we offer our deepest gratitude to them all.”
The temple premises situated near Watford in Aldenham was obtained by musician George Harrison in response to the increasing prominence of the Hare Krishna movement. This movement had exceeded the capacity of its initial temple in Bury Place, London W1, which was procured in 1969.
Bhaktivedanta Manor has a herd of 63 cows and bulls, modern and traditional cow care facilities, and acres of pastureland; it’s a real cow haven. Moreover, the complex encompasses an organic agricultural farm that utilises sustainable and holistic farming methods, guaranteeing the health of the soil and the surrounding ecosystem.
The original estate, which dates back to the thirteenth century, was known as Picot’s Manor, named after its owner, Thomas Picot. The cows on the grounds were reputedly used to supply milk to the courts of King Henry VIII. In 1912, the ownership of Picot’s Manor changed hands, and approximately by 1923, its name was changed to Piggott’s Manor to give it a more “English” sound.
The current mock Tudor structure, standing today, was constructed in 1884. It remained a residential building until the Second World War, during which it served as an RAF officers’ mess and hospital. In 1956, St Bartholomew’s Nursing College purchased Piggott’s Manor. Over the subsequent years, numerous young women underwent intensive residential training in traditional nursing at this location.
