#goshala

Hare Krishna Temple ( ISKCON) Goshala ( Krishna's Cows )

110वीं वर्षगांठ पर हो रहा भव्य आयोजन नव-निर्मित गौशाला भवन का लोकार्पण 29 को परंपरा व आधुनिकता का संगम बनेगा आयोजन जमशेदपुर : झारखंड के पूर्वी सिंहभूम जिले के चाकुलिया स्थित कलकत्ता पिंजरापोल सोसाइटी (शाखा चाकुलिया) द्वारा संचालित गौशाला, जो अपनी सेवा, परंपरा और राष्ट्रवादी भावना के लिए राष्ट्रीय पहचान रखती है, एक बार फिर सुर्खियों में है। झुनझुनवाला युग की विरासत से लेकर गोयनका नेतृत्व…

Ghaziabad, UP, India – In a landmark effort to promoteanimal welfare and protect India’s sacred bovine population, the Rashtriya Gaushala Roti Bank hasofficially launched a nationwide initiative to collect and distribute food.

Feeding milk to baby Balarama, the street bull calf recovering from lumpy skin disease, who we have been treating for several months now. Eventually he will move in to live with our bulls in the goshala, but for now he needs to stay separate to get stronger and spend time with his mother.

One liter of high fat milk costs around 90 cents (78 Rs.). We currently use 5 liters of milk a day. Who ever has donated to us in the past, this is where the money goes. Milk for calves and puppies, grass silage for the bulls, and wheat bran feed for the bulls.

If you would like to help, please consider donating a liter of milk. Any questions, please feel free to call (+91) 8300181008.

Today all the bulls were tired and relaxing in the sun. I don't think I have seen them all sleeping like this at once in a long time. They must have been active last night and are worn out now. You will not find a skinny bull in our goshala. Though we don't have much land for them to move around in, we never hold back on varieties of food for them to be happy.

We are always in need of help to maintain these beautiful bulls. If you feel like helping, please visit our ashram website for more information (link in the comments), or give us a call at (+91) 8300181008.

The Role of Goshala in Indian Temples: A Case Study of TTD Goshala

India's temples are not just spiritual havens; they also play a vital role in preserving and nurturing traditions that connect humanity with nature. One such important institution that often goes unnoticed is the Goshala, or cow shelter, which is integral to many temples. The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) Goshala, located at Tirupati in Andhra Pradesh, serves as a prime example of how these shelters contribute to temple rituals, community welfare, and environmental sustainability. In this blog, we explore the role of Goshala in Indian temples, focusing on the TTD Goshala’s contributions to these aspects.

Cultural and Spiritual Significance of Cows in Hindu Temples

Cows hold a revered place in Hinduism, symbolizing non-violence, selfless service, and abundance. They are considered manifestations of divine qualities and are often associated with deities like Lord Krishna, who was raised in a pastoral community. Cows are seen as sacred beings that nurture life through their products like milk and ghee, which are central to temple rituals.

In temples, cows are cared for not just as livestock but as divine entities. Their milk is used to make offerings, their ghee fuels sacred fires, and their dung is used to purify temple grounds. This tradition is rooted in the Vedic understanding that caring for cows aligns with preserving nature’s balance. The TTD Goshala embodies these principles, working tirelessly to maintain the ancient Vedic values while adapting to modern needs.

The Role of TTD Goshala in Temple Rituals

One of the main contributions of the TTD Goshala is providing cow products for temple rituals. Ghee (clarified butter) made from cow’s milk is a key offering in the form of Aarti (light offering), and is used in various Homas (fire rituals). The pure milk from the Goshala is also used in Abhishekam (sacred bathing) of the deity at Tirumala temple, including the famous Tirupati Laddu, the temple's renowned prasad (holy offering).

By providing these products, the Goshala ensures that the sanctity and purity of temple rituals are maintained. The cow products are not just commodities but offerings that carry deep spiritual significance, made more valuable by the reverence with which the animals are treated.

Cow Protection and Welfare at TTD Goshala

TTD Goshala goes beyond providing products for temple rituals; it plays a key role in cow protection and welfare, which is deeply embedded in Hindu philosophy. The Goshala is home to cows that are no longer productive in terms of milk but are still cared for with great compassion. Older cows, injured or infirm cattle, and even calves are given shelter, ensuring that they live their lives with dignity.

TTD has made strides in managing this large population of cows, employing veterinarians and skilled caretakers to ensure the health and well-being of each animal. Regular health check-ups, nutritious diets, and a clean living environment contribute to the cows’ overall welfare, reflecting the temple’s commitment to Ahimsa (non-violence) and compassion.

Contributions to Sustainability and Organic Farming

One of the most forward-thinking aspects of TTD Goshala is its contribution to sustainability. Cow dung and urine, often seen as waste, are utilized in organic farming practices. The Goshala produces organic manure that is used to cultivate crops, particularly those grown for temple use. These organic crops not only support the temple’s food requirements but also promote environmentally friendly farming practices in the region.

TTD Goshala’s approach to cow-based products extends to the production of biogas, which is used as a clean source of energy. This highlights the Goshala's effort in creating a sustainable and eco-conscious model, which benefits the community at large. The focus on recycling and utilizing every aspect of the cow reflects an ancient Indian philosophy of zero waste, which aligns perfectly with modern sustainability goals.

Preservation of Native Cow Breeds

Another crucial aspect of the TTD Goshala is its involvement in preserving indigenous cow breeds. India is home to several breeds of cows known for their resilience and adaptability to the local climate. However, over the years, many of these breeds have been on the decline due to the increasing preference for high-yielding exotic breeds.

TTD Goshala has taken proactive steps to preserve native breeds like the Gir, Ongole, and Punganur cows. These cows are not only hardy but also have immense cultural and medicinal value. Through breeding programs and awareness campaigns, the Goshala plays a key role in reviving these endangered breeds, ensuring their survival for future generations.

Social and Economic Impact of TTD Goshala

Beyond the temple’s rituals and spiritual responsibilities, the TTD Goshala has a profound social and economic impact on the surrounding community. It provides employment opportunities for a large number of people, from veterinary professionals to caretakers and laborers involved in managing the Goshala. The Goshala also contributes to the local economy by distributing organic manure to farmers, thereby promoting sustainable agriculture.

Moreover, the Goshala stands as a center for educating pilgrims and locals alike on the importance of cow protection and sustainable living. Through various outreach programs and events, TTD raises awareness about the ecological benefits of traditional practices, helping to foster a sense of responsibility towards nature.

Conclusion: Reviving Ancient Wisdom in Modern Times

The role of Goshala in Indian temples, particularly at TTD, reflects a beautiful synergy between spirituality, sustainability, and community welfare. By preserving sacred traditions while contributing to ecological and social well-being, the TTD Goshala serves as a shining example of how ancient wisdom can be harmoniously integrated into modern life.

Naati Hasu Goshala proudly stands as India’s First ISO 9001:2015 Certified Naati Hasu Goshala. Our Pasuthai products are exclusively crafted from cow elements, with no chemical additives used in their manufacturing process. We ensure that our offerings remain 100% Pure and Natural.