About the Course
The Bhakti Shastri course curriculum consists of six modules:
The Bhagavad-gita (divided into three parts: Chapters 1-6, 7-12, and 13-18)
The Nectar of Instruction
The Nectar of Devotion
Sri Isopanisad
The curriculum is designed to provide a systematic study of Srila Prabhupada's books to deepen a student's understanding, application, and ability to preach the teachings of Krishna consciousness.
Course modules
Module 1: Bhagavad-gita, Chapters 1-6
Module 2: Bhagavad-gita, Chapters 7-12
Module 3: Bhagavad-gita, Chapters 13-18
Module 4: The Nectar of Instruction
Module 5: Sri Isopanisad
Module 6: The Nectar of Devotion
Course objectives
To enhance knowledge of the scriptures and deepen understanding of their theology.
To help students personally apply the teachings in their daily lives.
To improve preaching abilities based on the scriptures.
To build conviction and faith in the teachings.
To help students understand and perpetuate the mood and mission of Srila Prabhupada.
Example assessment methods
Closed-book exams
Open-book assignments
Oral shloka tests
Classroom attendance
A 75% attendance rate in live sessions is often required for certification
Prerequisites (for certification)
Age: Must be at least 16 years old.
Practice: Chant at least 16 rounds of the Hare Krishna mantra daily and follow the four regulative principles.
Language: Must have proficiency in English
Your Instructor
H.G. Balimardan Das
HG Balimardan Dasa is a respected teacher, community leader, and dedicated practitioner of Krishna consciousness for more than twenty-five years. A committed disciple of His Holiness Gopal Krishna Goswami Maharaj, he has played a pivotal role in expanding Śrīla Prabhupāda’s mission through spiritual education, leadership, and vibrant book distribution efforts.
He is the founder of ISKCON Tri-Central Valley, Yogapeeth Center, where he has cultivated a spiritually nourishing environment centered on devotional practice, scriptural study, and congregation-building. HG Balimardan Dasa also serves on the board of ISKCON Silicon Valley, offering strategic guidance and leadership to one of ISKCON’s most dynamic communities.
His formal training includes completion of Bhakti-śāstrī and Bhakti-vaibhava, grounding him deeply in Gaudiya Vaishnava philosophy and practice. HG Balimardan Dasa is especially admired for his inspiring dedication to book distribution, consistently encouraging devotees to share Śrīla Prabhupāda’s teachings with sincerity, compassion, and enthusiasm.
Highly regarded for his steadiness, humility, and commitment to service, he continues to inspire devotees through his example, instruction, and unwavering dedication to Śrīla Prabhupāda’s mission.
