THE Hare Krishnas will return to a place in Worcestershire they once called home.
From when they sold Croome Court over 30 years ago, the Hare Krishnas are returning with their annual event which celebrates their time at the National Trust mansion house and parkland during the 1980s.
The event, which will see Croome burst in to song, dance and live music, takes place on Saturday, September 19 and Sunday, September 20.
Becky Wilks, events officer at Croome, said: “It’s great to have some of the devotees return to Croome as part of our Hidden Heritage programme to share their stories with our visitors over the weekend.
“There’ll be lots to see and do during this colourful weekend and a completely unique experience for everyone that joins us.”
The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) bought Croome Court in 1979 when famous devotee and former Beatle, George Harrison, reputedly released funds for the purchase to use the Grade I listed mansion as their headquarters.
Traces of their residence at Croome can still be seen in some decoration around the house.
This year sees the reintroduction of the Hare Krishna connection with the Rotunda where visitors can follow the new route to this spot for an aural and visual feast.
Nathan Hartley, from ISKCON Festivals, said: "We're looking forward to returning to Croome. The manor house and beautiful surroundings play a significant part in the history of the Hare Krishna movement here in the UK. Home to many Krishna devotees in the '70s and '80s, Croome Court will always be a place full of fond memories for those who lived, worked and played there. During our movement's brief five-year stay we worked hard to establish an alternative, natural life-style on the estate. Based on ancient spiritual teachings of yoga and philosophy from the Vedic culture of India, Croome became a temple, ashram, school and farm.
"What makes this year's Hare Krishna weekend extra special is that it falls within the year-long celebration to mark 50 years since the founding of ISKCON by Srila Prabhupada."
The festival starts at 10am and runs until 5pm on each day. It is free to attend with usual admission prices.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here