My secretary during 1983-84, an Anglo-American, questioned the Hinduism taught today, and asked if a curious person had any option to study Vedic culture elsewhere. I pondered his question, and saw a great need for an authentic Vedic institute that would aid the sincere soul interested in studying the spiritual science behind Hinduism. It took me six years to properly establish the Bhagavat Dharma Samaj, the society dedicated to introduce the ultimate goal of the living entity.

This society answers questions such as those asked by my secretary. In order for a disciple to Vedicly establish his own society, by his own works, he must develop everything new (property, disciples) and not use any of his Guru’s assets for his own mission. I have followed the guidelines to the letter in the establishment of The Bhagavat Dharma Samaj (society), and will teach anyone fortunate enough the exact Vedic etiquette and philosophy, as expounded by the previous acharyas. Our society is distinct from any other, since we will not compromise its philosophy in fear of criticism from anyone.

In all circumstances, we refer to the ancient Vedic scriptures for insight, as did all the previous Acharya’s. A real spiritual teacher does not waver from the prescribed Vedic process in order to keep his followers. This principle is illustrated in the Valmiki Ramayana when Ravana wanted to kill Marica for his refusal to participate in stealing the Goddess Sita. Marica told Ravana, saciva vaidya guru tini jaba priya bolahili bhaya asa, raja dharma tanu tini kara hohin begi hi nasa, “When, due to fear, a king’s minister, one’s physician, or a Guru have to compromise their position, and speak to appease the other, The king’s kingdom, the patient’s health, and the spiritual life of the follower are jeopardized.” Therefore, as per Vedic law, a real Guru does not fear his disciple, which may cause him to compromise the Vedic system, thereby diluting the Vedic culture.

We registered Bhagavat Dharma Samaj in 1990, with the main purpose of expounding the age-old spiritual values of Vedic civilization to guide everyone who wishes to participate. Even the name Bhagavat Dharma Samaj is Vedic, which helps illustrate to the general public that this society is governed by ancient Vedic customs. These Vedic customs are the soul’s original culture. They are lucidly explained in Srimad Bhagavatam, which was written five thousand years ago. Bhagavat Dharma Samaj is based on the exact teachings of Srimad Bhagavatam and expounds these principles philosophically and scientifically so the modern mind can grasp it.

—Mahamandaleshwar Mahant Krsna Balaram Swami