How I came to Krishna Consciousness - Bhaktin Dr Suman Sharma

Bhaktin Dr Suman Sharma

Since childhood, Lord Krishna has always had a special place in my heart. I grew up eagerly observing Janmashtami, fasting and praying with joy. One of my most unforgettable memories of my early childhood goes back to 1989, when my family traveled to Mathura and Vrindavan for Janmashtami. That night, the town was alive with celebrations, and we could not find a place to stay. In the midst of the fair, I got separated from my family. For those few minutes—though it felt like eternity—I prayed deeply to Krishna to reunite me with them. By His mercy, I soon found them again. That moment strengthened my devotion and made Janmashtami a lifelong sacred celebration for me.

I also remember seeing my father read Srila Prabhupada’s Bhagavad-gita, which made me aware of ISKCON from an early age. Over time, my connection with Krishna deepened. In 2008, while studying in the UK, I visited the ISKCON London Radha-Krishna Temple several times. Even then, I considered myself a devotee, always praying for Krishna’s guidance in my studies, career, and family life. By His boundless mercy, many of those prayers were answered.

When I moved to the San Francisco Bay Area, I searched for a Krishna temple and in 2019 connected with ISKCON Silicon Valley (ISV). Since then, my devotional life has grown stronger. I chant japa daily, read Srila Prabhupada’s books, and attend weekly temple gatherings— at Tri-Valley, Berkeley, or Mountain View.

Through this journey, I have been blessed with the association of wonderful devotees whose guidance inspires me daily. My son, Keshav, also attends Krishna classes, which brought me even more joy as I watch him grow in devotion.

For me, being part of ISKCON is not just about rituals, but about joy, friendship, and spiritual family. Chanting, reading, and associating with devotees give me peace, strength, and clarity in life. Looking back, I see Krishna’s hand in every step—protecting me in childhood, guiding me through studies, blessing me with family, and now giving me devotee association.

I am deeply grateful to Krishna for this path, and I hope my story inspires others to explore the joy of Krishna consciousness. Even one small step—chanting the Hare Krishna mantra, opening a page of the Bhagavad-gita, or visiting an ISKCON temple —can open your heart to His boundless mercy. Krishna responds to every heartfelt effort we make to connect with Him. Hare Krisha!!